Trailblazer

In February, 2010, the Trailblazer Division, a subsidiary of the Great Lakes Council, Boy Scouts of America celebrated and honored the achievements of Dr. Patricia Maryland, President of St. John Health System, Juliette Okotie-Eboh, Sr. Vice President Community Affairs/Administration for MGM Grand Detroit, LaVerne Spraggins, Highland Park School District and the Salvation Army with four awards at the fourth annual  Breakfast of Champions. The event was held on February 4, 2010 at the Dauch Scout Center. It was chaired by Ed Deeb, president of the Michigan Food and Beverage Association (MFBA) and  co-founder and chairman of the Trailblazer Division.

The Trailblazer Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to LaVerne Spraggins. This award is presented to a volunteer who has over their lifetime made outstanding contributions to the field of special needs youth development.

The Ed Deeb Community Service Award was presented to Juliette Okotie-Eboh, Sr. Vice President Community Affairs/Administration for MGM Grand Detroit. This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the power to make the lives of young people better through efforts that advance the Trailblazer mission and vision to serve the special needs youth of metro Detroit.

The Ray Shapero Distinguished Service Award was presented to Dr. Patricia Maryland, President of St. John’s Health System. This award is given to community volunteers who exhibit exemplary leadership throughout their careers while serving the youth of metro Detroit.

The Trailblazer Corporate Award was presented to the Salvation Army for their tireless efforts and dedication to youth in the metro Detroit area. 

Nearly 26 years ago through the efforts of Ed Deeb, the late Ray Shapero, president of Cunningham Drug Stores and Jerry White, Detroit Area Council the Trailblazer program was created. The program is one of the Great Lakes Council, Boy Scouts of America’s Learning for Life school-based programs that annually serves nearly 1,500 children with special needs with core curriculum that enriches character education, life skills, and career development. Outside of the classroom, Trailblazer provides educational outings like camping, sports clinics, fishing derbies and the Holiday Festival.