AN UPDATE ON YOUR INVESTMENT IN CHARACTERIN THIS ISSUE:• NEW MERIT BADGE PROGRAMS• PARENT TESTIMONIAL• WHY RESTRICTED GIFTS MATTER• SR2 TRACTOR UPDATE• CAMP TAHUAYA MATCHING GIFT CAMPAIGN• INVESTMENT IN CHARACTER• SCOUT EXECUTIVE’S MESSAGESCAN TO CONNECTWITH LONGHORN COUNCILTHANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT OF LOCAL SCOUTING IN NORTH & CENTRAL TEXASLONGHORNCOUNCIL.ORG/GIVELONGHORNReengaging Eagle ScoutsThrough Community and ConnectionThe Longhorn Council National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) recently hosted its inaugural networking event, a Dallas Cowboys Watch Party, bringing together 37 Eagle Scouts and supporters for an evening focused on connection, shared values, and renewed engagement with Scouting.This first gathering highlighted the strength of the Eagle Scout community beyond youth participation. Attendees represented diverse professions and life stages but were united by the leadership, service, and character developed through Scouting. The event fostered meaningful conversation, relationshipbuilding, and reconnection to the mission of NESA.Special thanks are extended to Sanjay Chandra, Eagle Scout Class of 1980, for his generous sponsorship and for hosting the event at Trinity Investors. His support reflects the continued impact Eagle Scouts have as leaders in their communities and careers.Most importantly, this inaugural event marked a meaningful step in reengaging Eagle Scouts as active supporters, mentors, and advocates. Strong attendee interest in future gatherings reinforced the value of creating intentional opportunities for Eagle Scouts to reconnect and give back.Scan to joinour NESAnetwork and stay connected on upcoming eventsHAPPENINGSWINTER2026
We are excited to share our new Specialty Merit Badge Program, an initiative designed to provide Scouts with enhanced, hands-on learning experiences led by industry professionals and community partners.This program was made possible through the generosity of an anonymous donor, whose seed gift allowed us to bring this vision to life. Their support has enabled us to pilot high-quality merit badge opportunities that connect Scouts to realworld skills, careers, and expertise. We are deeply grateful for their investment in the future of Scouting.Each of these events offers Scouts a unique opportunity to learn directly from professionals in specialized settings, reinforcing Scouting values through practical application and exploration.Looking Ahead: These initial offerings mark the beginning of a growing program that will continue to expand throughout the year. With strong community partnerships and donor support, the Specialty Merit Badge Program will open new doors for Scouts to explore interests, build skills, and envision future career pathways.We look forward to sharing more updates and success stories as this exciting program continues to grow. If you or your company is interested in hosting a Specialty Merit Badge Event, please contact James Clark, [email protected] Merit Badge Program Offerings ThroughPartnerships with Local Businesses and OrganizationsUpcoming Specialty Merit Badge EventsAviationMerit BadgePartner: Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education CenterFebruary 16 & March 16Plumbing & ElectricityMerit BadgesPartner: ForgeNowMarch 28EngineeringMerit BadgePartner: SigmaProJune 19Registration ComingSoon
The Longhorn Council would like to Thank Scout Parent, Danny Pandhare, whose child participated in the recent Aviation Merit Badge program for the following testimony.Scouting America is shaping the leaders and problem-solvers of tomorrow. I saw this firsthand while attending the inaugural Scouting America Aviation Merit Badge Clinic with my daughter. What unfolded was more than a merit badge; it was a meaningful, hands-on learning experience grounded in values, mentorship, and vision for the future.This first-of-its-kind collaboration between Scouting America, Longhorn Council, and the National Aviation Education Center (NAEC) showcased Scouting at its best by connecting youth with real-world experiences that inspire lifelong curiosity and purpose.The Purpose Was Clear: The clinic was designed to do more than teach aviation fundamentals. Its purpose was to inspire interest in STEM, aviation, service, and leadership through immersive, hands-on learning that can spark future career pathways.Mentorship That Changes Lives: Scouts learned directly from dedicated aviation professionals and educators who gave their time to invest in young people. This mentorship built confidence, character, and skills, reflecting Scouting’s core mission of trusted adults guiding the next generation.Learning in a Place That Honors the Past and Empowers the Future: The clinic was hosted at the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center at Dallas Executive Airport, home to more than 175 historic aircraft. The NAEC’s mission to honor the past while empowering the future aligns closely with the values of Scouting.Hands-On Education That Lasts a Lifetime: Scouts rotated through engaging learning stations focused on flight instruments and simulators, glider