Volunteer Recognition Dinner 2026
Announcing the Year's Award Recipients
We are proud to recognize the outstanding individuals and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional service and commitment to Scouting. Please join us in celebrating the following honorees:
Chartered Organization of the Year
American Legion Post #303 — Swansea, MA
Council Alumnus of the Year
Manny Bagaco — Council Executive Board
Distinguished Service to Safety Award - The Distinguished Service to Safety Award is a Narragansett Council–specific honor presented to an individual who has made exceptional contributions to the safety and well-being of our members. This award recognizes those who have gone above and beyond in promoting a culture of safety, implementing effective practices, and ensuring a safe environment for all participants.
Peter Ham — Troop 17 Mansfield, Council Executive Board
Council Duty to God Award - The Council Duty to God Award was created to recognize registered Scouters who have demonstrated an exemplary history of transformational leadership in supporting and promoting the spiritual foundation of Scouting at the local Council level.
Rabbi Sol Goodman — Camp Yawgoog Jewish Chaplin
Mary Ellen Mortimer — Council Unit Representative Delegate Saints Rose and Clement Parish
Torch of Gold Award (Service to Youth with Disabilities) - The Torch of Gold Award recognizes individuals who have provided outstanding service and support to Scouts with special needs. This honor celebrates those who demonstrate exceptional dedication, compassion, and advocacy ensuring that every Scout, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive and fully participate in the Scouting experience.
Daniel Driscoll — Pack 4 Gaspee Plateau
George Meany Award - The George Meany Award is presented to union members who have made a significant and positive impact on youth in their communities through dedicated volunteer service in the programs of Scouting America. This award recognizes individuals who exemplify the values of both organized labor and Scouting by giving generously of their time and talents to support youth development, leadership, and community engagement.
Kevin Thompson — Pack 7, Den Leader
National Medal of Merit
Joshua C. Stockwell — Troop 2 North Scituate
North Star Award - The North Star Award often considered the equivalent of the Silver Beaver, honors individuals who have provided exceptional support to Scouting within the council, throughout the community, and across the region. What makes this recognition especially meaningful is that recipients are not currently registered members of Scouting America. Their remarkable service and dedication, offered without formal affiliation, exemplify a deep commitment to youth and the values of Scouting.
Jamie Pangione — Owner of Jamie’s Fine Wine & Spirits
Captain George Bucklin Award
Gerard Goulet — Council Advisory Council
William H. Spurgeon Award - The William H. Spurgeon III Award is the highest recognition for individuals and organizations supporting the Exploring program. It is presented to adult Exploring leaders, businesses, and community organizations at both the local and national levels who have demonstrated exceptional service, leadership, and commitment to the growth and success of Exploring. Their contributions help create meaningful career exploration experiences for youth and strengthen partnerships between Scouting and the broader community.
Michael Velino — Explorer Post 412 Woonsocket, Committee Chair
Silver Beaver Award - The Silver Beaver Award was introduced in 1931 and is a council?level distinguished service award of Scouting of America. Recipients of this award are registered Scouters who have made an impact on the lives of youth through service given to the council.
Joshua Silvia — Troop 1139 Slatersville
Curtis T. Abbott — Jewish Committee on Scouting, Chair
Patrick McDonald — Camp Yawgoog, Senior Campmaster
Matthew Kielec — Troop 303 Swansea
Michelle Avelar — Troop 3 New Bedford
Jessie Kanter — Council Vice President of Membership, Executive Board, Audit Committee
WHO - This event is for all Scouting volunteers and their guests who wish to join in recognizing the many outstanding and dedicated leaders in the Narragansett Council.
WHAT - The Annual Narragansett Council Dinner is to recognize all recipients of the Silver Beaver, Torch of Gold, and Distinguished Conservation Service awards and give recognition to districts for all their Scouting achievements.
WHERE - Venus de Milo - 75 Grand Army of the Republic Hwy, Swansea, MA 02777
WHY - Come recognize the Narragansett Council's outstanding Scouting leaders.
WHEN - Wednesday, February 4th, 2026 - 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Check-in - 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Dinner and Program - 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
HOW - Register online today!
Dinner is $65 per person. A cash bar will be available.
Chicken Picatta, Roast Beef Au Jus or Vegetarian.
Dress attire is Business or full BSA Uniform.





