Troop 826 Adult Leadership Team

Our dedicated adult volunteers are the backbone of Troop 826, bringing their unique talents and passion for scouting to help our scouts thrive. Each leader plays a vital role in creating the adventure-filled, boy-led program that has produced 82 Eagle Scouts since 1996. Get to know the faces behind the positions who make our troop's mission of "Adventure On" possible.

Training Requirements: All adult leaders must maintain current Youth Protection Training. Additional position-specific training may be required. See our Training resources for complete requirements.

Interested in Volunteering? Contact our Committee Chair to learn how you can join our leadership team and make a difference in the lives of our scouts.

Scoutmasters of Record

SCOUTMASTER & ASSISTANT SCOUTMASTERS

Scott Wittler - Scoutmaster

EMAIL ADDRESS

Serves as the primary adult leader responsible for the overall Scouting program and mentoring of our youth leaders. Works directly with the Senior Patrol Leader and Patrol Leaders to ensure a boy-led troop, guides Scouts in their advancement journey, and maintains the vision and traditions of Troop 826. Attends all troop meetings, campouts, and major events, fostering a safe and adventurous environment where Scouts can grow in leadership, character, and outdoor skills.

Scott has been involved with Troop 826 for nearly three years and has served as Scoutmaster for the past two years. Professionally, Scott works as a Logistics Coordinator for a local home services company, bringing organizational skills and leadership to both his career and his volunteer work with the troop.

Scott's Scouting journey began in his youth with Troop 230 in Fort Jennings, Ohio, where he earned his Eagle Scout rank in 1996. His commitment to Scouting excellence continued as he became an Ordeal holder in the Order of the Arrow with Mawat Woakus Lodge (class of 1995). Scott has invested deeply in leadership training, completing Wood Badge Leadership Training with the Eagle Patrol (Course C4-441-19-2) and later serving on staff as a Troop Guide (Course 9-441-22-2). He's also completed Blackfoot Course 42 with the Courageous Chickens Patrol, IOLS (Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills), and BALOO (Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation) training.

As Scoutmaster, Scott's favorite part of leading Troop 826 is witnessing the growth that happens when Scouts work through challenges together—both in their failures and their successes. He believes Scouting provides a safe place to fail, learn, and grow, and he loves seeing Scouts experience opportunities they might never have outside the troop. Scott's hope is that every Scout who passes through Troop 826 leaves with confidence, leadership skills, and a strong sense of value to their community.

Ben Belhorn - Assistant Scoutmaster

Adult Webmaster

Ben.Belhorn@Gmail.com

Supports the Scoutmaster in delivering a quality, boy-led program while serving as the troop's primary digital communications coordinator. Maintains the complete troop website (www.troop826.com), working closely with the Scout Webmaster and Scribe to ensure scout-generated content is properly integrated. Manages all public-facing social media platforms, reviewing and editing submitted posts and content to maintain a consistent voice and tone across the troop's digital presence. Ensures all online content reflects the troop's values, messaging standards, and the #AdventureOn spirit that defines Troop 826.

Ben brings over 30 years of self-marketing experience from running multiple businesses and organizations, with expertise in graphic design, web development, and digital communication. As webmaster for several sites and a professional Santa Claus, he understands the importance of creating engaging online experiences that connect with audiences. His technical skills and marketing background help Troop 826 maintain a strong digital presence that showcases our adventures and attracts new scouts.

David Griffin - Assistant Scoutmaster

EMAIL ADDRESS

Supports the Scoutmaster in delivering a quality, boy-led program by mentoring youth leaders, assisting with outdoor activities, and providing expertise in specific program areas such as advancement, high adventure, or new Scout integration. Attends troop meetings and campouts as available, helping to create meaningful Scouting experiences that challenge and inspire our Scouts to reach their full potential.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about current Assistant Scoutmaster's background and role focus]

Jed Hood - Assistant Scoutmaster

EMAIL ADDRESS

Supports the Scoutmaster in delivering a quality, boy-led program by mentoring youth leaders, assisting with outdoor activities, and providing expertise in specific program areas such as advancement, high adventure, or new Scout integration. Attends troop meetings and campouts as available, helping to create meaningful Scouting experiences that challenge and inspire our Scouts to reach their full potential.

Jed has been with Troop 826 since 2017 and is an Eagle Scout, father of an Eagle Scout, and father of an Eagle Scout candidate. Professionally, he serves as Deputy Director and General Legal Counsel to the Ohio Ethics Commission and formerly served as Reynoldsburg City Attorney for 14 years. Jed especially enjoys camping with the troop, particularly summer camp, where he can mentor younger scouts and help older scouts achieve their goals. Watching scouts progress through their Scouting journey and reach Eagle is what he values most about volunteering with Troop 826.

