Tyler Shin, Eagle Scout
Total Volunteer Hours Worked: 85
My project is a glasses collection drive in which I had volunteers distribute flyers to houses asking for glasses donations, which we collected later. Additionally, I set out collection boxes in multiple locations at the front, easily visible for potential donators to see and drop donations into.
In total, 724 glasses were collected and donated, as well as other empty frames and lenses to the Fairfax Lions Club for them to sort out. The Lions Club is a well known and reputable charity organization based in Fairfax County and has a strong program already in place to handle and distribute the donated glasses. These glasses will give many struggling people the opportunity to see clearly and properly that they may never have had the chance to access otherwise.
Observations and Challenges
The amount of glasses I collected exceeded my expectations and goal dramatically. Additionally, the flyer distribution and collection days were very quick with no problems. A majority of the donations I received came from the boxes, but the flyer distribution and collection was also successful.
A major challenge I faced was attendance. Multiple people who signed up or told me that they would show up did not come. Thankfully though, enough people came to make this not too big of a problem. Additionally, I had difficulties retrieving all of the collection boxes as a snow storm closed the Fairfax Church of Christ, one of the locations for my box, for nearly a week, postponing my collection.
Changes (from Original Proposal)
In contrast to my original proposal, I left some of the boxes at their locations for a few more days to give people a little more time to donate. I was mostly inspired to do this by having somebody contacting me to ask if I could keep one of the boxes out for another couple days so they could bring their glasses.
Leadership
I gave my volunteers a chance to ask any questions or share their thoughts and I listened to and answered their questions. Additionally, I gave opportunities for the volunteers to take breaks and asked if they needed help with anything and I offered them refreshments, and I also delegated smaller leadership roles in which I assigned navigators for each vehicle.
The most difficult part of being a leader was trying to remember and coordinate so many things at once. It felt overwhelming at times having to remember each step and leading them correctly despite having everything already written down and planned out.
The most rewarding part of being a leader was seeing the results and success of my hard work and the work of my volunteers. It made me feel like the stress and difficulties were all worth it. I really am glad that I could have a huge impact on some people who can benefit from the donated glasses.
Looking back, I got an insight into what being a leader in a project is like. I never knew what things went into coordinating something like a project, so I now know how to lead one, which I can use in the future. I learned how to communicate more effectively and organize smaller things to accomplish a main goal.
Completed work at the end of the project