Transition To Council-Centric Model On May 1

The Mayflower Council is transitioning to a council-centric support model to better serve Scouting units on May 1, 2025. This change involves moving from district committees to council-level committees. District-level volunteers are encouraged to stay involved by shifting to the new council-wide committees, and units will now work directly with these committees. This restructuring aims to streamline operations, reduce administrative overhead, and enhance support for local Scouting activities.

Key Points of the Transition

Consolidation: On May 1, 2025, the existing five districts (Cranberry Harbors, Headwaters, Metacomet, Post Road, and Sachem) will be consolidated into a single council-wide district named the Mayflower District.
Volunteer Roles: While specific district-level positions like district chair and vice-chair will be eliminated, volunteers are encouraged to continue their service at the council level.
Support Structure: Unit Commissioners will continue to support units, and Roundtable meetings will still be held at the council level, likely in a hybrid format.
Event Management: Council-level volunteer committees will now oversee events like Freeze Out and Webelos Woods, with efforts made to include previous district-level volunteers.
Communication: A new social media group, “Mayflower Leaders Growing Leaders,” will be launched in early March to enhance communication and collaboration across the council. Existing district email addresses will be transitioned into new council-wide addresses.

Impact on Local Unit Leaders

Unit leaders (den leaders, Cubmasters, Scoutmasters, etc.) will continue to deliver the Scouting Program.
Points of contact will shift from district-level volunteers or professionals to council-wide personnel.
The goal is to improve program delivery and support consistency across the council.

How to Get Involved

Volunteers are needed at all levels.
Express your interest by emailing the transition team.

For more detailed information or specific concerns, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) or contact the transition team at transformation@mayflowerbsa.org.

“Around The Campfire” Podcast – Episode Six

Monthly Podcast from the Scouting America Mayflower Council.

Around The Campfire Podcast from Scouting America Mayflower Council for leaders and volunteers.

February 2025 episode features:

Anniversaries and Name Change information with Juan Osorio, Scout Executive
Meet our new team members, Satina Craffey and Colleen Kinney
Arrow Of Light to Scouts BSA Transitions with Aaron Christian
Sneak Peek of the Council Recognition Dinner
Council Membership Plan Update

Meet the Team: Rick Riopelle

For our latest #meettheteammonday on Mayflower Council’s social media, we sat down with Rick Riopelle, Deputy Scout Executive!

Rick, what is your favorite aspect of Scouting?
“My favorite part of Scouting is undoubtedly the summer camp experience. The immersive environment, removed from everyday life, creates a space for true growth, camaraderie, unforgettable moments, and adventure.”

What brought you to the Mayflower Council?
“It was Asst. Scout Executive Bob Mersereau’s invitation during my senior year of college that first sparked my interest in working for Scouting America, leading to a whirlwind start (from Friday classes to Monday job). I’ve been fortunate to be part of the Mayflower Council family since its inception in 2017.”

What is your Scouting background?
“This year marks my 44th year in Scouting, a journey that has shaped me in countless ways. From my early days as a Cub Scout to serving as camp director at Camp Resolute for fourteen summers, and through achieving Eagle Scout and receiving the NESA Outstanding Eagle Scout Award, I’ve cherished every experience. I also had the pleasure to serve as an OA lodge chief and troop committee chairperson.”

Council duties?
“As Deputy Scout Executive, I work directly with the membership team to grow and retain our Scouting families, provide strategic support to our camping and program operations to deliver exceptional experiences, and manage a diverse portfolio of other responsibilities vital to the council’s overall operation.”

Favorites…

Food: Chicken and Waffles
Color: Gray
Drink: Cold Brew Coffee
Treat: Anything S’mores, Gingerbread, or Pumpkin Spice
Hobby: Running
Animal: Meerkat
Place: Any Disney Theme Park Worldwide
Music: Pop

Feel free to contact Rick if they can help enhance your Scouting experience.

Meet the Team: Satina Craffey

For our latest #meettheteammonday on Mayflower Council’s social media, we sat down with Satina Craffey, ScoutReach Program Specialist!

Satina, what is your favorite aspect of Scouting?

“My favorite aspect of Scouting is the unique opportunities each Scout gets to experience through the program!”

What brought you to the Mayflower Council?

“A desire to help bring the Scouting program to all youth regardless of their special needs or inability to pay…”

What is your Scouting background?

“I was a Girl Scout and earned my silver award.”

Council Duties

“My primary responsibility is to bring the Cub Scouting program to low-income areas within the council.”

Satina’s Personal Favorites

Food Mexican food
Color Blue
Drink Water
Treat Dried Fruit
Hobby Hiking
Animal Giraffe
Place “Exploring with my children…”
Music Country

Feel free to contact Satina if she can help enhance your Scouting experience.

Meet the Team: Colleen Kinney

For our latest #meettheteammonday on Mayflower Council’s social media, we sat down with Colleen Kinney, Fundraising Administrative Assistant, Development Team!

Colleen, what is your favorite aspect of Scouting?

