Boy Scouts Trust Great Smoky Mountain Council

The Boy Scouts Trust Great Smoky Mountain Council, identified by the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 626033255, is a component of Scouting America, a prominent nonprofit youth organization in the United States. While the council is not explicitly named in this formal title, it is integral to the Scouting program in East Tennessee.

History

The Great Smoky Mountain Council traces its roots to the founding of the Knox County Council in 1915, just five years after the inception of the Boy Scouts of America. The council merged with other regional councils during the Great Depression and was officially renamed the Great Smoky Mountain Council in 1943[1].

Programs and Activities

The council offers a range of programs, including Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing, Sea Scouts, Exploring, and STEM Scouts. These programs aim to provide young people with skills in character development, citizenship, and outdoor adventure. The council operates several camps and facilities, notably Camp Buck Toms, named after William Perry "Buck" Toms, a pivotal figure in East Tennessee Scouting history[1][3].

Impact and Operations

In 2024, the Great Smoky Mountain Council served over 7,500 youth across 21 counties in East Tennessee. It is recognized for its diverse participation, with a significant portion of ethnically diverse members and an increasing number of female participants[3]. The council emphasizes community service and leadership development, with notable alumni including prominent public figures such as former Senator Lamar Alexander and University of Tennessee President Randy Boyd[3].

Facilities and Legacy

The council's camps, like Camp Buck Toms, host various summer programs and events. Camp Buck Toms was established in the 1950s and became the council's primary summer camp after the closure of Camp Pellissippi[1]. The Great Smoky Mountain Council continues to uphold the mission of Scouting America, focusing on ethical and moral development for its members[3].