Tony Pepper - Assistant Scoutmaster

EMAIL ADDRESS

Supports the Scoutmaster in delivering a quality, boy-led program by mentoring youth leaders, assisting with outdoor activities, and providing expertise in specific program areas such as advancement, high adventure, or new Scout integration. Attends troop meetings and campouts as available, helping to create meaningful Scouting experiences that challenge and inspire our Scouts to reach their full potential.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about current Assistant Scoutmaster's background and role focus]

Shawn Regan - Assistant Scoutmaster

EMAIL ADDRESS

Supports the Scoutmaster in delivering a quality, boy-led program by mentoring youth leaders, assisting with outdoor activities, and providing expertise in specific program areas such as advancement, high adventure, or new Scout integration. Attends troop meetings and campouts as available, helping to create meaningful Scouting experiences that challenge and inspire our Scouts to reach their full potential.

Shawn Regan joined Troop 826 in August 2025 alongside his son Jase, returning to a troop that holds special meaning for him—he was a Scout with 826 in the early 2000s. During his time as a youth member, Shawn earned the rank of Star and had the opportunity to attend Sea Base, Northern Tier, and Philmont twice, experiences that shaped his love for Scouting.

Outside of Troop 826, Shawn works for the City of Reynoldsburg Water Department. He and his wife Stephanie are proud parents to two children, Jase and Charlotte.

Shawn's favorite part of volunteering with Troop 826 is attending campouts and outings, where he gets to watch Scouts develop their skills and fully engage in the adventure and camaraderie of the program. For Shawn, Scouting is more than just outdoor fun—it's the best way for young men to develop leadership skills and discover what they're truly capable of achieving.

Robert B Sparks - Assistant Scoutmaster

EMAIL ADDRESS

Supports the Scoutmaster in delivering a quality, boy-led program by mentoring youth leaders, assisting with outdoor activities, and providing expertise in specific program areas such as advancement, high adventure, or new Scout integration. Attends troop meetings and campouts as available, helping to create meaningful Scouting experiences that challenge and inspire our Scouts to reach their full potential.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about current Assistant Scoutmaster's background and role focus]

Dennis Stoehr - Assistant Scoutmaster

EMAIL ADDRESS

Supports the Scoutmaster in delivering a quality, boy-led program by mentoring youth leaders, assisting with outdoor activities, and providing expertise in specific program areas such as advancement, high adventure, or new Scout integration. Attends troop meetings and campouts as available, helping to create meaningful Scouting experiences that challenge and inspire our Scouts to reach their full potential.

Dennis has been with Troop 826 since his son crossed over from Pack 277 in 2022. An Eagle Scout with Bronze Palm (earned September 1991), Dennis brings his own Scouting values and experience to the troop. Professionally, he is a pilot with over 11,000 flight hours of experience since 1996. Dennis enjoys camping trips that focus on traditional scout skills and loves that Troop 826 is truly boy-led, upholding traditional Scouting values. Watching scouts grow into young men ready to face the world is what inspires him most about serving as an Assistant Scoutmaster.

COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP

Brian P Feeney - Committee Chairperson

Alumni Assoc. VP

EMAIL ADDRESS

Leads the Troop Committee in supporting the Scoutmaster and ensuring the troop has the resources, facilities, and organizational structure needed to deliver an exceptional Scouting program. Presides over monthly Committee meetings, coordinates with adult leaders across all program areas, and provides strategic direction for the troop's operations and long-term planning. As Alumni Association Vice President, works to maintain strong connections with Troop 826's 82+ Eagle Scouts and alumni network, fostering a community that supports current Scouts and celebrates the troop's rich 29-year history as we approach our 30th anniversary in 2026.

Brian has been with Troop 826 since March 2017 when his oldest son, Chase, crossed over from Pack 277. His youngest son, Caden, is currently working on his Eagle Project. Professionally, Brian has worked at Bread Financial for nearly 30 years in the Finance department. As Committee Chair since February 2024, Brian focuses on maintaining financial stability, growing adult leadership, and ensuring every scout receives the best possible experience. He values the troop's strong partnership with VFW Post 9473 and takes pride in the Alumni Association's scholarship program that helps scouts afford summer camp and activities. Brian's own scouting journey reached First Class before his troop disbanded due to lack of adult leadership—an experience that drives his commitment to ensuring Troop 826's scouts never face that same challenge.

