For many families in Lago Vista, Scouting is more than just an after-school activity. It is a journey that can shape a child from their earliest elementary years into a confident, capable young adult.
Just ask Andrew Rowin and his parents, Scott and Amy. Andrew began his Scouting journey as a first grader, attending his first Cub Scout recruiting event at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church. Like many kids that age, he was full of energy and curiosity. But even then, he made a bold declaration: “I’m going to be an Eagle Scout.” More than a decade later, he achieved exactly that and much more.
Over 12 years, Scouting took Andrew far beyond Lago Vista. He went deep-sea fishing in the Florida Keys, spent several weeks backpacking in the mountains of New Mexico, and camped in the frozen wilderness of Northern Minnesota, even sleeping in an igloo. One of his most transformative experiences came at Philmont Scout Ranch, where he completed multiple treks, including the rigorous Rayado program. This 21-day backcountry expedition groups participants with strangers and challenges them both physically and mentally.
“You don’t go with friends. You meet new people and figure it out together,” Andrew said. “It’s one of the hardest things I’ve done, but also one of the best.”
Along the way, he built friendships that have lasted since his Cub Scout days and formed connections with Scouts from around the world, including at the World Scout Jamboree.
But for his parents, the most meaningful transformation was not just in the adventures. It was in Andrew himself. “Scouting is where kids find their niche,” Amy shared. “It’s where they figure out where they belong.” Scott added that one of the biggest benefits is watching leadership develop over time. “You see them go from these chaotic young kids into leaders who can confidently speak in front of a group, guide others, and take responsibility.” That growth is intentional. Scouting is youth-led, meaning older Scouts mentor younger ones and boys are given real responsibility early on. They learn practical skills like cooking, navigation, and planning, but also something deeper: empathy, teamwork, and a sense of service. “There’s this idea that you leave a place better than you found it,” Amy said. “They learn to look out for others and take care of the world around them.”
Andrew’s Eagle Scout project is a lasting example of that mindset. He led the effort to build a bridge and trail improvements at Sunset Park, coordinating with the city, securing materials, and organizing fellow Scouts. The trail, now known as “Eagles Trail,” stands as both a community asset and a symbol of youth leadership in action.
Even after earning the prestigious Eagle rank, the highest achievement in Scouting, Andrew stayed involved through campouts and other programs, continuing to build skills and mentor others. Today, when he sees someone wearing a Scout uniform, there is an instant connection. “There’s a shared understanding of what you’ve been through and what you’ve accomplished,” he said.
For families in Lago Vista interested in giving their children similar opportunities, there are new ways to get involved locally. A new Cub Scout Pack is currently being developed for children ages 5 to 10, offering a fun and engaging introduction to Scouting. For older youth ages 11 to 17, they can join Troop 198 and begin their own journey toward leadership, adventure, and personal growth.
To learn more or get involved in Scouting, email troop198tx@gmail.com.
