Scouts from Maryland and West Virginia Experience Merit Badges, Outdoor Adventure, Fellowship, and the Spirit of Scouting
[FARMINGTON, PA] — Heritage Reservation was proud to welcome Troop 89, a Special Needs Troop from Maryland, and Troop 1870, chartered out of the West Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind in Romney, WV, for a week of summer camp adventure and Scouting experiences.
Throughout the week, Scouts participated in a variety of merit badge classes, learned new skills, challenged themselves through hands-on activities, and celebrated their accomplishments alongside fellow Scouts. From exploring the outdoors to discovering new talents and building confidence, the Scouts took full advantage of the opportunities available at Heritage Reservation.
Accessibility and inclusion were an important part of the camp experience. An interpreter was present throughout the week to support the deaf Scouts from Troop 1870, helping ensure they could fully participate in activities, programs, instruction, and fellowship alongside their fellow Scouts.
One of the week’s highlights was Heritage Reservation’s UTV rides. Scouts had the opportunity to explore the property and experience the camp’s trails in a unique and exciting way. Campfires also brought Scouts and leaders together for songs, skits, and fellowship, creating opportunities to build friendships and memories that will last long after the week ended.
The Scouts participated in a wide range of outdoor activities throughout their stay, demonstrating that the adventure of Scouting can be experienced by everyone. Their enthusiasm, determination, and willingness to try new experiences made an impression on both camp staff and fellow campers.
“Heritage Reservation is a place where all Scouts come to challenge themselves, try something new, build friendships, and create memories,” said Tony Amrhein, Director of Support Services. “Welcoming Troop 89 and Troop 1870 and seeing these Scouts fully participate in the camp experience was a wonderful reminder of why providing accessible and inclusive opportunities is so important. We were honored to have them at camp and to be part of their summer adventure.”
At Heritage Reservation, the goal is to provide every Scout with opportunities for adventure, personal growth, leadership, and friendship. Experiences like those shared by Troop 89 and Troop 1870 demonstrate the positive impact that inclusive outdoor programs can have on Scouts and their families.
Heritage Reservation extends its appreciation to the leaders, volunteers, families, interpreters, and camp staff who helped make the week possible. Most importantly, the council thanks the Scouts of Troop 89 and Troop 1870 for bringing their energy, enthusiasm, and Scouting spirit to Heritage Reservation.
About Laurel Highlands Council, Scouting America
For more than 110 years, Scouting America, Laurel Highlands Council, has been a leading youth-serving organization in our community, developing character, citizenship, and fitness. Its mission is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices throughout their lives by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.
Laurel Highlands Council serves nearly 10,000 youth members and 4,000 volunteer adult leaders across its 14-county, multi-state footprint, serving communities throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania, Western Maryland, and parts of West Virginia. The council is one of the largest Scouting America councils in the nation.
Heritage Reservation, located in the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania, provides year-round outdoor experiences for Scouts, families, schools, and community organizations. The property offers opportunities for camping, outdoor adventure, leadership development, and hands-on learning in a natural setting.
