“Joining Scouts BSA is one of the best things my son has done. He has matured, is proud of his accomplishments, participated in activities he could not have done otherwise, and is having lots of fun along the way. The other boys in the troop are the type of kids I want my son to be friends with. Joining a scout troop based at a synagogue is the icing on the cake.” Quote from a proud parent of a Troop 665 scout.
Scouting gives boys and girls 11-17 years of age unique opportunities to adventure in the outdoors, explore their strengths and develop new ones, take on leadership positions, and have their accomplishments recognized by other youth, adult leaders and their families. Families from over five area synagogues have found that Troop 665 – sponsored by Temple Sinai – meets their childrens’ needs for adventure, leadership, camaraderie…and fun!
Local activities are held at parks and scout camps in Montgomery and Bucks Counties. Other trips take scouts farther afield – canoeing in North East Maryland, a trip to the Baseball Hall of Fame, exploring McGuire Air force Base and backpacking along the Appalachian Trail, just to name a few. Scouts from Troop 665 have participated in wilderness adventures at the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, and the national Scout Jamboree in West Virginia.
Community service is an important part of the scouting experience. In fact, it is one of the requirements for advancement in the scout ranks. Projects have ranged from improving the Temple Sinai playground and Garden to helping residents at the Abramson Senior Center.
Troop 665 takes special pride in the opportunities it provides for building self confidence and leadership skills. Scouts can grow and mature by taking on increased responsibilities and positions of responsibility in the troop. They are encouraged and assisted in these by older boys, girls and adult leaders who want the youth to feel good about themselves and succeed.
Most meetings take place on Sunday afternoons at Temple Sinai, from 2 to 4. Guided by a seasoned team of adult scoutmasters, the scouts prepare for trips and develop their skills, with time for fun and games. Parents meet on several Sunday afternoons during the year to learn about and review activities and schedules. Parent involvement is another feature which bonds Troop 665 families in a unique and positive way.
Scouts BSA is open to all boys and girls ages 11-17. In recognition of Temple Sinai’s sponsorship, Troop 665 observes kosher on its trips and activities. To learn more about this wonderful program, contact Scoutmaster Dan Fein (215 641-9791, feindan@gmail.com) for more information. Come try us out!