This article appeared in the Spring 2022 issue of Abilities Digest.

The 2023 deadline for Woods Services Award nominations is January 30.

Rick Smith of the Northern Star Council received the 2022 Woods Services Award for exceptional service and leadership to Scouts with Special Needs and Disabilities. Presenting the award (left) is John Andrews, Scout Executive/CEO for Northern Star Scouting.

Rick has been an active volunteer working for the benefit of special needs Scouts since 2005. He is currently on the national Special Needs and Disabilities committee which he joined in 2014 and, among other positions, has been instrumental in developing, writing, publishing, and distributing, the quarterly Abilities Digest. Previously, he has served his council as Polaris (Special Needs) committee chair, commissioner, and University of Scouting trainer for special needs. He has worked the Disabilities Awareness Challenge at two National Jamborees and the 2019 World Jamboree. A few of Rick’s recognitions and awards include the Torch of Gold, Special Needs Scouters Service Award, Silver Beaver, Doctor of Commissioner Service knot, and District Committee Key.