Monmouth Council > Scouting Resources > Awards & Recognition > Silver Beaver Award

Silver Beaver Award

Recognizing Extraordinary Service to Youth and Community

The Silver Beaver Award is the highest distinguished service honor a local council can bestow upon an adult volunteer leader within Scouting America. First introduced in 1931, this prestigious award recognizes registered adult leaders who have made an exceptional impact on the lives of youth through dedicated, long-standing service to the council, as well as outstanding service to their broader community.

Unlike unit-level recognitions, the Silver Beaver Award is presented on behalf of the National Court of Honor to individuals whose selfless contributions go far above and beyond the expectations of their volunteer roles.

Eligibility & Nomination Criteria

The Silver Beaver Award is awarded based on noteworthy service to youth within the council’s jurisdiction, combined with significant civic leadership outside of Scouting.

To be considered for the Silver Beaver Award, a nominee must meet the following requirements:

  • Registered Adult Volunteer: Must be a registered adult leader within Scouting America, aged 21 or older.

  • Service Duration: Must have rendered noteworthy service of an exceptional character to youth within the local council.

  • Civic Contribution: Outstanding service to the broader community (civic, religious, educational, professional, or charitable organizations) is heavily weighed.

  • Self-Nomination Is Prohibited: Candidates cannot nominate themselves. Nominations must be submitted by fellow Scouters, parents, or community members.

  • Ineligibility: Professional Scouting employees (Scout Executives, District Executives, etc.) are not eligible until at least five years after leaving professional employment.

How to Nominate a Deserving Scouter

Nomination Process Steps:

  1. Download the Official Form: Obtain the current Silver Beaver Award Nomination Form (No. 92-103).

  2. Detail Their Scouting Service: Highlight their roles, achievements, training completed, and special projects across unit, district, and council levels.

  3. Detail Their Community Impact: Include involvement with church, school, civic groups, military, professional associations, and other non-profit organizations.

  4. Gather Supporting Documents: Attach letters of recommendation from community leaders, fellow Scouters, or youth organizations to strengthen the nomination.

  5. Submit by the Deadline: Ensure all completed paperwork is turned in to the Council Service Center before the annual cutoff date.

For past winners of each award, please see the links below.

For deeper award insights, refer to national BSA policy and nomination forms:

Need Additional Help?

For questions regarding the council’s award policies, or nomination process, please contact the Council Awards Committee:

  • Awards & Recognition Committee Chair: Sandy Matthew Reisig

  • Awards & Recognition Committee Staff Adviser: Robert Buob