Lion NEWS

The COVID‑19 pandemic and the restrictions that followed left many community organizations struggling with declining participation. Service groups like the Lions Club have worked hard to adapt to new recruiting challenges, and Scouting has faced similar difficulties. Across the country, lingering memories of COVID-19 contributed to the disbanding of numerous packs and troops. In Weaverville, Cub Scout Pack 15 and Boy Scout Troop 15 closed more than five years ago. I was a member of both many years ago, and their absence has been felt deeply in our community.

For decades, the Weaverville Lions Club served as the charter sponsor and caretaker of the historic Scout House, supporting generations of young people. Over the years, one question surfaced again and again: Is there any chance the Scouts might return? Unfortunately, many families had become accustomed to staying home and avoiding group activities, making recruitment a persistent challenge.

In an effort to re-engage young people and their parents, the Weaverville Lions Club sponsored a special historical Cub Scout event — a Pinewood Derby. The club borrowed a derby track from the Golden Empire Scout Council in Redding and purchased more than 200 Pinewood Derby car kits to give away to anyone interested. We also invited Scouting America’s liaison and District Executive, Jeanine Tapal, who set up an information table to support recruitment efforts. Together, the Lions and Jeanine were determined not only to find future Cub Scouts, but also the most critical ingredient: a new Cub Scout leader.

I’m proud to report that our efforts paid off. We welcomed 130 cars to the first Weaverville Lions Pinewood Derby. Lion Rex Murphy took home the title in the Old Men’s Division, and—most importantly—we found a committed new Cub Scout leader whose son is eager to join Scouting. Thanks to this success, the Weaverville Lions Club will once again serve as the charter sponsor of Cub Scout Pack 15.

It may take decades for the world to fully move beyond the effects of COVID‑19. Recruiting new members and growing the Lions Club will continue to be a challenge. But progress starts with small, meaningful efforts—just as this derby did.

And as every Cub Scout knows, “Do Your Best.”