Melissa Belhorn - Treasurer

EMAIL ADDRESS

Manages all financial operations for Troop 826, including budgeting, expense tracking, fundraising revenue management, and financial reporting to the Committee. Maintains accurate records of troop accounts, processes reimbursements, collects dues and activity fees, and ensures financial transparency through regular reports at monthly Committee meetings. Works closely with the Fundraising Chair and other coordinators to support the troop's financial health and ensure resources are available for our year-round camping program, high adventure trips, equipment needs, and special events that make Troop 826's adventure-focused program possible.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about current Treasurer's background and financial stewardship approach]

COMMITTEE COORDINATORS & CHAIRS

Wendy Shaw - Fundraising Chair & Unit Popcorn Kernel

EMAIL ADDRESS

Leads all troop fundraising efforts, including our annual popcorn sale campaign and community-based initiatives such as raffles, dine-to-donate events, and other creative revenue-generating activities. Coordinates with scouts and families to maximize participation and profits across all fundraising programs. Attends monthly Committee meetings and manages all aspects of these key revenue sources.

Wendy has been with Troop 826 for about one year, though her son has been in Scouts since kindergarten. After changing jobs a couple years ago, she finally has the schedule flexibility to be more involved in his Scouting journey. Professionally, Wendy works as a case manager and social worker. As Fundraising Coordinator, she supports the troop's well-established fundraisers while exploring new opportunities to help offset costs for both the troop and individual scouts. Wendy believes fundraising teaches scouts to stay invested and make their own way—a valuable life lesson that extends far beyond Scouting.

Robyn Stoehr - Recruitment Coordinator

EMAIL ADDRESS

Serves as the primary contact for prospective families interested in joining Troop 826, welcoming new Scouts and parents to troop meetings and events. Coordinates recruitment efforts including participation in school information nights, community events, and Cub Scout crossover ceremonies. Works with the Scoutmaster and Committee to showcase our scout-led, adventure-focused program and communicate what makes Troop 826 special—our 30-year tradition of monthly camping, high adventure trips, strong youth leadership development, and supportive community of families. Maintains follow-up communication with interested families and ensures smooth onboarding of new Scouts. Attends monthly Committee meetings.

Robyn has been involved with Troop 826 for four years, previously serving as Unit Popcorn Kernel before taking on recruitment. A retired Intervention Specialist with 25 years of experience (now substitute teaching for Whitehall City Schools), she grew up surrounded by Scouting—her grandfather was a lifelong Boy Scout leader, and her father is one of at least eight Eagle Scouts in her family. She loves welcoming new Scouts to the troop and believes Troop 826's boy-led program, traditional values, full uniform requirement, and dedicated leaders create an exceptional environment where Scouts learn life skills and build lasting friendships.

VACANT - Advancement & Eagle Scout Coordinator

EMAIL ADDRESS

Tracks Scout advancement progress, coordinates with merit badge counselors, and ensures accurate records are maintained in Scoutbook and submitted to the Council. Provides guidance to Scouts working toward rank advancement and helps families navigate the advancement process. Specifically supports Eagle Scout candidates through their final journey, coordinating Eagle Scout Boards of Review, project approvals, and recognition ceremonies. Attends monthly Committee meetings and celebrates Scout achievements at Courts of Honor.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about coordinator's Scouting background, passion for helping Scouts achieve their goals, and commitment to the advancement program]

VACANT - Outdoor Program Coordinator

EMAIL ADDRESS

Supports our Scout-led outdoor program by working with the Senior Patrol Leader and Patrol Leaders to plan and execute all outdoor activities, including our year-round monthly camping program, summer camp at Seven Ranges, high adventure trips (Philmont, Sea Base, Northern Tier), and mid-adventure excursions (Kelleys Island, The Wilds, Ohiopyle, Marengo Cave, Cuyahoga Valley). Provides adult guidance and handles logistics, transportation, permits, and equipment coordination while ensuring Scouts take the lead in planning and running their adventures. Attends monthly Committee meetings and works with the Scoutmaster to develop an exciting and challenging outdoor program that builds leadership skills, creates lasting memories, and embodies our #AdventureOn spirit.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about current Coordinator's outdoor experience and passion for high adventure]

VACANT - Special Events & Service Projects Coordinator

EMAIL ADDRESS

Plans and coordinates special troop events including Courts of Honor, parent nights, campfire programs, and community service projects such as Glen Rest Cemetery flag planting (4,000+ flags annually), Civic Park Cleanup, VFW Breakfast support, and other community engagement activities. Works with Scouts to identify meaningful service opportunities that fulfill rank requirements while making a positive impact in our community. Attends monthly Committee meetings and ensures service hours are properly documented.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about coordinator's passion for service, event planning experience, and commitment to building community connections]

