The Silver Beaver Award is for registered Scouters of exceptional character who have provided distinguished service within the Laurel Highlands Council and their communities.

The Silver Beaver Award was introduced in 1931 and is the most significant council-level distinguished service award for adults in Scouting America. Recipients of this award are registered Scouters who have made an impact on the lives of youth through hard work, self-sacrifice, dedication, and years of service to the council and community. It is given to those who do not actively seek it, and only those who have been nominated by their Scouting peers are considered.

How to Nominate a Scouter for the Silver Beaver Award

If you know a Scouter who is worthy of the Silver Beaver Award, please let us know. Download the nomination form and submit it to the Laurel Highlands Council at 1275 Bedford Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, or email it to both Jack Boyde and Amanda Erickson.

Review the new nomination guidelines.

The deadline for 2026 nominations is September 30.

To see a full listing of past Silver Beaver recipients, view the full roster.

If you know a Scouter who is worthy of the Silver Beaver Award, please let us know. Download the nomination form and submit it to the Laurel Highlands Council at 1275 Bedford Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, or email it to both Jack Boyde and Amanda Erickson.

Review the new nomination guidelines.

The deadline for 2026 nominations is September 30.

To see a full listing of past Silver Beaver recipients, view the full roster.

The District Award Of Merit Is The Highest Honor A Local District Can Bestow Upon A Volunteer. The Award Is Presented To Scouters Who Render Service Of An Outstanding Nature At The District Level. How Districts Accept Nominations And Present This Award May Vary. In Addition To A Plaque, Certificate, And Medal, A Silver Overhand Knot On A Blue Background Is Presented To Be Worn On The Uniform. If You Know A Deserving Scouter, Nominate Them With Your District Today! Access The Fillable District Award Of Merit Nomination Form Here.

The Veteran Award is a special recognition for adult members of Scouting America (formerly the Boy Scouts of America) who have demonstrated a long-term commitment to Scouting. Adults are eligible to apply for this award after completing five years of registered service with Scouting America. Years of service as a youth member may also be included in the total.

To receive the Veteran Award, the individual must:

• Be a currently registered, paid member
• Commit to upholding the principles and obligations of Scouting
• Stay connected with their local Scouting community and remain available for service as circumstances allow
• Continue supporting and promoting the mission of Scouting to the best of their ability

Please note: Only service within Scouting America (BSA) counts toward this recognition. Participation in other Scouting organizations does not qualify.

This award is a meaningful way to honor dedicated volunteers who have helped shape the lives of young people through years of Scouting service.

To apply or nominate someone, download the application.

I swapped the first "Boy Scouts of America (BSA)" for "Scouting America (formerly the Boy Scouts of America)" so the name matches the rest of the page.