About Us
INTRODUCTION TO TROOP 34
The Schenectady Area’s Local Connection
to the
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA
TROOP 34-INFORMATION
· A Schenectady Troop started in the 1920's
· Revitalized and active since 1985
· Sponsor: Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Parish
· Troop: 34 (3034)
· Council: Twin Rivers (364)
· District: Mohawk (03)
· Location: Niskayuna
· Meeting Location: Niskayuna Reformed Church
· Meeting Time: 7:00 pm to 8:15 pm, every Tuesday that Niskayuna Schools are open.
The Twin Rivers Council has consistently recognized troop 34 as a “quality” unit. That quality designation is due in large part to the team that administers and coaches the group. Our current uniformed leadership includes
Our Uniformed leadership
Our core of uniformed leaders work with the scouts teaching, demonstrating and modeling not only the skills needed to advance in Scouting but the Principles, Oath, Law and leadership skills that the program is designed to impart. The scouts in their turn are lead by more senior scouts in the same fashion, with each scout in turn progressing through the ranks and taking on more advanced responsibilities.
Scoutmaster Ed Lessard
Assistant Scoutmasters William Demarest#*, John Hoke#*, Walter Wilson, Becca Frankenberry, Joe Gotwals#*, Julia Lee, Chris Puleo, Donald Wilson*, Joe Helstowski*, Evan Cuttler* and Brian Cuttler
Our longest tenured uniformed scouter is Joe Gotwals who has been attached to our troop since his son joined in the 1980s.
# Prior Scoutmaster of our troop
* Eagle Scout
JOINING REQUIREMENTS
The boy scouts have some specific criteria in order to join. A boy has to meet one of the following:
· Be at least 11 and not older than 17.
· Have received the Cub Scout Arrow of Light (or crossed over with a Webelos den).
· Have completed 5th grade.
Also, any boy that is interested in joining should know what their obligations are:
· Pledge to do their best to follow the Boy Scout Oath and Law.
· Support the Troop and Patrol Program through active participation and enthusiasm.
PARENTAL OBLIGATIONS
It is crucial that the parents support their child's involvement in Scouting by:
· Encouraging their active participation.
· Assisting them in meeting their commitments to the Troop.
· Communicating with Troop Leaders.
AND
· Supporting the Troop Program by contributing knowledge, skills, time and resources as best fits their situation - remember your child is the one who will benefit.
WHAT ARE OUR STRENGTHS?
We Emphasize:
· Outdoor adventures.
· Advancement in Scouting.
· Character and leadership development.
· The importance of planning for a successful experience.
· Of course, fun and safety are integrated into the Scouting experience.
COSTS
The Dues are $120.00 per year. Scouts joining the troop will receive a Scout handbook and Troop neckerchief.
The uniform costs approximately $120.00. The expectation is that a Scout will have and wear a complete uniform.
The Troop also uses a red T-shirt for a Class B type uniform - available for $10.00 from the Troop.
EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR CAMPOUTS
· 1st year - sleeping bag, ground pad, pack/duffle canteen, knife and winter (waterproof) boots
· 2nd year - backpack and compass
· 3rd year - backpacking stove
FUNDRAISING
We have only one fundraising project each year that subsidizes Troop activities.
SUMMER CAMP
All Scouts are encouraged to attend summer camp. It’s a week-long fun filled experience where Scouts learn skills, independence, leadership, and make great strides in advancement. The cost is approximately $450 and we usually attend camp the last week in July.