December 3, 2021

Dear Scouting Families,

This week, our community experienced an extraordinary tragedy that disproportionately affected our young people and their families. As our council leadership has taken in the news from this recent event, and the subsequent community, media, and law enforcement response, we’ve joined with countless other Americans in trying to digest and make sense of this horrendous act.

Unfortunately, we are saddened to know of those that have participated in the Scouting program that were impacted by the events of Tuesday, November 30.

Above all, we empathize with all in our community that have been touched by this tragedy and want to offer the support of the whole Scouting family in any we are able. In the coming days and weeks, if you or others in your network are finding yourselves in need of support, the Michigan Crossroads Council is standing by to do what we have always done, to help other people at all times. Our organization was built on a legacy and tradition of being friendly, courteous, and kind, and it is our desire and our duty to maintain that commitment especially during these most challenging of times.

As a movement grounded in reverence and Duty to God, we believe that there are powers greater than ourselves that we can turn to for our hope. Furthermore, the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America provides resources and guides to Scouting units related to safety, mental health, adult leader training, and emergency preparedness, along with numerous training courses for adults and youth that could be utilized during unit or leader meetings in the future. These can be found at www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/

When catastrophe strikes, history has taught us that it can cause mistrust, fear, and discord… but our leadership strongly believes that it also galvanizes a sense of camaraderie, thankfulness, and resolve to support our neighbor during adversity. The American Spirit of resolution and hope go hand in hand with the Scouting Spirit.

Our mission, “to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law” is one that we take seriously and personally, and what drives our executive board, staff, and volunteer leadership in working diligently to provide the lessons and values found in Scouting, those of leadership, learning, service, and adventure, to every young person.

To our Scouting Family in Oxford and greater Oakland County, along with all families who must endure yet another tragedy, our hearts are with you and we are standing by to support you with any meaningful good turns that may be needed. We appreciate your personal commitment in raising our nation’s youngest generation with the timeless values that Scouting’s programs have instilled in hundreds of millions of young people. You are making a difference for these children, their families, and our future.

Yours in Scouting,

Laurie Champion
Council President

Timothy Ekola
Council Commissioner

Donald Shepard
Scout Executive / CEO