What is the Silver Beaver Award?
The Silver Beaver Award is one of the most prestigious awards in the Scouting community. Introduced in 1931, this council-level distinguished service award of the Boy Scouts of America is presented to registered Scouters who have significantly impacted the lives of youth. These individuals are recognized for their exceptional character and distinguished service within a council.
The National Court of Honor presents this award on behalf of councils, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of the awardees in contributing to the Scouting movement. It's not just an award; it's a testament to the unwavering commitment of Scouters who have gone above and beyond in their service.
Who Can Earn This Award?
Any registered Scouter who has provided distinguished service at the council level can be nominated for the Silver Beaver Award. The award is not limited by age, gender, or Scouting role, as long as the nominee is a registered Scouter. It's important to note that the candidates should not be notified of their nomination to prevent any embarrassment, should they not be selected.
How To Get the Award
The process of awarding the Silver Beaver is meticulous and thoughtful. Nominations are open to anyone who wishes to put forward the name of a deserving Scouter. These nominations are then reviewed by the council, which selects recipients for the following year. Each council processes its own annual allotment of Silver Beaver awards. They are required to send a list of recipients to the National Court of Honor by January 31 of the following year.
Nomination Process
As we approach the deadline for the Silver Beaver Award nominations, we encourage everyone in the Scouting community to think about the Scouters who have made a significant impact on the lives of youth in our council. Consider their contributions, leadership, and the values they have instilled in our young Scouts. If you know someone who fits this description, we urge you to nominate them for this prestigious award.
The nomination form is detailed, asking for information about the nominee’s Scouting positions, training courses, Scouting recognitions, and noteworthy service outside of Scouting. It's vital to provide as much information as possible to give a comprehensive view of the nominee's contributions.
Deadline for Submission
Please submit your completed nomination forms to Tricia Cashon (Patricia.Cashon@scouting.org) by Friday, December 8th, at 5:00 p.m. It's crucial to adhere to this deadline to ensure that your nominee is considered for the award.
Conclusion
The Silver Beaver Award is not just an accolade; it’s a celebration of the spirit of Scouting. It recognizes those who have dedicated themselves to shaping the future of our youth through their exemplary service and commitment. Let’s come together to honor the unsung heroes of our Scouting community. Nominate a deserving Scouter today!
For more information about the nomination process or to obtain a nomination form, please contact Tricia Cashon or visit our local council office. Let’s continue to support and recognize the remarkable contributions of our Scouters!