District 4 Phoenix City Councilman Tom Simplot will serve as the co-chair for the 2013 Diversity Leadership Reception, hosted by the Boy Scouts of America’s Grand Canyon Council. The reception will take place at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17, at the Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave.

“The Boy Scouts of America serves a vital role for our youth and our country—helping to create future leaders for our community,” Simplot said. “I am honored to … recognize the evolution of values within the organization. This event is a great way to celebrate all aspects of diversity, including the welcoming of gay members into Boy Scouts troops. I applaud the Boy Scouts of America for their progress in this national effort.”

The event will honor local leaders and organizations who are dedicated to supporting diversity in Scouting and beyond, while impacting minority communities in the Greater Phoenix Area. Honorees include: Verma Mendez Pastor, Rep. Ruben Gallego and Paradise Shadows Pack & Troop 650. The event also serves as a fundraiser to support Grand Canyon Council’s outreach initiatives.

For more information on this event, call 602-262-7447 or e-mail council. district.4@phoenix.gov.