Exploration Merit Badge at the Explorers Club
On Saturday March 28 approximately 140 Scouts and Scouters assembled at the Explorers Club in New York City for the first steps in earning the Exploration Merit Badge. The Scouts got to hear from multiple world class explorers and learn about their exciting adventures. This program was initiated by Ron Scorese from Troop 80 in
18 More Days Until Operation WRIP! 10 More Days to Register!
18 more days until OPERATION WRIP! 10 more days to register! Camping and participation is FREE! The goal of the event will be to remove as many invasive plants from the Watchung Reservation forest ecosystem as possible in one morning. On that date, it is expected that Japanese barberry and multiflora rosa bushes will be
Summer Camp Leaders Meeting
Leaders’ Meetings are a great opportunity to meet camp and program directors ahead of summer camp and get all your questions answered. Each troop will receive a Leaders’ Guide to help prepare for the season. Please see below for important details on dates, times, and locations. It is strongly recommended that at least one leader
Summer Camp Early Bird Extended to April 15th at Midnight
We’ve extended our Early Bird Pricing deadline —giving you a little extra time to lock in the best rate for summer camp! Don’t miss out on an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, new friendships, and lifelong memories. From day camp to overnight and specialty programs, there’s something for everyone. Secure your spot today and save!
PPC 5K Is Coming Up on April 11!
This is a friendly reminder that the PPC 5K is coming up soon on April 11, and we’re excited for a great event filled with energy, teamwork, and community spirit! The event will take place at Oak Ridge Park in Clark, NJ. Check?in will begin at 9:00 AM, and the race will start promptly at
Registration Now Open For The 2026 Patriots’ Path Council Awards Celebration
On Saturday, April 25, 2026, we will be presenting the 2026 SILVER BEAVER AWARDS! We will also be presenting the TRAILBLAZER AWARDS, YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARDS, VENTURING LEADERSHIP AWARDS, DUTY TO GOD AWARD, ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR AWARD, INTERNATIONAL SCOUTER’S AWARD, and TORCH OF GOLD AWARD. Please plan to come out and honor these dedicated volunteers and
Free Weekend Camping for Units that Register this Summer at Camp Somers and Camp Winnebago
New for 2026! Units registered for 2026 summer resident camp at Camp Somers or Camp Winnebago qualify for FREE weekend tent camping at Winnebago Scout Reservation or Mt. Allamuchy Scout Reservation. Please see the following for more information: https://ppcscouting.org/wp-content/uploads/Free-Weekend.pdf
Summer Camp Early Bird Pricing Deadline – April 1st
Early bird pricing for summer camp ends in less than a week—don’t miss out on the best rate! Need financial assistance? Apply for a camp scholarship here: https://247scouting.com/forms/358-scholarship We have something for everyone this summer – Day Camp, Resident Camp, and Specialty Camps.
Operation Watchung Reservation Invasive Plants (WRIP)
One more month to go! Register today for 2026 Operation WRIP here. Your Unit Can Camp for Free! We are looking forward to a wonderful day with our Scouts on Saturday, April 18th!
Membership – New Trainings and Incentives Rolling Out Soon!
The Membership Committee is excited to announce that we will be offering monthly online zoom training sessions starting in April after University of Scouting. Topics will range from BeAScout Unit Pin Management to Running recruiting events. A full schedule will be out at University of Scouting so make sure to attend and visit the Membership
University of Scouting/Program Launch Registration Closes this Sunday!
