In 2019, I received my Eagle Scout Award, the highest ranking and honor in the Boy Scouts of America. My journey began in Cub Scouts when I was in second grade before crossing over to Boy Scouts in fifth grade. From there, I earned merit badges to help develop skills such as leadership, communication, initiative, and commitment. Being a part of this organization also allowed me opportunities to serve my community, which included my Eagle Scout project of renovating my high school's band trailer. I am appreciative of my time with my Troop and am grateful for the adult figures that pushed me to be the best version of myself.
Eagle Scout Project (June-August, 2017)
My Eagle Scout project came to fruition as a new band director was hired at my high school. He expressed his desire to make additions to the school's marching band trailer. In previous years, instruments would sit on the floor of the trailer, rolling around, creating a hazardous and inefficient environment for students to move in and out of the trailer. Being a member of the marching band, I recognized this first hand, so I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to give back to the program that had given me so much to that point. Above are photos of the trailer prior to renovation.
In order to raise money for the project, I organized a car wash that accepted donations right outside my local gas station. With the help of many volunteers, we were able to do a deed for the community and raise more than enough to cover the costs of the entire project.
Following the car wash, the materials were bought at a local Lowe's Home Improvement store. Communication with a manager allowed me to find the necessary materials to complete the project.
About a month later, other Boy Scouts, adult leaders, and other volunteers showed up to help in the effort of renovating the band trailer. After much thought and discussion with my band director, or beneficiary, it was decided that we should incorporate shelving units to hold students' instruments on one side of the trailer. We did so and also included hooks to hold percussion equipment on the other side of the trailer. This all occurred in a two-day period on a weekend in early August of 2017.
The above images show the final product, as well as the renovated trailer in use, being packed prior to one of our football games. The process was certainly challenging at times and there was struggle along the way, but I cannot thank everyone enough who contributed to this project. This would not have been possible without the help of the countless amount of volunteers, my Scout Troop and its leaders, my family, and anyone else who lent a hand. In my ways, this project helped me to grow and learn so much.
