RUTLAND — A coed scouting program is looking for youth sailors-to-be and maritime enthusiasts in Worcester County who would be interested being a part of a whole new adventure.
Those interested are invited to attend an open house for the new Sea Scout Ship on Nov.1, from 6:30-8 p.m., hosted by the Webster Sailing Association, at 4 Bates Point Road, Webster. The event features an informational Q&A, fun activities, and the opportunity to be part of the first coed Sea Scout Ship in Central Massachusetts.
“We are recruiting teens and adult leaders from across Worcester County,” said Dan Scotti, who will be
the Skipper, or adult leader, of Sea Scout Ship #1935. “Sea Scouting is an exciting program that offers
boys and girls between 14 and 20 years the opportunity to learn about our maritime history, become
better citizens, build character, improve boating skills, and gain experience in water safety through
adventures on sea and land.”
The open house includes hands-on activities, a chance to meet the crew and speak with other potential Sea Scouts, and to learn about the program, its benefits and the opportunities for personal
growth. Admission is free, refreshments will be provided, and young people and their parents are
welcome to attend.
Sea Scouting is a division of the Boy Scouts of America and is the official youth program of the Coast Guard Auxiliary.
No previous Scouting experience is necessary to join. Scout Ships are known for their strong sense of camaraderie, leadership development, and a passion for all things aquatic. Sea Scouts across the country hold jamborees, rendezvous, regattas, and even enter international competitions.
During the boating season, the youth participants will have the opportunity to practice the skills they have learned on watercraft provided by the Webster Sailing Association.
“The BSA is proud to continue our partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary as we continually strive to improve leadership development, real-life skill-building and unique STEM training through the Sea Scout program,” said Mark Barbernitz, Scout Executive and CEO of the Heart of New England Council.
For more information about the new Sea Scout Ship #1935, contact Dan Scotti at dan.scotti@heartofnewenglandbsa.org. If you are interested in assisting with the program and/or participating with the ship, please attend the open house on Nov. 1.
Sea Scouting began in the United States in 1912 and has a long and rich tradition. Massachusetts was the first state to have a Scout ship. Over the past 111 years, thousands of young men and women have had the opportunity to follow the traditions of the sea, while having fun and developing critical skills.
The Heart of New England Council is a BSA council based in Rutland that serves about 4,000 youth in Central Massachusetts, involving more than 1,800 adult volunteers. Visit www.hnebsa.org for more information. To find a Scouting unit in your local community, visit beascout.org.
(Courtesy of Heart of New England Council, BSA)
