Unit History
Combined Troop 609 has a long but interrupted history. Its most recent incarnation began in September of 1999 when it was restarted with 18 boys. Since restarting, Troop 609 has generated 61 Eagle Scouts (and counting).
Schools and grades served
The second semester of 5th through 12
Schools embraced:
Starlight
Mar Vista
Rio Del Mar
Valencia
Shoreline
Aptos Jr.
Aptos High
Harbor High
San Lorenzo High
Soquel High
Watsonville High
Santa Cruz Montessori
Twin Lakes Christian School
Monte Vista Christian School
and many more
# of members
12 Boys and Girls. 12 Leaders. In 2022, we started a Girl's troop (2609), and in September 2024, we became Combined Troop 609, serving both Boys and Girls.
What makes us unique?
Stealth advancement. Our youth and adult leaders plan activities that feature advancement but do not stress it. They Boys and Girls have a great time and get advancement as well. We like to have fun while learning!
Community Involvement
We serve our community through involvement in the Order of the Arrow, personal involvement in community causes, and troop-level involvement in environmental efforts - we are the premier troop for the Hornaday Badge - an environmental award - with special emphasis on Eagle projects featuring environmental concerns.
Summer Camps
Each year the Boys and Girls vote on a Scouting America Summer Camp. In the past few years we have attended Camp Whitsett, Camp Chawanakee, Camp Winton, Camp Wente, and a Troop favorite - Camp Emerald Bay. Summer camp is a great opportunity for Scout fellowship, camping, merit badges, and the trail-to-first class program. We work with Scouts to ensure a fun and productive summer camp experience.