design and aerodynamics, charts and airspace navigation, aircraft preflight inspections, and aviation careers and pathways. This active approach to learning fostered confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills.Character, History, and Values: Parents were invited to participate through a meaningful presentation on World War II history, reinforcing Scouting’s commitment to service, sacrifice, and responsibility alongside skill development.Lessons That Will Endure: Scouts learned about aviation pioneers like Bessie Coleman and the power of perseverance, explored the science and teamwork behind flight, and practiced real-world safety, preparation, and accountability through hands-on experiences.Why This Matters Now and for the Future: Programs like this exist because generations have invested in Scouting. Planned gifts help ensure continued access to transformative educational experiences, strong mentorship, and values-based leadership development.A Legacy Worth Protecting: From standing beside historic aircraft to learning about American heroes, Scouts scaare being prepared to lead with confidence and purpose. Supporting Scouting through legacy giving ensures future generations continue to soar.What Scouting Delivers and Why It Must Be Protected for the Futureby Danny Pandhare, Scouting ParentDid you know the Longhorn Council partners with FreeWill to offer free online estate planning tools? While a gift is never required, naming Longhorn Council or the Endowment Fund as a beneficiary helps perpetuate the Scouting adventure for generations to come. Scan To Create a Will at No Cost
Restricted gifts are one of the most meaningful ways donors strengthen Scouting, allowing contributions to directly support specific programs and priorities. These intentional investments create immediate impact while building long-term program excellence by expanding capacity, enhancing safety, and delivering high-quality outdoor experiences that shape character and leadership.As 2025 came to a close, the Longhorn Council was honored to receive several restricted gifts that highlight the power of purpose-driven philanthropy. • One anonymous donor contributed more than $25,000 to expand fishing programs across the council, supporting equipment, program development, and increased access while introducing more Scouts to outdoor recreation, conservation, and lifelong skills. • Another anonymous donor established the “On Target Fund” at the North Texas Community Foundation with an initial $25,000 commitment. This fund will provide sustainable, ongoing support for Archery and Marksmanship programs, ensuring safe instruction, modern equipment, and enriched camp experiences for future generations. Additional contributions can be made through NTCF to grow the fund.The Longhorn Council extends its sincere gratitude to these anonymous donors and others who invest in Scouting through restricted giving. Their generosity strengthens our camps, elevates our programs, and creates lasting impact for Scouts across our council. Those interested in learning more about restricted contributions may contact Dan Busby, Director of Development, at [email protected] or 817.231.8507.Over the past year, Sid Richardson Scout Ranch has made important investments in the infrastructure that keeps camp running smoothly for thousands of Scouts and volunteers. Thanks to generous donors, $52,250 has been raised toward the $90,000 goal for a much-needed utility tractor, putting the project more than halfway to completion.This tractor has already improved efficiency across SR2’s 2,500 acres. From maintaining roads and trails to mowing fields, hauling materials, and supporting conservation projects, this brand-new tractor helps the ranger team work more safely and effectively.“The tractor is a workhorse and essential for day-to-day operations,” shared Head Ranger Chad Crawford. Reliable equipment is especially critical during heavy use and unpredictable weather, ensuring campsites and program areas remain safe and accessible year-round.Every gift supports the Scout experience in meaningful, behind-the-scenes ways. We are grateful for the donors who have helped reach this milestone and invite others to help finish the job. Together, we are investing in the future of Scouting at Sid Richardson Scout Ranch. Contact James Clark to make a donation to this fund: [email protected], 817-231-8523The Power of Purpose: Why Restricted Gifts MatterKeeping Sid Richardson Scout Ranch Strong:Tractor Fundraising Effort
