By Krystle J Bailey
15-year-old Carson Endicott of Somers Point is seeking support for his Eagle Scout community project. Since he was six years old, Carson knew that he wanted to work his way through the Boy Scout ranks with the ultimate goal of becoming an Eagle. Now, as a 10th grader at Mainland Regional High School, he is nearing the finish line with his last task to be the completion of a project that benefits his community.
As a Somers Point native, Carson’s idea to beautify the area surrounding Richard Somers Memorial Park was planted at an early age when he was just a Cub Scout. His local troop attended the original dedication of the statue and discussed adding plants and seating back in 2013. While that didn’t come to fruition in the subsequent years, when it came time for Carson to decide on an Eagle Scout project, he knew exactly how he would add value to his community.
To achieve the rank of Eagle, a scout must complete a final project that benefits the community in which they live. From start to finish, they must show evidence of planning, development, and working with supportive adults to see it through to completion.
Carson began his project planning over the summer, working with the city administrator to give his initial thoughts and gain permission to explore a project on the historic grounds. He went on to develop and present his concept to the Boy Scouts of America Council for approval, followed by presentations for Somers Point Public Works, the city administrator, the council president, and the mayor.
With all approvals in place, he is ready to move full speed ahead with raising funds for his plans to enhance the historical park where there is currently a dedicated mural and statue of the late local hero, Richard Somers.
Carson’s plans will add pavers around the statue, a knee wall around the flag pole, lighting, and PVC composite benches. The enhancements will offer space for those visiting the local library to come to sit and read, community members to gather in a well-lit area for ceremonies, and a space to enjoy the rich history of Somers Point, NJ.
The scope of work is estimated at approximately $12,000. Carson’s fundraising efforts have included reaching out to local political campaigns for leftover funds, asking for support from local businesses, and meeting with the Somers Point Business Association. Now he is turning to the public for support by inviting community members to leave their personal marks on Somers Point grounds.
Somers Point locals can now purchase inscribed bricks that will be used in the park’s renovations. Bricks can be purchased in two sizes, 4×8” and 8×8”. There are hundreds of bricks to choose from, and each one can be engraved with words, symbols, and dedications of your choice. With the support of the Somers Point Historical Society as Carson’s sponsor, brick purchases can be written off as a tax-deductible donation. Bricks range from $75 to $160 and can be purchased at bricksrus.com/donorsite/endicotteaglescoutproject.
“After this project is completed, I have to go to the Boy Scouts of America Board of Review,” explains Endicott. “Hopefully, I will make rank and achieve Eagle. After that, I am planning to keep doing all the things that I have been including school, sports, and work.”
Endicott is raised in a family of scouts, including his father and younger brother. He continues to mentor and support the younger scouts and looks forward to checking off this lifelong goal.
“The Eagle Scout project is his own,” shares Staci Endicott, Carson’s mother. “His family is here to support and assist him with whatever he needs. His trail to Eagle has been long, but this project is a significant milestone, and we are so proud of his efforts.”
For more information about Carson’s website tinyurl.com/endicotteaglescoutproject.
Krystle J Bailey. Multimedia journalist, Author, Poet.
Connect with Krystle on Instagram @thedailybailey5