By: Daniel A. Templar
Scout Executive and Chief Executive Officer
Cradle of Liberty Council, Boy Scouts of America
Dear Friends,
As I prepare to enjoy the company of my family and friends this Thanksgiving, I’m especially appreciative of the staff, volunteers, families and Scouts within the Cradle of Liberty Council, an organization I lead with pride. It is because of your love for and unwavering dedication to Scouting that we can serve more than 16,500 youth within Philadelphia, Montgomery and Delaware counties as they learn and grow into their best selves.
Now is an exciting time for Scouting with the recent launch of Family Scouting and the upcoming kick off of Scouts BSA in February 2019. I’m happy to witness girls from across the country joining Cub Scouts, earning ranks and participating in Pinewood Derbies, camping and other Scouting activities. Family Scouting is providing equal opportunity for boys and girls, brothers and sisters, ultimately making our character-building program a more viable and accessible option for families across the country.
At COLBSA, we are driven by our purpose of changing lives for the better. Boy Scouts has never been more diverse, inclusive and needed. We are continuously looking for ways to make Scouting look like everyone, no matter their hobbies or background. There is no greater gift than watching our youth grow into strong, educated and ambitious young men and women who are positively impacting the communities where they live, work and play.
I believe all leaders are nothing without a great team. I’m thankful for the nearly 5,000 volunteers who serve selflessly each day. I’m grateful for our continued membership growth, which showcases the importance of Scouting in southeastern Pennsylvania. I appreciate the entire COLBSA staff for their commitment to Scouting. And I am beholden to our chartered partner organizations, including those who have embraced Family Scouting and allowed COLBSA to enroll more than 200 girls in Cub Scouts this year. My heart is full of thanksgiving for each of you.
Most importantly, during this season of reflection and gratitude, please know how very proud I am to serve you and our community as the leader of COLBSA, and how thankful I am to be traveling on a path that continues to better the lives of our youth each day.
Thank you for all you do. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season with your loved ones.