LONGHORNCOUNCIL.ORG/GIVEThere are moments in a campaign when progress turns into possibility, and possibility turns into urgency. This is one of those moments for the Longhorn Council & Camp Tahuaya.Because of the generosity of donors who believe in the power of Scouting, gifts ranging from $20 to $1,000,000 have already helped us raise more than $8.7 million toward our $15 million campaign goal for Camp Tahuaya. Every contribution large and small has played a role in strengthening camps, expanding programs, and ensuring that today’s Scouts have access to experiences that build character, confidence, and leadership.Last year alone, our supporters rallied to raise $255,000, proving that when our Scouting community comes together, meaningful progress follows. All gifts to the Camp Tahuaya capital campaign are directed to the Longhorn Council Property Foundation.Now, we have an opportunity to accelerate that progress. A generous donor has stepped forward with a $100,000 challenge contribution, but it can only be unlocked if others join them. This challenge represents more than a dollar-for-dollar match; it’s a call to action. It’s an invitation to multiply impact, extend opportunity, and ensure Camp Tahuaya continues to be a place where Scouts discover resilience, outdoor skills, and lifelong values.Your gift today, whether $20, $2,000, or $20,000 moves us closer to securing this challenge and advancing the future of Scouting in the Longhorn Council. Together, we can turn momentum into milestones and ensure that the promise of Scouting remains strong for generations to come. The Longhorn Property Foundation stands prepared to receive gifts in the following forms: stock, credit card, check or cash.The challenge is set. The impact is real. And with your help, the next $100,000 is within reach. The donors offer expires April 1st. If you have a great memory of Camp Tahuaya and want to continue those memories for others into the future, please chip in. We will report results and celebrate donors of this challenge gift within our May Longhorn Happenings.Email or call Dan Busby regarding gifts or questions: [email protected], 817.231.8507Help Us Unlock a$100,000 Challenge Gift
2025ScoutingImpact4315New Eagle Scouts75,319LoggedService Hours$2,620,348Estimated ValueOf Service HoursBased On Independent Sector’s Value Of Service ReporT11,979Merit BadgesEarned31,527Cub ScoutAdventures Earned2025 DATAAS OF 01/05/26Our 2026 Investment in Character Campaign is officially underway with a fresh approach this year. We kicked off the campaign by mailing more than 9,000 Investment in Character newsletters this month. These newsletters highlight powerful Scouting testimonials, explain how your investment supports local Scouting, and showcase the positive impact Scouting has across our communities.A new element of this year’s campaign is the introduction of a Unit Champion for every Scouting unit. Each unit is asked to identify a Unit Champion who will lead its Family Investment in Character campaign. The Unit Champion will collaborate with the local Scouting professional to establish a unit fundraising goal and confirm a Unit Celebration/Presentation date. Leading up to that date, the Unit Champion will provide fundraising updates, track progress toward the goal, and share helpful campaign information with families.Units can qualify for Free Rank Advancement in 2027 by meeting their Unit Investment in Character fundraising goal and participating in Popcorn and/or Camp Card sales totaling $1,500. If your unit has not yet confirmed its 2026 Family Investment in Character fundraising goal or Celebration/Presentation date, please contact your Scouting Professional representative as soon as possible.Thank you for investing in character and helping ensure the continued success of Scouting as we track towards our goal of raising $945,000.2026 Investment in Character Campaign LaunchSCAN TO MAKE A GIFT
The future of Scouting in north and central Texas has never looked brighter, and it’s because of partners like you who are helping us build something extraordinary. As you’ll see in this newsletter, we’re not just maintaining programs, we’re expanding our reach with new specialty merit badge offerings, launching our ambitious 100K Camp Tahuaya Challenge Campaign, and making strategic investments like our new tractor at Sid Richardson Scout Ranch that will serve Scouts for decades to come.This is a moment of momentum. Our Eagle Networking Event is connecting young leaders to opportunity. Our new Investment in Character Campaign is opening doors for the next generation. And thanks to donors who designate gifts to areas they’re passionate about (like our fishing and target and range activities) we’re creating experiences that will shape character and leadership for years to come. I invite you to be part of this exciting chapter. Whether through the 100K Challenge, legacy planning with FreeWill, or supporting the initiatives that speak to your heart, your investment today is building the leaders of tomorrow.With excitement for what’s ahead,Wendy ShawScout Executive2025ScoutingImpact315New Eagle Scouts75,319LoggedService Hours$2,620,348Estimated ValueOf Service HoursBased On Independent Sector’s Value Of Service ReporT11,979Merit BadgesEarned31,527Cub ScoutAdventures EarnedThe Future of Scoutingis BrightA Message From Wendy Shaw, Longhorn Council Scout ExecutiveLONGHORNCOUNCIL.ORG/GIVE
AN UPDATE ON YOUR INVESTMENT IN CHARACTERHAPPENINGS LONGHORNThree business units support local Scouting. Longhorn Council which supports operations and capital. The Endowment Foundation which manages invested funds for long-term sustainability, and the Property Foundation which advises, leads, and manages local camps and service centers. 2026 WINTER