Ethan Callister - Eagle Scout Project

Hello! My name is Ethan Callister. I am currently a Life Scout in Troop 413. Scouting has been a big part of my life since first grade. When I started Boy Scouts, I immediately knew that it was more than just a Monday night meeting. It fueled my longest lasting friendships, gave me a chance to connect with my dad on another level, and provided me with practical skills I can use for the rest of my life. The picture shown here was taken recently at Philmont Scout Reservation after 12 days of backpacking over 85 miles in rough New Mexico terrain. It was the hardest adventure I have ever done, and it was awesome!

 

I am currently fundraising to earn my Eagle Scout rank and would greatly appreciate your support. My Eagle Scout project is making Book Boxes (a.k.a. Lending Libraries) for 3 public schools in my local community, including: Indian Lake Elementary (where I am an alumni), Nannie Berry Elementary, and T. W. Hunter (where my mom currently teaches 7th grade math). Each Book Box is located in a safe area where members of the community can freely share books with each other at no cost. Each Book Box will also be registered in a national registry with thousands of other community Book Boxes.

 

While I recognize that reading paper books has become less common as iPads, Kindles, and Nooks have gained in popularity, I believe kids need to experience a good paper book from start to finish. I chose this project because I have always loved reading and the value it brings to me and everyone else around the world. Children are able to access their imagination when reading, while learning an essential life skill. Books also offer a way to combat loneliness and avoid excessive screen time. I hope to give children and parents alike more access to books, encourage literacy, and facilitate more direct communication with one another.

 

As part of this project, I am also leading a book drive to donate roughly 20 books to each school to help jump start their lending library. I am personally purchasing 3 copies of The Giving Tree, by Shel Silverstein, a book that has special meaning to my family.

 

The funds raised for this project will cover the cost of the materials used to build and install each Book Box. All remaining funds will be donated equally to each of the three beneficiary schools.

 

Thank you for considering supporting my project. Earning my Eagle Scout rank has been a lifelong goal and I greatly appreciate your interest and support.

Here is a link to pictures of Book Boxes in other communities:

https://tinyurl.com/3vnx3xcc