“I enjoy the sense of community it brings and the values it brings to the lives of those involved.”

What brought you to the Mayflower Council?

“I’ve always been big on giving back to the community when I can; so many of the opportunities I’ve had in my own life have come from the goodwill of others in my community. When I saw how the Mayflower Council gives to its own communities and gets others involved, I knew that it was where I belonged.”

What is your Scouting background?

I do not have a s Scouting background, but I would be thrilled if my future children got involved in Scouting!

Council Duties

“As the Fundraising Administrative Assistant, I support the development team in raising money for the council through our annual Friends of Scouting campaign, our yearly events, and our product sales.”

Colleen’s Personal Favorites

Food Mac and Cheese
Color Green
Drink Mocha Latte
Treat Brownies
Hobby Crocheting
Animal Penguin
Place The White Mountains
Music Country

Feel free to contact Colleen if he can help enhance your Scouting experience.

Seeking Insurance Coverage Experts

Are you an insurance expert?

We’re seeking individuals with expertise in insurance coverage to join a dedicated task force. This team will play a crucial role in evaluating and advising on our organization’s insurance coverage.

What we’re looking for:

Deep understanding of insurance policies: A strong grasp of various types of insurance, including property, liability, workers’ compensation, and more.
Risk assessment skills: The ability to identify potential risks and evaluate the adequacy of existing coverage.
Analytical mindset: A keen eye for detail and the ability to analyze complex insurance contracts.

What you’ll contribute:

Policy review: Analyzing current insurance policies to identify gaps, redundancies, and opportunities for improvement.
Risk assessment: Evaluating the organization’s risk profile and recommending appropriate coverage.
Cost-benefit analysis: Assessing the cost-effectiveness of different insurance options.
Vendor selection: Helping to select qualified insurance brokers and carriers.
Claim management: Providing guidance on claim filing and negotiation processes.

If you’re interested in joining this important task force, please contact Deputy Scout Executive Rick Riopelle.

Recognize Excellence in Scouting

Are you ready to recognize the exceptional adult leaders in your Scouting community? We’re excited to announce that nominations are now open for various prestigious Scouting America recognition awards. These awards honor individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievements, leadership, and commitment to the values of Scouting. Whether it’s a dedicated Scouter who has gone above and beyond or a volunteer who has made a significant impact on their troop or community, there’s an award to celebrate their accomplishments.

Time is running out! Nominations for the Scouting America awards close on Sunday, January 12, 2025. Submit your nomination now and ensure your favorite Scout or leader is considered for this special honor.

Silver Beaver Award

The role of adult leaders in Scouting America has been a cornerstone of the organization since its inception. From the early days of its founding to the present, adult volunteers have provided invaluable guidance, support, and mentorship to countless young people. Without the leadership of caring adults, Scouting ceases to exist and therefore, it is important that we take time to recognize those in our community who have volunteered their time and mentorship to our youth.

One way we honor these leaders is through nominating a Scouter for the Silver Beaver Award, the highest adult recognition a council can bestow. We invite you to think about those in your unit or district who have left a lasting impact on the youth of your community and consider nominating them for the Silver Beaver Award.

Nomination Form

North Star

It is not just Scouters and adult volunteers who impact the youth of our community. In 2011 The North Star Award was established to acknowledge the invaluable support of non-Scouters who have contributed to the success of Scouting programs. This includes individuals who have donated time, money, or other resources to Scouting initiatives, as well as those who have provided guidance and leadership. We encourage you to nominate any non-scouters who have left a lasting impact on our Scouting community to be honored at this year’s recognition dinner.

Nomination Form

Elbert K. Fretwell Award

The Elbert K. Fretwell Award is a prestigious honor in Scouting that recognizes teachers, educational support staff, and school administrators who have made significant contributions to the lives of young people by instilling Scouting values in their students. The award is named after Dr. Elbert K. Fretwell, a professor of education at Columbia University, an early thinker in the Scouting movement, and the second Chief Scout Executive of Scouting America.

Nomination Form

Alumnus Award

The Alumnus Award is a valuable opportunity for former Scouts to stay connected to the organization and continue making a positive impact on their communities. It is a recognition designed to encourage participation and involvement in Scouting America’s alumni relations programs, including NESA activities. It is awarded to Scouting alumni who promote continued engagement with Scouting America.

Nomination Form

George Meany Award

The George Meany Award is a national recognition approved by the AFL-CIO Executive Council. It may be presented to any adult union member who has made a significant contribution to the youth of their community through Scouting. Each AFL-CIO city central labor council and each AFL- CIO state federation is permitted to give one award annually. The emphasis of this award is on the importance of being selective. There is no rule that the quota must be used every year. No honorary recognitions should be made. The purpose of this award is to recognize the recipient’s outstanding service to youth through the programs of Scouting America.

Nomination Form

Council Duty to God Award

In Scouting America, the Council Duty to God Award is a prestigious recognition bestowed upon registered Scouters who have demonstrated exemplary leadership in supporting and promoting the spiritual foundation of Scouting at the local Council level. Overall, the Council Duty to God Award is a testament to the importance of spiritual growth and leadership within Scouting America. It highlights the organization’s commitment to nurturing the character and values of its members through a strong spiritual foundation.

