W.D. Boyce Council, Scouting America Endowment Fund
Supporting Scouting for Generations to Come
The W.D. Boyce Council, Scouting America Endowment Fund provides annual, permanent support for the W.D. Boyce Council, ensuring that the values and programs of Scouting remain strong for years to come. Through this endowment, future generations of young people will continue to experience leadership training, outdoor adventure, and community service opportunities that shape character and build lifelong skills.
How the fund began
In 2013, Morton Community Bank and the Honegger Family were approached about making a significant gift to support Scouting. Instead of giving directly to the W.D. Boyce Council, they chose to establish an endowment fund at the Morton Community Foundation. This decision means the Council will receive annual grants—forever—rather than a one-time contribution. Over time, the impact of the fund will far exceed the original gift. That’s the power of endowment.
Why it matters
The W.D. Boyce Council carries the name of the man who brought Scouting to America. In 1909, William D. Boyce, a publisher from Illinois, was lost in the fog while on a business trip in London. A young Scout offered to guide him but refused a tip, saying, “No thank you, sir. I’m a Scout and this is my good turn for the day.” Inspired by this encounter, Boyce returned home and incorporated the Boy Scouts of America on February 8, 1910.
By supporting the W.D. Boyce Council Endowment Fund, donors help ensure that this tradition of service, integrity, and leadership continues to inspire young people for generations to come.