Southwest Florida Council Seeks $1.12 Million in Youth Program Support
A bourbon auction and tasting event in Lakewood Ranch aims to fund leadership and service programs for more than 16,000 local young people.
By Aiko Soto ·
The Southwest Florida Council of Scouting America estimates that 32,000 hours of community service provided by its members equates to $1.12 million in economic impact.
The council served more than 16,000 young people across the region in 2025. These participants contributed to local communities through various service projects. The organization seeks to sustain these programs through a new fundraising initiative scheduled for next week.
The event, titled Bourbon & Bowties, is set for Wednesday, November 11, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Loaded Cannon Distillery in Lakewood Ranch. The venue will host bourbon and whiskey tastings, a best bowtie contest, and several auctions. A central feature of the evening is a wheelbarrow filled with bourbon and whiskey that will be sold to the highest bidder.
Tommy Cassel, the development director for the Southwest Florida Council, noted that the group’s mission extends beyond leadership training. He stated that members also provide tangible benefits to their neighborhoods. “Not only are we teaching kids leadership skills that they’ll carry with them throughout their life,” Cassel said, “but they also give back to the community.”
Mike Bear, the event chair, organized the evening. Bear grew up in the area and participated in Scouting programs during his youth. He described the fundraiser as a way to support the next generation of local residents. This will be the third time the Loaded Cannon Distillery has hosted this specific event. The council also holds similar fundraisers in other locations within its jurisdiction.
Proceeds from the night will support Scouting America programs designed to help young people develop character and citizenship skills. Organizers are targeting business leaders and community members for attendance. Tickets and a limited number of sponsorship slots remain available on the council’s website. The event marks a continuation of the council’s efforts to maintain funding for its regional operations.
The council operates across Southwest Florida, serving a large demographic of youth. The 2025 service hours represent a measurable contribution to the local economy. The upcoming event combines social activities with direct financial support for these ongoing programs. Participants can purchase entry to the tasting and auction portions of the evening.
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