Regularly Eagle Scouts share with us fond memories and life lessons that Scouting gave them, often followed by the sentiment that Scouting gave them more than they’ll ever be able to give Scouting. We’re then asked, what can I do to support NESA and Scouting?
One such way is by becoming a NESA Legacy Society Fellow. Legacy Societies—currently only through NESA and the Order of the Arrow—are a great way to support both local Scouting and national programs. In order to become a Legacy Society Fellow, one must first support a local council with a James E. West donation.
We recently sat down with Eagle Scout Josh Levenson of the South Florida Council to learn why he chose to support NESA by becoming a Legacy Society Fellow.
Q: What council are you with, and what do you do in Scouting?
A: I currently serve as the President-Elect of the South Florida Council and will assume the role of Council President for 2026 to 2028. I’m also active at the national level, contributing to the Scouting Alumni Legal Affinity Group. Professionally, I’m a litigation partner with Holland & Knight LLP in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Q: Why did you become a NESA Legacy Society Fellow?
A: Scouting played a fundamental role in shaping who I am both personally and professionally. It helped form my identity as a father, husband, and leader. Becoming a NESA Legacy Society Fellow is one of the ways I give back to the program that gave me so much. I want to ensure that future generations of Scouts have the same opportunities I had to lead, to grow, and to be part of something greater than themselves.
Q: What NESA-supported programs are especially important to you?
A: I’m particularly passionate about NESA’s scholarship and mentorship initiatives. As a first-generation lawyer, I know how transformational the right support and guidance can be. NESA’s work to open doors through education, networking, and professional development makes a lasting impact on Eagle Scouts as they begin their adult journeys.
Q: What would you like to see NESA do in the future?
A: I’d love to see NESA work with Scouting Alumni to broaden its reach, especially in helping younger Eagle Scouts transition into adult leadership. Expanding partnerships with universities, industries, and local councils could create more opportunities for career development, internships, and leadership training. I also think a biennial national gathering of Eagle Scouts—perhaps organized by NESA as a standalone event—could be an incredible way to celebrate achievement and foster lifelong connections.
Q: Do you have a favorite Scouting memory you’d like to share—one that might inspire others to become Fellows?
A: One of my favorite Scouting memories is being elected Lodge Chief of O-Shot-Caw. It was the culmination of hard work, a successful campaign, and the trust of my fellow Arrowmen. I was still a senior at Piper High School when I took on the role, representing hundreds of youth from across South Florida and serving as the youth liaison on our Council’s Executive Board. That experience taught me how to lead with humility, how to listen carefully, and how to inspire others to serve.
During my three years with the Lodge, we went undefeated in Section S-4’s Best All Around Lodge Competition and earned two National Service Awards—accomplishments I’m incredibly proud of. But none of that would have been possible without the mentorship I received from adults and older Scouts, nearly all of whom were Eagle Scouts.
Becoming a NESA Legacy Society Fellow is my way of giving back and paying that experience forward. I want other Scouts to have the same kinds of transformational experiences that I did—and I know that the Legacy Society plays a critical role in making that happen.
About the NESA Legacy Society
Established in 2013, the NESA Legacy Society provides a meaningful way to support the National Eagle Scout Association’s endowment fund directly. Contributions to this fund help sustain Eagle Scout scholarships, NESA committee service grants, career networking opportunities, and programs that inspire the next generation of Eagles.
Membership is open to anyone first recognized as a James E. West Fellow, regardless of Eagle Scout or NESA membership status. Contributions to the NESA Legacy Society are intended to complement, not replace, an individual’s regular support of their local council’s fundraising efforts. A minimum gift of $1,000 secures membership as a NESA Legacy Society Fellow and grants the honor of wearing the silver NESA Legacy Society Eagle device on the James E. West knot.
For more information on becoming a NESA Legacy Society Fellow, visit: nesa.org/awards-and-recognition/nesa-legacy-society/
