Another stepping stone
James Laker show off his many honors from an eight-year career with the Boy Scouts.
Photo by Shannon Laker
Eagle Scout James Laker poses with staff and crew at Specialized Needs Recreation in Coeur d’Alene.
Photo courtesy Special Needs Recreation
Photo courtesy Special Needs Recreation James Laker helps an adult with Specialized Needs Recreation make a dog bed.
Post Falls teen lands Eagle Scout Project of Year
POST FALLS — James Laker combined his passion to create things that benefit others and his desire to teach to win the Inland Northwest Council’s Eagle Scout Project of the Year award.
The 13-year-old taught nearly 20 adults with Specialized Needs Recreation how to make dog beds that are now being used at the Panhandle Animal Shelter in Sandpoint.
“I think they did really good,” the son of Wes and Shannon Laker said Friday.
The Post Falls Middle School student likes to volunteer, said his mom.
“He loves working with the people at SNR,” she said.
For winning the Eagle Scout Project of the Year award, James advances to the regional competition.
“This is another stepping stone,” Shannon Laker said. “He wants to help more people — it seems to be what he lives to do.”
James, with Troop 201, has been involved in Scouting for eight years. He said he wanted his Eagle Scout project to be something for people and pets.
He researched how to make dog beds from PVC and fabric, the materials were donated, and went to work.
The folks at SNR appreciated his efforts, too.
After he taught the group of adults with disabilities what to do, they enthusiastically got on board, as they often volunteer at PAS.
“I wanted them to feel like it was their project,” he said. “They had so much fun.”
James said he felt great when it was done and PAS had 10 new canine beds.
Now, he said, he’ll focus on other ways to help the community.
“He is super excited,” Shannon Laker said.
As Scouting activities are suspended due to the coronavirus, James didn‘t know when he would receive his award. Either way, his parents are proud,
“He has worked his little butt off in Scouts,” Shannon said.
