The Martinsville Elks Lodge donated $1500 to the Blue Ridge Mountains Council to support ScoutReach, a program that provides program materials, supplies, books, uniforms and camperships for children at risk in the Martinsville area. The program is designed to contribute to healthy development of today’s youth by leveling the playing field and providing them with the environment, resources and relationships needed to develop cognitive thinking skills inside and outside of the classroom, which ultimately contributes to them becoming an upright and productive member not only in our community but outside of the community as well.
Daniel Cross states “According to parent surveys, the presence of a consistent, caring adult male in the lives of many of our underserved youth makes a profound positive impact on the Scout’s perception. This underserved population has a reliable adult to whom they can turn to for guidance. Our local program director, Saul Hicks, is more than just a Scout Leader. He is a trusted mentor, dedicated friend who impacts their lives positively and is seen frequency as a father figure. He is someone these Scouts can depend on when they find themselves in questionable situations. “
In 2018, there were 313 youth registered in 5 ScoutReach units.
Pictured are Exalted Ruler, Kenneth Draper; Blue Ridge Mountains Council District Director, Daniel Cross; and local ScoutReach leader, Saul Hicks.