DRACUT — A “community leader” was honored for bringing the first Cub Scout pack to Lawrence since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Maria Gonzalez Moeller of Lawrence, CEO of The Community Group, received a Good Scouting Award at the recent Merrimack Valley Good Scout Luncheon.

The Merrimack Valley Good Scout Luncheon recognized the impactful contributions of several people for the betterment of youths and families.

The Good Scout Award is given to those who have demonstrated integrity and genuine concern for others in their professional and personal lives. Recipients need not have been Scouts but must carry the “Spirit of Scouting” into their adult lives, according to a press release from Scouting America Greater Boston.

Moeller is a “longtime community leader with a passion for strengthening community partnerships to expand opportunities for families and advocating for accessible early education and care for all children,” organizers said.

She leads The Community Group, a nonprofit with a mission to create, manage and nurture high-quality programs focused on education and related services that support families.” The organization is chartering the first new Cub Scout pack to form in Lawrence since before the pandemic.

“I am truly honored by this recognition and grateful for the partnership between The Community Group and Scouting America,” Moeller said.

“Bringing Scouting back to Lawrence is about more than just restarting a program, it’s about giving children the chance to discover their strengths, build character, and feel connected to something bigger than themselves. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to creating experiences that empower children, strengthen families, and build a stronger community,” she said.

Also honored were Joe Hungler, executive director of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell, and U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan, D-Westford.

Scouting America Greater Boston honored the “three exemplary leaders” to celebrate a new era in Scouting at the inaugural Merrimack Valley Good Scout Awards Luncheon at Lenzi’s in Dracut.

Joe Hungler is “a dedicated nonprofit leader, youth advocate, and community ambassador. As executive director of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell, he has worked to provide young people with opportunities, experiences, connections, and resources necessary to access a great future,” organizers said.

“Scouting America empowers young people with the skills, confidence, and character they need to thrive in school, in their careers, and in life. Just as importantly, Scouting teaches timeless values – kindness, service, respect, and responsibility – that strengthen our communities. I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact these programs have across the Merrimack Valley, and I’m honored to receive this award alongside remarkable leaders whose organizations also open doors for the next generation to succeed. At a time when our world needs more unity and compassion, Scouting helps light the way,” Trahan said.

Scouting America Greater Boston serves 76 towns and communities and supports 7,300 Scouts and 3,150 volunteers.