Once an Eagle Scout, always an Eagle Scout.

That’s the Boys Scouts of America credo, and a group of men has formed a local chapter of the National Eagle Scout Association to keep involved those who’ve attained the Boy Scouts’ highest rank long after they’ve earned their last merit badge.

“Some earned their Eagle 50 years ago, some 40 years ago. Some just earned it this year,” said Michael Wojcik, former Allegheny County solicitor and a partner in the Downtown law firm of Thorp, Reed & Armstrong. “We’re trying to engage all those men.”

The Pittsburgh chapter received its charter from the national association in September. The local group counts about 60 dues-paying members. Group leaders said there are about 8,000 Eagle Scouts in the 14 county district covering Southwestern Pennsylvania eligible to become members.

The local chapter will keep Eagle Scouts active in their communities, said Matt Mallin, the group’s adviser, who works full-time for the National Boy Scouts of America at its office in the Hill District.

Additionally, it will serve as a “call to action” for help on refurbishing the Boy Scouts’ 2,400-acre camp near Uniontown. This year is the 100th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America awarding its first Eagle Scout rank.

Members will receive access to an online job board and can search and be placed on a directory of businesses owned by Eagle Scouts, both of which are expected to be launched next month. The chapter also is working to implement a program in which young Eagle Scouts can join a longterm career mentoring program with an older Eagle Scout in his field, Mallin said.

“It’s great that we have the altruistic intent, but sometimes there has to be a little ‘what’s in it for me.’ We think these additional programs will help,” he said.

Wojcik, 47, of Fox Chapel, earned the rank of Eagle Scout in November 1979. He said the scouts taught him leadership, how to interact with others and how to react in difficult situations and hopes other Eagle Scouts who live in the region join the chapter.

“When you earn your Eagle you’re not an Eagle Scout for just that moment. It’s something you can use to give back to the community,” he said.

Additional Information:

Visit www.pgh-nesa.com for more information.

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