For more than two decades, the Avenue of Flags program has been a proud tradition in Dubuque, honoring our nation’s holidays with a sea of red, white, and blue. Ten years ago, the Dubuque Noon Optimist Club took the reins of this program, and what started as a modest effort quickly grew into something extraordinary—2,500 flags displayed across the community five times a year.
As the program flourished, the Optimists realized they needed help to keep up with its success. That’s when local Scouts stepped in, bringing energy, dedication, and a sense of duty that perfectly aligned with the mission of both organizations. Today, Troops 5, 7, 51, and 91 proudly partner with the Optimists to ensure every flag is placed with care and respect.
Stephen Ding Bell of the Dubuque Noon Optimists shared, “The Scouts are great assets to the program and are willing to help with any request that is asked of them. We couldn’t do this without the parents who support these young people.” The Optimists, true to their motto as “Friends of Youth,” use funds from the program to support youth initiatives across the area, including Scouting, the Boys & Girls Club, St. Mark Youth Enrichment, Inspiration Stables, Toys for Tots, and Storybook Zoo.
For the Scouts, this partnership is more than a fundraiser—it’s a lesson in patriotism, responsibility, and community pride. Griff Roberts, a Star Scout, explained why the program matters:
“It symbolizes our nation and reminds people we are celebrating a national holiday and the freedom people fought for. We are being loyal to the United States and we respect the flags. When one is broken, we fix it so it’s back in working condition.”
Troop 5 has been part of the program for eight years, managing nearly 400 flags across Peosta and Key West. Each flag represents an opportunity for Scouts to live out the values of Scouting—Loyalty, Helpfulness, Courtesy, and Cheerfulness—while earning funds to support their adventures. As James Frett, Troop 5’s Flag Program Coordinator, explains, “Scouts who help at every opportunity can earn enough to pay for summer camp and then some. It’s a great way for them to be Thrifty and take ownership of their experiences.”
Beyond the financial benefits, the program instills a sense of pride and patriotism in every Scout who rises early to place flags in rain or shine. It’s a visible reminder to the community that young people are willing to work hard and honor the freedoms we cherish.
The partnership between the Optimists and Scouts is a shining example of what happens when organizations unite around shared values—service, youth development, and love of country. Together, they’ve turned a simple idea into a powerful tradition that strengthens Dubuque’s community spirit year after year.
