Dr. Joseph H. Riley interest in Scouting began during the 1920's when he joined the Scouting program of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Hanover and later Troop 3 (now Troop 103, Blue and Grey District). In 1931, he became a member of Troop 78, St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Gettysburg. He was a role model for the youth and adults of Troop 78 and the Scouting community at large as he served as Chartered Partner Representative (now titled Charter Organizational Representative) for the Scouting units of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, as well as served concurrently on the former Black Walnut District Committee in numerous responsible positions: Health and Safety Committee and the District Awards Committee. Dr. Riley was involved in Scouting for over 75 years.

In November of 1991, the former Black Walnut District established an award for Scouting excellence in honor of Dr. Riley’s long and dedicated service to Scouting and the youth of the Gettysburg area. The Dr. Joseph H. Riley Award is presented annually at the district recognition dinner to the Scout troop or Venturing Crew determined to be truly outstanding by the district awards committee.