Garth Smith of Waterville, a leader in Scouting programs in Winslow, has received the highest award a local Scouting district can bestow on a volunteer — the District Award of Merit.

During the annual Scout Leaders’ Recognition Dinner — held March 11 at Winslow Veterans of Foreign Wars, MacCrillis Rouseau Post No. 8835 — District Advancement Chair Luanne Chesley of Vassalboro presented the District Award of Merit to Smith.

“Garth has served in large ways and some small ways in the Kennebec Valley region,” Chesley said, according to a news release from Chuck Mahaleris, district chairman for the Kennebec Valley District of Scouting. “In smaller ways, Garth has helped out at various events, sometimes in the background or making sure things run smoothly logistically. Some examples include delivering firewood for the Klondike Derby, running stations at the camporee, or simply moving things from Point A to Point B at Camp Bomazeen. On the larger scale, Garth has volunteered at the District Pinewood Derby. The derby has a lot of kids and a lot of chaos, but Garth has helped many years to ensure that the event goes off without a hitch.”

Smith works at the Maine Center for Disease Control. He graduated from Waterville High School before taking classes at Husson College and Merrimack College.

Smith, who is registered as the committee chair for both Troop 433 Boys and Troop 433 Girls in Winslow, has also served as popcorn kernel and scoutmaster, and was recognized for helping start a new Cub Scout pack. He has been active in Scouting since 2011 with his son.

Outside of Scouting, Smith is an active member of the Waterville Lodge of Elks No. 905, serving as an advisor to the Antlers Youth Program. He assists with the youth Hoop Shoot and the Trunk or Treats program the Elks hosts.

“I was very surprised,” Smith said. “Scouting is a valuable program for young people to learn leadership skills. It is an organization that promotes and provides opportunities for family bonding. I am proud to be a part of it.”

He was nominated by Millard Davis of Winslow Troop 433 and was unanimously approved by the District Award of Merit Selection committee.

 

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