Listen to this articleby Mikki Enoch
Since 1935, Wasatch Presbyterian Church has sponsored Boy Scout Utah Troop 38, an all-inclusive scouting unit of Boy Scouts of America. The scouting unit has always been all-inclusive in regard to race, religious affiliation, ability, disability, and sexual orientation. Their inclusive policy applies to their leadership as well. The troop always welcomed female leaders. They now welcome girls 14 to 21 into their Venturing Crew, Crew #9038.
Scout Committee Chairman Scott K. Fausett, Utah’s first openly gay Scout Committee Chairman, invites all boys aged 7 to 21, girls aged 14 to 21, and anyone wanting to help by being a scout leader. Fausett proudly points out that Troop 38 has members from many faith traditions and backgrounds. Troop 38 has always been welcoming to all people. The addition of the Venturing Crew gives them more opportunity to expand their opportunity to assist more young people.
Fausett proudly speaks of the members of this group. The group is not a gay troop but it does have children of married gay couples are active in the program. While several of the Scout leaders are openly gay, sexual orientation isn’t the focus of the group but inclusivity is.
According to the Boy Scouts of America’s website, “Venturing is based on a unique and dynamic relationship between youth, adult leaders, and organizations in their communities. Local community organizations establish a Venturing crew by matching their people and program resources to the interests of young people in the community. The result is a program of exciting and meaningful activities that helps youth pursue their special interests, grow, develop leadership skills, and become good citizens.”
Any eligible youth interested in joining Troop 38 or adults interested in helping with the scouting group as a leader or their Scout committee, please email join@utahtroop38.com or text 801-860-6559.
(Stock photo)
