Hello, my name is Thomas Pfleging-Howes, and I’m a Life Scout with Troop 78 in New Milford, NJ. Scouting has been a big part of my life for many years, teaching me leadership, service, and the importance of giving back to my community.

For my Eagle Scout Project, I have chosen something deeply personal to me, supporting Camp Cope, a free, weekend-long grief support camp for children and teens ages 7–17 who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, or someone close to them.

When I was just 8 years old, I lost my father. In the years after, I attended Camp Cope, where I met other kids who truly understood what I was going through. It was a safe place where grief was understood, where I could connect with others who had been through similar experiences, and where I could begin to heal.

Camp Cope combines traditional camp fun with grief education and emotional support, led by trained grief professionals and volunteers. Campers learn they are not alone in their grief, while building coping skills in a relaxed, supportive environment. The camp’s mission is close to my heart, because I know firsthand how life-changing this kind of experience can be.

Now, as I work toward becoming an Eagle Scout, I want to give back to the place that gave me so much. My goal is to raise $5,000. With this money I plan to donate it all directly to the COPE Foundation to help fund Camp Cope programs, supplies, and activities for grieving families.

As part of my project, I will also be assembling and donating “comfort kits” and “family toiletry kits,” but this fundraiser will go entirely toward supporting Camp Cope’s ongoing mission. Every donation — no matter the amount — will help provide comfort, connection, and hope to kids, teens, and parents who are navigating the difficult journey of loss.

If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this campaign with friends, family, or on social media to help spread the word.

Thank you for helping me honor my father’s memory, support grieving families, and complete my Eagle Scout Project.

— Thomas Pfleging-Howes

Life Scout, Troop 78