To the New Birth of Freedom Council Scouting Family,
Shortly after summer camp ended last August, renovations to the historic dining hall began, transforming it into our new council headquarters. I’m excited that it’s time for us to move into our new council service center at Camp Tuckahoe!
This project marks a significant milestone for our Scouting community, bringing renewed energy, improved access, and enhanced support for volunteers and their families. More than just a building, the new service center represents our commitment to strengthening Scouting now and into the future in south-central Pennsylvania.
As the finishing touches are being completed, I would like to thank the team at Alexander Building Construction and all of the subcontractors who worked on the renovations for their craftsmanship and efforts. The difference between the building’s layout and appearance between last August and now is breathtaking.
Two of the project’s goals were to create a modern office and retail space that blended in with the camp’s surroundings and to preserve the unique character of the camp’s original dining hall. I am excited for our Scouters to see the transformation for themselves. It is incredible how beautiful the yellow pine floors in the former dining room are after being sanded and refinished – we couldn’t afford to install floors like this today. The exposed trusses and beams look amazing, and we even kept the original wooden doors to the walk-in refrigerator and freezer as a nod to the building’s original purpose. The transformation of the building’s lower level, from a dark and musty space to a bright retail and meeting space, is no less impressive.
Relocation Details
The Mechanicsburg Service Center and Scout Shop will close later this week to prepare for the move.
Last Day for Mechanicsburg Service Center: Friday, May 16
Last Day for Mechanicsburg Scout Shop: Saturday, May 17
During the transition, our council staff and Scout Shop team will work diligently to make the move as smooth and efficient as possible. While we will be between buildings, our professional staff will remain accessible by email or phone for urgent matters or emergencies.
We look forward to welcoming you to our new home at Tuckahoe when we reopen the new service center and Tuckahoe Scout Shop on Wednesday, June 4.
Rededication Event – Save the Date
We’re also excited to announce that the Council will hold a rededication event for the new service center at Camp Tuckahoe on Wednesday, September 10, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM. While still in the early stages of planning, the tentative schedule includes:
5:30 PM – Arrival and refreshments
6:00 PM – Rededication program
Following – Tours of the building
Please save the date on your calendar. It promises to be a great day for Scouting in the New Birth of Freedom Council as we celebrate this exciting new chapter together.
Yours in Scouting,
Ronald M. Gardner, Jr.
Scout Executive & CEO
