Recognize Excellence in Scouting

Are you ready to recognize the exceptional adult leaders in your Scouting community? We’re excited to announce that nominations are now open for various prestigious Scouting America recognition awards. These awards honor individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievements, leadership, and commitment to the values of Scouting. Whether it’s a dedicated Scouter who has gone above and beyond or a volunteer who has made a significant impact on their troop or community, there’s an award to celebrate their accomplishments.

Time is running out! Nominations for the Scouting America awards close on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. Submit your nomination now and ensure your favorite Scout or leader is considered for this special honor.

Silver Beaver Award

The role of adult leaders in Scouting America has been a cornerstone of the organization since its inception. From the early days of its founding to the present, adult volunteers have provided invaluable guidance, support, and mentorship to countless young people. Without the leadership of caring adults, Scouting ceases to exist and therefore, it is important that we take time to recognize those in our community who have volunteered their time and mentorship to our youth.

One way we honor these leaders is through nominating a Scouter for the Silver Beaver Award, the highest adult recognition a council can bestow. We invite you to think about those in your unit or district who have left a lasting impact on the youth of your community and consider nominating them for the Silver Beaver Award.

North Star

It is not just Scouters and adult volunteers who impact the youth of our community. In 2011 The North Star Award was established to acknowledge the invaluable support of non-Scouters who have contributed to the success of Scouting programs. This includes individuals who have donated time, money, or other resources to Scouting initiatives, as well as those who have provided guidance and leadership. We encourage you to nominate any non-scouters who have left a lasting impact on our Scouting community to be honored at this year’s recognition dinner.

Elbert K. Fretwell Award

The Elbert K. Fretwell Award is a prestigious honor in Scouting that recognizes teachers, educational support staff, and school administrators who have made significant contributions to the lives of young people by instilling Scouting values in their students. The award is named after Dr. Elbert K. Fretwell, a professor of education at Columbia University, an early thinker in the Scouting movement, and the second Chief Scout Executive of Scouting America.

Alumnus Award

The Alumnus Award is a valuable opportunity for former Scouts to stay connected to the organization and continue making a positive impact on their communities. It is a recognition designed to encourage participation and involvement in Scouting America’s alumni relations programs, including NESA activities. It is awarded to Scouting alumni who promote continued engagement with Scouting America.

George Meany Award

The George Meany Award is a national recognition approved by the AFL-CIO Executive Council. It may be presented to any adult union member who has made a significant contribution to the youth of their community through Scouting. Each AFL-CIO city central labor council and each AFL- CIO state federation is permitted to give one award annually. The emphasis of this award is on the importance of being selective. There is no rule that the quota must be used every year. No honorary recognitions should be made. The purpose of this award is to recognize the recipient’s outstanding service to youth through the programs of Scouting America.

Council Duty to God Award

In Scouting America, the Council Duty to God Award is a prestigious recognition bestowed upon registered Scouters who have demonstrated exemplary leadership in supporting and promoting the spiritual foundation of Scouting at the local Council level. Overall, the Council Duty to God Award is a testament to the importance of spiritual growth and leadership within Scouting America. It highlights the organization’s commitment to nurturing the character and values of its members through a strong spiritual foundation.

Veteran Award

Honor the dedicated adults who have served the Boy Scouts of America for five or more years with the Veteran’s Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates those who have consistently contributed to the organization, embodying the values of Scouting and making a lasting impact on the lives of young people.If you or someone you know meets these criteria, we encourage you to nominate them for this well-deserved honor.

Nominate Your Unit’s Leaders! We Need Your Help to Recognize Our District’s Best Volunteers

The Mayflower Council Annual Awards and Recognition Dinner in April is fast approaching, and we need your help to ensure our most deserving volunteers receive the recognition they have earned!

This special event is dedicated to honoring the selfless leaders and Scouters who have gone above and beyond to deliver an outstanding Scouting program this year. We can’t do it without your nominations!

Key Awards Seeking Nominations

We are actively seeking nominations for top district awards. Please consider nominating the dedicated Scouters in your unit, neighborhood, or district for the following:

  • The District Award of Merit: The highest volunteer recognition a district can bestow. Nominate an individual who has rendered noteworthy service of an exceptional character to youth beyond their unit responsibilities.
  • Unit Leaders of the Year: Recognizes outstanding unit leaders (Cubmasters, Scoutmasters, Venturing Advisors) who meet high standards of training, tenure, and performance.
  • Spark Plug Awards: Nominate your unit leader that has gone above and beyond to run your unit’s Popcorn sale, Best Campout, Pinewood Derby and more.

