Description

In this episode of Miles of Impact, we introduce America250 — the Crossroads of the West Council’s year-long celebration of our nation’s 250th birthday.

Host Dakota Jacobson is joined by Jennie Taylor, the Council’s America250 Chair, Gold Star widow, and founder of the Major Brent Taylor Foundation, to share the heart behind this once-in-a-lifetime initiative and how Scouts, families, and communities can take part.

America250 is more than a patch program. It’s an opportunity for Scouts to explore history, serve their neighbors, engage in civic life, experience outdoor adventure, and reflect on what it means to be an active citizen — all while creating meaningful memories together.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• What America250 is and why the 250th anniversary matters for Scouts and families
• An overview of the Windows of Adventure Passport, mailed to every Cub Scout pack and Scout unit
• How Scouts earn individual patch segments that come together to form a stained-glass-style design inspired by the dome of the new Utah State Museum
• Real-world examples of participation, including:
  • Wreaths Across America
  • Civics Challenge
  • Scouting for Food
  • Scout camps and community events
• Details about the America250 Gala, featuring keynote speaker Steve Young and honoring Charles Dahlquist and Frank McAllister with the Distinguished Citizen Award
• Why America250 matters — and how service, sacrifice, and citizenship are at the heart of this celebration

Get Involved

America250 is already underway, and there’s still time to participate.

• Download the digital passport or learn more: https://www.utahscouts.org/america250
• Learn more about the America250 Gala and purchase tickets: https://www.utahscouts.org/america250gala

Whether you complete one window or all six, every experience is part of your America250 story.

About the Guest

Jennie Taylor serves as the Crossroads of the West Council’s America250 Chair. She is a Gold Star widow and the founder of the Major Brent Taylor Foundation, where she continues to honor service, leadership, and community through meaningful action.