New Scout leaders undergo training for Order of the Arrow
CAMP PRESTON HUNT, Arkansas — Scout leaders engaged in Lodge Leadership Development training recently in preparation for assuming new leader positions in the Caddo Area Council BSA Lodge Order of the Arrow Affairs.
The organization brings Scouts into the Order of the Arrow.
“The training is both for Scouts taking positions into the lodge as well as adult leaders and advisers,” said Darin Powell, lodge adviser. “Scout leaders shift positions annually, and this training is to prepare the new leaders for their positions on the lodge executive committee.”
Among the positions to be filled are chiefs, vice chiefs, secretaries, treasurers, dance team chairmen, a quartermaster and more.
“This is all youth driven, the Scouts run this,” said Charla Campbell, OA adviser and Camp Preston Hunt head cook. “Adults observe and advise. Scout positions rotate out annually, so this training is conducted.”
Blake Maynard, Eagle Scout, is a member of the lodge executive committee and expected to take on a more senior position after this training session. A Scout for 10 years and member
of the Order of the Arrow, he describes membership as being different from other Scout achievements.
“You don’t join the Order of the Arrow by accomplishment of a series of tasks, unlike other Scout recognitions,” he said. “You get elected to the Order. I’m currently Lodge chief and expect to be on the body that determines who will elect new members to the Order of the Arrow.”
Maynard hopes that in his year in the new position, that they will grow the council as well as experience personal growth and fellowship.
“This is extra work, but that’s what makes it worth it,” he said. “The relationships with other people doing this and the sense of brotherhood.”