Texas Border Business
Last year local young men and women of Scouts BSA donated 11,762 hours of community service across the Rio Grande Valley, including 32 Eagle Scout projects. The time value is estimated to be worth over $330,000.
“This is another great example of Scouts giving to the community,” said Dr. Jake Margo of Rio Grande City, Council President. “It’s just one tangible way our community can reap the benefits of Scouting’s great emphasis on community service and youth leadership.” Such an extraordinary number of community service hours is typical for the council.
The Scouts led a variety of projects, including a new church Rosary garden, a new garden for Canterbury Elementary school, and a church parking lot renovation.
Eagle Scout Candidate Omar Mendoza of Rio Grande City led volunteers to create a hiking trail rest stop that included informative signs about local wildlife and how to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke. “It’s really rewarding,” said Mendoza. “Whenever I pass by the trail there are always one or two cars there, and I see people reading the signs, sitting on the benches.” When asked why other youth should join Scouts, he replied, “It’s an experience that will prepare you for life.”
“I am very proud of our Rio Grande Council Scouts!” said Michael Henry of McAllen, Assistant Council Commissioner.
The Rio Grande Council of the Boy Scouts of America is comprised of Cameron, Hidalgo, Willacy, Starr, and Zapata counties and has nearly 1,000 youth and adult members.
“The Rio Grande Council is doing its best for the community,” said Paty Garcia, Council Commissioner.
Scouting programs are available for youth 5-21 years old. Interested individuals can find information at https://beascout.org.
