This is the 61st entry in an occasional series in which we share Eagle Scout project before-and-after photos. See the complete collection of projects and submit your own to be featured in our next roundup. 

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 10 different states — includes building gardens, transforming outdoor spaces and renovating signs.

If your Scout is looking for ideas for his or her Eagle Scout project, you can show him or her 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.

James from New York

Who: James, Troop 715, Brooklyn, New York

What: James and his troop created the Peter Lovett Community Garden at a local senior center in honor of a former manager at the facility. James’ team built four elevated galvanized steel garden beds to make gardening easier for senior citizens by eliminating the need to bend or kneel. The volunteers also constructed two metal benches where visitors can relax and enjoy the garden. To complete the project, they built a storage shed to house all the tools needed for the new community garden.

Kyle from California

Who: Kyle, Troop 61, San Mateo, California

What: Kyle led the renovation of a garden area at St. Gregory Church in San Mateo.

Matthew from Florida

Who: Matthew, Troop 225, St. Johns, Florida

What: Matthew and his team revitalized a garden that serves as part of a rehabilitation program for children with disabilities. They cleared the overgrowth, rebuilt garden boxes, some of which are wheelchair-accessible, and installed a new workbench and two composting bins.

James from Oregon

Who: James, Troop 1830, Hillsboro, Oregon

What: James and his volunteers dedicated more than 450 hours to creating a playground for younger children at an elementary school. They created an all-natural playground by transforming an unused section of the school lawn. They added a platform surrounding a tree, balance beams made out of logs and an obstacle course made out of tree stumps.

Brandon from New Jersey

Who: Brandon, Troop 129, Green Brook, New Jersey

What: Brandon and his troop spent more than 500 hours constructing and installing a staircase with railings and lighting on a steep hill at a camp for people with disabilities.

Matthew from Pennsylvania

Who: Matthew, Troop 11, Levittown, Pennsylvania

What: Matthew transformed a neglected, underused space at a local senior center into an area for serene reflection and honor. Key aspects of the project included laying bricks and adding a bench, along with beautifying the space with artwork, a fountain, flowers and stones.

Clayton from Louisiana

What: Clayton spearheaded a project called “gathering swings” at his alma mater, Evangel Christian Academy. The swings provide a space for students to relax and socialize with friends while serving as an outdoor classroom.

Claire from Illinois

Who: Claire, Troop 166, Fox River Grove, Illinois

What: Claire led her team in building an oversized Adirondack chair at the Norge Ski Club in Fox River Grove. More than just a place to sit, the chair is a marketing tool and a symbol of community pride, reflecting the club’s rich history. Visitors are encouraged to pose for photos, helping to promote the venue on social media.

Braden from Texas

Who: Braden, Troop 603, League City, Texas

What: Braden created “Bags of Hope” for children struggling with anxiety. The bags contained various tools, many of which were handmade by Braden and his volunteers, along with items featuring words of affirmation to uplift each recipient. Braden partnered with the Gulf Coast Center, an organization that provides mental health services, to provide bags for approximately 200 children.

Jerod from Ohio

Who: Jerod, Troop 355, Edinburg, Ohio

What: Jerod and his troop, with guidance from professionals, renovated the cemetery sign and pillars at Palmyra Township Cemetery, a few miles east of Edinburg.

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.