Boy Scouts make investment in Corridor growth

The Hawkeye Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, based in Cedar Rapids, announced a new partnership agreement today which will result in more than $300,000 in outside investments into the Cedar Rapids/Iowa City corridor. A new retail store will focus on serving the public as well as Scouting members with high quality outdoor equipment, program materials, and cutting edge support to thousands of adult volunteers.

Cedar Rapids was chosen as the location for the new concept store by the Boy Scouts of America's National Supply Group which is based in Charlotte, North Carolina. In preparation for the new venture, the Hawkeye Area Council Executive Board and staff remodeled their building to expand the retail footprint by 40% resulting in over 2,500 sq. ft. dedicated to retail operations. The store will open to the public on June 25th at the Council's current location in southwest Cedar Rapids.

“Our youth membership has been growing over the last few years and we can now financially support additional services to our community...the investment from the national organization is a testament to our growth trend and future potential, ” says Travis Christopher, Executive Director of the Hawkeye Area Council. “Even with a relatively flat operating budget the last few years, we continue to add services that serve our volunteers, leaders, parents and Scouts in the corridor.”

The new Hawkeye Scout Shop retail destination will open for business on at 660 32nd Ave SW in Cedar Rapids on Monday, June 25th. In addition to a larger retail operation there will also be expanded hours to serve Scout families and the public. Beginning on the 25th hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Shoppers will have a little more time on Tuesdays when they can shop until 7:00p.m. Also, beginning Saturday, June 30th Saturday hours will be 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The Hawkeye Area Council serves over 7,500 youth each year in the corridor. Last year the Council was recognized as a top “Gold” Council in the Boy Scouts of America for membership growth, fiscal transparency and management as well as its program quality. The Hawkeye Area Council is in the top 10% of all 296 Boy Scout councils nationwide for its total youth market share. The council has also expanded services through partnerships with area churches, non-profits and businesses. The Hawkeye Area Council's website is www.hawkeyebsa.org