The Rollercoaster to Eagle

A Conversation with Molly F., Troop 1792 Duxbury

For Molly F., the path to Eagle hasn’t been a straight line—it’s been a rollercoaster. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we sat down with Molly to discuss how Scouting transformed her from an energetic recruit into a mature leader, Chaplain’s Aide, and a community-minded innovator.

From Energy to Influence

Looking back at her first meeting, Molly admits she was a different person. “I was very energetic,” she laughs. Today, she stands as a pillar of maturity and leadership in Troop 1792. That growth was fostered by mentors like Adam M. (Troop 64 Plymouth) and Alyssa B. (Troop 424 Marshfield), who showed her what a “cool,” experienced Scout looked like.

Her journey began at the Casoni Museum, earning the Scouting Heritage merit badge while decorating for Christmas—a moment she remembers fondly as more than just a “box to check,” but a genuine connection to the movement’s history.

Resilience in the Rain and on the Ice

Scouting is often about “productive failure.” For Molly, that meant mastering the “pop-up tent” during relentless rainstorms and learning to pivot so the fun never stopped. Physically, she pushed her limits at Base Camp in Milton, tackling her fear of heights while ice picking—a challenge she lists as her hardest to date.

The Eagle Project: Backpacks for Discovery

Molly’s Eagle Project was born from a late-night spark of inspiration: Library Bags. These kits, filled with materials to encourage children to explore the outdoors, are available for free checkout.

The process wasn’t without its “headaches.” Fundraising required Molly to cold-call organizations and companies, a task made easier by the support of local partners like Tiny and Sons Glass Company. On project day, Molly’s leadership skills were put to the test as she managed her peers by strategically separating “best friend groups” into smaller, focused teams to keep the momentum going.

“The most rewarding moment was testing the project with my brother’s Cub Scout Pack and seeing it actually work,” Molly shares.

Beyond the Badge

Molly’s Scouting skills have already bled into her “civilian” life. During a recent trip to a market in New York, she jumped into action to help a family whose child had a severe bloody nose. “I use First Aid all the time,” she says.

As she joins Crew 1630 and steps into a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster role, Molly’s advice to her 11-year-old self is simple: “You will do it. Enjoy the things you are doing in the moment. Don’t worry about the future.”



The Secret Resource for Scouting Success

From the Desk of Rich Carlson, Council Commissioner
Any good team needs a good coach to help provide the pathway to a successful season. Look no further than Coach Vrabel of our Super Bowl-bound New England Patriots. Many experts agree that his leadership and relationship-building have been the reason for his team’s extraordinary turnaround this season.
The Role of the Unit Coach Truth be told, Unit Commissioners—or as we like to call them, “Unit Coaches”—have been around since Scouting first started. In fact, they were a key element developed by Baden-Powell and Scouting’s founders.
Unit Coaches are not a secret at all, but rather Scouters whose primary job is to work with unit leadership and committees to develop a custom vision for success. By establishing an ongoing relationship and having meaningful conversations, they use their experience to bring out the unique strengths of each unit.
Why Your Unit Needs One:
  • Expert Guidance: They help navigate the “playbook” of Scouting.
  • Local Intel: They have a detailed understanding of what’s happening in your community and within the Mayflower Council.
  • Problem Solvers: Got a question? Ask a Unit Coach. If they don’t know the answer, they’ll find it for you.
We Need You on the Sidelines The unfortunate fact is that we currently have far more units in our Council than we have Unit Coaches. You can help us turn that around by stepping up to use your Scouting knowledge in service to local units.
We provide the training and support; all you need is a desire to see every Scout learn and grow in a positive environment. You can become a Unit Coach for a newly assigned unit or even for your own.
Interested in leveling up your unit or joining the coaching staff? Contact me.
Yours in Scouting,
Rich Carlson
Council Commissioner



Council Service Center Adverse Weather Policy

Due to today’s snow storm, we wish to remind our community of our adverse weather policy.

The Council Service Center’s operations directly align with the status of the Milford Public Schools (MPS).

  • Closure: If the Milford Public Schools are closed, the Milford Service Center will also be closed.

  • Delay: If the Milford Public Schools announce a delay (e.g., a one-hour delay), the Service Center will postpone its opening by the corresponding time.

Please follow weather and school closure reports on Boston media, such as WCVB Channel 5, to remain informed and up-to-date.



Changes to Council Activity Fee Nov. 1, 2025

We’re committed to providing the best possible experience for all of our members in the Mayflower Council. After careful consideration, the Mayflower Council Executive Board has approved an adjustment to the annual council activity fee.

Council Activity Fee Adjustment

Effective November 1, 2025, the annual council activity fee will increase from $68 to $85. This fee applies to all youth members.

Why the Change?

This adjustment is necessary to keep pace with the continuous rising costs for essential goods, services, and utilities. Like many organizations, the Mayflower Council is facing higher expenses. This change allows us to maintain the high-quality programs, excellent facilities, and essential services that our families expect and deserve.

