Scouts serve, learn while helping in South Dakota elections

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) - Many people play a part in the election process, from the voter to the person who puts away the tabulation machines until next election.

There was one group that lent a hand during this year's election that you may not have been aware of, with many of them not quite old enough to vote.

About a half hour after polls closed, steady streams of vehicles arrived at the Minnehaha County Administration with precious cargo, the sealed metal boxes that contained completed ballots.

That was where the scouts jumped in to help.

"Part of our scout oath is about duty to God and duty to country. And so coming out here just to volunteer and help these people who've probably been working all day at the polls, kind of the least we can do to come here a couple hours and help out, help carry stuff," said Troop 48 Scoutmaster Colt Foutz.

Scoutmaster and son Colt and Caleb Foutz from Troop 48 in Sioux Falls joined others in bringing in election supplies. The volunteer work is in line with scout law.

"Helpful, friendly, kind, cheerful, and then like, I guess you could be brave and help out," Caleb said.

Scouting has grown to include all members of the family.

"There was Boy Scouts at school recruiting girls, and so she wanted to join. And I said, Great, let's do it," said Girls Troops Assistant Scoutmaster Kelly Schend.

As Schend's daughter Zoey helped, she learned about the value of her vote for when she turns 18.

"When I'm older, is because I'll somewhat know the layout of what's going on," Zoey explained.

Scouts across the state helped during the elections. Pack 66 of Watertown was at the courthouse demonstrating their civic duty on Tuesday.