The rewards of working with today’s youth

For more than a decade, Council 358 of the Patriots’ Path Council, Boy Scouts of America, has delivered award-winning child abuse prevention and is one of premier trainers for the cause. The Council’s annual Tribute to Women Luncheon raises funds to support its prevention program, which ranks first in the nation. Recently, the honor of “Outstanding Woman” was bestowed on Allison Sargent, assistant Scoutmaster with Troop 13 in Upper Montclair, a troop overseen by the Council.

If someone had told this successful event planner that she would be receiving such an honor, and that Boy Scouts would become such an important aspect of her life, she would not have believed it. Today, Sargent credits her work with the organization as one of the most rewarding things she does. She believes it is one way in today’s hectic world that young men can learn some of the most meaningful life lessons. However, she is quick to point out that being part of the organization is just as fulfilling for the troop leaders as it is for the young men.

Can you tell us about the work the Boy Scouts do and what the organization tries to instill in young adults?

The overall mission of Scouting is to contribute to the education of young people, through a value system based on Scout Oath and Law, to help build a better world where people are self-fulfilled as individuals and play a constructive role in society.

What is your current role with the Boy Scouts in New Jersey?

My current role with the Boy Scouts is with Troop 13 in Upper Montclair. Sponsored by the Union Congregation Church, where I have been a life-long member, I have been an assistant Scoutmaster for seven years. My duties include weekly meetings, working as a merit badge counselor, and planning and executing many kinds of the troop’s activities. I also preside at Courts of Honor and Eagle ceremonies, been a counselor at our summer camp and have an active role in many of our excursions.

How did you get involved with the organization?

In late summer of 2001, I was asked to join the troop by taking our visiting brother troop from England on a walking tour of downtown Manhattan. My son was thinking of joining the troop that fall. Because of my event planning background, I was asked to plan this event. It was a thrilling day for 16 boys who had never been to America before. It was also just as special for me to be able to share this incredible experience with them. At the end of the tour, we all took a photo on the top of the World Trade Center with the needle in the background and the visiting troop insisted I get in the picture. Our day was magical, and I decided Troop 13 was a perfect fit for my son, Tucker, and I. Two weeks later, seeing that needle atop the World Trade Center fall to the ground, I realized how much that afternoon meant to me. It was truly a life-changing experience.

Read the entire interview in the new May/June issue of New Jersey Countryside Magazine. Click here to get one free bonus issue and save more than 80% on a subscription.