Scout helps homeless veterans, plus other news in Scouting this week

Nicholas Straber, a member of Troop 104 in Acton, Indiana, is nearing completion of his Eagle Scout service project, which focuses on supporting homeless veterans in Indianapolis through a community service initiative.

Partnering with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Nicholas and his troop organized a donation drive to gather personal care items for veterans. They also canvassed 420 houses, distributing grocery bags and lists of needed items, and collected over 200 thank-you cards for veterans.

They ultimately assembled 200 care kits valued at approximately $4,000. This initiative, aimed at enhancing veteran care, helped raise awareness of homelessness among veterans.

Read more about this story on the VA News website.

Eagle Scout honored for saving home from Palisades fire

Andrew Grinsfelder, an Eagle Scout, became a hero during the catastrophic Palisades fire as flames rapidly spread through Los Angeles County, California, and dangerously approached his home.

With no water supply to save his house, he used a generator and pump to draw water from the family pool then sprayed the roof to protect it from the fire. His efforts didn’t stop there; he and his mother also helped their neighbors.

For his bravery, Andrew received the Maglite-Tough Civilian Hero Award, which recognizes civilians who act heroically in life-threatening situations. The award, created by Maglite, also honors those who demonstrate toughness and reliability.

Tony Maglica, the founder of Maglite, praised Andrew’s courage, calling it “extraordinarily brave and ingenious,” and expressed confidence in his bright future.

Read more about this story on the Send2Press Newswire website or in the video below.

Troop rebuilds flood-damaged bridge at environmental education center

A small walking bridge in Huntsville, Arkansas, built over two decades ago by a former Scout, will soon be refurbished. Troop 107 from Springdale, Ark., is rebuilding the “Boy Scout Bridge” over Bear Hollow Creek, which was washed away by a flood last fall.

In partnership with the Ozark Natural Science Center, the troop aims to construct a stronger, more durable bridge. Patrol Leader Andrew Shellhammer is leading the rebuild as part of his Eagle Scout service project. He has already created a 3D model and consulted with a University of Arkansas professor about the bridge’s foundation.

Learn more about this story on the 5 News website or in the video below.


About Sheniece Chappell 73 Articles
Sheniece Chappell is an associate editor of Scout Life and Scouting magazines.