BEDFORD — Community members, Scouting families, and local leaders gathered this week as the Hoosier Trails Council hosted its annual Salute to Scouting event, where Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce CEO Dan Bortner was honored with two significant recognitions. Bortner received the Distinguished Hoosier Award and the Distinguished Citizen Award in acknowledgment of his continued service to Lawrence County and to Scouting across Indiana.
Bortner’s connection to Scouting began in his childhood, when he and his brother joined Cub Scouts at Parkview. He has often credited Scouting with shaping many of the values he carries today, including patriotism, courage, faith, and self-reliance. Later, as a parent, his children became involved in Scouting as well, and he and his wife served as den leaders.
His background also includes extensive leadership within the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, where his passion for the outdoors closely aligned with statewide Scouting partnerships. The awards presented reflect the ongoing collaboration he has maintained with local and state organizations throughout his career.
Now serving as CEO of both the Lawrence County Economic Growth Council and the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, Bortner shared that his focus remains on improving the quality of life in Lawrence County. He emphasized his commitment to supporting families, strengthening local opportunity, and making the community a place where residents can continue to live, work, and flourish.
