MSHSLC Eagle Scout Project

Introduction
Hi there! My name is Quentin Comus and I am a Life Scout from Boy Scout Troop 7520 in Newberg, Oregon looking to complete my Eagle Scout Project this summer. I have always been fascinated with the Pacific Northwest's abundance of lush green forests and rocky mountain peaks, but recently fell in love with the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. Back in 2013, my Boy Scout Troop visited the Mount St. Helens Science and Learning Center (MSHSLC) in Toutle, Washington; located just 12 miles from the volcano. The MSHSLC is a recommissioned visitor center operated by the Mount St. Helens Institute through a special use permit with the USDA Forest Service. Over the past two years, I have been working closely with the MSHSLC Director, Kori Quatermass, through my non-profit group, Volcano Scouting. Together, we have hosted over 100 boy scouts and adults through stewardship, education, adventure, and leadership events. As we look to the future, we need to complete various improvements to the MSHSLC to transition it from a visitor center to an education hub for the Mount St. Helens Institute. Although I cannot make major alterations to the building or land around it, I am able to make small improvements throughout the building that will allow Kori to fund her own, larger projects.

About the Project
I am currently raising funds for my eagle scout project at the Mount St. Helens Science and Learning Center, where I will be installing a flagpole, evacuation and interpretive signage, and ADA accessible changing rooms. These improvements will specifically improve the presentation and usability of the MSHSLC for years to come. Installing a flagpole abides by the U.S. Flag Code, where an American flag should be posted at any operational government building, and allow for Scouting groups to perform flag ceremonies on a permanent pole. Updating emergency evacuation signage is an important step in ensuring the safety of all participants. Creating and installing interpretive signage and ADA accessible changing rooms is another step in transitioning the building from a visitor center to a rentable education center. Finally, painting and patching walls around the 12,000-square foot building will help lengthen its lifespan, as it nears its 30th anniversary.

How You Can Help
To purchase supplies and materials, secure permits, and gather volunteers, I must raise upwards of $2,500. These donations are tax deductible thanks to the Mount St. Helens Institute, a certified non-profit. Donors can contribute either cash or materials directly to my project fund as an individual or company. This GoFundMe page was specifically designed for individuals who would like to contribute to my project. If you would like to contribute materials or make a corporate donation, please visit www.volcanoscouting.org/eaglescoutproject for more information.

Contact Me
If you would like to learn more about my eagle scout project, the journey to get to where I am today, or any of our partners, please feel free to contact [email redacted]. If you would like to learn more about project details, how to volunteer, or how to make a large donation, please visit www.volcanoscouting.org/eaglescoutproject .

**Excess funds will be donated to the Science and Learning Center for future improvement projects.

THANKS FOR YOUR HELP!