Two local Scouts brought new outdoor additions to the local nonprofit, Family Promise, aimed at strengthening family relationships, creating memories and embracing community.
A special ribbon cutting ceremony was held on a recent Saturday at the Family Promise resource center, in Newhall, to celebrate Blaine Ko of Troop 2222 and Pavi Premadasan of Troop 2G for their Eagle Scout projects.
Ko built a brand new outdoor barbecue and family gathering area, while Premadasan built a basketball court, giving the space a whole new purpose for those who receive services from the organization.
“I’m hoping they get a place where they can come outside, enjoy the outdoors, have fun. They can play with their kids out here, cook good food,” Ko said as he reflected and took in the final product of his project moments before the ceremony. Ko went through the process of researching how to properly build outdoor furniture, the materials and sought guidance. It took about two weeks to complete after school.
“I learned a lot about leadership. All the planning that goes into it, all the behind-the-scenes work that goes into it,” Ko said. He selected Family Promise as his organization to support because he wanted something that would benefit families.
Family Promise provides emergency shelter, case management, and housing support services for families with children facing housing instability.
On the opposite side of the space was Premadasan, showing off her Eagle Scout project, which was half a basketball court.
She felt good and really proud of the final product, she said, which was made possible with the help of her community.
“I honestly came into it not knowing anything about concrete or basketball, but I’m glad I had so many people helping me and I’m really proud. I’m happy that families can come and use this for many years,” she said.
The half basketball court was something the local nonprofit organization had wanted since it first opened, according to Premadasan. She also learned leadership skills and how to overcome unprecedented challenges.
One of her favorite memories was taking the tape off after the painted lines on the half court were fully dry, marking the completion of the project.
Ko and Premadasan coincidentally chose Family Promise as the site for their Eagle Projects. To celebrate their achievements and recognize their commitment to serving those in need, local dignitaries gathered for the ribbon-cutting ceremony honoring the two Scouts as future Eagle Scouts.
