Japeechen Lodge 341, founded in 1993 as part of Jersey Shore Council, has been hard at work this year. From completing the THRIVE program during the 2024-2025 engagement cycle to hosting impactful induction weekends, the lodge’s leadership has shown dedication and vision to ensure Japeechen continues to grow and succeed.
During the THRIVE Engagement from November to May, Japeechen’s lodge leaders met with their THRIVE partner every two weeks to identify meaningful changes that would boost lodge engagement. Japeechen’s Lodge Chief, Caitlyn D., said that one of their largest challenges was getting Arrowmen excited, and keeping them excited, to attend lodge events and meetings. By adding fun and engaging events and activities into meetings, they created an environment where members not only wanted to return but also wanted to bring their Scouting friends. The results speak for themselves: Japeechen tripled its election rate over the course of the year and furthermore strengthened its communication efforts, even helping to raise lodge event attendance.
Following their successful THRIVE cycle, the lodge held its Fall Induction Weekend from September 12-14 at the Joseph A. Citta Scout Reservation. While candidate numbers were modest, with 11 Ordeal and one Brotherhood candidate, more than 60 members turned out to support the weekend, showing a clear sign that their communication and engagement strategies are working. The lodge also proudly celebrated four Arrowmen achieving the Vigil Honor. Service was another highlight of the weekend, as members repaired camp roads, pavilions, and tent platforms, leaving a lasting impact on the Joseph A. Citta Scout Reservation.
So what’s next? Looking ahead, Japeechen is preparing for its annual Fall Fellowship, once again paired with Jersey Shore Council’s Operation Halloween, offering a mix of fellowship and Halloween fun. At their lodge Meeting in December, Japeechen will also launch a new initiative by encouraging members to bring gifts that will be donated to charity. With strong momentum from THRIVE and a renewed spirit of service, Japeechen Lodge is excited for the rest of 2025 and beyond.