by Mike Matzinger
Fifteen-year-old Mason Cooley of Troop 289 in Spring Hill, Kansas, is proving that one Scout with a vision can make a tremendous impact.
For his Eagle Scout service project, Mason partnered with Lasagna Love after noticing hundreds of meal requests across Kansas City, Topeka, and Wichita were waiting for volunteers to help. His goal was ambitious – to make and deliver 500 lasagnas to families in need.
After months of planning, fundraising, and organizing volunteers, Mason and his team exceeded that goal by completing 514 lasagnas. The project also raised more than $10,000 to help cover the cost of ingredients and supplies.
The effort brought together Scouts, family members, and community volunteers to provide meals for families and organizations, including Synergy Services, Healing House, and New House.
Mason’s project is a great example of how Scouting helps young people turn ideas into action. Through the Eagle Scout process, he developed skills in leadership, planning, fundraising, communication, and teamwork while making a lasting difference in his community.
Even after earning the rank of Eagle Scout, Mason plans to stay involved by returning to his troop as a leader and helping other Scouts along their journey.
When young people are given the opportunity to lead, they find ways to serve, inspire others, and create change.
Congratulations to Mason on a great project and for living out the values of Scouting through service.