Scout Participation Ideas

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Involve your scouts in a creative and meaningful community service project to raise awareness for pediatric cancer. Your scouts will be proud to know that for every gold pumpkin they decorate, Little Hero Foundation matches their efforts with $1 towards pediatric cancer research.

Educate the Troop:

• Start by explaining the significance of pediatric cancer awareness and why gold is the chosen color for this cause symbolizing resilience and hope.
• Share information about the Little Hero Foundation and how their efforts help children and families facing pediatric cancer.  
• Printables and coloring sheets can be found here. 
• For younger troops, read the "Gold Pumpkins for the Cure" book or another age-appropriate book that highlights the power of making a difference for others. This can help them better understand the cause in a way that's engaging and accessible

Discussion:

• Discuss how the scouts’ participation in "Gold Pumpkins for the Cure" can make a difference in spreading awareness and supporting the cause.
• Encourage scouts to brainstorm additional ideas on how they can help.

Gather Supplies:

• Each scout might bring a pumpkin to paint, purchase pumpkins in bulk or arrange for a donation of pumpkins from a local farm or community sponsor.
• Provide gold paint (acrylic works well), paintbrushes, sponges, and decorating materials such as glitter, stickers, or stencils. Pre-Spray pumpkins for a mess free option.  
• Set up a painting area with protective coverings for tables and plenty of space for the scouts to work.

Schedule the Event:

• Choose a convenient date and time for the pumpkin painting session, either during a regular troop meeting or as a special event.
• Consider involving parents or siblings to create a family-friendly atmosphere.

Assign Roles:

• Older scouts can assist younger members with painting and decorating, promoting leadership and teamwork within the troop.
• Designate scouts to help with setup and cleanup to ensure the event runs smoothly.

Get Creative:

• Encourage scouts to use their imagination in painting and decorating their pumpkins. They can paint the entire pumpkin gold or add unique designs with other materials. Decorating ideas here!
• Remind them that the goal is to create eye-catching pumpkins that will raise awareness for pediatric cancer.

Safety First:

• Use non-toxic, child-safe paints and materials. Provide smocks or old shirts to protect clothing, and have hand wipes or a washing station available.

Organize a Display: 

• Arrange a display of the gold pumpkins in a prominent location, such as a community center, library, or school. Scouts can make posters too! 
• Alternatively, set up a gold pumpkin patch or display at a local park where the community can view and learn about the cause.
• Another option is to have scouts take their gold pumpkins home and proudly display them! 

Community Outreach Ideas:

• Deliver gold pumpkins to local businesses, hospitals, or schools with a small card explaining the significance of the gold pumpkins and the work of the Little Hero Foundation.
• Consider organizing a "Gold Pumpkin Parade" to showcase the scouts’ creations and spread awareness throughout the community.

Social Media Outreach Ideas:

• Take photos of the scouts with their gold pumpkins and share them on social media (with parental permission).
• Encourage families and community members to share these posts to extend the reach of the awareness campaign.

Reflection:

• After the event, reflect on the experience. Discuss what the scouts learned about pediatric cancer and how they felt about contributing to the cause.
• Encourage scouts to share their favorite aspects of the project and ideas for future service activities.

Recognition:

• Award participation patches or certificates to each scout who took part in "Gold Pumpkins for the Cure," celebrating their efforts to support the Little Hero Foundation. Shop items here!
• Consider hosting a small celebration or treat for the troop to acknowledge their hard work and impact.