Nelson Twp – Scouting means a great deal to the Schaefer family. And not just because Kyle Schaefer recently earned the Eagle Scout designation, the highest accomplishment in scouting. By earning the Eagle Scout rank, Kyle joined his older brothers in earning this top honor, something that makes it even more special.
His father, David Schaefer participated in scouting as a boy, but didn’t earn the rank of Eagle Scout like his three sons. He became a leader when his oldest son Eric joined Cub Scouts in the first grade. Jason got into Scouting soon after, and when Kyle was old enough, he followed suit. Each Schaefer completed a special project to earn their Eagle Scout award.
Kyle’s project was to build and install an animal proof trash and recycling receptacle at Hiram College’s James A. Barrow Biological Field Station. He noted that the project appealed to him, since he often ran the trails at the Field Station during cross-country practice. As for his plans after high school, Kyle will attend Kent State to study robotics – something he first encountered through a scouting merit badge in the eight grade.
Older brother Eric is a senior at Youngstown State where he studies IT. Jason studies IT at University of Toledo; he’s also in the marching band and active in Chi Alpha Christian student ministry. Both credit scouting with giving them knowledge to build upon, helping them grow into the young adults they’ve become. “It’s been a lot of fun,” Jason noted. Jason noted that he never felt pushed into scouting. Rather, it was something each of them wanted to do.
When asked to advise anyone who may considering scouting, Eric noted, “Just be yourself,” and explained, “Good things happen in scouting.” Jason continued, “It may seem like a lot of work, but it’s a great time.” He continued, “If I had the chance to do it again, I would.” Kyle appreciated the discipline and accountability he learned through scouting. “And also how to work with a team.”
When asked to share a few of their favorite memories, Eric enjoyed laser tag, bowling, and playing videogames with his troop. Jason had fond memories of when his troop spent the night on USS Little Rock, a battleship in Buffalo, New York. Kyle enjoyed backpacking a portion of the Appalachian Trail in the Smoky Mountains. David explained, “Scouting gives you a chance to try lots of things. You’re going to fail at some things, but that gives you the opportunity to learn.”
David explained, “I’m proud of all three because of what they’ve each done outside of scouting. That they’ve also each earned Eagle Scout is quite an accomplishment.” He added, “I still would have been proud of them if they hadn’t.”
To find out more about scouting or to connect with a troop near you, visit BeAscout.org.
