Clinton County community leaders and local Scout volunteers are inviting residents and businesses to support youth development at the 2026 Clinton County Outing for Scouting, a spring fundraising dinner and program in Frankfort. The event will feature a meal, remarks from Mayor Judy Sheets, and recognition for sponsors who help underwrite local Scouting programs that serve young people across the county.
The special fundraising dinner is scheduled for Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Frankfort Neighborhood Center, 259 South 3rd Street in Frankfort, with guests invited to gather at 5:30 p.m. and the dinner and program beginning at 6 p.m. The evening is being promoted as an opportunity for residents, businesses and community leaders to learn more about how Scouting shapes youth in Frankfort and throughout Clinton County while providing financial support to local programs. Organizers say every dollar raised will stay in the community to benefit local Scouts.
Focus on youth leadership
For generations, Scouting in Frankfort and Clinton County has aimed to help young people become confident leaders and responsible citizens through hands‑on adventures, mentoring and character‑building activities. Local Scout leaders say the outing will highlight values such as teamwork, responsibility, service and resilience, which they describe as skills that prepare youth “not just for the outdoors, but for life.” The event’s theme emphasizes both celebrating current Scouts and investing in the next generation of leaders who live, work and attend school in Clinton County.
Chair’s perspective on Scouting’s impact
Event chair Daniel Dehn said he is honored to help lead this year’s Clinton County Outing for Scouting and hopes residents will see firsthand how Scouting influences local families. Dehn noted that he has been involved in Scouting for more than a decade and has watched many youth grow through the program. “I have been involved with scouting for over ten years now and love seeing youth grow up in this great organization,” he wrote in a letter inviting community participation. He added that his own children have taken part in Scouting at different times, saying that “both my daughters and my son have been involved in scouting at one point or another” and “they have benefited from scouts in many ways.”
Dehn is asking businesses and individuals to consider sponsoring a table or, at minimum, attending the dinner to learn more about local programs. “Please consider being a table sponsor or at a minimum come to the event to eat and learn more about scouting,” he wrote, encouraging potential supporters to contact him with any questions.
City involvement and program highlights
The City of Frankfort is also backing the effort, with Mayor Judy Sheets inviting residents to attend and show support for Clinton County Scouts. In a prepared statement, organizers say the dinner offers guests a chance to “enjoy a wonderful meal while connecting with friends, neighbors, and community leaders.” Attendees will also “hear from Mayor Judy Sheets as she shares the importance [of] Scouting and its lasting impact on our city,” according to the event announcement. The program will include opportunities to learn about local Scout units and the ways volunteers and donors can stay involved year‑round.
Sponsorship levels and recognition
Businesses and individuals can support the outing through several sponsorship tiers, each tied to recognition at the event and on social media.
- The Eagle Scout Level, at 1,000 dollars, includes a reserved table for eight, prominent signage throughout the event, recognition during the program, social media recognition leading up to the dinner and an opportunity to provide a giveaway item for attendees.
- The Life Scout Level, at 500 dollars, offers reserved seating for four, event signage, program recognition, pre‑event social media mentions and the same giveaway opportunity.
- A First Class Scout Level, at 250 dollars, provides two tickets to the event, the business name listed on event signage and recognition during the program.
Organizers say these sponsorships are designed to connect local businesses with a cause focused squarely on youth development in Clinton County.
Those interested in additional information about the event or sponsorships are encouraged to reach out to the City of Frankfort’s community development office or to Dehn in his role as chair and district commissioner serving Clinton County.
Daniel Dehn-765-430-8806 Scoutmaster T3380G C338 Crew Advisor District Commissioner serving Clinton County