Ethan of Scout Troop 364 is working towards achieving Eagle Scout rank. His last requirement, and most important, is the completion of an Eagle Scout service project of his choosing.

Ethan recently attended an AFSP (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention) event with his dad, Tim, who is a very active member of this organization and a mental health advocate for active duty service members in the US Navy. He left feeling inspired to help give back to this community and has chosen to assemble and distribute hope kits for his service project.

This project will partner with AFSP as a sponsor and is called “Operation Hope Project” benefiting the Hampton Roads VA Medical Center. Ethan is raising funds to purchase 80 canvas drawstring backpacks printed with the project logo and uplifting care items to place in the bags, such as journals, stress balls, activity books, etc. In addition, the scouts of Troop 364 will handwrite uplifting/comforting messages to place in each bag.

Ethan’s main goal for this project is for veterans who are struggling with mental health crises to know they are not alone and there are people in their corner ready to help them out of the darkness. Please consider donating if you are able and support this amazing cause. Our goal is to have all items and bags purchased by 2/16/26 for assembly and distribution on 2/28/26. Thank you all so much!