HARLINGEN — The 2016 Friends of Scouting Luncheon took place yesterday at the Jackson Square Event Center in Downtown Harlingen.
Supporters filled the event center and enjoyed lunch while listening to guest speakers consisting of former and current scouts who told of their experiences in scouting and how those experiences influenced their lives.
Keynote speaker Bruce Evans, who is president and chief operating officer for AEP Texas, said the values and leadership scouts learn are comparable to those that many companies look for in their workers.
Longtime scouting volunteer and Assistant Council Commissioner Dave Enos said the money raised through this event goes back into the maintenance of the facilities used by the scouts in the area.
Enos has been involved with the Boy Scouts for 68 years in various capacities.
Thirteen-year-old Ali Halloum attended the event with his mother Carmen. He said he was asked by the Rio Grande Council to speak at this event.
When asked how he felt about scouting he said, “It’s a part of life. It’s really big, it’s fantastic.”
“It’s more than merit badges and ranks. You can make great friends and have a good time.”
“It’s everything,” he added.
Through pledges and contributions along with money previously raised, the total funds raised amounted to $74,677, according Master of Ceremonies Frank Espinoza.
