Sophomore Emmett Williams wanted to share his love for reading with youth in the community through his Eagle Scout project.
So his project involved building “little libraries” at Tendercare Learning Center, Mother of Mercy Academy, and Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Williams has always loved reading, and he wants all children to be able to enjoy books.
“I wanted to give all children easy access to books as I had,“ Williams said.
This project spanned about six months, and in this process, Williams gained leadership and communication skills, as well as business knowledge.
“It is a lot different communicating with organizations than it is just face to face,” Williams said.
The little libraries that Williams built have been handed over to the community libraries, which will continue to restock them with books.
Williams has been a part of the Boy Scouts since first grade. He started working toward becoming an Eagle Scout two years ago, and he earned the honor in April.
To become an Eagle, the highest rank in Boy Scouts, scouts have to propose and complete their own Eagle project. Eagle Scout requirements overall include earning 21 merit badges, 14 of which are required; involvement in the troop, and their Eagle project, which needs approval from the board and an official interview.
Sophomore Ben Neuhaus, a fellow Scout, recognizes Williams’ hard work.
“Emmett is a great leader who lives up to the ideals of Scouts and emphasises the traits of an Eagle Scout,” Neuhaus said.
In addition to his Eagle rank, Williams is also a senior patrol leader in his troop. These members guide the less experienced Scouts. Sophomore Evan Ovitsky, another troop member, sees Williams’ involvement with the troop as a senior patrol leader.
“He makes sure they feel included, have a role in the troop, and get the help they need to succeed,” Ovitsky said.
Moving forward, Williams plans on continuing his involvement in the Boy Scouts and mentoring senior patrol leaders in his troop.
“I want to start mentoring the senior patrol leaders in my troop, so they don’t make the same mistakes I did, and teach them how to be good leaders,” Williams said.
