Cathlamet mentorsreceive high honors

Local youth mentors LaRita Bennett and Fred Bennett of the Chinook District of the Cascade Pacific Council, Boy Scouts of America will be presented the prestigious volunteerism award on May 29 at a special recognition ceremony in their honor.

The Silver Beaver Award, to be presented to the Bennetts is the top award that a local Boy Scout council can bestow upon a volunteer mentor. Recipients are selected by confidential nominations of adult peers, and only one award may be presented for every 60 troops, making it a prominent honor.

Cascade Pacific Council, BSA will honor these mentors as well as other outstanding mentors at the council’s annual Court of Honor on May 29 at Tualatin High School Auditorium in Tualatin.

The Bennetts have been involved in the Scouting program for 40 and 35 years consecutively as leaders, and have been instrumental in furthering the Scouting program in their area, bringing youths to Scouting through proper adult training, encouragement, and by being positive mentors. These Scouters are to be honored for their dedication to youth, and for the time and energy they expend in the interest of education of young people.

“Since it was organized in 1910, Scouting has been dedicated to providing a fun, educational program for youths that instills values, healthy living, character development and lifelong learning,” said Ron Garland, Scout Executive. “These mentors continue to provide outstanding service to youths, communities, and families.”

Membership in the Boy Scouts continues to be strong. Locally, Cascade Pacific Council has over 15,000 adult mentors helping shape the lives of over 48,200 youths associated with its programs. Those desiring information about Scouting programs for youths may find it online at http://www.cpcbsa.org or by contacting the council office at 503-226-3423.