Saber Healthcare Blog & Newsroom

Michael Watkins Completes Eagle Scout Project for Broad Mountain

Frackville, PA – Michael Watkins, a boy scout from Troop 780, recently built and donated planters to Broad Mountain Health & Rehabilitation Center. He created this service project for his Eagle Scout award, which is the highest achievement in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) program.

Watkins told us his grandmother gave him the idea to volunteer and build the planters. She explained that Broad Mountain’s old flower beds were torn down, so it became his mission to replace them with beautiful planters.

To create the planters, Watkins had to measure how big they’d be, researched what kind of wood lasts the longest, and make them accessible to residents in wheelchairs. He also took the initiative to gather volunteers for the project.

“I asked friends and family who worked in construction to help out. We also took into account our COVID-19 limitations such as wearing masks and building in the garage where it was well ventilated,” Watkins said.

He also told us about his experience in the Boy Scout program. He enjoys going to the camps and helping out with the Order of the Arrow, a program where he has helped clean and prepare the camp for visitors.

Watkins shared with us that at 15, he taught environmental science to children to obtain one of his merit badges. This badge helped him build his work ethic as well as his independence and leadership.

“Scouting has taught me how to survive in the wilderness and gives me a community to go to. I’ve also learned how to adapt to different environments. There’s many things scouting has to offer,” he said.

Saber Healthcare appreciates all of the time Watkins and his volunteers put into creating these beautiful planters. Our residents, staff, and visitors will be able to enjoy them whenever they go outside.

About Boy Scouts of America: Founded in 1910, the BSA is one of the largest youth scouting organizations in the US. There’s approximately 2.3 participants and a million volunteers. The program allows children to build character and learn life skills through earning merit badges, taking part in community service, and attending events.

Download PDF version here: Boy Scout Press Release