Published: October 7, 2022
He failed when he started. That’s a key takeaway from Gavyn’s story because, coincidentally, it’s also a story of success. Feeling a call to action during the COVID-19 pandemic, this future Eagle Scout went searching for a good cause in his Ohio community. And while his initial efforts fell short, he remained steadfast in his mission to help Veterans in need.
Becoming an Eagle Scout
Earning the highest rank of Boy Scouts can take anywhere from four to six years. While requirements include achievements like 18 service hours, 21 merit badges, and six months of time in leadership, the keystone is a service project that supports a religious institution, school, or community.
For Gavyn, the 14-year-old son of an Air Force Veteran and a very proud mom, it was a rank he felt driven to earn, given that he comes from a long line of service. And naturally, when the time came for his service project, Gavyn knew he wanted to do something for Veterans.
“Veterans have done so much to protect our country and the freedoms afforded to its citizens,” Gavyn shares. “It’s important to stay connected with the military community so we can give back to Veterans who have already given so much.”
He was ready to get to work in giving back.
Overcoming Unexpected Obstacles
The goals and plans of many came to a complete halt in the face of COVID-19. While businesses were closing their doors and residents were encouraged to stay home for their health and safety, Gavyn remained committed to finding a way to help his community – all while fulfilling his Eagle Scout project requirements.
“It took me a while to figure out what exactly I wanted to do,” Gavyn recalls. “Eventually, I contacted my church’s Veterans ministry, which later introduced me to Mrs. Maples. Through her, I learned about Blue Star Families of Dayton.”
Dr. Geri Maples, Chapter Director of Blue Star Families of Dayton, would inspire Gavyn’s launch of a goods drive to support the ongoing “Uncle Bob’s Backpack” program.
“The places they were collecting at the time were closed,” Gavyn explains. “That’s when I decided that I would collect for the program as my project. My project was collecting hygiene and health-related items for Veterans with medical conditions who are in need of them. The items are supposed to make their conditions more manageable in order to enable Veterans to live whatever kind of life they want. Helping the program ensures my project will help Veterans in an impactful way.”
But the challenge of asking for donations during the time of COVID-19 tested Gavyn’s resolve. His initial attempt at setting up boxes at various locations around town – like his church – yielded very little. In fact, he calls it a “failure.”
Gavyn was faced with a choice: simply check the box “complete” as a result of trying or put in more hours to ensure Veterans in his area got the support they needed.
We bet you can guess what he chose.
Gavyn pounded the pavement, going door-to-door, visiting residences and businesses until he’d collected over 700 pounds of donations. But that wasn’t the end of the road for him. Gavyn then spent hours with his mother and other Blue Star Families volunteers, organizing the items and filling backpacks.
The Importance of Giving Back
When asked why he worked so hard, Gavyn explains, “While most Americans choose to serve the country in a different way, our military men and women choose to take on a job that inherently requires more sacrifices than any other. While choosing a more difficult path, it shouldn’t necessarily entail a more difficult life. That’s precisely why we need to support our military community by giving back, to enable those that sacrifice and sacrificed so much to enjoy life and be happy.”
While large organizations like Blue Star Families continue to advocate and serve the military and Veteran communities, efforts from those like Gavyn are critical. They are everyday grassroots movements that are both relatable and inspirational.
“I hope my project shows others that anyone can help military families with a little support,” Gavyn shares.
If you’re looking for ways you and your family can do the same, consider becoming a Blue Star Volunteer! This nationwide outreach program will give you the tools and resources needed to host your own events or connect with other local organizations in support of the military and Veteran-connected community.
Posted In: Our Stories