The Dever Family Foundation
Skilled Trades Education Center

We have a crisis within skilled trades. Local businesses are struggling to find enough talent to fill their job openings; this will only compound as experienced employees continue to retire over the next decade. In addition, high school graduates are increasingly searching for career paths beyond the expensive option of going to a traditional four-year college.

The Scouting program includes effective introductions to several skilled trades through merit badges and activities; however, the Council currently offers very few of these opportunities locally. Our new Skilled Trades Center at Camp Friedlander will provide a safe, effective, and unique venue to introduce, educate and instruct Scouts as well as community youth to the in-demand field of skilled trades.

How You Can Be Part of the Legacy

Naming Opportunities & Program Sponsorships

Naming Opportunities Available

Skilled Trades Center Naming Rights
SOLD – Dever Family Foundation

Education Center Atrium
Claimed

Plumbing Bay

Electrical Bay
Claimed

Robotics Bay
SOLD – Interlink Cloud Advisors

Carpentry & Home Repairs Bay
SOLD – Formica Corp.

Automotive Bay
SOLD – Performance Automotive Network

Welding Bay
Claimed

Innovation Bay
SOLD – Anonymous

Learning Lab
Claimed

Program Sponsorships Available

Cash & In-Kind for Construction of Center

Skilled Trades Director & Staffing Sponsorships

Classroom Equipment (Initial & On-Going)

Merit Badge & Skill Workshops

In-Kind Support (Staffing, Mentoring, etc.)

Annual Operating & Long-Term Endowed Gifts

Join the Builder's Circle

A Monthly Giving Program to Support Skilled Trades Education Through Scouting

The Builder’s Circle is a monthly giving society for individuals and families who believe in the power of hands-on education, mentorship, and leadership development through the skilled trades. With a gift of at least $1,000 annually, or starting at just $84 per month, you become a foundational supporter of Dan Beard Council’s workforce development programs.

How It Works

Commit to a monthly recurring donation of at least $84 (or a recurring annual gift of at least $1,000).
Once your total giving reaches at least $1,000 within a calendar year, you will receive recognition as a Builder’s Circle Member.

Recognition & Benefits

A custom-engraved hammer, symbolizing your investment in building the future workforce through Scouting.
Listing as a Builder’s Circle Member in donor reports.
Invitation to exclusive Builder’s Circle updates, including behind-the-scenes yours, hard hat previews, and meetings with youth participants and instructors.
Recognition as a founding partner in the Skilled Trades initiative when enrolled during the inaugural year at the November 2025 Grand Opening.

Why Join?

You are powering a first-of-its-kind initiative within Scouting that introduces youth to real-life career pathways in automotive maintenance, construction, welding, HVAC, electrical work, and more.
Your gift helps provide the tools, equipment, instructors, and facilities needed to spark lifelong passions and careers.
You are building both skills and confidence in young people – Scouts who will become tomorrow’s leaders.

For questions or to set up a custom giving plan, please contact Michele Landers, Vice President of Development, at Michele.Landers@Scouting.org or (513) 577-7718.