In the summer of 2011, nearly 100 Arrowmen, Scouts and volunteers came together for ArrowCorps502, a weeklong conservation service project in Mount Rainier National Park and the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in the Seattle area. "After seeing the success of the ArrowCorps5 projects in 2008, rangers from both agencies started asking us why there was no such project here in the Pacific Northwest," said Jeremy Bellows, a project organizer from T'Kope Kwiskwis Lodge. Over three years of planning, a core group of youth and adults built a comprehensive program methodology and working relationship with the NPS and NFS. The project was such a great success, completing over 2,500 hours of service at six sites, that even before the week ended planning for ArrowCorps2014 was underway.
From August 3-9, 2014, Scouts from around the nation will again converge on Mt. Rainier for a week of brotherhood, cheerfulness and service. Based at Camp Sheppard in the shadow of the mountain, trail crews will complete a variety of projects under the direction of land management personnel and skilled youth and adult leaders. Participants will have the chance to learn expedition leadership, trail skills, and wilderness ethics while immersing themselves in the story of our national public lands. This exciting opportunity is open to all Arrowmen, Boy Scouts, and Venturers meeting criteria for participation in high adventure activities. From the earliest Eagle Scout trail crew projects in 1925 to the projects of today, ArrowCorps2014 continues the rich legacy of Scout service in one of America's most iconic places.
Although the work is demanding, there is a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment to be found in unselfish service well done. The 2012 National Service Award the lodge received for ArrowCorps502 was just the beginning. "We've found that participants working together in an outdoor setting gain self-confidence and leadership experience they can't find anywhere else" explained Bellows. "They come back better prepared to lead themselves and others in their families, schools, and communities." Others have found a sense of belonging in the wilderness, revisiting project sites, hiking the 92-mile Wonderland Trail encircling the mountain, and even making a summit attempt of the 14,411' peak.
For more information and to register, please visit the event website, www.arrowcorps2014.org. Keep up to date with the latest developments and follow ArrowCorps2014 on Facebook and YouTube.
Whatever you're seeking, you'll find it and much more on the trail. Challenge and opportunity await all ArrowCorps2014 attendees, and we hope to see you on the mountain this summer.