When you say “Boy Scout” the iconic image of scarf-clad young men helping the elderly across a busy intersection comes to mind for many. But few know that one program in the Boy Scouts of America is actually open to teenage young men and women. This lesser known program is called “Venturing,” and the Scouts who participate in Venturing work with fellow members in Crews to set and achieve lofty goals and learn ideals which will last them for a lifetime.
Like other Scouting programs, Venturing has a system of awards that the Scout can work to earn, the highest level of which is known as the “Silver Award.” (The Boy Scouts of America recently announced that the Silver Award will be renamed to be known as the “Summit Award.”) Among other requirements, the Silver Award requires a teenager to set personal growth goals, learn First Aid and CPR, participate in a leadership skills course, learn and lead a forum on ethics, and serve as a leader in their home Crew. Additionally the Scout must receive three letters of recommendation from community leaders, educators, or members of the clergy.
The most recent BSA statistics show that only about 0.34% of all Venturing Scouts earn the Silver Award. Which makes the achievement of three local Scouts that much more significant. Royce Picot, Mary Kate Thornburg and Dacotah McGaffic, all of whom are members of Venturing Crew 617 in Manassas, each earned the Silver Award. Despite all being from the same Crew, each Scout worked on their award program independently. Each Scout coordinated with an adult advisor to help them devise attainable goals and how to follow through and achieve those goals.
Venturing Crew 617 was started in Manassas in 2010 as a partnership between the National Capital Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, and the Park West Lions Club of Manassas. Since that time four Venturing Scouts in the Crew have earned the Eagle Scout award, and with these three awards being earned, the number of Venturing Scouts in the Crew who have earned the Silver Award also equals four. Each of these Scouts will be hosting a special Court of Honor to commemorate the achievement in the next few weeks.
About Venturing Crew 617
Venturing is the “new” older youth development program of the Boy Scouts of America for young men and women who are 14 (and have completed the eighth grade) through 20 years of age. Spun off from the Exploring program in 1998, Venturing’s purpose is to provide positive experiences to help young people mature and to prepare them to become responsible and caring adults. Young people in Venturing learn leadership skills and participate in challenging outdoor activities that help develop self-confidence. Nationwide, there are approximately 200,000 Venturing youth, and in the National Capital Area Council, there are approximately 1,150.
Venturing Crew 617 was formed in 2010 to create a unique and dynamic relationship between the youth of Prince William County, adult leaders, and the Park-West Lions Club. The result has become a program of exciting and meaningful activities that helps our youth members pursue their special interests, grow, develop leadership skills, and become good citizens.
Recent Stories
Step back in time and experience history firsthand at Ben Lomond Historic Site in Manassas, VA. Built in 1832, this remarkable home once served as a Confederate field hospital during the Battle of First Manassas. Today, visitors can explore its preserved rooms, complete with Civil War-era graffiti left by Union soldiers, as well as the original slave quarters, smokehouse, and dairy that tell the story of the people who lived and worked here.
Stroll Through History – Don’t miss the fragrant Rose Garden, featuring one of the largest collections of antique roses in the region.
Engaging Tours – Open Friday-Monday, 10 AM-4 PM, with guided tours at 11 AM and 2 PM. Admission: $5 per person, free for children under six.
Accessible Experiences – Enjoy 360° Virtual Tour tablets and foreign language guides in French, Italian, German, Chinese, and Spanish—available at no extra cost!
Volunteer With Us! – Love Civil War history or gardening? Join our team and help preserve this incredible piece of Prince William County’s past.
Visit us at 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, VA 20109
(703) 367-7872 | ? [email protected]
Plan your visit today and experience history like never before!
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Coles District Supervisor Yesli Vega is pushing to cancel the long-debated Route 28 Bypass project, a multi-year effort designed to alleviate congestion on Route 28 by extending Godwin Drive to connect Manassas with Dulles Airport. The Prince William Board of County Supervisors is set to vote on her resolution during its meeting on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. The project, initially endorsed in September 2020, was meant to relieve congestion on Route 28 by constructing a four-lane divided bypass extending Godwin Drive across Sudley Road. The road would have connected with Route 28 at a signalized intersection north of Bull Run Stream in Fairfax County.
If you’re searching for a loyal companion with a heart as big as his head, look no further than Hugo! This magnificent 4-year-old Mastiff-mix weighs in at 114 pounds, but don’t let his size fool you—he’s a gentle giant with a sweet and easy-going nature.
Hugo loves nothing more than taking leisurely strolls on nature trails, often checking in with his walking buddy to make sure you’re right there with him. His previous owner shared that he gets along well with children and other dogs, though he can be a little nervous around new people. Because of this, Hugo would do best in a quiet home with a patient owner who can help him build his confidence.If you’re searching for a loyal companion with a heart as big as his head, look no further than Hugo! This magnificent 4-year-old Mastiff-mix weighs in at 114 pounds, but don’t let his size fool you—he’s a gentle giant with a sweet and easy-going nature.
Hugo loves nothing more than taking leisurely strolls on nature trails, often checking in with his walking buddy to make sure you’re right there with him. His previous owner shared that he gets along well with children and other dogs, though he can be a little nervous around new people. Because of this, Hugo would do best in a quiet home with a patient owner who can help him build his confidence.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