It’s not too late to sign up for our annual training event! A great opportunity to learn new things about the council, upcoming events, 65+ classes offered, and networking with fellow leaders! Registration is filling fast so sign up before it’s too late! https://scoutingevent.com/358-UofS
2026 Summer Camp Early Bird Pricing
We’re gearing up for another amazing summer at camp! The Early Bird pricing deadline is coming up fast! Register before midnight on April 1 to get the best price of the season. We offer a wide variety of programs for both younger and older campers — from exciting day camps to unforgettable sleepaway camps. No matter your interests, there’s
Camping Hall of Fame
Camping Hall of Fame nominations are now open! Nominate someone who has made a lasting impact on our camping programs and helped shape unforgettable experiences for Scouts and staff alike. Nominations will be accepted through May 1st. Nominate someone today at https://247scouting.com/forms/358-nominatecamphallfame The Camping Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place at Winnebago on
National Jamboree Leader Opening
Our council contingent for the 2026 National Jamboree currently has an opening for an adult leader. This role supports and guides Scouts throughout the experience and offers the opportunity to be part of the excitement of the National Jamboree. Leaders interested in serving are encouraged to complete an application. Interviews will follow shortly after applications
Scouts Sunday – Pray for Ukraine Divine Liturgy on March 22, 2026 at Immaculate Conception Ukrainian Catholic Church in Hillside
Immaculate Conception Ukrainian Catholic Church, located at Liberty Ave & Bloy St in Hillside (Union County), NJ, invites all area Scouts, Scouters, and Scouting families to its Scout Sunday – Pray for Ukraine – Divine Liturgy (Mass) to take place on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at the church. The Sunday Divine Liturgy begins at 10:45am but Scouts
Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade
On Saturday March 14th we had a great day at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Patriots’ Path Council was represented by several local units including Troop 109/901, Pack 109, Troop 280, Troop 39, and Pack 34. Explorers from the Morris County Sheriff’s Explorer Post also participated as Parade Marshalls. The weather, while a little chilly,
Let’s Gear Up for Spring Recruitment!
With Unit renewals behind us, it is time to start gearing up for Spring Recruitment and we have tons of recruiting materials available for YOUR use. Need a canopy? Need a popcorn machine? How about a Dancing Inflatable Scout? We have all of that plus the normal flyers and lawn signs. Get an edge on
Introduction to Backpacking
Patriots’ Path Council High Adventure Committee will present an introductory course on backpacking for Scout Leaders with an emphasis on backpacking with Scouts or venturers. This class is open to all registered adult Scouters (Scoutmasters, ASMs, Advisors and Assistant Advisors) who wish to learn more about backpacking, especially in the Scout context. Cost: $35 Price includes:
Summer Camp Discounts
Summer camp will be here before you know it. We are offering a multitude of different discounts this summer: multiweek discount – save 20% off additional weeks of camp, sibling discount – save $25 off each sibling attending PPC camps, military, and more. Check out our discount flyer and website for more information. New this summer –
2026 Specialty Camps
We are excited to announce four specialty camps this summer. Back by popular demand, Skills & Trades camp will be offered Weeks 3 & 4 at Camp Winnebago. Choose from one of these weeks and earn automotive maintenance, electricity, plumbing, and welding. Registration is open, and space is limited. Register today at https://www.camp-winnebago.org/ At Camp Somers,
Eagle Scout Hall of Fame Inductees
Patriots’ Path Council is pleased to announce and congratulate the 2026 Eagle Scout Hall of Fame Inductees and the 2026 National Outstanding Eagle Scout Award Recipient! Our honorees will receive recognition alongside our 2025 Eagle Scout Class at the 22nd Annual Eagle Scout Recognition & Reunion Dinner on Tuesday, May 19th at the Olde Mill
2026 Award Recipients Announced
2026 Award Recipients Announced During the Council Annual Meeting on March 2, Patriots’ Path Council announced their 2026 award recipients. These honorees will be presented with their awards at the council Awards Celebration on April 25, 2026, at Winnebago Scout Reservation. Congratulations to all these deserving Scouts and Scouters. The Silver Beaver Award is given
Scout Shop Price Freeze Extended
To our leaders and volunteers, Due to recent supply chain cost increases, National Supply Division, and scoutshop.org, are implementing price increases on many items that we sell here at our local Patriots’ Path Council Scout Shops. These changes went into effect on February 2nd, and have affected over 1,100 different items across the entire catalog.
Physically Strong is not only part of the Scout Oath, but one of our Council Programs!
Join us on Saturday, April 11th for our annual 5K Run/Walk. Check-In will begin at 9am. Race / Walk starts at 10am. The event will take place at Oak Ridge Park, which is a USATF certified 5K course in Clark, NJ. Participation donation: Runner/Walker registration: $45 ($50 After March 31st) If you would like to sponsor
Get your Unit Renewed Today!
