Webelos explain why it’s important to be a Cub Scout

Maricopa’s Cub Scout Troop 997 has been selling popcorn around town to raise funds and recruiting new members at events across Maricopa.

The Cub Scouts set up an information table at Kids Day last Saturday to recruit new members and show the fun kids can have as a scout. Their area featured a Pinewood Derby racetrack and members of the Webelos to assist with any questions families may have.

Beyond just having fun, the members of Troop 997 understand the values they are taught as well. They look to apply their various skills in everyday situations.

“You get to learn valuable life lessons,” Webelos Scout Robbie Hahn said. “So if you’re swimming in a lake, and you convince your friend to go swimming even though he doesn’t know how to swim, if a Cub Scout is there, he can help save him so he doesn’t drown.”

Scouts are selling popcorn in front of stores around Maricopa. This is their biggest fund-raiser of the year. According to scout leaders, it typically brings in around $15,000 for the troop to purchase uniforms and keep membership costs low.

This is just one of many fund-raising and community service based programs the Cub Scouts provide. Each event provides the young Scouts with opportunities to benefit their community, earn badges and learn the value of hard work while still having fun in the process.

“It’s important so you can learn and be proud of yourself and try to have fun,” Webelo Scout Rovic Ivins said. “It’s important so you can help each other out as well.”

Troop 997 meets each Monday at 6:30 p.m. at Butterfield Elementary. Parents looking to get their children involved with the Cub Scouts can get more information at www.cubscouts.org.