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Members of Scouting America, including Scout Troop 516-Boys, Scout Troop 516-Girls, and Cub Scouts Pack 516, recently demonstrated the spirit of community service by making a generous donation to the Unicoi County Animal Shelter. Unit 516, chartered by First Baptist Church of Elizabethton, collected and presented blankets, quilts, beds and toys to benefit the shelter’s needs.

This act of kindness stemmed from the scouts’ ongoing commitment to serving their community and providing care for those who cannot speak for themselves. The donation drive, which took place over several months, was a collaborative effort involving scouts, their families and community supporters who contributed essential supplies to enhance the comfort and well-being of the shelter’s animals.

The partnership between the scouts and the Unicoi County Animal Shelter began after Hurricane Helene devastated the facility. Wanting to make a lasting impact, the scouts committed to an ongoing initiative with a new donation focus each month to support various needs within the community.

Scoutmasters Cindy Odom-Higgins and Angie Williams, and Cubmaster Jeremy Archambault emphasized the importance of service projects like this in teaching young members valuable lessons about responsibility, empathy and leadership.

“Scouting is about giving back and making a difference,” the scoutmasters said. “The scouts worked hard to collect these items, knowing they would directly improve the lives of animals waiting for their forever homes.”

Cody Walker, a representative from the Unicoi County Animal Shelter, expressed gratitude for the donation.

“These items will provide warmth, security and enrichment for the animals in our care,” Walker said. “We are incredibly thankful for the generosity and thoughtfulness of the scouts and community.”

This initiative aligns with Scouting America’s mission to foster character, citizenship and service among youth. By organizing and executing projects that benefit their communities, the Scouts of Troop 516, girls and boys, and Cub Scouts 516 continue to uphold these principles and inspire others to do the same.

Anyone interested in Scouting America can contact First Baptist Church at 423-543-1931 or the Sequoyah Council. Those interested in supporting the Unicoi County Animal Shelter can donate supplies or volunteer. The shelter relies on community generosity to provide the best care possible for its animals.