Scouts learn a lesson in giving

Saturday was just like any other morning, except Boy Scouts filled neighborhoods in search of donations. The Grand Teton Council Boy Scouts of America kicked off their annual scouting for food drive. Instead of watching morning cartoons in their pajamas with a classic bowl of cereal, Boy Scouts like Delray Calder decided to spend their day giving back to their community.

“I’m just trying to raise some food for people who don’t have enough money for it,” he said.

Delray not only gave up his Saturday to help those in need, but he passed up his last little league football game of the year. Although this is his first year as a Scouts, he already knows what being a Boy Scout really means.

“I should help other people,” said Delray.

Delray’s work didn’t end with just collecting food. They loaded up the van and headed to one of the drop-off locations, East Idaho Community Action Partnership, where the heavy lifting continued.

The boys determination goes even deeper. The Boy Scouts didn’t earn a badge for their work. Caribou Targhee District Executive Steve Juber said the boys weren’t in it for themselves.

“It’s a small thing that we do. It only takes a few hours on a Saturday, but we think it’s a great service and a good opportunity to help folks,” said Juber.

A few hours made all the difference, especially with help from another team. Girl’s Venturing Crew members Natalie and Brittany said they decided to join to prove a point.

“We did it to encourage girls to get into it. It’s a lot of fun,” said Brittany. “So much funner than normal Boy Scouts… totally worth it,” said Natalie.

With a goal of one half million foods items, the scouts came close with more than 380,000 items.The troop will meet again on Monday to go through the donations and distribute them to local food banks.