Community leaders, supporters, and friends of Scouting are invited to step into an enchanting spring evening at Spring Into Scouting: the Into the Woods Ball, a signature fundraising event benefiting Scouting America’s Leatherstocking Council. The event will take place Friday, March 20, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. EDT at the DoubleTree by Hilton Utica (Crystal Ballroom).

Set within a woodland-inspired atmosphere, the Into the Woods Ball blends refined celebration with the heart of Scouting, supporting youth leadership, character development, and outdoor adventure programs across the region. The event aims to raise $50,000 to strengthen and expand local Scouting opportunities for young people.

Guests will enjoy an unforgettable night featuring VIP speakers, lively music and dancing, live and silent auctions, and a cozy s’mores dessert station that captures the magic of the outdoors. Attendees and sponsors will play a direct role in advancing Scouting’s mission and impact throughout the area.

2026 VIP Community Champion Awards

During the evening, the Scouting America Leatherstocking Council VIP Community Champion Awards will be presented to three outstanding local leaders whose service and support help Scouting thrive:

Jill Hayes, CEO of NY Sash, current Board member, and committee member for the Women Leaders Impact Scouting event, will be recognized for her exceptional leadership, generosity, and commitment to the mission of Scouting. Under her leadership, NY Sash proudly serves as the council’s Premier Media Sponsor, helping amplify the visibility and reach of Scouting across the region.

Big Mike Morrill of Total Solutions, Premier Sponsor of the council’s Annual Golf Tournament, will be honored for extraordinary generosity and steadfast support. In addition to major event sponsorship, Morrill provides the council with valuable in-kind IT support, helping ensure strong and secure operations that sustain programs serving youth throughout the council.

Brian McKee, CEO of the House of the Good Shepherd, current Board member, and Volunteer Vice President of Development, will be recognized for leadership and dedicated service advancing the council’s fundraising efforts. McKee has played an integral role in supporting Karen Murphy in her role as Director of Development and in helping shape the council’s 2026 fundraising plans, bringing strategic vision and collaborative leadership to strengthen Scouting’s local impact.

Tickets can be purchased at: https://donations.scouting.org/#/council/400/event/760