Boy Scouts of America
The purpose of the Boy Scouts of America—incorporated on February 8, 1910, and chartered by Congress in 1916—is to provide an educational program for boys and young adults to build character, to train in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and to develop personal fitness. In its 95-year history, the Boy Scouts of America have influenced the lives of millions of boys and young men in positive and proactive ways.
Central United Methodist has been supporting the Boy Scouts of America almost since the beginning of scouting. Central is home to Troop 102. Troop 102 celebrated its 86th birthday in 2007 and is one of the longest continually chartered troops in the nation.
What does it mean to be the “Home of Troop 102”? Every Boy Scout Troop in America is chartered or sponsored by a community-based organization. These groups receive national charters to use the scouting program as part of their own youth work. These charter organizations have goals that are compatible with those of the Boy Scouts of America, and include religious, educational, civic, fraternal and business organizations; governmental bodies; corporations; professional associations; and citizens’ groups. More Boy Scout Troops are chartered through United Methodist Churches than any other organization in the United States.
There are currently 15 active scouts in Troop 102. These Boy Scouts are between the ages of 11 and 18 and are led by Steve Coppinger, a Central member, who took the lead role in December 2004. Central also sponsors Cub Scout Pack 102. Pack 102 consists of boys age first grade through age 10. These boys are engaged in activities that emphasize character development, citizenship training and personal fitness. Cub Scouts are often most likely to continue on to become Boy Scouts after completing the fifth grade. Over 40 boys are members of Central’s Pack 102. The doors of Troop 102 and Pack 102 are always open. Troop 102 meets year round on Monday nights at 7:00 p.m. in Central’s Activities Center. Pack 102 meets during the school year on Central’s campus as well. If you are interested in volunteering at any level, or in joining Troop 102 or Pack 102, contact Chuck Bushong at 267-3977 or Steve Coppinger at 283-2964.