Community Gives More Than $56,000 To Boy Scouts Of Polk County

POLK COUNTY, FL — The Boy Scouts of America in Polk County exceeded their $50,000 fundraising goal May 20 with a "Low Country Boil" at the Lakeland Country Club.

As many non-profits have struggled during this last year due to the coronavirus pandemic, the revenue from the recent boil equaled $56,750, according to the Boy Scouts of America officials.

About 75 community members attended the event that also honored Dr. Richard Burnette, an Eagle Scout, with the Legacy of Scouting Award for a lifetime of support.

“For over 110 years, the Boy Scouts of America has led the nation in providing citizenship

training for youth,” Sharrod McCree, field director for Thunderbird District, said. “This was
evident as we recognized Dr. Burnette for all his service to the citizens and youth of this nation.”

Food at the banquet wasn't as formal as past dinners, McCree said. The new menu included shrimp, seasoned corn, potatoes and andouille sausage to reflect a casual event. He said the money raised brings the district closer to achieving the Friends of Scouting campaign.

"The Friends of Scouting campaign accounts for all of the local contributions our council receives," Brandon Katham, Boys Scouts of America District Executive, told Patch. "This does not include revenue from grants, property or registration."

Money from the event will remain within the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, and it will help toward upgrading the council's five campgrounds, officials said. Extra funds will sponsor registration scholarships for youth and new program opportunities.