Sometimes the smallest groups leave the biggest impression. Just ask the families of Cub Scout Pack 11, a Mill Creek Cub Scout pack that proudly describes itself as "small but mighty." In just two years, membership has grown, earning recognition as the highest-growth Cub Scout pack in its district during the 2024-2025 program year. Even with that growth, the pack has held onto the close-knit atmosphere that makes every family feel welcome.

Serving boys and girls in kindergarten through fifth grade from Mill Creek and surrounding communities, Pack 11 meets at North Creek Presbyterian Church, where every adventure is made possible by dedicated parent volunteers. The Cub Scout program is built around family involvement, giving parents and children the opportunity to learn, explore, and grow together. While weekly meetings focus on learning new skills and working toward achievements, the real excitement often happens on weekends. 

Throughout the year, Scouts head outdoors for adventures that encourage curiosity, confidence, and teamwork. Recent outings have included geocaching, and the pack is always looking forward to its next camping trip.

Some traditions never get old. The annual Pinewood Derby remains a favorite, giving Scouts the opportunity to design, build, and race their own wooden cars. More recently, the pack has added a Bike Derby, where Scouts practice bicycle safety while building confidence and having fun together.

Of course, not every adventure goes according to plan. One of the leaders' favorite memories came during last year's campout, when it rained nearly the entire weekend. Rather than letting the weather dampen their spirits, the Scouts persevered, managed to build a campfire, and enjoyed s'mores together anyway. "It rained the whole time," leaders recalled with a smile. "But we still got a fire going." Those moments of resilience are exactly what Scouting is all about. 

Service is another important part of the program. This year, Pack 11 partnered with Rotary volunteers to help clean up and plant flowers at Forest Park. Scouts also assisted with Memorial Day preparations at Floral Hills Cemetery, learning that giving back is an important part of being a member of the community.

Leaders say they hope every Scout leaves the program understanding that everyone has different strengths and abilities, and that those differences should be celebrated. Along the way, Scouts build confidence, develop leadership skills, learn responsibility, and discover that working together often makes every adventure more rewarding. Because Cub Scouting is entirely volunteer-led, parents play a vital role in the pack's success. From organizing activities and outings to sharing skills and simply being present, families help create the supportive environment that makes Pack 11 feel like an extended family.

When asked what makes them most proud, the answer isn't awards or accomplishments. It's the way the Scouts encourage one another, respect each other's differences, and create memories together. Whether hiking a trail, racing Pinewood Derby cars, camping in the rain, or lending a hand in the community, Pack 11 believes every experience is an opportunity to grow.

Looking ahead, the pack hopes to welcome even more families who are looking for a place where children can make friends, try new things, and build confidence while having fun. Their motto says it all. Do your best.

If you want to support Pack 11 and Scouts of all ages in Mill Creek, please consider making a donation: mountbakerscouting.org/giving