Trail Life CDA takes lead on accessibility project
Trail Life CDA member Luke Schuler paints during Saturday's service project.
HAILEY HILL/Press
COEUR d’ALENE — The boys of Trail Life CDA certainly weren’t taking a snow day Saturday.
Instead, three members of the faith-based troop got together to help paint platforms that will be used to make ranges at the Fernan Rod and Gun Club more accessible to wheelchair users.
“It’s just about helping other people,” said 14-year-old Jack Peterson. “I painted over the summer, too, so I’m getting more of that experience.”
The boys made sure to paint the trim a vibrant yellow to ensure users can clearly see the edge, preventing accidental falls.
The project is the next step in the Fernan club’s efforts toward total accessibility.
“We’re trying to expand and become more disability-friendly all the time,” said Bill Demer with the Fernan Rod and Gun Club. “This is the last step in a three-year process.”
Saturday’s project aligns with the troop’s goals of fostering service and leadership skills in local boys and teens.
Though the materials were provided in this case, often the older members organize the entire projects themselves.
“We’re teaching them that whatever they do in life, they can be effective leaders in their community,” said Trail Life CDA troop leader Don Jones. “Doing projects like this helps them do that.”