Community Corner

Construction Going Well for Marlboro Eagle Scout in Guatemala

Joe Vitale updated his loyal supporters as he continues to help a Guatemalan community build a school.

Joe Vitale isn't spending his summer as most teenage boys would. Vitale, 15, is working on his Eagle Scout Project, building a new school in Guatemala.

Vitale has kept his supportes in the states well informed during his trip. He sent the following email over the weekend:

The school is coming along nicely and hope to be finished by early September if the weather cooperates. I had the pleasure of meeting some of you last week, and one question was asked that I am sure most of you are wondering.

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On my pictures, you see children wearing designer clothing. I wondered myself and asked one of the teachers. Most of the clothing that we all donate to Good Will, Red Cross, and bins in our neighborhoods from the US, wind up in Central and South America. I was glad that clothing we normally donate is being used by kids who really need it. And the kids are so happy to have them.

 to Guatemala, where he said he was inspired meeting local children. Their school, he said, was more like a shack. 

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Vitale's mother lived in Guatemala until age 12, and his great grandmother was a teacher for indigenous Mayans in the area. For Vitale, the roots are deep, and his Eagle Scout project would strive to help an impoverished area while honoring his family.

"I can implement something that would not only change the lives of hundreds of children in Guatemala, but also mine, and hopefully the lives of those who support me in this mission."

Vitale has raised a little over $11,000 for his project, which he said he will complete through teamwork with his troop and with leaders near and far. The scout has set a deadline of 2013, when he hopes to dedicate the school on his great grandmother's centennial.

To supplement fundraising, Vitale has partnered with The Giving Project, who has built other schools globally for around $22,000.

To donate to the fund, please make checks payable to Troop 155, and on the subject line: Joseph’s Eagle Scout Project. 

To stay updated about the project, visit Vitale's website.

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