Eagle Scout Project to Help the Poor?

Question

I am only 14, but I want to get my Eagle Project out of the way soon. I would like to do something original, but something that still helps the poor would be preferable. There are a lot of homeless shelters and stuff in Louisville, but I just don't know what would be good. Maybe a food drive?

Please give advice, even if you know nothing about Boy Scouts. I will consider anything. Thanks.

Answer 1

Hello white chocolate Catholic kid:

Contact the homeless shelters in your area and interview them for specific needs. Food is ongoing, but Scouting For Food is a national effort that you don't want to compete against. The shelter in your area may need repairs or painting. They may need furniture, or perhaps a wheelchair ramp.

Keep on Scoutin'

Answer 2

I would contact the Louisville Food Bank.  The Food Bank supplies nonprofit organizations in your area with food.  They do not distribute it directly, the partner with agencies (ie, the homeless shelters) to get the food out there.  So, when you work with a food bank, you are really working with that nonprofit and all of the nonprofits that they serve.  You could call them and ask to meet with someone in their volunteer or programs department.  I'm sure that they have a specific need that you could tailor a pretty good project for.  Good luck and thanks for being involved in your community!  It matters.

Answer 3

I think that a food drive could work. Be sure this will be considered a successful idea with your troop leaders before you put any amount of time in. Remember it is about showing leadership, so in what way will you be showing leadership vs. just doing something nice for the poor. I would suggest contacting the shelter director and ask them if they have any specific needs or a wish list. This can guarantee that you are really filling a need. Perhaps they have a surplus of food but don't have shelving or storage. Good Luck!

Answer 4

Excellent young man.

A food drive is a good idea.

Or for winter months, when being homeless is particularly

brutal, perhaps a blanket/sweater/jacket/gloves type drive.

Start collecting now and you should have quite a bit that

you can distribute to homeless by winter.

Good Luck.