BUTLER TWP — On Thursday in Philadelphia, the Moraine Trails Council, Boy Scouts of America, will be one of seven scout councils out of 72 in the Northeast Region to be recognized for achieving “best in grade.”

The council, which covers Armstrong, Butler and Lawrence counties and part of Westmoreland County, will receive the Gold Journey to Excellence Award for 2012, according to a scout news release.

The award is based on 18 benchmarks in fiscal stewardship, membership growth, quality program, unit service and leadership.

Just three years ago, the council was crippled financially by a loss in government funding and membership.

In working to turn around the council, Ray Tennent, scout executive/CEO, said, “We needed a new fiscal plan, and the board was up for the challenge, and open to change. The first step was to form steering committees for the new fundraisers ...

“The next phase was to have great new programs such as the Campaganza and recently the Technology Merit Badge Academy at BC3.”

Henry Sinopoli, council president, said, “Scouting has many dedicated volunteers at all levels, and our current recognition as one of the top councils is due to their dedication and passion for the program.”

The council has had membership growth for two consecutive years and for five of the past six years.

The council also has achieved its finance goals for the past three years.

Tennent said, “We have not arrived, but are on the right path. ... We want to always be in the top 10 percent of all councils because we believe our local leaders and youth deserve no less.”