Troop 97

History

The St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church Men's Club in Austin, Texas chartered troop 97 in 1997. The troop has grown from a handful of boys to about 50. Eight boys have reached the rank of Eagle Scout. Troop 97 was recognized in the Arrowhead district as the top troop in 2000 and 2001.

Meetings

The meetings are planned and executed by the Senior Patrol Leader and his leadership team. Meetings include an opening, planning sessions, a program or skills activity, games, Scout Master time, and a closing. Meetings are held Tuesday evenings 7:30-8:30 at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church.

Monthly campouts are usually within a 2-hour drive. The boys plan the type of campout, the location and the activities. The committee plans the transportation and the adult leadership. The boys plan, buy, prepare, and cleanup all meals.

See our Campouts - Past and Future.

Fundraisers

The troop sponsors fundraisers several times each year. Most funds go into the troop's general fund but some go into the individual boy's fund to help him defer the cost of scouting. Annually the troop participates in the BSA popcorn sales, SVDP's festival, and a pancake breakfast.

New Scout Program

This program consists of dedicated leaders and older scouts who welcome and help new scouts into the Boy Scout Program. Our goal is for each new scout to achieve the level of "First Class" within the first year. We monitor their progress monthly and discuss what we can do to build their enjoyment and advancement in scouts.

Junior Leadership Training

This training is provided only once or twice a year by the troop and is intended to expose the boys to the responsibilities and requirements of the leadership positions.

Merit Badge class

Several times each year, a merit badge counselor will offer a class to work on a merit badge. Classes may be held on a meeting night or on a separate day. Participation in a class is each boy's choice.

Troop Equipment

Each boy in Troop 97 is provided major camping equipment required for a safe and effective camping experience. Boys are grouped in patrols. Each patrol is outfitted with chuck boxes (which include stove, pans, and utensils), ice chest, dry goods box, water containers, and lanterns. Every boy in the patrol has assigned duties to complete which includes care and maintenance of the equipment. The troop trailer will transport all equipment to the campouts.

The scout is responsible for providing his own tent, sleeping bag, cot (when allowed), and personal items.

Mike Gregorio, our Scoutmaster

mgreg.scout@gmail.com

Keith Smith, our Committee Chairman

smithk@sbcglobal.net