The local Boy Scouts of America named Clarkston resident Steve Anderson “Scoutmaster of the Year” at an awards banquet in Pontiac for his service to scouting during the 2020-21 program year, July 29.
In scouting, the scoutmaster is the adult leader responsible for working directly with the youth providing direction, coaching and support. Anderson has led Troop 186 in Lake Orion since 2016. District Commissioner Lonny Johnson said Anderson ensured the unit never faltered in providing opportunities for its youth through the pandemic.
“Over the COVID period he continued the troop’s outdoor program,” Johnson said. “He even took a group of boys to the Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia for camp.”
According to Johnson, Troop 186 also promoted a number of youth to the rank of Eagle Scout, scouting’s highest honor, during the pandemic, which served as further evidence of Anderson’s success.
Johnson and District Chairwoman Jennifer Sanker presented Anderson with the award at the Lafayette Grande Banquet Hall before volunteers and professionals from across Southeast Michigan.
District Director Dan Welsh of the Michigan Crossroads Council commended Anderson, saying he led his youth through the pandemic and met the challenges of the year with both determination and innovation.
“Steve’s a great scoutmaster and a great guy,” Welsh said. “He knows how to deliver scouting, and he displays that in everything he does.”
The awards ceremony concluded with a call to action from the district’s senior leadership.
As scouting looks to expand its presence in Oakland County, Johnson stressed the need for committed adult leaders.
“Scouting doesn’t go forward without quality volunteers to provide program for the youth,” Johnson said. “That’s my humble opinion. The Boy Scouts of America cannot provide programming without the wonderful work and effort from our volunteers.”
— Brandon Kathman

PHOTO: Steve Anderson accepts his award from District Chairwoman Jennifer Sanker on July 29 at an awards ceremony held in Pontiac. Photo provided

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