The Unit Renewal window is closing quickly so make sure you renew your unit by the end of this month to avoid any issues with the system. Unit Key 3s – don’t forget that you must renew your Executive Officer (also known as the Institutional Head) before you renew your unit to avoid any errors.
University of Scouting / Program Launch – Only 9 Days Left to Register!
University of Scouting / Program Launch – Only 9 Days Left to Register! Registration closes at 11:30 pm on Sunday, March 22nd – Don’t miss out! New Date: Saturday March 28th from 8 AM – 4 PM New Location: Union Catholic Regional High School, 1600 Martine Avenue, Scotch Plains, NJ Program Launch will be from
SCUBA Adventure in the Bahamas
Winter may be piling on the snow and ice, but Scouts don’t have to stay in the cold. Picture swapping gray skies for bright blue water, heavy coats for wetsuits, and frozen fingers for warm ocean currents. Our Patriots’ Path Bahamas SCUBA Adventure offers an amazing chance to dive into clear, tropical seas, explore colorful
NYLT Registration Open
Registration is now open for National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) 2026! Three course options are available: Course 1 runs June 28 to July 3 Course 2 runs August 2 to 8 Course 3 is offered over two weekends—November 6 to 8 and November 13 to 15 Don’t miss this opportunity to develop essential leadership skills
NYLT Fundraising Dinner
Join us for a German Buffet and Bier Tasting to support NYLT Scholarships for the Patriots’ Path Council! Enjoy classic German cuisine, sample German beers and cordials (cash bar), and help provide leadership opportunities for Scouts. February 25, 2026, at the Deutscher Club of Clark. Early Bird pricing available & tickets are limited! Purchase tickets here: https://scoutingevent.com/358-NYLT_ScholarshipDinner
Camp Ambassador Program
We are excited to announce the new camp ambassador program at our camps! We are looking to form a group of Scouters who love camp as much as we do! For more information, please register at https://247scouting.com/forms/358-2026campambassadorinterest Camp ambassadors must be a minimum of 21 years of age.
Blue & Gold Placemats
Blue & Gold banquets are on the way, register your pack for free summer camp placemats today at https://247scouting.com/forms/358-2026Placemats
Register for the 22nd Eagle Scout Recognition & Reunion Dinner
Register for the Patriots’ Path Council 22nd Annual Eagle Scout Recognition & Reunion Dinner! Celebrate the 2025 Eagle Scout Class, our 2026 Hall of Fame Inductees, and our 2026 National Outstanding Eagle Scout on Tuesday, May 19th at Olde Mill Inn in Basking Ridge 6:00pm. For more information and to register, click here – https://scoutingevent.com/358-22ndEagleDinner
2026 Silver Beaver Award Recipients Announced
The Patriots’ Path Council is pleased to announce our 2026 Silver Beaver Award Recipients. The Silver Beaver Award is given for noteworthy service of exceptional character to youth by registered Scouters. It is the highest award a council can bestow upon an adult volunteer. Congratulations to our 2026 Silver Beaver recipients: Michelle Blanchfield, Whippany James
Summer is Right Around the Corner – Join Our Camp Staff Team!
Positions available at all four of our council summer camp programs: Cub Scout Day Camps: Camp Wheeler and Watchung Day Camp Scouts BSA Resident Camps: Camp Somers and Camp Winnebago We’re hiring for the 2026 season, and applying takes less than five minutes. We’re looking for enthusiastic, reliable people to fill roles such as: Area
Unified Scouts BSA Handbook Now Available
Available now in the Kurland Family Scout Shop, the new unified Scouts BSA Handbook! All other editions of the Scouts BSA Handbook are 20% off while supplies last!
