AN AMAZING MILLION DOLLAR DAY FOR SCOUTING
INSPIRATION, RECOGNITION AND DONATIONS TOPPING $1.2 MILLION
Nearly 900 supporters attended our 2019 Million Dollar Day for Scouting – two breakfasts within a 25 hour period designed to raise $1 million to launch the 2020 Friends of Scouting Campaign. Participants saw a snapshot of Scouting’s influence as they shared fellowship and made their 2020 contributions.
We had two terrific keynote speakers! Their stories about how Scouting teaches youth to do their best and creates an impact in the community.
In St. Paul on 12/11, President Joan T.A. Gabel, the 17th president and first female president of the University of Minnesota spoke of the importance of building leadership and integrity in young people by doing their best and helping others– fundamental Scouting values. She shared her personal experiences confirms Scouting’s positive impact on young people.
At Fort Snelling on 12/12, we heard from Joe Schmit, the Sports Director for KSTP-TV, author, and keynote speaker. His was a story of how purpose, persistence, and passion can make an impact in people’s lives. Joe inspired guests to use the values Scouting teaches to make a meaningful impact in the lives of youth and adults.
Other highlights were the presentation of the Scoutmasters of Philanthropy Award to Jim Bradshaw in St. Paul. For almost two decades, Bradshaw has been a key volunteer in planning the Community Builder Celebration, an event that recognizes others for their community involvement and leadership.
Both breakfasts featured Scout Emcees Isabella Tunney of Troop 384 and T. Paul Kariuki of Troop 374, the inspiration of Tenderfoot Scout Mitchell of Troop 196 singing the National Anthem, a personal testimonial by Eagle Scout Jeffrey of Troop 100 who shared some of his personal Scouting highlights and how Scouting gave him a second family to help him believe in himself through difficult times.
Another recognition and inspiration was the presentation of the National BSA Medal of Merit to Eagle Scout Liam Gunsbury Troop 124 of Minneapolis and the National Heroism Award to Cub Scout Logan Luedtke Pack 9391 of Shakopee (see coverage of Logan’s presentation on KSTP Channel 5 News).
Liam was honored for using his Scouting skills in assisting the rescue of an elderly woman after her and her husband’s vehicle careened off a cliff into a river and Logan was honored for his actions in saving his younger brothers after their car rolled off the road into a creek.
The two breakfasts were energizing and, thanks to the generosity attendees and the leadership of the volunteer table hosts and committee, have positioned Northern Star Scouting for another strong program year ahead.