Since its inception more than 100 years ago, Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America) has had the mission statement: “The mission of Scouting America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.”
We accomplish this mission by focusing on four key pillars:
Advancement: Scouts progress through ranks by demonstrating values like responsibility, honesty, and service, reinforcing ethical decision-making through structured achievement.
Outdoor Activities: Camping, hiking, and high-adventure outings teach self-reliance, teamwork, and respect for others and the environment—core elements of the Scout Law.
Service Projects: Required for advancement and embedded in the program, these projects cultivate a lifelong habit of helping others.
Youth Leadership: Scouts lead their peers in planning and executing activities, practicing integrity, fairness, and accountability in real-world situations.
A New Option for West Linn Families
To better serve the families of West Linn, a new girls’ troop will be launching in September 2025. This new troop (currently referred to as Troop 5396) will be linked with the existing boys’ troop, Troop 396. This new troop will build on the nearly 30 years of success and tradition that come with Troop 396.
The new troop will give families a choice of:
- Boy-only troop: Troop 149
- Girls-only troop: Troop 555
- Linked troops with Girls and Boys: Troop 396 & 5396 (which operate closely together)
Each family and scout will get to choose which unit will be best for them.
Learn More at Our Information Night
When: July 22nd, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Where: Marylhurst Heights Park
1800 Valley View Dr, West Linn, OR 97068
Join us for an evening of activities for prospective scouts and information for their parents. Come learn about how to get your family involved with Scouts BSA and discover the opportunities that await in our new linked troop program.
Can’t make it that night? Contact Adam Stout or Marie Van Patten for more information about getting your family involved with Scouting America.
Ready to begin the adventure? We look forward to meeting you and your family as we launch this exciting new chapter in West Linn Scouting!