2026 Membership Renewals
2026 Unit and Membership Renewals are in full swing and moving faster than ever. Thank you for your continued patience and support as we work through the system to ensure your Scouting journey continues. For more information and help, check out our website at https://ppcscouting.org/membership/recruiting-membership/
University of Scouting/Program Launch
Mark your calendars for our 2026 University of Scouting and Program Launch set for Saturday March 28th, 2026 at Union Catholic Regional High School in Scotch Plains. Over 60 classes offered to enhance your Scouting knowledge and network with fellow volunteers. Program Launch has over 20 tables set up including special guests such as the
Patriots’ Path Council WRIP 2026 Program – Registration is Open
The Patriots’ Path Council WRIP 2026 Program registration is open here! WRIP is a hands-on conservation service project focused on protecting our local environment. Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Watchung Reservation 8:00am – Noon Registration is required to participate. Camping and participation are FREE. The goal of the event will be to remove as
Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams National Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award
Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams National Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award has been established by the National Eagle Scout Association to recognize valuable service of an exceptional nature by a Scout to a religious institution, a school, community or other entity. The award recognizes the Scout for his or her Eagle
Alpha Merit Badge Academy: Registration Open
Come join us for Patriots’ Path Council and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternities First Alpha Merit Badge Academy. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity is a partner with Scouting America to promote Scouting. As part of this come join us for the wonderful opportunity for Scouts to work on merit badges and advance their Scouting Journey. This event
Klondike Derby Season
It’s Klondike Season and you are welcome to come and participate in any Klondike that works for you! Skylands Klondike is scheduled for January 23 – 25 at WSR Raritan Valley Klondike is scheduled for January 30 – February 2 at WSR Fishawack Klondike is scheduled for February 7 at MASR Pioneer Klondike is scheduled
Membership/Unit Renewal
Don’t forget to renew your Unit TODAY! As a reminder, unit renewals are open for all units that expire on December 31st, 2025 so it is important that your Unit Key 3 logs into my.scouting.org to renew their unit. Don’t forget to renew your Executive Officer before the end of the year to avoid any
Eagle Scout Scholarship Applications Due December 31
The Patriots’ Path Council Eagle Scout Merit Scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior or an undergraduate college student not beyond their junior year. All applicants must be an Eagle Scout registered with the Patriots’ Path Council and have demonstrated strong leadership and a spirit of service to others in or outside of
Award Nominations – Deadline December 31, 2025
Time is running out to nominate outstanding Scouts and Scouters for Patriots’ Path Council awards. Nominations can be submitted for the Silver Beaver Award, Trailblazer Award, Youth Leadership Award, Alumnus of the Year Award, Eagle Scout Hall of Fame, and more. These awards recognize individuals who go above and beyond in their service, leadership, and
Order of the Arrow 25th Annual Banquet & Dues
The 25th Annual Lodge Banquet is quickly approaching—mark your calendar for an evening of celebration, fellowship, and great food. This milestone event will include recognition of fellow Arrowmen, the 2026 Vigil Tap-Out, and a special keynote address by Ben Jones, National Vice Chief of the Order of the Arrow. Event Details Date: January 4, 2026
National Jamboree 2026 – Contingent Staff
Calling all Patriots’ Path Scouters (21+) interested in attending the 2026 National Jamboree. Scouting America is offering a “Council Contingent Staff” option for the 2026 Jamboree that allows Contingent Staff to travel, eat and camp with the participant Council contingent. New for 2026! To be eligible registered leaders need to be 21+ years in age
National Jamboree 2026 – Additional Troop Forming
Patriots’ Path Council is accepting interest through a waitlist as we prepare to open an additional Troop for the 2026 National Jamboree, taking place July 20–31, 2026. Once enough Scouts have signed up, the Troop can be officially launched and placements confirmed. This may be the final opportunity for Scouts to participate while there are
All 2025 Eagle Scouts the Adams Service Project of the Year Award Deadline Approaching
Attention all 2025 Eagle Scouts, the deadline is fast approaching for the Adams Service Project of the Year Award. The Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams National Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award (ESSPY) recognizes valuable service of an exceptional nature by an Eagle Scout candidate to a religious institution, school, community or
Registration for the 2026 Summer Camp Season is Now Open!
We are excited to announce that registration for the 2026 Summer Camp season is now open! You can register by visiting the following link: https://ppcscouting.org/camping/ Camp Somers Shane Jones will serve as this year’s Camp Director, with Ryan Borinski as Program Director. Both Shane and Ryan bring multiple years of leadership experience at Camp Somers. Two all new
