Founded in Everett in 2001 and relocating to Mill Creek the following year, Troop 122 has become a fixture in the community. Like many organizations, the troop faced significant challenges during the COVID years. At one point membership dropped to just five Scouts as restrictions made it difficult to hold meetings, outings, and the hands-on experiences that make scouting so meaningful.

Today, however, the troop is thriving. Membership has grown to 24 Scouts, with the majority currently in middle school. Leaders see tremendous potential in the years ahead as these young Scouts grow into the next generation of troop leaders. The troop's philosophy is simple: "Fun with a purpose." That purpose is reflected in everything they do. Troop 122 meets weekly and typically participates in a camping trip, hike, or outdoor adventure every month. They also complete one or two service projects each month, helping Scouts develop a strong sense of responsibility to their community.

Some of the troop's favorite memories come from annual adventures that take them far beyond Mill Creek. Each year, Troop 122 visits a National Park, giving Scouts opportunities to explore some of the country's most spectacular landscapes. Past trips have included Glacier, Mount Rainier, Olympic, and Crater Lake National Parks. Last year's seven-day trip to Crater Lake was especially memorable because the entire outing was planned and led by the Scouts themselves. This summer, the troop will head to North Cascades National Park near Diablo Lake, continuing a tradition that has become a highlight of the scouting year.

Not all memorable experiences happen under perfect conditions. In fact, some of the troop's favorite stories involve unexpected challenges. One Eagle Scout recalls outings at Monte Cristo and Fort Worden where difficult weather turned ordinary campouts into unforgettable adventures. "Weather always adds an unexpected challenge," he said. "That's where you make the best memories."

Service is equally important to Troop 122's identity. Scouts regularly volunteer throughout the community and have completed projects that directly benefit local residents. Each spring they partner with Rotary to help prepare Everett's Forest Park for summer visitors. Eagle Scout projects have included removing invasive plants and restoring native habitat with the Mill Creek Community Association, building weather-resistant ramps for food distribution at the Mill Creek Food Bank, and renovating the tool shed used by the Food Bank's community garden. The troop's commitment to service reflects a larger goal: helping young people grow into responsible citizens and leaders.

One reason Troop 122 has been so successful is its emphasis on being truly Scout-led. Older Scouts mentor younger members through every stage of the program. New Scouts are paired with experienced Troop Guides who help them learn skills, navigate advancement requirements, and become comfortable within the troop. Leadership development is built into nearly every activity, creating opportunities for Scouts to learn by doing. Leaders say one of the most rewarding parts of scouting is watching younger members gradually step into leadership roles and gain confidence along the way.

That growth often culminates in the pursuit of Eagle Scout, scouting's highest rank. For many Troop 122 members, earning Eagle is an important goal, and the majority of Scouts who have recently aged out of the program have achieved it. As one Eagle Scout explained, "Earning the rank of Eagle Scout means you've demonstrated great skills as a Scout and as a leader. Now it's time to take the skills and values you've learned into the rest of the world. It's just the beginning of a much larger story."