Boy Scout Troop 225 is a service oriented troop run by boys with guidance from adult leaders.  Our troop has been chartered to St. Bernadette's Church in Westlake, Ohio since 1960.  In that time the troop has recognized over 39 Eagle Scouts.  The aims of  Scouting are to develop character, citizenship and fitness in young men by preparing them to make ethical choices throughout their lifetimes, and to fulfill their potential.  .

            The outdoors is a large part of the Scouting program.  We usually camp in tents one weekend a month (even in the winter).   A week long summer camp is normally scheduled during the last few days of July and the first few days of August.  It is held at Seven Ranges Scout Reservation, just southeast of Canton, Ohio.

            Older Scouts (13 years old and First Class or above)  go on a High Adventure trip once a year, or every other year.  In the past few years they have gone canoeing in Canada and backpacking in Virginia and Pennsylvania.  They decide the destination.

            In the Boy Scouts, we guide the scouts so that they become good citizens.  We encourage them to develop physical, mental and moral strength.  This helps them develop responsibility, leadership, fairness and service to others - qualities that they will use for the rest of their lives.  The twelve points of the Scout Law sum it up best -

            A scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent.

-A good moral code to follow even if you're not a scout.

            Because our troop is run by the boys, you will see or hear of mistakes being made.  This is part of the learning process.  In Scouting, we have found that experience is the best teacher, and short term setbacks lead to long term success.  We recognize the individuality of each scout and will

empower each of them to develop his skills.  Scouting encourages both individuality and team work.  A scout will learn to endure difficult situations on his own.  He will also learn the benefits of working as a team, and have the opportunity to be a leader of his peers. This is an important responsibility, and a valuable experience indeed.  

MEETINGS

            Are held from 7:30-9:00 P.M. at St. Bernadette's Dempsey Hall every Tuesday unless notified otherwise.  Scouts should be in uniform and arrive between 7:15 and 7:30 p.m.

UNIFORM

• Scout Shirt - with current up-to-date patches sewn on (see scout)
• Scout pants, scout socks & scout belt - shorts in the summer (we sometimes have some pants that older scouts have outgrown)        
• Neckerchief (Troop 225 has its own - each scout was given one- additional ones will cost $5.00).  Scouts will be told when they have to wear these - special occasions.
• Summer T-shirt - Part of the summer uniform.  Silk screened by the troop ($5)(May be able to get one that an older scout has outgrown if not buy large for several years)

CAMPOUTS

• Usually once a month
• Duffel bag or travel bag can be used for car campouts (when we drive right up to the campout site).
• Backpacks used for other campouts - troop has a few to rent
• Tents supplied by the troop
• Yearly medical form required. 
• A permission slip signed by a parent is required for each outing away from St. Bernadettes.

EQUIPMENT

            Scouts will be informed and guided on what is needed for each campout.

• Sleeping Bag - when ready to purchase one make sure allow for growth of scout.  Should go to 10 degrees or lower. Ask leader if want help.
• Sleeping pad
• Mess Kit
• Boots - dont spend a lot until they're older.
• Poncho or rain gear - makes for a comfortable weekend
• Wool socks and polypropylene a must
• Hat - warm head & feet = warm scout
• Scout compass, knife etc.
• Backpack - best to wait a while until older and then buy a good adjustable one

COURT OF HONOR

            This is an awards ceremony held two or three times a year to recognize individual achievement  (advancement of rank, merit badges earned or leadership positions elected to). Eagle Courts of Honor are held at different times during the year. Dates can be found at troop meetings.

All scouts and at least one parent should attend (a special award is given to mothers).  Recognition & reward promotes a positive attitude and encourages advancement.