📝 How to Nominate

It is quick and easy to honor someone’s service! Please visit the link below to access the nomination forms. We encourage everyone—parents, unit leaders, and fellow Scouters—to take a few minutes to complete a nomination. Your time is the greatest gift you can give to recognize a volunteer.

  • Nomination Deadline: December 31, 2025

District Award of Merit Nomination Form
District Awards Nomination Form

Don’t wait! Help us shine a spotlight on the volunteers who make Scouting great in our district.



Changes to Council Activity Fee Nov. 1, 2025

We’re committed to providing the best possible experience for all of our members in the Mayflower Council. After careful consideration, the Mayflower Council Executive Board has approved an adjustment to the annual council activity fee.

Council Activity Fee Adjustment

Effective November 1, 2025, the annual council activity fee will increase from $68 to $85. This fee applies to all youth members.

Why the Change?

This adjustment is necessary to keep pace with the continuous rising costs for essential goods, services, and utilities. Like many organizations, the Mayflower Council is facing higher expenses. This change allows us to maintain the high-quality programs, excellent facilities, and essential services that our families expect and deserve.

Where Your Investment Goes:

This fee helps the Mayflower Council to:

  • Support Local Units: We provide a wide range of resources and training to help our local units succeed.
  • Deliver Exceptional Programs: This includes maintaining our camps and facilities, and developing new and engaging activities.
  • Ensure Safety and Security: Your investment helps fund essential liability insurance and safety training for all leaders and youth.
  • Innovate and Grow: We are constantly working to improve our programs and expand opportunities for our members.

New Partnership: Klarna—Scout Now, Pay Later!

Scouting is all about moving forward, and so are we. We’ve launched a brand-new, flexible payment option powered by Klarna to make joining the fun easier for every family. Say goodbye to upfront costs and hello to manageable, family-friendly payments!

Look for Klarna at Checkout

When you complete your online membership application, you’ll now see the Klarna option right alongside the usual credit card and digital wallet choices. This is a game-changer that offers more flexibility and removes financial barriers, making it simple to say “Yes!” to Scouting.

Flexible, Family-Friendly Payments

Klarna lets you choose a payment plan that works best for your family budget. This ensures Scouting remains accessible to every child who wants to be part of the adventure.

National Fees:

Please remember that the annual National Scouting America registration fee is separate. That fee supports national programs like Scoutbook, program resources, and national events.

Frequently Asked Questions:

For a complete breakdown of what the fee supports, answers to frequently asked questions, and details on our new Klarna payment option, please review our comprehensive Council Activity Fee FAQ.

Questions?

We understand that any fee increase can be a consideration. If you have any questions about the council activity fee or the new payment option, please feel free to contact our Membership and Unit Service Team by clicking here.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support. Your investment helps prepare thousands of young people for life.



Scout Now, Pay Later!

We’re absolutely thrilled to announce a groundbreaking new way to make the adventure of Scouting more accessible and affordable than ever before!

Scout Now, Pay Later!

Scouting is all about moving forward, and so are we. We’ve launched a brand-new, flexible payment option powered by Klarna to make joining the fun easier for every family. Say goodbye to upfront costs and hello to manageable, family-friendly payments!

Look for Klarna at Checkout

When you complete your online membership application, you’ll now see the Klarna option right alongside the usual credit card and digital wallet choices. This is a game-changer that offers more flexibility and removes barriers, making it simple to say “Yes!” to Scouting.

Flexible, Family-Friendly Payments

Klarna lets you choose what works best for your family budget. This ensures Scouting remains accessible to every child who wants to be part of the adventure.


(Please note: Interest or fees may apply for monthly financing, and credit approval by Klarna may be required.)

How to Use Klarna

  1. Complete your online membership application.
  2. At checkout, simply select Klarna as your payment method.
  3. If you have the Klarna app, complete your purchase as usual. If you’re new to Klarna, you’ll fill in a few details to set up your account.

We are incredibly excited to bring you this new option! This is another way we’re committed to making sure that every young person who wants to embark on the journey of a lifetime in Scouting has the chance to do so.

Have Questions?
If you have any questions about the Scout Now, Pay Later program or your membership application, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Membership & Unit Service Team by clicking here.



Den Leader Appreciation: Dana Rowen

We want to send a massive shout-out to an truly outstanding leader, Den Leader Dana Rowen of Pack 49 Norwood!

Dana Rowen of Pack 49 Norwood

As Mayflower Council continues our Den Leader Appreciation Month for May 2025, we are absolutely delighted to recognize Dana as our fourth Den Leader of the Week.

