Extreme Makeovers, Round 53: Eagle Scout project before-and-after photos

This is the 53rd entry in an occasional series in which we share Eagle Scout project before-and-after photos. See the complete collection here and submit your own here.

To fully understand the impact Eagle Scout projects have on communities, you need to see to believe. That’s why we ask to see Eagle Scout project before-and-after photos — the same photos prospective Eagles are asked to include with their post-project report.

The latest batch of 10 projects — from nine different states — includes building bridges, installing a fence and constructing a pollinator garden.

If your Scout is looking for ideas for his or her Eagle Scout project, you can show them this story or any in the Extreme Makeovers collection. You can also find ideas in Scout Life’s Eagle Project Showcase. Still stumped? Try the National Eagle Scout Association’s project idea generator.

TIP: Click/tap and drag the slider below each image to see the change.

Caitlin from Missouri

Who: Caitlin, Troop 523, Columbia, Missouri

What: Caitlin designed and led the construction of a life-size replica of the patient care section of a medical helicopter. Flight paramedics and nurse personnel now use it to train for real-life emergencies.

Ian from New York

Who: Ian, Troop 81, Canajoharie, New York

What: Ian built a bridge over a drainage swale in Nelliston Park in Palatine Bridge, New York, to provide better park access and expand recreation opportunities.

Aaron from Oklahoma

Who: Aaron, Troop 66, Tulsa, Oklahoma

What: With help from fellow Scouts, adult leaders and friends, Aaron repainted the basketball court at Berryhill Baptist Church in the school colors — blue and gold. They also aligned the two free throw areas by adding a center circle and a three-point line.

Colton from Texas

Who: Colton, Troop 562, Round Rock, Texas

What: As part of an erosion control project, Colton and his helpers removed 68 wheelbarrows of rock, installed an irrigation system and planted 55 Texas native plants with five flower beds for Meridian World School.

Ian from Colorado

Who: Ian, Troop 637, Sedalia, Colorado

What: Ian installed a new fence for the West Douglas Fire Station #2.

Michael from Maryland

Who: Michael, Troop 492B, Rockville, Maryland

What: Michael led his fellow Scouts in cleaning and restoring the cross and benches of his church’s outdoor sanctuary area. They also added new rope to the cross and decorations to the base.

Connor from Maryland

Who: Connor, Troop 582, New Windsor, Maryland

What: Connor, along with other troop members and his family, constructed a 250-square-foot pollinator garden in a local park. It includes educational signage to help teach the community about the importance of pollinators to our food supply and the environment.

Finn from Virginia

Who: Finn, Troop 1887, Fairfax, Virginia

What: Finn refurbished an outdoor classroom space and garden at a school for children with special needs.

Christian from New Jersey

Who: Christian, Troop 13, Montclair, New Jersey

What: Christian, a self-professed lifelong space geek, researched the life of Buzz Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon, who was born and raised in Montclair. Then, he created an information panel about Aldrin’s life to inspire kids to reach for the stars. He wrote the text, secured the photos, designed the board, raised the money, had it manufactured and, working with a crew of Scouts, installed it near a playground in a local park near Aldrin’s childhood home.

Aidan from Tennessee

Who: Aidan, Troop 314, Manchester, Tennessee

What: The outdoor classroom built during the pandemic had been neglected and run down. Aidan refurbished it and created a space that was more inviting and functional. 

Eagle Before & After FAQs

How can I see more in this series?

By going here.

How can I submit my project (or my Scout’s project) for consideration?

Go here to learn how to send them to us.

Are scholarships available for outstanding Eagle projects?

Yes! The Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams National Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award honors outstanding Eagle projects. An Eagle Scout, their parents or any registered BSA volunteer (with the Eagle Scout’s permission) may submit the Eagle Scout service project for consideration.

How can I see even more great Eagle projects?

Check out the Scout Life Eagle Project Showcase.

Who owns the photos used in this series?

Unless otherwise listed, all photos are courtesy of each Scout and their family.


About Sheniece Chappell 52 Articles
Sheniece Chappell is an associate editor of Scout Life and Scouting magazines.