Annual Baltimore Area Council Volunteer Celebration
Celebrating the Stars Behind the Scouting Spotlight
Join us for an evening of celebration as we shine the spotlight on the volunteers who make Scouting possible across Central Maryland. From unit leaders and commissioners to Silver Beavers and community partners, this is your night to walk the red carpet and be recognized.
Each year, the Baltimore Area Council, Scouting America, gathers to honor the incredible volunteers whose dedication keeps the Scouting program strong in Central Maryland.
This year’s celebration brings a touch of Old Hollywood glamour—think red carpet, bright lights, and a room full of stars. While the theme is fun, the purpose is serious: to say thank you to those who give their time, talent, and heart so young people can grow in character, leadership, and service.
Whether you’re receiving an award, supporting an honoree, or cheering on fellow Scouters, you’re part of the story we’re celebrating.
The Awards
Silver Beaver Award
The highest honor a council can bestow upon a volunteer for distinguished service to youth within the council territory.
Distinguished Commissioner Service Award
Recognizing commissioners who provide exceptional support to units and help ensure quality Scouting experiences.
District Achievement Awards
Honoring outstanding volunteers whose leadership and service strengthen Scouting in their local districts.
Our Silver Beavers
Cindy Atkinson
Council Silver Beaver
Cindy has provided strong leadership on the Baltimore Area Council Executive Board since 2020, including service as Vice President of Membership and chair of the Council’s 2020–2024 membership strategic pillar. She has supported Scouting as a Unit Commissioner, District Committee Member, and through her involvement in the Council’s Golf Tournament and Nominating Committees. Cindy’s strategic insight, community leadership, and dedication to youth-serving organizations make her a valued contributor to Scouting’s mission.
Jonathan "Jon" Bealer
Gunpowder Falls Silver Beaver
Jon has served Scouting at every level with exceptional dedication—guiding Troop 485 as Scoutmaster, mentoring numerous Eagle Scouts, and strengthening District operations as District Commissioner. He played a key role in unifying the newly merged Gunpowder Falls District and is a respected instructor for Wood Badge, NYLT, and multiple adult training programs. Jon is known for his humility, reliability, and unwavering commitment to helping both youth and Scouters succeed.
James "Jim" Brooks
River Hawk Silver Beaver
Jim has enriched the Scouting experience in the River Hawk District through dedicated service to Troop 855, the District’s Eagle Board of Review, and the Order of the Arrow. His leadership as a longtime Ceremonies Advisor, River Hawk Chapter Advisor, and supporter of the Council’s largest youth programs has shaped hundreds of young leaders. Jim’s steady presence, humility, and passion for developing both youth and adult volunteers exemplify the spirit of cheerful service.
Peter Jacobus
Carroll Silver Beaver
Peter has made a profound impact through decades of leadership in the Carroll District and the Baltimore Area Council, including service as District Commissioner and his current role as Council Commissioner. He revitalized unit support, expanded training and service partnerships, and strengthened advancement and program delivery across the District. Peter’s calm leadership, dependable service, and dedication to volunteer mentorship reflect the highest traditions of Scouting.
Robert "Bob" Jones
Gunpowder Falls Silver Beaver
With nearly 65 continuous years in Scouting, Bob has shaped generations of youth through his decades of service to Troop 732, where 38 Scouts earned the rank of Eagle under his mentorship. His commitment extends to Broad Creek, where he volunteers weekly as part of “Ken’s Crew,” improving camp facilities for thousands of Scouts each year. Bob’s lifetime of cheerful service, artistic contributions, and quiet leadership represents the very best of Scouting.
Brian McGivern
National Pike Silver Beaver
For more than 22 years, Brian has been a steady and transformative leader across the National Pike District and the Baltimore Area Council. He has served in key roles including District Commissioner, Assistant Council Commissioner, Unit Commissioner, and Roundtable Commissioner—revitalizing training, strengthening unit support, and mentoring countless leaders. Brian’s calm guidance and commitment to servant leadership have made a lasting impact on youth and volunteers throughout Central Maryland.
Our Distinguished Commissioner
Ellery Loomis
River Hawk District Commissioner
With more than three decades in Scouting, Ellery has strengthened youth leadership and adult training across the Baltimore Area Council through his steady guidance and service. As River Hawk District Commissioner, he continues to mentor leaders, support units, and build strong Scouting communities. This year, Ellery chaired the Volunteer Training Summit, helping revamp the program to better equip volunteers, and is being honored with the Distinguished Commissioner Award for his outstanding commitment and leadership.
Come See Our New Standard Issue Council Patch at the Annual Volunteer Celebration!
After three decades with our iconic yellow crab CSP, the Baltimore Area Council is leveling up! Our Scouts deserve a shoulder patch that pops—something bold, unmistakable, and instantly “Maryland.” So for the first time in 30 years, we’re rolling out brand-new CSP options that feature the legendary Maryland flag front and center. These designs are sharp, modern, and built to make our Scouts instantly recognizable wherever they go.
Voting is now closed. Thank you to all who participated in helping to decide our next Council Shoulder Patch! Join us at the Annual Volunteer Celebration to see which designs wins! All attendees will receive a limited edition gold-trimmed version of the winning patch.
