A UK-based Boy Scout made a difference to those in need with his Eagle Scout service project.

Cameron Rowley is a 13-year-old American who has lived in England for the past 3 1/2 years. His final requirement for attaining scouting’s most prestigious rank was to “plan and lead a service project.” Since service to others is what Scouting is all about, Cameron knew he wanted to lead a meaningful effort and make a difference in the real world.

Cameron knows that millions of people, nearly half of them children, have been displaced because of civil wars in their countries. When the refugees flee, they leave behind all of their possessions. Cameron said, “It was a little scary for me to move to a foreign country and I had my family, a house and all of our possessions. I cannot imagine how frightening it must be for a child who has nothing.”

This Eagle Scout candidate took on the huge task of helping others. He raised nearly $4500 in cash and plush toy donations to fill backpacks for refugee children.

This project, which Cameron called Rucksacks for Refugees, provides 250 children basic necessities for survival and comfort. He acquired the goods and led a team which assembled 250 survival rucksacks, each filled with a personal hygiene kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, microfiber towel, soap, conditioning shampoo and comb), blanket, flashlight, and a small plush animal toy.

Cameron said, "I really hope that the children who receive these bags get comfort from them and know that we all care about them. I also hope that someday there will not be a need for projects like Rucksacks for Refugees, but as long as there are people who need help, I want to be a person that helps them."

The completed rucksacks were delivered to his project beneficiary, St Neots Refugee Support, for distribution to charities helping refugees throughout Europe. While proud of his accomplishment, Cameron was especially thrilled when he learned that the beneficiary would be conducting a matching drive! Because of Cameron’s determination to help, 500 disadvantaged children will receive a filled backpack.

Cameron earned the rank of Eagle Scout on 16 March 2016.