Inspired by E's Eagle project that was in the works at the end of the school year, we came up with a plan to do small acts of service throughout the summer every week. (I may have reminded E that a "Scout is supposed to do a good turn daily.")
E, did in fact do a lot of service this summer. He volunteered 120 hours with the Safekey Program as a Leader Of The Future. (LOTF) This year because he was based at a school location, there weren't any perks. He just reported for 'work' early in the morning several days a week to help.
The kids did little things like watch neighbors pets, babysit kids, make & deliver cookies to new families, pick up trash throughout the neighborhood, bring all the trash cans from the curb to the garage on our street, sweeping up the neighbors leaves, mowed the grass, etc.
We also volunteered at a few organized events. Namely, chapel clean up, Eagle project, a Cub Scout Conservation project, and Project 150.When we saw an ad in the Sunday paper asking for volunteers to support Project 150, we were all in. In addition to donating school items, we spent time filling backpacks for homeless high school youth. It was great to see the community pull together for a wonderful cause.
I loved that while we were on vacation, the kids were still thinking of ways to help others. They were creative with the following ideas: holding the door open for people, taking pictures of other tourists who wanted a group photo, giving someone directions, putting away shopping carts, etc. Hopefully, they will continue to think about helping others.