New Boy Scout Troop Actively Recruits in Hmong Community

An old American tradition is taking hold in a new Twin Cities community.

Newly formed Boy Scout Troop 60 of East Saint Paul is among the few Twin Cities troops actively recruiting from Hmong immigrant families.

Scouts take part in traditional Boy Scout activities including camping, archery and community service. However, Troop 60 also focuses on learning English language skills and American customs while also honoring Hmong traditions.

Troop Leader Dan Yang explains,"That's how they're going to identify us, as that Hmong Boy Scout group from East Saint Paul. So it's always important for them to recognize that and be happy, be proud of that, never ashamed of it."

Troop 60 started in February, and is 16 strong. But Yang is hoping to grow the troop, by recruiting at Hmong festivals and community functions.

And it seems his hard work is much appreciated. Twelve-year-old Houa Yang said of his troop leader, "He's like my big brother who protects us."

Troop 60 joins the ranks of other groups like Troop 100 in Minneapolis, which was established as an all Hmong troop in 1981 and continues to recruit from the Twin Cities Hmong community.

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