Dana has done something incredible this year: he led the Wolves Den to the greatest growth of any of our Dens! They started with just 3 Scouts and finished the year with a fantastic 11! That remarkable growth speaks volumes about how engaged and excited the kids are, and how wonderfully Dana has made it a fun and welcoming group for both Scouts and their families.

What makes Dana so special is his wonderfully calm and steady presence. We know it can be a whirlwind with a large group of 2nd graders, but he truly takes it all in stride, making every meeting feel smooth and enjoyable.

Just a few weeks ago, the Wolves took full advantage of the beautiful weather by making kites out of paper bags and enjoying some popsicles. That’s pure Cub Scouting genius! Dana perfectly embodied “A Scout is Thrifty” by using our amazing environment to create a fun and inexpensive activity the kids loved.

Dana, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your incredible dedication and the immensely positive spirit you bring to every Scout in Pack 49! You genuinely embody the very best of Scouting, and we are so incredibly fortunate to have you as a leader.

Remember, nominate your best den leaders here. Congratulations and thank you!



Den Leader Appreciation: Mike Cluett

Let’s hear it for Den Leader Mike Cluett of Pack 41 in Abington – truly one of our very best!

Mike Cluett of Pack 41 Abington

As we continue to celebrate Den Leader Appreciation Month in Mayflower Council, we’re absolutely thrilled to recognize Mike as our third Den Leader of the Week for May 2025!

Mike’s commitment is nothing short of inspiring. He stepped up to lead his son’s Den when no one else was available, diving in headfirst. The results speak for themselves: his Den isn’t just the largest in the Pack, it’s also bursting with the happiest, most smiling Scouts! Laughter and good times are a constant whenever Mike’s Den is together.

His dedication is 100% unwavering. Mike ensures his Scouts are not only having a blast but are genuinely engaged and learning something new every time they meet. Beyond his Den, he’s a true Pack champion, consistently helping with recruitment and fundraising efforts to make sure Scouting thrives for even more kids.

Mike’s Den meetings are always full of energy, with every Scout eager to participate. It’s clear that his desire to have as much fun as the kids themselves makes all the difference.

Mike, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your incredible dedication and the immensely positive spirit you bring to every Scout in Pack 41! You embody the very best of Scouting, and we are so incredibly fortunate to have you.

Remember, nominate your best den leaders here. Congratulations and thank you!



Enhanced Safeguarding Youth Training Launched

Scouting America has unveiled a new comprehensive Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT) program, reinforcing its unwavering commitment to creating the safest possible environment for young people. This updated training represents a significant step forward in Scouting America’s multi-layered approach to youth protection.
The new training is mandatory for all registered adult volunteers and has been developed with insights from leading experts in child safety, law enforcement, and child psychology. It incorporates the latest strategies for recognizing, responding to, and preventing various forms of abuse, including emotional, physical, and sexual abuse.
Key Features of the Updated Training: 
  • Comprehensive Focus: Our new Safeguarding Youth Training (formerly Youth Protection Training) program reflects the more comprehensive nature of the training and its focus on safeguarding youth from all threats.
  • Inclusive Content: The training covers a wide range of topics, ensuring volunteers are well-informed about potential risks and best practices for youth protection.
  • Annual Refresher Courses: Recognizing the ongoing need for education and awareness, Scouting America will now require annual refresher courses, estimated to take 15-20 minutes, to keep youth protection knowledge current.
  • Alignment with Best Practices: Scouting America regularly consults with experts to ensure its policies and training reflect the most up-to-date knowledge and prevention techniques in the field of youth safety.
  • Focus on Prevention: The training emphasizes proactive measures to prevent abuse and create a culture of safety within Scouting.
Your existing Youth Protection Training remains valid until its expiration date, at which point the new Safeguarding Youth Training will be required.
Scouting America’s proactive approach to youth safety underscores its dedication to providing a secure and enriching environment where young people can learn, grow, and thrive. The launch of this enhanced Safeguarding Youth Training demonstrates a continuous effort to adapt and improve safety measures, ensuring the well-being of all Scouts remains the top priority.



Den Leader Appreciation: Gregory Lomanno

Celebrating a Rockstar Leader: Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 Earns Den Leader of the Week Honors

Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 Medfield

Let’s give a huge shout-out to the awesome Den Leader Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 in Medfield! As Mayflower Council continues our Den Leader Appreciation Month, we’re absolutely delighted to shine a spotlight on his fantastic work as our second Den Leader of the Week for May 2025!

