On Monday, voting members of Scouting America’s Theodore Roosevelt Council (TRC) officially approved a plan to move forward with a merger with the Suffolk County Council.
SCC’s voting members had previously approved the merger on Wednesday, Oct. 22. Both councils’ boards of directors had unanimously endorsed the merger plan earlier in September. The combined new organization will operate under the name “Scouting America Long Island.”
“This historic step reflects our shared commitment to strengthening Scouting across Long Island,” said Mike Malloy, President of the Theodore Roosevelt Council. “By combining our resources, talent, and passion for youth development, we’re ensuring a stronger, more sustainable future for Scouting in our region.”
The merger will provide both councils with enhanced capacity for recruitment, program delivery, volunteer development, and the effective use of technology. This is all being done with the goal of better serving youth, families, and communities.
Lou Scotti, president of the Suffolk County Council, added, “This is a forward-looking decision. The merger allows us to unite our best practices, traditions, and local strengths while creating new opportunities to grow and thrive together.”
The merger is expected to be finalized sometime in the first quarter of 2026, following approval from New York State regulators and Scouting America’s national authorities. However, collaboration with professionals and volunteers will begin immediately.
There are 10,000 youth and 5,000 adult volunteers actively participating in Scouting programs across Long Island. Both councils will operate and be maintained under one Scouting organization, offering year-round outdoor programs and premier camping facilities.
Theodore Roosevelt Council operates Onteora Scout Reservation near Livingston Manor, N.Y. and Schiff Scout Reservation in Wading River, N.Y. Suffolk County Council maintains programs at Baiting Hollow Scout Camp in Baiting Hollow, N.Y. All three facilities offer a wide range of high-quality outdoor experiences. Congratulations are extended to all volunteers, professionals, and board members who worked diligently to make this historic moment possible.
