Dear Scouting Family—
We hope that you’re safe and well. As you know, our COVID-19 Task Force is carefully monitoring the pandemic, as well as orders and guidance documents of both the state and federal governments to determine the best course of action for our Scouts, Scouters and community.
As we approach the “reopening” date of our state and communities, our Task Force is weighing how and when Scouting activities can safely begin. To facilitate this decision and ensure we are acting as the community leaders that Scouting has taught us to be, we are extending our closure of the Scouting program through May 31.
We are all so very eager to get back to Scouting, and know you are too- that’s why we’re taking a thoughtful approach to this. While we proceed, our past guidance applies: no in-person Scouting meetings are to occur, including all unit activities, face-to-face service projects, district meetings and events, as well as council meetings and events. We will communicate with you before the end of the month on how and when Scouting can resume in person.
As we look to the summer, we are launching two remote camps this summer as an alternative to our Camp Sequassen Resident Camp and Cub Scout Day Camp to create opportunities while respecting physical distancing guidelines. Those camps are:
- Camp Phoenix for members of Scouts BSA to participate in right from their own backyard. This camp is a new, exciting opportunity for our Scouts. It brings some of the best elements from camp in this time of physical distancing. Scouts will be able to earn up to five merit badges, participate in Firebird Challenges that get them outdoors and active as well as join in campfires and shows via live production.
- A home-based Cub Scouts Program with fun learning experience where each week families will get a box of pre-designed projects, crafts, and activities paired with short videos and sessions to help guide your Scouts. There will be outdoor activities tied into the program as well. Each week will have a different theme and activities designed to keep your Scout engaged in Scouting and provide a fun filled summer for them.
If you have any questions on our extension of the COVID-19 guidance, please email health@ctyankee.org and if you have questions on our remote camps, please email phoenix@ctyankee.org.
Yours in Scouting,
David B. Sippin
Council President
Michael Carpenter
Council Commissioner
Michael Morrell
Director of Camping
