Troop 56 Community Service Projects

L to R: Ed Orenchuck, Paul Amato, Aaron Miner

In the past few months Troop 56 has worked on two community service projects, after inviting Cynthia Sucich of the Mary Brennan Interfaith Nutrition Network to speak at one of their troop meetings. The boys in the troop decided on what projects they wanted to work on, and then went into action. In December the scouts conducted a toy drive, and donated toys for the December holidays. On the weekend of January 6-7 the Boy Scouts of Troop 56 collected food and toiletries for families in need. Led by Senior Patrol Leader Eddie Orenchuck III, who donated 10 hours of his time that weekend, many scouts spent multiple hours helping to collect donations in front of the Stop & Shop supermarket in Carle Place on Old Country Road. Though prepared for anything (as Boy Scouts always are), they were thankful for the mild weather which allowed for short sleeves. The boys were impressed with the generosity of most people, who both showed appreciation for their efforts, and donated goods and money. By the end of the weekend the Troop 56 scouts had collected enough items to fill several vehicles. On January 19th the goods were transported by the scouts for donation to the Mary Brennan INN in Hempstead. All the scouts and parents in attendance were impressed with the not for profit nondenominational facility which includes a soup kitchen, food pantry, shower room, clothing supplies, advisors, and other services. It was amazing how quickly volunteers were able to sort the donations and create care packages.

L to R: Thomas Bruno, Aaron Miner, Matthew Storz, Nicholas Pittman Backrow: Alex Woinich, Robert Pena

Through activities such as these the scouts learn about how they can make a positive impact in their community, and take pride in making a difference. Troop 56 meets most Sunday nights at the Community Church in Garden City. Anyone interested in joining or helping scouting can contact the Theodore Roosevelt Council at 516-797-7600.