Karen Osterheldt got involved in Scouting in 1996 when her step son joined Pack 721 at Pinecrest Woodland Hills. She became the Webelos den leader two weeks later when the existing leader moved out of the area unexpectedly. In 1998 she became the Cubmaster, a position she held until the Pack folded in 2021. She joined Troop 464 in 1997 when her step son bridged to Boy Scouts. During her tenure there she has been the Treasurer, Assistant Scoutmaster, Patrol Advisor and is currently the Scoutmaster. Karen also works with Crew 464 and has been the advisor since 2008. In addition, she has been an advisor in Sipo (formerly Chauwalanne) Chapter of the Order of the Arrow for the ceremonies team and a Co-Advisor for American Indian Affairs for the Section W4-N and Area Conclaves.
Her first trip to Camp Whitsett was in 2000 when she was called out for the Order of the Arrow. She returned again the following year for another Induction weekend and she was hooked! Between OA Induction weekends, staffing for Cub Family Weekends, attending with her Troop or volunteering for summer camp and attending FOCW events, Karen has been at Camp Whitsett every year since 2000 and usually several times a year.
So far during her tenure in Scouting she has earned over 30 Mile Swim patches. She has been recognized as Webelos Den Leader, Cubmaster (twice), Assistant Scoutmaster, Scoutmaster, Crew Advisor and OA Chapter Advisor of the Year. Karen has also received the Medal of Merit, District Award of Merit, James E West, and Silver Beaver awards. She is a Vigil member and two time Silver Shark recipient in the Order of the Arrow.
Aside from her “one hour a week” in Scouting she enjoys swimming, hiking, gardening, geocaching and spending time with her two cats, Shadow and Stormy.