For more than six decades, Cub Scout Pack 240 has been shaping young lives right here in our Wheat Ridge community. Since 1957, when the Wheat Ridge Kiwanis Club first chartered the pack, hundreds of local children have discovered courage, made lifelong friendships, and learned what it means to “do their best.”
Today, Pack Leaders Peter Kruger, Dan Carraher and Amanda Kruger are breathing new energy into this beloved community institution, focusing on what modern families need most: fun adventures that are easy to participate in and help teach young scouts basic life skills.
“We know parents are busier than ever,” explains Peter Kruger, an Eagle Scout who earned his rank right here in Colorado and now brings his three sons to the pack. “That’s why we’ve streamlined everything. 1 meeting a week, clear expectations, and no prior scouting experience needed.”
Amanda Kruger adds, “What I love about Cub Scouts is watching kids discover they’re capable of more than they imagined. Whether it’s learning to tie a knot, helping with a community service project, or simply standing up to recite the Scout Oath for the first time – these small moments build huge confidence.”
The pack welcomes all children from kindergarten through fifth grade, meeting Mondays at 6 PM at Wheat Ridge United Methodist Church on 38th Avenue. Each age group embarks on adventures tailored to their development, from Lions (kindergarteners) taking their first nature walks to Arrow of Light scouts (fifth graders) preparing for the transition to Scouts with Troop 240.
Recent adventures have included visiting local community helpers, building Pinewood Derby cars, and exploring Colorado’s incredible outdoors – all while learning character, citizenship, and leadership skills that will serve them throughout their lives.
“One of our favorite parts is watching families connect,” notes Dan. “We have parents who’ve become close friends through pack activities, and siblings who get excited about their brother or sister’s achievements. Scouting becomes a family adventure.”
The pack is actively welcoming new families. At just $45 annually (with discount code ALP40), Cub Scouts costs less than most youth activities while offering year-round programming and a supportive community network.
“We want every child in Wheat Ridge to know they have a place here,” Amanda emphasizes. “Shy kids, energetic kids, kids who love outdoors, kids who love crafts – there’s an adventure for everyone.”
What better time to jump in than now? This Monday (Aug. 25) features a paper airplane contest, and on September 8th scouts will build rockets to launch on September 15th during our special “Back to Scouts” night. September 15th is designed specifically for new families, featuring a deep dive into what scouting offers, Q&A with professional scouts from the Scouting Colorado, alongside our leadership team, and rocket launches!
Interested families are invited to visit any Monday meeting or explore more at www.pack240co.org. No commitment needed – just come see what adventures await your family!
Pack 240 meets Mondays at 6 PM at Wheat Ridge United Methodist Church (not affiliated but grateful for the church graciously providing us space to meet), 7530 W 38th Ave (holidays excluded). For more information, visit www.pack240co.org.
