EVENDALE — A troop of mentally disabled Scouts that nearly disbanded five years ago when their leader resigned is again on the brink of extinction.

        This time, the problem is not leadership. It's money.

        Explorer Post 2025 learned recently that a private foundation's annual grant of $2,500 to $3,000 will not be renewed. The money covers programs and field trips for the 48 Explorer Scouts, who range in age from 20 to 80.

        Today, they have a bank balance of $12.54.

Mike Hernandez (left) is volunteer coordinator for Post 2025, a group of mentally disabled Explorer Scouts. With him are John Bader and Nancy Goetz. (Michael Snyder photo) | ZOOM |

        “We just assumed we were going to get another grant,” said Mike Hernandez, post chairman. “The private foundation (which provided the grant) was happy with what we were doing. But, for whatever reason, they said they couldn't do it again.”

        Folding the troop would be devastating to members such as Arthur Leary, 37.

        “This provides him with an extended family,” said his mother, Pat Leary. “For those in group homes, this may be the only times they get out. Art's life will be diminished without the activities, without the interaction, without seeing others.”

        The Hamilton County Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (MRDD) sponsors the troop, providing meeting space, volunteer help and approving the $20 annual post charter. Money for extras such as trips to the Cincinnati Zoo, Newport Aquarium, Reds games and other activities must come from other sources.

        Claude Rost, communications coordinator for Hamilton County MRDD, said the private foundation, which he declined to identify, has decided to spend more money on “bricks and mortar” projects. “We do not want to slam them. They have been generous to us,” he said.

HOW TO DONATE

• Address: Post 2025, Boy Scouts of America     c/o Mike Hernandez     12180 Chesterdale Road     Cincinnati 45246     • Information: Mike Hernandez. 243-6719; Claude Rost, MRDD, 587-7390.     • Checks: Make payable to Post 2025, BSA.     All donations are tax deductible.

        Although money is in short supply, Post 2025 has an abundance of volunteers. Several, including Mr. Hernandez and treasurer Jean Deaton, are employees of General Electric Aircraft Engines and belong to the Elfun Society — an organization of GE employees and retirees committed to community volunteerism.

        “I'm not one to beg,” said Ms. Deaton. “But, when you see what these (diabled scouts) get out of this - when you see them happy and excited, you gain so much. I'm just sold on them.”

        Pat Brown, director of operations for the Dan Beard Council, Boy Scouts of America, said losing Post 2025 would be heart-wrenching.

        “I have been to their events. It is a touching experience. This post truly exemplifies scouting.”

        George Wietmarschen of Reading started Boy Scout Troop 25 in 1977, but in 1996, at age 82, he stepped down for health reasons. No one came forward to lead the troop until a story in the Enquirer generated more than 15 volunteers to save it. About a year later, Post 2025 was born — chartered as an Explorer Post to allow women to join, Mr. Rost said. It has been flourishing since.
       

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