The Cradle of Liberty Council, Boy Scouts of America recently hosted its 9th Annual Corporate Campfire Gala to honor several distinguished business leaders who represent the values of the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. This signature fundraising event, chock full of campfire skits and sing-alongs, took place this year at the Loews Hotel in Philadelphia.
This yearâs gala raised more than $645,000 to make Scouting programs and summer camping opportunities accessible for all youth, regardless of socioeconomic backgrounds. âScouting is strong, vibrant and growing in all of our communities, especially here in the city of Philadelphia, where the kids and families need us most,â said Dan Templar, scout executive/chief executive officer, the Cradle of Liberty Council, Boy Scouts of America. âWe have been able to continue expanding our reach and our impact on local youth for the third consecutive year because of your generous contributions.â
One of the many highlights of the night was the presentation of the 2019 Distinguished Citizen Award, which was given this year to Joe Meterchick, regional president, PNC Bank. âWhen I think of Scouting, I smile. It is something that each boy and girl should experience in their lives,â said Meterchick. âScouting never leaves you. It reinforces the important things a child should know. It teaches basic ideals that children and adults can refer back to, even when no one else is around,â he added.
Several other honorees were recognized at a variety of industry receptions that preceded the awards dinner. Robert W. Bogle, president & CEO, The Philadelphia Tribune received the Communication Lifetime Achievement âGood Scoutâ award. Ryan Boyer, business manager, Laborersâ District
Council, received the Construction & Real Estate âGood Scoutâ award. Kevin B. Mahoney, executive vice president and chief administrative officer, University of Pennsylvania Health System, received the Health âGood Scoutâ Award.