Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, Boy Scouts of America

We are thrilled to announce that Matthew Campbell has been appointed as the new District Executive for the Miccosukee District! Matthew brings a wealth of experience from his recent role as a Park Ranger at DeSoto National Memorial. He holds a Bachelor's degree in History from Florida State University and is currently completing his Master’s in Public Administration at the University of West Florida. Notably, Matthew is an Eagle Scout, exemplifying his longstanding dedication to the Scouting community. Join us in welcoming Matthew to the team! #ScoutingAmerica #WelcomeMatthew #EagleScoutLeadership

Merit Badge Academy Registration OPENS TODAY! Don’t miss your chance to lock in a spot at one of the year’s most exciting Scouting events! Merit Badge Academy offers hands-on learning, skill-building, and fun for Scouts of all ages. Register now: https://loom.ly/oxfKVKU. Classes fill quickly—sign up early to get your top choices!

Successful Commissioner Conference! This past Saturday, over 50 dedicated volunteers gathered to learn, collaborate, and strengthen Scouting America. Thank you to all who attended and support our units! #ScoutingAmerica #CommissionerConference #ThankYouVolunteers

Scouting isn’t just about the outdoors! Scouting isn’t just about camping and outdoor adventures—it’s about preparing for the future! From law and engineering to medicine and aviation, Scouts explore real-world careers through hands-on experiences. Take the Dentistry Merit Badge, introduced in 1975 and backed by the American Dental Association (ADA). Scouts learn about oral hygiene, the history of modern dentistry, and the connection between oral health and overall well-being. For some, this badge ignites a passion that leads to a career in dentistry. For others, it’s a fun learning experience that helps them discover new interests. Either way, it’s all about exploration! Learn more about the badge and where to get the official pamphlet: https://ow.ly/oTyJ50Vflhy

Did you know? Nearly 80% of marine debris comes from land-based sources, meaning the trash on our streets can end up in our waterways. As Scouts, we are stewards of the environment, and this is our chance to make an impact! ?? Join Scouting for Clean Waterways and log your cleanup efforts with the NOAA Debris Tracker App to show how Scouting is making a difference. Scouting America is launching a nationwide cleanup effort on Earth Day (April 22, 2025)! Units nationwide will help keep our waterways clean by removing litter from rivers, lakes, and beaches—or anywhere trash could impact our environment. Will your unit accept the challenge? Stay tuned for details! More information here: https://lnkd.in/ebSCr848 #CleanWaterScouts

In case you missed it, Scouting America has partnered with USA Triathlon and launched the Multisport Merit Badge. ??♂???♂??? Now, #Scouts throughout the nation can TRI cycling, biking and swimming – in conjunction with the other(s) – as they work on earning the new and coveted Multisport Merit Badge. Keep in mind that Scouts can participate in a race that combines all three or just two of the activities. For more details and info, check out the online page for the Multisport Merit Badge, now. https://ow.ly/Kgap50V9VIF Have a Scout who wants to get started earning this badge immediately? Order the Multisport Merit Badge Pamphlet online from Scout Shop and/or stop by the Scout Shop to pick up a copy in person.

When a fun day of white-water tubing turned dangerous, Eagle Scout David John didn’t hesitate. Using the lifesaving skills he learned in Scouting, he swam against the rapids to rescue two people trapped in a whirlpool, ensuring their safe return. "Scouting prepares young people for moments like this. Teaching us to be leaders, problem-solvers, and yes, even lifesavers." – David John, Eagle Scout As a third-generation Eagle Scout, David was ready when it mattered most. His quick thinking and bravery earned him the Lifesaving Award—but more importantly, it saved lives. Join us in celebrating David’s incredible heroism! This is the power of Scouting. Watch his inspiring story here: https://lnkd.in/e4TBzNmH

Wilderness First Aid Training – March 28-30! ????? Prepare for the unexpected in the backcountry! This hands-on Wilderness First Aid course is required for all BSA Trek & High Adventure programs and includes CPR/AED & First Aid certification. Dates: March 28-30 (Check-in Friday evening | Location: Camp Soule | March 28-30 #BePrepared #WildernessFirstAid #ScoutingAmerica

Congratulations to Tom Hochhausler! ?? We are thrilled to announce that Tom has been selected to receive the Silver Antelope Award, one of Scouting America’s highest honors for distinguished service at the regional level. He is one of only 30 Scouting volunteers nationwide to receive this recognition in 2024! Tom’s leadership and dedication to Scouting have been extraordinary—from his service as a past Council President to his impactful role on the Territory 16 Leadership Team. The award will be presented at the BSA National Annual Meeting in Orlando this May. Join us in celebrating Tom’s outstanding contributions to Scouting! ???? #SilverAntelope #ScoutingAmerica #Leadership #Service

Over the past two weeks, Pack & Troop 313 went above and beyond to fight hunger in our community! By going door to door, encouraging food donations at meetings, and even using cash donations to purchase food at Costco, they collected an incredible 572 lbs of non-perishable food! All donations were delivered to the HEP shelter kitchen, helping provide meals for those in need. ?? This is the power of Scouting—making a real difference, one act of service at a time! Way to go, Unit 313!