The Eric Russell Memorial Fund was created by the North East Avalon Region in the early 1980s to honour the memory of Scouter Eric Russell. Scouter Eric was involved with the 1st Thomas Scouts as a Scout, Venturer, Rover and as a Junior Leader. Scouter Eric also served on St. John’s Regional Council in the late 1970s. While he was a Rover, Scouter Eric was instrumental in starting the 2nd St. Thomas Scout Troop at the Church of England Boys’ Orphanage. Scouter Eric served as a leader of this troop until he went home. 

The Russell Fund gives financial assistance to youth would not otherwise be able to attend provincial or national jamborees. Group Commissioners apply for assistance on behalf of a youth member. The youth’s name is not disclosed in the application. An application is supported by the Group Commissioner’s statement confirming that the youth: 

• has exhausted all other avenues of funding; 
  
• attends section meetings regularly;  
• has participated in their group’s fund-raising to the best of their ability; and 
• demonstrates the beliefs and principles of Scouting. 

The youth does not have to be named in the application form, which is accessible here.