Purpose of James E. West Fellowship
James E. West Fellowship award supports the future of Scouting in Alaska. How, you might ask? All gifts made to the Fellowship are directed to the GAC Endowment Fund. The principal of this permanent fund is not spent but earnings from investments provide income for Scout programs in perpetuity. In other words, it exists to “Secure the Future” of Scouting in the communities served by the Great Alaska Council.
Who was Jame E. West?
James Edward West (1876–1948) was a lawyer and an advocate of children’s rights, who became the first Chief Scout Executive, of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), serving from 1911 to 1943. Upon his retirement, West was given the title of Chief Scout.
Among his accomplishments, West created the first edition of The Official Handbook for Boys, expanded the Scout Oath, negotiated the purchase of Boys’ Life, and secured the federal charter in 1916.
In 1993, the BSA created the James E. West Fellowship Award for individuals who contribute $1,000 or more in cash or securities to their local council endowment fund.
Who are members of the James E. West Fellowship?
Anyone who believes in Scouting and wants to contribute to preserve its future are members. Some have been honored out of thanks and gratitude for their leadership and contributions to Scouting.
Recognize someone special: An Eagle Scout, Outstanding Troop Leader, Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, District Leader, Wood Badge Staff Leader, Order of the Arrow Chief or Advisor, family member, or a loved one. When you honor someone today, you will strengthen Scouting for the next 100 Years.
Recognitions
Upon receipt of the required $1,000 contribution, each awardee receives a signed certificate in an attractive display binder, the James E. West Fellowship Uniform Square Knot, and a lapel pin for civilian wear.
How to Give
Payments can be made yearly, quarterly, or monthly, and can be made by check, credit card, or debit card. Donations can be deductible for income tax purposes.
Click Here to Download the James E. West Application
Endowment Opportunities
Many opportunities exist for you, too, to join the Great Alaska Council, BSA in making a dramatic difference in development of our young people.
Various categories exist for endowment recognition with the Great Alaska Council, Boy Scouts of America. They are available at these minimum levels:
| Second Century Society – Deferred Gifts | |
| Platinum | $1,000,000 |
| Gold | $500,000 |
| Silver | $250,000 |
| Bronze | $100,000 |
| James E. West Fellowship – Cash or Securities | |
| Bronze Member Level | $1,000 |
| Silver Member Level | $5,000 |
| Gold Member Level | $10,000 |
| Diamond Member Level | $15,000 |
Sound Administrative Management
Your endowment gift is carefully administered by the Board Directors of the Great Alaska Council, Boy Scouts of America. Endowment Fund investment dollars raised from the principal of the fund are used to support operating functions of the Council.
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