VACANT - Records Coordinator & Historian

EMAIL ADDRESS

Maintains official troop records including meeting attendance, camping logs, service hours, and historical documentation of troop activities and achievements. Manages Scoutbook administration, ensures accurate record-keeping for recharter, and preserves the troop's 30-year legacy through photos, stories, and memorabilia. Works with the Adult Webmaster to share troop history and achievements on the website and social media. Attends monthly Committee meetings and provides reports on participation and milestone achievements.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about coordinator's organizational skills, appreciation for troop history, and commitment to documenting our journey]

VACANT - Board of Review Coordinator

EMAIL ADDRESS

Schedules and coordinates Boards of Review for Scout rank advancements, recruiting adult volunteers to serve on review panels and ensuring reviews are conducted in accordance with BSA guidelines. Provides a meaningful and encouraging review experience that recognizes Scout achievements and reinforces the values of Scouting. Works closely with the Advancement Coordinator to ensure timely reviews and maintains records of all completed boards. Attends monthly Committee meetings.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about coordinator's Scouting background, mentoring philosophy, and commitment to recognizing Scout achievements]

VACANT - Adult Quartermaster

EMAIL ADDRESS

Manages all troop equipment and gear, including tents, cooking equipment, patrol boxes, tools, and camping supplies. Maintains equipment inventory, coordinates repairs and replacements, organizes the equipment storage area, and ensures gear is properly issued and returned for all camping trips and activities. Works with the Treasurer on equipment budgeting and purchasing. Attends monthly Committee meetings and provides reports on equipment needs and condition.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about coordinator's organizational skills, outdoor gear knowledge, and commitment to maintaining quality equipment for our Scouts]

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Jon Harmacek - Alumni Association President

EMAIL ADDRESS

Leads the 501(c)3 Alumni Association, coordinating fundraising initiatives that provide essential financial support for troop equipment, program activities, and scout recognition. Manages annual membership drives, United Way partnerships, and community business outreach to ensure no scout family experiences financial hardship. Oversees awards programs including NYLT sponsorships and Honor Scout recognition while fostering lifelong connections between current scouts and alumni through social media engagement and reunion activities.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about current President's Eagle Scout achievement, professional background, and commitment to maintaining the 30-year legacy of Troop 826 connections]

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Shannon Albright - Committee Member

EMAIL ADDRESS

Serves on the Troop Committee to support the overall operation and success of Troop 826's Scouting program. Attends monthly Committee meetings to provide input on troop policies, activities, and strategic planning. Assists with various troop needs such as fundraising events, service projects, transportation, equipment maintenance, and special activities. Helps ensure the troop has the adult support and resources necessary to deliver a quality, boy-led program that challenges and inspires our Scouts to reach their full potential.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about the Committee Member's background, connection to Scouting, and what they enjoy about supporting the troop]

Jason Messick - Committee Member

EMAIL ADDRESS

Serves on the Troop Committee to support the overall operation and success of Troop 826's Scouting program. Attends monthly Committee meetings to provide input on troop policies, activities, and strategic planning. Assists with various troop needs such as fundraising events, service projects, transportation, equipment maintenance, and special activities. Helps ensure the troop has the adult support and resources necessary to deliver a quality, boy-led program that challenges and inspires our Scouts to reach their full potential.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about the Committee Member's background, connection to Scouting, and what they enjoy about supporting the troop]

John Shaw - Committee Member

EMAIL ADDRESS

Serves on the Troop Committee to support the overall operation and success of Troop 826's Scouting program. Attends monthly Committee meetings to provide input on troop policies, activities, and strategic planning. Assists with various troop needs such as fundraising events, service projects, transportation, equipment maintenance, and special activities. Helps ensure the troop has the adult support and resources necessary to deliver a quality, boy-led program that challenges and inspires our Scouts to reach their full potential.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about the Committee Member's background, connection to Scouting, and what they enjoy about supporting the troop]

Deveda Walker - Committee Member

EMAIL ADDRESS

Serves on the Troop Committee to support the overall operation and success of Troop 826's Scouting program. Attends monthly Committee meetings to provide input on troop policies, activities, and strategic planning. Assists with various troop needs such as fundraising events, service projects, transportation, equipment maintenance, and special activities. Helps ensure the troop has the adult support and resources necessary to deliver a quality, boy-led program that challenges and inspires our Scouts to reach their full potential.

[Bio: 2-3 sentences about the Committee Member's background, connection to Scouting, and what they enjoy about supporting the troop]

Our adult leaders volunteer their time and talents because they believe in the power of scouting to develop character, citizenship, and leadership in young people. Together, we continue Troop 826's tradition of adventure and excellence.