Dawn Stoddard - Den Leader
My scouting story
My scouting journey began as a child. My little brothers were in cub scouts and my mother was what we used to refer to as a den mother. I got to tag along on a lot of their adventures. Later, as a mother myself, I enjoyed helping five of my boys journey through cub scouts, receive their arrow of light, and move on to scouts. I also served as their den leader a couple of times. My sixth son is currently in the last year of his Cub Scout journey.
My why
I think that scouting gives every child a place to belong while they work on learning new skills and developing their character.
A few things you should know about me
I grew up in a big family in Oregon. I’ve lived all over as an adult- Idaho, Germany, Texas, Alabama, South Korea and Oregon. We have 10 kids, most of whom are adults now. I have a son in a Boy Scout troop and our last son is in this cub scout pack. We have nine grandkids. Two of them are in our pack this year.
My favorite scouting memories
I enjoy watching friendships develop at scouts. After a few den meetings, the kids start wanting to linger afterwards to prolong talking and playing with their friends. I’ve especially enjoyed our camping trips and watching my boys do the polar bear plunge and participate in the campfire program.
As a leader
As a leader my goal is to create an environment where the kids feel comfortable trying new things and also inspired to go home and explore subjects more deeply with their parents.
My leadership style
My leadership style is to show by doing and to help the kids know it’s okay if you have to try something several times.
My advice to families considering scouting
It’s a great experience. Jump in and try it!