Where Your Investment Goes:

This fee helps the Mayflower Council to:

  • Support Local Units: We provide a wide range of resources and training to help our local units succeed.
  • Deliver Exceptional Programs: This includes maintaining our camps and facilities, and developing new and engaging activities.
  • Ensure Safety and Security: Your investment helps fund essential liability insurance and safety training for all leaders and youth.
  • Innovate and Grow: We are constantly working to improve our programs and expand opportunities for our members.

New Partnership: Klarna—Scout Now, Pay Later!

Scouting is all about moving forward, and so are we. We’ve launched a brand-new, flexible payment option powered by Klarna to make joining the fun easier for every family. Say goodbye to upfront costs and hello to manageable, family-friendly payments!

Look for Klarna at Checkout

When you complete your online membership application, you’ll now see the Klarna option right alongside the usual credit card and digital wallet choices. This is a game-changer that offers more flexibility and removes financial barriers, making it simple to say “Yes!” to Scouting.

Flexible, Family-Friendly Payments

Klarna lets you choose a payment plan that works best for your family budget. This ensures Scouting remains accessible to every child who wants to be part of the adventure.

National Fees:

Please remember that the annual National Scouting America registration fee is separate. That fee supports national programs like Scoutbook, program resources, and national events.

Frequently Asked Questions:

For a complete breakdown of what the fee supports, answers to frequently asked questions, and details on our new Klarna payment option, please review our comprehensive Council Activity Fee FAQ.

Questions?

We understand that any fee increase can be a consideration. If you have any questions about the council activity fee or the new payment option, please feel free to contact our Membership and Unit Service Team by clicking here.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support. Your investment helps prepare thousands of young people for life.



Scout Now, Pay Later!

We’re absolutely thrilled to announce a groundbreaking new way to make the adventure of Scouting more accessible and affordable than ever before!

Scout Now, Pay Later!

Scouting is all about moving forward, and so are we. We’ve launched a brand-new, flexible payment option powered by Klarna to make joining the fun easier for every family. Say goodbye to upfront costs and hello to manageable, family-friendly payments!

Look for Klarna at Checkout

When you complete your online membership application, you’ll now see the Klarna option right alongside the usual credit card and digital wallet choices. This is a game-changer that offers more flexibility and removes barriers, making it simple to say “Yes!” to Scouting.

Flexible, Family-Friendly Payments

Klarna lets you choose what works best for your family budget. This ensures Scouting remains accessible to every child who wants to be part of the adventure.


(Please note: Interest or fees may apply for monthly financing, and credit approval by Klarna may be required.)

How to Use Klarna

  1. Complete your online membership application.
  2. At checkout, simply select Klarna as your payment method.
  3. If you have the Klarna app, complete your purchase as usual. If you’re new to Klarna, you’ll fill in a few details to set up your account.

We are incredibly excited to bring you this new option! This is another way we’re committed to making sure that every young person who wants to embark on the journey of a lifetime in Scouting has the chance to do so.

Have Questions?
If you have any questions about the Scout Now, Pay Later program or your membership application, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Membership & Unit Service Team by clicking here.



Den Leader Appreciation: Dana Rowen

We want to send a massive shout-out to an truly outstanding leader, Den Leader Dana Rowen of Pack 49 Norwood!

Dana Rowen of Pack 49 Norwood

As Mayflower Council continues our Den Leader Appreciation Month for May 2025, we are absolutely delighted to recognize Dana as our fourth Den Leader of the Week.

Dana has done something incredible this year: he led the Wolves Den to the greatest growth of any of our Dens! They started with just 3 Scouts and finished the year with a fantastic 11! That remarkable growth speaks volumes about how engaged and excited the kids are, and how wonderfully Dana has made it a fun and welcoming group for both Scouts and their families.

What makes Dana so special is his wonderfully calm and steady presence. We know it can be a whirlwind with a large group of 2nd graders, but he truly takes it all in stride, making every meeting feel smooth and enjoyable.

Just a few weeks ago, the Wolves took full advantage of the beautiful weather by making kites out of paper bags and enjoying some popsicles. That’s pure Cub Scouting genius! Dana perfectly embodied “A Scout is Thrifty” by using our amazing environment to create a fun and inexpensive activity the kids loved.

Dana, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your incredible dedication and the immensely positive spirit you bring to every Scout in Pack 49! You genuinely embody the very best of Scouting, and we are so incredibly fortunate to have you as a leader.

Remember, nominate your best den leaders here. Congratulations and thank you!



Den Leader Appreciation: Mike Cluett

Let’s hear it for Den Leader Mike Cluett of Pack 41 in Abington – truly one of our very best!

Mike Cluett of Pack 41 Abington

As we continue to celebrate Den Leader Appreciation Month in Mayflower Council, we’re absolutely thrilled to recognize Mike as our third Den Leader of the Week for May 2025!

Mike’s commitment is nothing short of inspiring. He stepped up to lead his son’s Den when no one else was available, diving in headfirst. The results speak for themselves: his Den isn’t just the largest in the Pack, it’s also bursting with the happiest, most smiling Scouts! Laughter and good times are a constant whenever Mike’s Den is together.

