The “Silver Beaver” for Special Needs Service

Torch of Gold award pin

Most Scouters recognize the Silver Beaver as the pinnacle of recognition for service to a council. Silver Beaver awards are given every year.

Scouters who provide exceptional service supporting Scouting with special needs and disabilities are eligible for a similar award: the Torch of Gold. Each council may award one Torch award per year to a deserving Scouter. Use the official form (BSA #512-945), which must be signed by the council’s Scout Executive.

Once the council has chosen the Torch of Gold recipient, the council should also nominate the recipient for the national Woods Services Award, the “Silver Buffalo” of SND Scouting. Transcribe the Torch application onto the Woods Services nomination form (BSA #512-258). The Scout Executive should sign the form and send it to SpecialNeedsChair@scouting.org.

Woods Services nominations must arrive by January 31 in the year it is presented.

    Favorite Posts

    HomeAugust 20, 2025
    The Inclusion ToolboxAugust 18, 2021
    L: AutismFebruary 24, 2022

    Abilities Digest accommodations adaptations ADHD adult leadership advancement archery ASL autism awards behavior beyond 18 biking blind camp camping conference COPE council committees Cub Scouts dAC deaf Eagle food guide IEP Jamboree joining conference language mainstreaming mental health merit badges Mini-Conference mobility NDAC neurodiverse new members NSNDC NYLT person first Perspective Philmont population RBAE readings requirements resources Roundtable Scouts BSA Seabase sign language simulations skateboarding SND Roundtable SNSSA summer camp Summit swimming Toolbox Torch of Gold training Wood Badge Woods Services Youth Protection Zia Experience