First Scouts BSA Female Troop Formed

Monday, 3/18, marked the official creation of the first Piedmont Troop for girls in Scouts BSA, formerly known as Boy Scouts. Bob McBain, Mayor of Piedmont and Executive Board Member for the Piedmont Scout Council, presented the first charter to Scoutmaster Rob Rachwald; Camille Calegari, Mollie King and Lizzie Rachwald, founding members of the new Troop 4; and Walter Stokes representing their sponsor, Beach Parents Organization (BPO).

This step signifies the creation of the Troop and creates a partnership between the BPO and the Boy Scouts of America at the national and local levels, to carry out the Scouting program for the youth of the community.

Morgan Fjord, District Executive at the Piedmont Scout Office, explained that “our families want an accessible program for the entire family, and welcoming girls to Scouts BSA does that.” He added “we have female siblings who in the past have seen their brothers enjoy the program, and some of them have even taken part in activities with their brothers, but they weren’t able to take full advantage or get recognition for their efforts. This new step allows young women to enjoy all the benefits of Scouting and pursue the coveted rank of Eagle Scout.”

In addition to Troop 4 for girls, BPO sponsors Troop 4 for boys, and Pack 4, the younger Cub Scout program. The BPO, along with other charter organizations in the area, uses the BSA program to provide leadership opportunities to youth of this community through outdoor skill-building activities like camping and hiking.

Current and perspective scouts attended the Troop Open House, played games and participated in fun activities.

There are five Scouts BSA Troops in Piedmont, and girls and boys are welcome to visit all Troops. More info can be found at the Council website at https://www.piedmontbsa.org/programs/scouts-bsa/ or contact Morgan Fjord at 510-844-4752.