Friends of the Greater Maple Valley Washington Scouting Troops

Hi there, friends and family!

As per our local BSA (Boy Scouts of America) council's fundraising guidelines, I, Karn’s mom, am helping with this campaign (through June 15, 2024) on his behalf. Karn is a spirited scout with a vision that reaches beyond the stars. Since he was a little scout, Gaga Ball has been his game of choice, filled with action and endless fun. You may be wondering, what is Gaga Ball? https://youtu.be/qirvZSnrprM

Today, he’s ready to share that with everyone in Maple Valley, and he needs your help! He pitched his Gaga Pit proposal to the Maple Valley Parks & Rec Council as well as the City Council, and they’ve approved his project, allocating him land adjacent to the Lake Wilderness Park playground!

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From Karn:

I’m Karn Neiley, a Life Scout with a heart full of adventure and a dream to make playtime fun for everyone! Since joining scouts in first-grade and going to camps, I’ve been dodging and diving in the exhilarating game of Gaga Ball. Now, I’m on a mission to bring this joy to the Lake Wilderness Park – with a twist of inclusivity!

My Eagle Scout Project: A Gaga Ball Pit for All! I’ve designed a Gaga Ball pit that’s not just any pit – it’s a welcoming arena for laughter and camaraderie, complete with a swinging gate to invite players of all abilities. But why stop there? The Maple Valley City Council and Parks Department threw down the gauntlet, challenging me to go the extra mile. So, I’m stepping up to make this pit wheelchair accessible, because everyone deserves a shot at the title of Gaga Ball champ!

The Challenge: A surface for every wheel and sneaker creating a surface that’s friendly for both wheels and feet is no small feat. It means more materials and a bigger budget than what I originally scoped, but I believe our community is up for the challenge!

Join the Cause: Let’s Make Memories Together! At 15, I may be taller, but I’m still that kid who believes in the power of play to unite us. By supporting my project, you’re not just building a pit – you’re crafting a hub of memories for kids and teens (and adults!) alike.

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How You Can Help:

Together, we can create a space where everyone plays, no one sits on the sidelines, and the only thing that bounces higher than the ball is our community spirit!

Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. Let’s roll up our sleeves and make it a reality!

With heartfelt thanks and gaga enthusiasm, Karn Neiley (through his mom)

Dear local businesses,

As per our local BSA (Boy Scouts of America) council's fundraising guidelines, I, Karn’s mom, am helping with this campaign (through June 23, 2024) on his behalf. Karn is a spirited scout with a vision that reaches beyond the stars.

Since he was a little scout, Gaga Ball has been his game of choice, filled with action and endless fun. You may be wondering, what is Gaga Ball? https://youtu.be/qirvZSnrprM

Today, he’s ready to share that with everyone in Maple Valley, and he needs your help! He pitched his Gaga Pit proposal to the Maple Valley Parks & Rec Council as well as the City Council, and they’ve approved his project, allocating him land adjacent to the Lake Wilderness Park playground!

***********

From Karn:

My name is Karn Neiley, and I am a 15-year-old Eagle Scout candidate from Troop 711 in Maple Valley, WA. I am writing to seek your support for my community service project, which aims to build an ADA compliant Gaga Ball Pit in Lake Wilderness Park.

What is Gaga Ball? Gaga Ball is a fast-paced, inclusive game that combines elements of dodgeball and handball. It’s played in an octagonal pit, and the objective is to eliminate opponents by touching them with a soft ball below the knee. The game promotes physical activity, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

Why a Gaga Ball Pit? Our local park lacks recreational facilities to integrate play for children with and without disabilities. By constructing a Gaga Ball Pit, we can provide a safe and fun space for kids of all ages to play and interact. This project aligns with the values of scouting, emphasizing community service and leadership.

How Can You Help? I am seeking donations by June 23 through this GoFundMe to cover the costs of materials and construction. Your contribution will directly impact the lives of countless children who will enjoy this new addition to our park. Any amount, big or small, will make a difference.

If you prefer to mail in a check, you can make the check out to Friends of the Greater Maple Valley Washington Scouting Troops (note: Karn Neiley Eagle Project) and mail to 10825 SE 326th Place Auburn, WA 98092. EIN: 37-2039266

Thank you for considering my request. Your support will help create a lasting legacy in our community. Together, we can make this Gaga Ball Pit a reality!

Sincerely,

Karn Neiley, Eagle Scout Candidate, Troop 711 Maple Valley, WA