Have you ever seen someone running the Climbing Wall, leading the Cubmobile, or conjuring up mind-bending challenges at the Klondike Derby? Chances are, you've met Chuck and Pat Pint. For years, they've been the driving force behind countless NEIC outdoor events, always ready to lend a hand and share their passion for Scouting.
From Assistant Scoutmaster to District Commissioner
Chuck's Scouting journey began in 2005 when his son, Paul, joined Troop 3 in Evanston. Like many dedicated leaders, he started as an Assistant Scoutmaster and quickly rose through the ranks, serving as Committee Chair, Scoutmaster for five years, Unit Commissioner, Assistant District Commissioner, and now, Potawatomi District Commissioner. If that wasn't enough, he also advises the Order of the Arrow Namachani Chapter and chairs the COPE & Climbing Outdoor Committee. And yes, if you've been climbing at Camp Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan, Chuck's been there as the Program Director.
A Lifelong Connection to Scouting
Chuck's connection to Scouting runs deep. He was a Scout himself as a kid in Kansas, and that early experience ignited a lifelong love for adventure and the outdoors. Pat, who didn't have the chance to be a Scout as a youth, found her own fulfilling path within the Scouting family, joining Chuck in their shared passion for service.
The Joy of Seeing Scouts Succeed
What truly drives Chuck? It's the moment he sees a Scout overcome a challenge and discover their own strength. He vividly remembers helping Scouts conquer their fear of heights on the 40-foot climbing tower at Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan. "Seeing their faces light up after their first rappel," he says, "that's what makes it all worthwhile."
A Chance Meeting, a Lasting Impact
One story perfectly captures the unique bond of the Scouting community. During a business meeting, Chuck met an attorney who had also been a Scout. This attorney, who was taking a deposition against Chuck during a patent dispute, shared a powerful story about his regret for not finishing his Eagle Scout requirements. When Chuck mentioned his son Paul was considering not finishing his Eagle requirements, the attorney became very emotional, and later wrote Paul a letter urging him to finish. Paul did, and the attorney sent him a heartfelt congratulations. Chuck reflects, "Scouting is a family. You get to influence so many people, and that's incredibly rewarding."
Beyond NEIC: Serving the National Scouting Community
Chuck and Pat's dedication extends far beyond NEIC. Pat has spent summers working at Philmont and the Bechtel Summit, and in 2025, Chuck will join her at Philmont to teach at the COPE center. Their commitment to Scouting is truly exceptional.