New Birth of Freedom Council > From the Scout Executive

From the Scout Executive

Welcome to From the Scout Executive.

This page offers an inside look at the work of the New Birth of Freedom Council. Here you’ll find more than announcements—you’ll discover the stories behind major decisions, camp improvements, strategic initiatives, and the people whose dedication makes Scouting possible.

My goal is to provide context, answer questions, and offer an inside perspective on the work behind our mission.

Latest From the Scout Executive

Current youth showers at Camp Tuckahoe.

Scout Executive’s Blog – Exciting Improvements Coming to Tuckahoe’s Pool Showers

Plans for private pool showers at Tuckahoe, a recap of 2025 camp upgrades, and a special tribute to Scouter and craftsman Dale Grove.
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Still Settling In, But Open for Business

An inside look at our first weeks in the new Tuckahoe Service Center, the challenges of moving, and the benefits of bringing our operations together.
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Remembering James Pannebaker – Former Keystone Area Council President

Remembering Jim Pannebaker’s determined leadership, his passion for Hidden Valley, and the lasting difference he made for Scouting in our community.
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It’s Time For Us to Move! Tuckahoe Service Center and Scout Shop Opens June 4

The final preparations for our June 2025 move to Tuckahoe, preserving the historic dining hall’s character while creating a new home for council operations.
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Exciting Changes Ahead: Our New Council Service Center at Camp Tuckahoe

Why we chose Tuckahoe for our new service center, how consolidation supports our finances, and what the renovated building would offer Scouts and volunteers.
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Busy Days at Our New Service Center; Mechanicsburg Office Sold

A February 2025 progress report on the Tuckahoe renovations, the Mechanicsburg sale agreement, and the steps toward a unified council headquarters.
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About the Author

Ron Gardner has served as Scout Executive and CEO of the New Birth of Freedom Council since its formation in 2010, following his appointment as Scout Executive of the York-Adams Area Council in 1997. Now in his 43rd year as a Scouting professional, he has dedicated his career to helping young people develop character, leadership, and a commitment to service.

In From the Scout Executive, Ron shares the stories behind council decisions, major projects, camp improvements, and plans for the future—along with the volunteers and staff making them possible.

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