NS 'scouts' community investment in Alabama

Norfolk Southern is helping shape Mobile’s future leaders with $25,000 in funding for Scouting America. The grant, which will fund programs to help underserved youth and introduce them to career possibilities, is part of the Thriving Communities Grant Program.

$15K for career exploring: Exploring connects youth with hands-on experiences and mentorship in high-demand fields. The support focused on skilled trades, engineering, safety, and business.

Impact so far:

• Over 50 youth and adults engaged.
• Three new Exploring programs launched.
• Four more programs starting by October 2025.

Why it matters: Exploring helps youth in grades 6–8 and ages 14–20 discover careers in healthcare, law enforcement, arts, and more—building confidence and purpose.

$10K for Scoutreach: The program ensures Scouting is accessible to youth in economically disadvantaged areas. This year’s grant will launch three Scoutreach units across four counties to:

• Increase Scoutreach youth membership 15% by 2026.

• Hire program aides when volunteers are unavailable.

Why it matters: Scoutreach fosters ethical decision-making, leadership, and service through mentorship and peer interaction—core values that strengthen communities.

William Bryant, Scout Executive/CEO of the Mobile Area Council presents the William H. Spurgeon, III Award to Corey Veal, Director of Safety & Operating Practices.

NS given national honor: On July 22, the Scouts presented the William H. Spurgeon, III Award to Norfolk Southern.

• Named after a pioneer of the Exploring Program, the Spurgeon Award honors organizations that provide exceptional support to youth career development.
• NS is the first-ever recipient of this national honor.