Nomination Form

Veteran Award

Honor the dedicated adults who have served the Boy Scouts of America for five or more years with the Veteran’s Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates those who have consistently contributed to the organization, embodying the values of Scouting and making a lasting impact on the lives of young people.If you or someone you know meets these criteria, we encourage you to nominate them for this well-deserved honor.

Nomination Form

Meet the Team: Devin Delgado

For our latest #meettheteammonday on Mayflower Council’s social media, we sat down with Devin Delgado, Membership & Unit Service Executive!

Devin, what is your favorite aspect of Scouting?

“My favorite aspect of Scouting is the community building aspect to it; anyone can find or create their own space in Scouting, and I think that’s cool.”

What brought you to the Mayflower Council?

“I was drawn to the Mayflower Council because it’s a local organization that does a lot of good for its member communities. I wanted to join in on the action.”

What is your Scouting background?

“I have no Scouting background, but when I do have a child, I would like to sign them up for Scouts!”

Council Duties

“At the council, I’m part of the ‘New Unit Team,’ where I help create new units in the community while helping existing units grow and thrive.”

Devin’s Personal Favorites

Food KBBQ

Color Green

Drink Boba

Treat Honey buns

Hobby “Gaming and the gym…”

Animal Elephant

Place NYC

Music The Weeknd & Kendrick Lamar

Feel free to contact Devin if he can help enhance your Scouting experience.

Meet the Team: Jack Colamaria

For our latest #meettheteammonday on Mayflower Council’s social media, we sat down with Jack Colamaria, Membership & Unit Service Director!

Jack, what is your favorite aspect of Scouting?

“[It’s] helping parents sign up their sons and daughters and watching the Scouts continue the journey from Cub Scouts to Scouts BSA to Eagle.”

What brought you to the Mayflower Council?

“As a longtime volunteer, I was excited when the opportunity arose to become a professional Scouter.”

What is your Scouting background?

“I was a youth then adult volunteer in Pack and Troop 49 Norwood, where my son also attained Eagle. I attended Philmont Scout Reservation in 2008 with my son Jay and his troop. I attended the 2010 National Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill, volunteering on the Banking Group, the 2013 National Jamboree as an Assistant Scoutmaster, and 2017 as a Scoutmaster and Contingent leader for eight troops. I am a Vigil Honor Member of the Order of the Arrow with Tantamous Lodge. I have received the District Award of Merit, the Silver Beaver Award, and the George Meany Award.”

Council Duties

“I oversee the Membership and Unit Service Team, which helps to support and grow units.”

What else keeps you busy?

“I am an active member of Rotary International, a past President of the Framingham Rotary Club, and currently an Assistant Governor. I have had the pleasure of attending International Conventions in Melbourne, Australia, Houston, Texas, and Toronto, Canada, with my mom, a fellow Rotarian. Scouting and Rotary have similar values, giving back to the community, and working well together.”

Jack’s Personal Favorites

Food Surf and turf

Color Tie-dye

Drink Coffee

Treat Ice Cream

Hobby Golf

Animal Dogs

Place New Hampshire

Music Grateful Dead

Feel free to contact Jack if he can help enhance your Scouting experience.

Meet the Team: Laura (Moriarty) Romero

Laura, in uniform…

For our latest #meettheteammonday on Mayflower Council’s social media, we sat down with Laura (Moriarty) Romero, Mayflower Council Senior Development Director!

Laura, what is your favorite aspect of Scouting?

“[It’s] the community that is Scouting; a community that brings generations together to deliver a program to our youngest generation that is filled with fun, adventure, and friendships, and in the process, builds confidence, teaches service beyond self, acceptance of others, and a desire for lifelong learning.”

What brought you to the Mayflower Council?

“After a pandemic layoff from a neighboring council, I was approached about my interest in working for the Mayflower Council. I welcomed the opportunity!”

Laura with husband Carlos

What is your Scouting background?

“Growing up, I was a Girl Scout and became a leader with both of my daughter’s troops, so when a flyer was found in my son’s backpack to join Cub Scouts, not only did he join, so did I. In my volunteer capacity, I have been a Den Leader, Cubmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster, and Crew Advisor, and on Nov. 1 of this year, I celebrated my 23rd career anniversary.”

Council Duties

“As Senior Development Director, my primary responsibilities are to develop philanthropic giving through our Annual Campaign ‘Friends of Scouting’ to help financially support our council programs, also to manage our council product fundraiser and lend support to our units who participate in it.”

Laura and volunteers at the recent “Pintwood Derby.”

Laura’s Personal Favorites

Color Red

Drink Coffee

Treat Cannoli

Hobby Candy Crush

Food “Anything Italian!”

Animal Cat

Place “St. Pete Beach…”

Music Classic Rock

Feel free to contact Laura if she can help enhance your Scouting experience.

Laura with the Moriarty-Romero family.