His dedication is 100% unwavering. Mike ensures his Scouts are not only having a blast but are genuinely engaged and learning something new every time they meet. Beyond his Den, he’s a true Pack champion, consistently helping with recruitment and fundraising efforts to make sure Scouting thrives for even more kids.

Mike’s Den meetings are always full of energy, with every Scout eager to participate. It’s clear that his desire to have as much fun as the kids themselves makes all the difference.

Mike, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your incredible dedication and the immensely positive spirit you bring to every Scout in Pack 41! You embody the very best of Scouting, and we are so incredibly fortunate to have you.

Remember, nominate your best den leaders here. Congratulations and thank you!



Enhanced Safeguarding Youth Training Launched

Scouting America has unveiled a new comprehensive Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT) program, reinforcing its unwavering commitment to creating the safest possible environment for young people. This updated training represents a significant step forward in Scouting America’s multi-layered approach to youth protection.
The new training is mandatory for all registered adult volunteers and has been developed with insights from leading experts in child safety, law enforcement, and child psychology. It incorporates the latest strategies for recognizing, responding to, and preventing various forms of abuse, including emotional, physical, and sexual abuse.
Key Features of the Updated Training: 
  • Comprehensive Focus: Our new Safeguarding Youth Training (formerly Youth Protection Training) program reflects the more comprehensive nature of the training and its focus on safeguarding youth from all threats.
  • Inclusive Content: The training covers a wide range of topics, ensuring volunteers are well-informed about potential risks and best practices for youth protection.
  • Annual Refresher Courses: Recognizing the ongoing need for education and awareness, Scouting America will now require annual refresher courses, estimated to take 15-20 minutes, to keep youth protection knowledge current.
  • Alignment with Best Practices: Scouting America regularly consults with experts to ensure its policies and training reflect the most up-to-date knowledge and prevention techniques in the field of youth safety.
  • Focus on Prevention: The training emphasizes proactive measures to prevent abuse and create a culture of safety within Scouting.
Your existing Youth Protection Training remains valid until its expiration date, at which point the new Safeguarding Youth Training will be required.
Scouting America’s proactive approach to youth safety underscores its dedication to providing a secure and enriching environment where young people can learn, grow, and thrive. The launch of this enhanced Safeguarding Youth Training demonstrates a continuous effort to adapt and improve safety measures, ensuring the well-being of all Scouts remains the top priority.



Den Leader Appreciation: Gregory Lomanno

Celebrating a Rockstar Leader: Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 Earns Den Leader of the Week Honors

Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 Medfield

Let’s give a huge shout-out to the awesome Den Leader Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 in Medfield! As Mayflower Council continues our Den Leader Appreciation Month, we’re absolutely delighted to shine a spotlight on his fantastic work as our second Den Leader of the Week for May 2025!

Seriously, Greg is a rockstar! He’s got the communication down pat, keeping all the families in the loop like a pro. His meeting plans? Always top-notch! And whenever the pack needs an extra hand, Greg is the first to jump in. 

What makes Grego truly shine? He’s like a super-organizer, somehow creating den meetings that are the perfect mix of “we’re having SO much fun!” and “hey, we actually learned something cool today!”

Want to know how to get the whole family smiling in Scouting? Just ask Greg! He’s a genius at planning activities where parents and kids get to join in the fun together. It’s a win-win for everyone!

Greg, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your incredible dedication and the super positive vibes you bring to the Scouts of Pack 113! You truly make the spirit of Scouting shine bright. We’re so lucky to have you!

Remember, nominate your best den leaders here. Congratulations, Gregory, and thank you!



Den Leader Appreciation Month

We know our den leaders truly light the way for our youth, creating the safe adventures, learning, and fun that makes Cub Scouts the perfect activity for boys and girls in kindergarten through fifth grade. Mayflower Council has marked the month of May as Den Leader Appreciation Month.

Mayflower Council highlights one of these fantastic den leaders every Wednesday in May

  • Den Leader Appreciation: Dana Rowen

    We want to send a massive shout-out to an truly outstanding leader, Den Leader Dana Rowen of Pack 49 Norwood! Dana Rowen of Pack 49 Norwood As Mayflower Council continues our Den [...]

  • Den Leader Appreciation: Mike Cluett

    Let's hear it for Den Leader Mike Cluett of Pack 41 in Abington – truly one of our very best! Mike Cluett of Pack 41 Abington As we continue to celebrate Den [...]

  • Den Leader Appreciation: Gregory Lomanno

    Celebrating a Rockstar Leader: Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 Earns Den Leader of the Week Honors Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 Medfield Let's give a huge shout-out to the awesome Den Leader [...]

  • Den Leader Appreciation: Deirdra Borges

    More Than a Leader: Deirdra Borges Fuels Growth and Fun in West Bridgewater's Pack 23 Deirdra Borges of Pack 23 in West Bridgewater It's Den Leader Appreciation Month in the Mayflower Council, [...]

Do you know a den leader who deserves some recognition?
Fill out our form; maybe you’ll see a familiar face in our next announcement…

Sincere thanks to all of our den leaders for all you do!