10/19/2026
πβοΈ Rich in Community: 31 Days of Impact
For all 71 years of United Way Hamblen County's history, Great Smoky Mountain Council, Scouting America has been a valued partner in helping shape the next generation of leaders, citizens, and community servants.
The impact of Scouting can be seen throughout Hamblen County in the lives of those who have carried its values into their careers, volunteer service, and community leadership.
Few individuals embody that legacy more than Tom Strate, an Eagle Scout, recipient of the Silver Beaver Award, recipient of the National Eagle Scout Association's Outstanding Eagle Scout Award, 2024 Good Scout Honoree, and current Executive Board member.
As Tom reflects:
"For over 110 years, Scouting America has prepared young men and women to serve their neighbor, to be prepared for the unexpected, and to live a moral life.
Scouting shaped my life in a very personal way, and that is why I continue to be committed to the Scout Oath and Law and 'do my best' to live my life according to those principles. Preparing young people to be good citizens and leaders offers Morristown a bright future."
Through Scouting, young people have opportunities to:
ποΈ Experience the outdoors and learn practical life skills
βοΈ Develop leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities
π€ Serve their communities through volunteer projects
π§ Build character, responsibility, and citizenship
The tradition continues today. In 2026, local businessman Mike Fishman was recognized as the Good Scout Honoree, reflecting a family legacy of philanthropy, community involvement, and service to Hamblen County.
For more than seven decades, United Way Hamblen County and Scouting America have shared a commitment to investing in young people and creating opportunities that help them grow, lead, and succeed.
π Your support helps make stories like these possible. Make your gift today:
https://givebutter.com/UWHC2026