Christopher Groves Earns Eagle Scout Award

Christopher Groves has qualified to become an Eagle Scout at a Board of Review held by Twin Valley District of Scouts BSA. His Board of Review was held on September 27, 2023. He is the son of Glenn and Crista Groves of Dublin and is a member of Troop 904, sponsored by John Knox Presbyterian Church. Many thanks to his Scoutmasters, Mr. Euan Ramsey, Mr. Larry Woods, and now current Scoutmaster Tim Gaddis, for their hard work and support.

Christopher has been an active scout since he was a Tiger Cub Scout (first grade) through his years at his troop, serving as Den Chief for a year, three years as Quartermaster, Patrol Leader, and acting Senior Patrol leader at campouts. Currently, Christopher holds a position as Assistant Scoutmaster Junior. He will be turning 18 in the next few months and will continue to volunteer his time as an assistant scoutmaster for Troop 904.

He especially enjoys the outdoor experience of camping and cooking and the opportunity to make new friends in scouting while learning many new skills through the merit badge program. Christopher has earned 14 Eagle Merit Badges of the 26 he has earned. He will continue to work toward his Eagle Palm Merit Badges while actively participating in scouting and dedicating his time and energy to mentoring younger scouts, guiding them on their journey, and instilling the values and principles that have shaped his character.

For his Eagle Project, Christopher renovated the Wells Middle School Garden. His project will help the environment and education of students and make a difference in many lives in the community and school. He provided 40 feet of pavers and a tool shed and donated a picnic table for the students and teachers to have a work area to study outside and a garden area to teach students real-life skills around gardening. According to Jill Zollinger, Eagle Scout Coordinator with GGAC Twin Valley District, “It's one of the most significant projects she has seen in 20 years.” He raised over $ 7,000.00 by asking for company donations and other resources. He had over 500 hours of scouts and adults who volunteered and completed this project within two weekends. He also tore his ACL four days before his Eagle Project but continued and completed the project on schedule.

Christopher is a junior at Dublin High School, and he enjoys hanging out with his friends and volunteering his time. He is on three bowling leagues and attends many tournaments within Dublin and outside of the area from Nor Cal, USBC, YBT, SYC, and PBA Juniors. During his bowling career, Chris has earned over $7,000.00 in scholarship money for college. He is applying for the Presidential Gold Volunteer Award in 2023. The United States President recognizes this prestigious award for people who have volunteered and have committed to helping others. Christopher will have volunteered over 250 hours within one year.

The Eagle Scout rank is not merely a badge but represents many years of dedication, hard work, and commitment. Achieving the Eagle Scout rank is not just a personal milestone for Christopher, but an opportunity to give back to the community, embody the Scout Oath and Law, and inspire others to follow the path of service and leadership.

To earn the rank of Eagle Scout, a scout must be active in their troop, provide leadership, and earn 22 merit badges, which include citizenship, camping, communications, cooking, and lifesaving or emergency preparedness while living the principles of the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. They must also plan, develop, and give leadership to others in a service project benefiting a religious institution, school, or community group. Anyone interested in joining Scouting at any level can contact Andrew Evans, the Twin Valley - Golden Gate Area Council Executive: andrew.evans@scouting.org.