Serving Scouting in the Topeka, Kansas area
by tmontgomery
Welcome to the central location to find printable Council Calendar and flyers from Program Previews!
by tmontgomery
Unit leaders, now is the time to check in with your unit volunteers .
Last year, Scouting America transitioned from Youth Protection Training to the updated Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT) program. Along with enhanced content—including important topics like cyberbullying and online safety—the program also shifted from a two-year renewal cycle to an annual requirement, which goes fully into effect this May.
With this new format, many leaders will find the renewal process quicker. If a Scouter completed the updated training last year, they may qualify for the Refresher Course, which includes a short update video followed by a test. Passing with 80% or higher renews their certification for another year. If they do not pass, they will be directed to complete the full training. It’s important to note that the refresher option is only available up to seven (7) days after their renewal date. After the seven (7) day grace period, they would have to re-take the full course.
This year, many of our volunteers are part of the transition group. In the Jayhawk Area Council alone, over 400 leaders are due to renew their training by May 31. Nationwide, that number reaches into the hundreds of thousands, all accessing the system at the same time. This is where you come in.
We are asking all committee chairs and unit leaders to actively check in with your adult leadership and encourage them to complete their Safeguarding Youth Training as early as possible. Waiting until the end of the month could lead to system delays due to the high volume of users. A quick reminder, a simple conversation, or a unit-wide message can make all the difference in ensuring everyone stays current and compliant.
Let’s work together to stay ahead of the deadline, support one another, and continue our commitment to providing a safe environment for every Scout.
Don’t wait—renew early, and encourage your team to do the same.
by tmontgomery
Looking for that perfect gift to recognize an Adult Leader, celebrate Mother’s Day, Father’s Day? Do you have a Scout who is graduating or has an upcoming birthday?
If your Pack or Troop is heading off to Summer Camp, be sure they are outfitting themselves in style with branded Jayhawk Area Council Falley Scout Reservation apparel. You can even personalize your T-Shirts to include your Pack or Troop’s number as well.
The Jayhawk Area Council invites you to visit their new Webstore which has T-Shirts, Sweatshirts, Polos, and Hoodies available for purchase and shipped directly to your home or office. This is your one stop shop for Youth, Ladies, Men’s and Long & Tall official Camp merchandise. Don’t miss your opportunity to put the Outing back in Scouting and support the Jayhawk Area Council today!
by tmontgomery
As we gear up for an exciting summer at camp, safety starts before you even pack your bags. With the warm weather, outdoor activities, and increased travel, it’s important to take a few extra steps to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
First, stay hydrated. Summer heat can sneak up on you quickly, especially during activities like hiking, swimming, and outdoor skills. Encourage Scouts and leaders to drink water regularly—even if they don’t feel thirsty.
Second, be weather aware. Summer storms can develop fast. Make sure everyone understands emergency procedures and knows where to go in case of lightning or severe weather.
Third, use the buddy system at all times, especially around water activities. Whether at the pool, lake, or campsite, no one should ever go alone.
Also, don’t forget sun protection—sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing can help prevent heat-related illnesses and sunburn.
Finally, ensure all participants are current on their training, including Scouting America’s Safeguarding Youth Training, and that health forms are completed and up to date before arriving at camp.
A safe camp is a fun camp—and being prepared helps everyone focus on making memories that last a lifetime.
by tmontgomery
by tmontgomery
The Jayhawk Area Council is excited to invite you to participate in Scouts Read Sacred Texts Worldwide – a meaningful opportunity for youth to connect with their faith through reading. This special event encourages Scouts to set aside time to read from their sacred texts in conjunction with the U.S. National Day of Prayer. Whether at home with family, at their place of worship, or anywhere that feels right, Scouts are invited to spend about 15 minutes reading on the National Day of Prayer, May 7, 2026, or anytime that week.
Getting Started:
• Consult with your religious leader or discuss as a family which portion of your sacred text to read • Choose a time that works best for your schedule during the week.
• Make it a meaningful moment of reflection and connection This worldwide initiative from Scouting America’s National Religious Relationships Committee helps youth deepen their spiritual journey while earning recognition for their participation.
Ready to join Scouts around the world?
Learn more and register at: ScoutsReadSacredTextsWorldwide.org
We hope your Scouts will take part in this inspiring tradition!
Yours in Scouting,
Joe Blasko
