Troop 16 has been in operation since 1916, hosted by First United Church in Oak Park, Illinois. It has a large and active membership, close to one hundred or more boys in most years. The troop is led by Scouts themselves. Scouts are responsible for running troop meetings, planning campouts, maintaining troop gear, and conducting service projects. As a result, Scouts not only have fun, but they also develop as leaders even as they learn practical skills like first aid, cooking, and tying knots.

A distinctive of Troop 16 is its high degree of focus on camping and other outdoor activities (which you can read more about on the Camping page). These provide Scouts with many opportunities to earn merit badges and complete other requirements necessary for advancement. As a result, Troop 16 has graduated dozens of Eagle Scouts, a number of whom have continued on and now serve the troop as adult leaders.

Troop 16 also benefits from highly committed adult leaders, so that Scout youth receive guidance and support in their various roles within the troop. Adult leaders and Scouts themselves are all trained in Youth Protection, so that all events are kept welcoming and safe for participating Scouts. Additional information on Youth Protection can be found by clicking here.