Author: Mike Matzinger
RALEIGH, N.C. — May 23, 2025 — The Occoneechee Council’s Alumni Association brought together a spirited group of Scouting supporters for an evening of camaraderie, cars, and celebration at the Carolina Exotic Car Club in Raleigh. The alumni event, held on May 22, welcomed approximately 45 attendees who share a common passion for Scouting and its enduring impact.
Set against the backdrop of exotic cars and interactive racing simulators, the gathering provided ample opportunities for socializing, exploring the venue, and engaging with fellow alumni. Attendees were greeted with a professionally organized check-in table featuring pre-printed name tags, raffle cards, and Council Alumni stickers. A business card with a QR code encouraged guests to sign up for the alumni email list.
During the evening, guests filled out interest cards indicating their enthusiasm for future alumni activities, volunteer roles, and potential donations. The highlight of the evening was a 40-minute program that underscored the values and legacy of Scouting.
The program began with the Pledge of Allegiance, Scout Oath, and Scout Law, followed by remarks from Council President Jim Erlinger and Council Commissioner Scott Fedorchak. Special guest Dave Boliek, North Carolina State Auditor, delivered an inspiring keynote on how Scouting influenced his life and career.
Recognition was a key part of the evening. Boliek was honored with a Scouting tie and a 115th Anniversary hat. Bill Goebel was celebrated for receiving the prestigious Silver Buffalo Award. Council Commissioner Scott Fedorchak, Staff Advisor Jamie Ammons, and Marketing Director Daniela Werner each received a Council Alumni Committee neckerchief in appreciation of their support. Jim Crawford, Vice President of Development and a dedicated member of the Council Alumni Committee, was presented with a patch and lapel pin for his ongoing contributions.
Several door prizes added to the evening’s excitement, and the event closed with a heartfelt challenge for attendees to reflect on what Scouting means to them and how they can continue to support the movement.
Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead
The evening offered valuable insights for future alumni events. One notable takeaway was the importance of a strong alumni mailing list—an ongoing challenge the committee is committed to addressing. Attendee engagement was enhanced through targeted questions during registration, helping organizers understand guests’ current involvement in Scouting.
Promotion was key to the event’s turnout. Publicity efforts, which began three months in advance, included outreach through Facebook groups, the Council newsletter, emails to Eagle Scouts and registered leaders, and more. Past visibility at events like the University of Scouting, Eagle Banquet, and Commissioner College also helped spread the word.
Despite around 80 registrations, only 45 alumni attended — a gap the committee aims to narrow in future events through improved communication and follow-up. Feedback from attendees will inform planning for upcoming gatherings, and a post-event survey is currently being developed.
The committee also noted a few areas for improvement, such as starting the program earlier and encouraging broader interaction among attendees.
Photos from the event will help showcase the evening’s highlights and further engage the alumni community.
With momentum building and lessons learned, the Occoneechee Council Alumni Association is already looking ahead to its next opportunity to reconnect with Scouting alumni and strengthen the bonds that unite them.
For more information or to get involved with the Occoneechee Council Alumni Association, visit https://ocscouts.org/alumni-association/
