East Ridge Residence independent living community welcomed Cub Scouts Pack 3037 of East Ridge this week as the troop began work in the outside courtyard building a new fire pit for the residents to enjoy and clearing out the old raised garden beds to make way for new ones to be built. It’s all part of a new intergenerational partnership between the Scouts and East Ridge Residence that will bring joy, excitement and new, shared experiences among both generations as the partnership continues.

“I want to thank Cub Scouts Pack 3037 for blessing our residents with this new fire pit, built from
scratch, and for clearing out our old garden beds,” said Amy Silvers, executive director of East
Ridge Residence. “It was a humbling experience seeing the innocence of the children being so
open and willing to do something out of the goodness of their hearts for our seniors. We can’t
wait to welcome them back for our “S’mores with Seniors” event very soon as a reward for all
their hard work. We look forward to growing this partnership over the weeks and months to
come.”

Families of the scouts of Pack 3037 gathered at East Ridge Residence and worked alongside
the troop of Scouts to lay each brick that would become the fire pit. Jeff Wagner, den leader of
Pack 3037, led the building efforts. “What a great experience,” he said. “I am so proud of all our
Cub Scouts and families. Everyone came ready to work – and work was definitely accomplished.
It was good to see the kids and residents interact, and we are excited to come back to help with
other projects.”

Jared Pickens, Boy Scouts of America Cherokee Area Council CEO, worked with Ms. Silvers to
bring this new program to life. “I’m just so proud of the work that our Scouts do for our
community,” said Mr. Pickens. “It is truly incredible to see the commitment that these young people
and their volunteer leaders demonstrate to ‘help other people at all times’ like the Scout Oath
mentions. This particular project is special because it brings the older generation and the
younger generation together to enjoy learning from one another and just have fun together.
Respect for all is a core tenet of Scouting. Great work, Scouts.”