Seriously, Greg is a rockstar! He’s got the communication down pat, keeping all the families in the loop like a pro. His meeting plans? Always top-notch! And whenever the pack needs an extra hand, Greg is the first to jump in. 

What makes Grego truly shine? He’s like a super-organizer, somehow creating den meetings that are the perfect mix of “we’re having SO much fun!” and “hey, we actually learned something cool today!”

Want to know how to get the whole family smiling in Scouting? Just ask Greg! He’s a genius at planning activities where parents and kids get to join in the fun together. It’s a win-win for everyone!

Greg, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your incredible dedication and the super positive vibes you bring to the Scouts of Pack 113! You truly make the spirit of Scouting shine bright. We’re so lucky to have you!

Remember, nominate your best den leaders here. Congratulations, Gregory, and thank you!



Den Leader Appreciation Month

We know our den leaders truly light the way for our youth, creating the safe adventures, learning, and fun that makes Cub Scouts the perfect activity for boys and girls in kindergarten through fifth grade. Mayflower Council has marked the month of May as Den Leader Appreciation Month.

Mayflower Council highlights one of these fantastic den leaders every Wednesday in May

  • Den Leader Appreciation: Dana Rowen

    We want to send a massive shout-out to an truly outstanding leader, Den Leader Dana Rowen of Pack 49 Norwood! Dana Rowen of Pack 49 Norwood As Mayflower Council continues our Den [...]

  • Den Leader Appreciation: Mike Cluett

    Let's hear it for Den Leader Mike Cluett of Pack 41 in Abington – truly one of our very best! Mike Cluett of Pack 41 Abington As we continue to celebrate Den [...]

  • Den Leader Appreciation: Gregory Lomanno

    Celebrating a Rockstar Leader: Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 Earns Den Leader of the Week Honors Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 Medfield Let's give a huge shout-out to the awesome Den Leader [...]

  • Den Leader Appreciation: Deirdra Borges

    More Than a Leader: Deirdra Borges Fuels Growth and Fun in West Bridgewater's Pack 23 Deirdra Borges of Pack 23 in West Bridgewater It's Den Leader Appreciation Month in the Mayflower Council, [...]

Do you know a den leader who deserves some recognition?
Fill out our form; maybe you’ll see a familiar face in our next announcement…

Sincere thanks to all of our den leaders for all you do!



Den Leader Appreciation: Deirdra Borges

More Than a Leader: Deirdra Borges Fuels Growth and Fun in West Bridgewater’s Pack 23

Deirdra Borges of Pack 23 in West Bridgewater

It’s Den Leader Appreciation Month in the Mayflower Council, and we’re thrilled to spotlight the incredible contributions of our dedicated leaders! Today, we proudly recognize Deirdra Borges of Pack 23 in West Bridgewater as our first Den Leader of the Week for May 2025.

Deirdra’s journey with Pack 23 began in 2021 when her son, John, joined as a Tiger. Recognizing an immediate need for leadership within his den, Deirdra stepped up without hesitation. More than just a leader, she has consistently surpassed expectations, fostering an environment that is both engaging and focused. Under her guidance, her den has flourished and is now enthusiastically working towards their Arrow of Light, undoubtedly preparing them for a successful transition to Troop 25 next March 2026.

What sets Deirdra apart? Her exceptional preparedness! Each of her meetings is thoughtfully planned and infused with a spirit of fun, so much so that the Scouts joyfully absorb valuable life lessons without even realizing it. Her initiative extends beyond den meetings; she has also established the Pack 23 Hiking Club, further enriching the scouting experience for our young members.

Thank you, Deirdra, for your outstanding dedication and the positive impact you have on the Scouts of Pack 23! Your commitment truly embodies the spirit of Scouting.

Remember, nominate your best den leaders here. Congratulations, Deirdra, and thank you!



“Around The Campfire” Podcast – Episode Eight

Monthly Podcast from the Scouting America Mayflower Council.

Around The Campfire Podcast from Scouting America Mayflower Council for leaders and volunteers.

April 2025 Around The Campfire Podcast from Scouting America Mayflower Council. Topics & guests include:

  • Tom Pendleton; Director of Outdoor Programs and Properties for Scouting America to discuss updates for the 2026 National Scout Jamboree to be held July 22 through 31st, 2026 at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia. Find out more HERE.
  • Ryan Piazza; Camping Director for the Mayflower Council shares all of the fun & excitement at our Camps for Summer 2025. Learn more about Summer Camp opportunities HERE
  • Jack Colamaria; Staff Advisor for the 2026 National Jamboree talks about the Council’s plan for the 2026 Jamboree.Check out this LINK for more information.