Boy Scout's Eagle project helps Tesh grow

With eight months of planning, 20 tons of material, and 250 hours of volunteer labor, Tesh, Inc. has an updated raised vegetable garden area.

Kevin Eaton, a Boy Scout with Troop 211 in Coeur d’Alene, partnered with Tesh, Inc. to develop the outdoor garden area while working to fulfill requirements for the rank of Eagle Scout. The new garden provides Tesh clients with raised beds to plant flowers and vegetables, an area to compost organic material and new seating to enjoy the renovated space.

The project was a perfect fit for Eaton, a sophomore at Coeur d’Alene Charter Academy. His uncle, Russ, is a client at Tesh who wanted to give back to the organization that means so much to him. Tesh provides not only employment and educational opportunities but a sense of community for those living with a disability. In September, Eaton met with Terri Johnson, director of rehabilitation services at Tesh and asked what he could do to help.

The overwhelming request: to help develop an area where clients can learn from and enjoy gardening while enjoying being outside.

Eagle Scout candidates are challenged to coordinate projects that give back to the community and enable the scouts to demonstrate the leadership skills that Scouting teaches. A Boy Scout since age 6, Eaton worked with Tesh, his troop leaders and community members to devise a plan, raise funds, and get the job done. Working over spring break, Eaton brought together more than 20 volunteers to turn the paper plans into reality. The best part — the big thumbs-up his Uncle Russ gave when he saw the finished product.

In addition to being a Boy Scout, Eaton is an accomplished saxophone player with Idaho All State Band and the State Music Soloist in Alto and Baritone Saxophone. He is team captain for the Charter Science Bowl team, the recent winners of the regional competition who will compete at the National Science Bowl in Washington, D.C., in May, and a member of the varsity cross country team.

Tesh has been serving the community since 1976, providing choices and opportunities to people of all ages with disabilities or other challenges who are seeking greater independence, self-sufficiency, and participation in their community. Tesh provides rehabilitative services such as life skills and independent living development for children and adults. The organization also offers employment training and opportunities by providing janitorial services and a vocational work center where shredding, threshold mat production, and small parts assembly business takes place.

Tesh also places individuals in employment in the community, partners with Kootenai Health and the Coeur d’Alene School District on Project SEARCH, and supports individuals with Tickets to Work. For more information on Tesh, visit www.teshinc.com.