The Black Swamp Area Council, Scouting America kicked off its Hancock County Friends of Scouting campaign with a successful breakfast event on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at the Marathon Center for Performing Arts. Hosted by Dr. Aaron Doty of Doty Dental, the event raised $9,820 to support vital youth development programs in the community, coinciding with Scouting America's 115th anniversary.

The event opened with a presentation of colors by the color guard from Cub Scout Pack 309, chartered to the Whittier Wilson Vance PTO, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by members of the same pack.

Sixty community leaders attended the breakfast and heard inspiring remarks from several speakers. Marc Kogan, Scout Executive, highlighted the impact of Scouting in Northwest and West Central Ohio, serving over 3,237 local youth. He emphasized the importance of programs like Exploring, which offers workforce development opportunities, including posts with the Sheriff's Office and Dr. Doty's dental practice. Kogan also shared the council's achievements in 2024, including 76 new Eagle Scouts and exciting new camping opportunities like Adventure Camp and Specialty Sessions.

Sherri Garner Brumbaugh of Garner Trucking and Council Vice President of Development introduced Hancock County Sheriff Mike Cortez, who delivered the keynote address, highlighting the invaluable skills and values young people learn in Scouting. He emphasized that when hiring deputies, he prioritizes individuals with prior military service and those with Scouting experience. Dr. Aaron Doty, Friends of Scouting Community Chair, underscored the lasting impact of these values. Life Scout James Hedrick, Order of the Arrow Chief and youth representative on the council executive board, also shared his experiences. Kogan noted that Hedrick is a product of Pack 309. He also reminded attendees that 9% of their council membership is girls and they are working to grow that number.

Kogan explained that it costs approximately $300 to support one Scout for a year, and every dollar raised through the Friends of Scouting campaign stays local. He highlighted the progress on the Cooper Lodge with Keith Hubbard Dining Hall at Camp Lakota, noting that it is slated to open later this spring. This new facility will provide year-round opportunities for Scouting programs. He also invoked the legacy of local Eagle Scout Neil Armstrong as an example of the potential Scouting unlocks.

The funds raised will directly support Scouting programs that empower youth to make ethical and moral decisions, develop valuable life skills, and prepare for the future. Scouting provides opportunities for character development, leadership training, and community service.

To contribute to the Friends of Scouting campaign and support local youth, please visit www.blackswampbsa.org or contact Jennifer Treece, Development Director, at Jennifer.Treece@scouting.org or 567-208-5304.

The Pledge of Allegiance was delivered by Cub Scouts from Troop 309, along with Dr. Aaron Doty

James Hedrick, Life Scout from Troop 304 delivers remarks

Hancock County Sheriff Mike Cortez, who delivered the keynote address