Ben Shanks Garden Drive Eagle Scout Project

Hello! My name is Ben Shanks, and I am a Life Scout in Boy Scout Troop 22, located in Woodland Hills, CA. For my Eagle Scout Project, I have decided to host and manage a garden drive for Valley Village!

Valley Village has 18 group homes proudly home to adults with developmental challenges in the San Fernando Valley. All of the proceeds will be used to acquire the plants, seeds, soil, and gardening tools for the homes. The gardens will beautify the houses and give the residents a new STEM-based activity to do during these times of Covid.

I am a sophomore at El Camino Real Charter High School (ECR). I started Cub Scouts in first grade and graduated into Boy Scouts in 6th grade. I am on the varsity water polo and swim teams at ECR. Playing sports and being a Boy Scout has taught me determination and a work hard mindset. I also love mountain biking and adrenaline rushes.

I first found out about Valley Village through my dad’s work at Bank of America. We had the fantastic opportunity to volunteer at a St. Patrick’s Day event for Valley Village a few years ago. I also live in the same neighborhood as the Valley Village main office. When I was thinking about what I wanted to do for my Eagle Scout Project, Valley Village was one of the first places I thought of! I am super excited about the opportunity to help my community.

I plan to start the drive in April and finalize everything in May. I am very grateful for any support and donations I receive. All donations are appreciated and will go to Valley Village. Thank you so much!