Scouts salute Heller Lumber for its decades of support

Two hundred and fifty - that is the approximate number of Eagle Scout projects that Heller Lumber Company has supported since 1965.

On Wednesday, Aug. 12, the North Woods District of the Boy Scouts of America Pathway to Adventure Council honored members of the Heller family at a breakfast fundraiser in the Arlington Heights Metropolis Ballroom, attended by community organizations, village and Scout officials.

In his welcome address, special guest Arlington Heights Mayor Tom Hayes stated that he was honored to be present and to help recognize the Heller Lumber Company and family for their generosity and dedication to Scouting.

"There is no greater example of Scouting support than that set by the Heller family," he said. "It is a legacy for other Arlington Heights families that includes character, hard work and service to others. And that's what Scouting is all about."

Helping boys to earn their Eagle badge, Scouting's highest rank, began in the '60s with Bob Heller, who was a Scout. His son, Bill, became an Eagle Scout in Troop 135 in 1971.

Later, he joined his father in managing Heller Lumber Company.

Bob and Bill Heller's dedication and service to the Eagle program included reading the Eagle candidate's project proposal, giving construction comments, recommending the types of lumber and hardware to be used and making material donations.

Both are deceased, but the tradition and company management continue with Bill's wife, Winifred Heller, and their daughter, Jane (Heller) Garb.

A Special Recognition Award plaque was presented to Heller and Garb by Rotarian Terry Ennes.

Accepting the plaque, Heller expressed her gratitude

"Bob and Bill would be amazed by this event. Both enjoyed their time in Boy Scouts. They made a point of supporting and encouraging boys working on Eagle projects. They supplied materials and would eagerly await the outcome of the project," she said.

In concluding remarks, PTAC Scout Executive Jeff Isaac said that Eagle projects are worth thousands and thousands of dollars to the community, and expressed his gratitude to the Heller Lumber family for its years of support, helping young men to develop leadership and character.

Any youth or parents interested in joining or learning about Scouting may contact Emily Constantinou, North Woods District executive, at (312) 421-8800, ext. 274, or visit the Pathway to Adventure North Service Office, 617 E. Golf Road, Suite 101, Arlington Heights.