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Two Major Scouting Councils To Merge

Two major Scouting America councils in the region have merged into one, the organization announced Friday.

The Mountaineer Area Council and Ohio River Valley Council today announced they will merge to create one council. The Mountaineer Area Council includes Barbour, Doddridge, Gilmer, Harrison, Lewis, Marion, Monongalia, Preston, Randolph, Taylor, Tucker, and Upshur counties, while the Ohio River Valley Council includes Harrison, Jefferson, Belmont, and Monroe counties in Ohio and Hancock, Brooke, Ohio, Marshall, Wetzel, and Tyler counties in West Virginia.

“Our focus continues to be on the mission of Scouting America and providing youth with meaningful experiences that help them be the best version of themselves. Together, we will be a stronger and more sustainable organization,” said Amy Garbrick, president of the Mountaineer Area Council Executive Board.

Scott Hanson, who has served as Scout Executive and CEO for both Scouting America Mountaineer Area Council and Ohio River Valley Council since last year will continue to lead the new Council. The new Council will operate under the Mountaineer Area Council name with the headquarters located in Wheeling.

To best serve Scouts, leaders, volunteers and families, the Council will maintain its current service centers and supply shops located in both Fairmont and Wheeling.

“We have passionate, dedicated leaders and volunteers who want to see Scouting grow and prosper in our region. Combining these organizations will make us a very strong council — one that is prepared, committed and able to meet the needs of our youth,” said Peter Ehni, president, Ohio River Valley Council Executive Board.

Leaders anticipate formally recognizing and chartering the combined Council by the national Scouting America organization over the coming months, based on the approval of the West Virginia Secretary of State. Staff, volunteers and others will work together to address transition needs and identify opportunities to enhance programming while continuing their roles within the organization.

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