In a world that shifted drastically to the digital sphere during the COVID-19 pandemic, young Brandon Behrmann found a way to make a tangible impact on his community and the environment. A dedicated member of Troop 219 and one of the Council’s newest Eagle Scouts, he embarked on a remarkable journey towards earning the prestigious Messenger of Peace Champion Award. This award not only symbolizes his dedication to Scouting but also showcases his passion for environmental conservation and community service.
Brandon's Scouting journey began in mid-2019, and over four years, he has demonstrated unwavering commitment and a drive to create positive change. His journey toward the Messenger of Peace Champion Award started over a year ago when he delved into researching project ideas for Eagle Scout rank.
For his project, Brandon teamed up with "SIM USA," an international missionary organization with a strong focus on global outreach and community development, while also integrating faith into their mission. With one of SIM's headquarters located in Charlotte, North Carolina, Brandon saw an opportunity to combine his faith-based values with an organization dedicated to serving others.
The beneficiary of his project was a family friend, and Brandon's passion for environmental conservation was the driving force behind his initiative. He recognized the vital role that pollinators play in the world's ecosystem, contributing to plant growth and creating more natural spaces for people to enjoy. To make this vision a reality, Brandon decided to plant pollinator bushes and install a bee hotel as one of the project's key components.
Through his collaboration with SIM, Brandon also addressed a pressing issue: the restoration of a meeting and prayer place that had been severely damaged by a storm about a year prior. This location served as a common meeting point for those embarking on or returning from mission trips, and offering SIM employees a place to relax during their workday. Brandon's project included the re-installation of a large wooden cross, further reflecting the faith-based values that both he and SIM hold dear.
One of the core aspects that initially drew Brandon to pollinators was their significance in benefiting plant growth. As he embarked on his project, he envisioned creating an educational component, including pamphlets about pollinators to raise awareness of their crucial role in the environment. He also included education for all of his project worker on the importance of protecting pollinators and the community building mission work if SIM. Brandon's dedication to environmental conservation extended beyond his pollinator project. He earned merit badges in sustainability, fish and wildlife management, and other nature-related fields. His commitment to Scouting and the environment was not limited to the project alone; it was a testament to his unwavering dedication.
Even the materials used in his project reflected his commitment to sustainability. Brandon ensured that all wooden aspects were constructed using lumber appropriately-treated to last as long as possible but ensuring not to harm the wildlife. The project's overall design was meant to be low-maintenance, with SIM's dedicated workers taking on the responsibility of ensuring the area doesn't become overgrown again. The sturdiness of the benches and the secure installation of the bee hotel and cross exemplified Brandon's attention to detail.
Upon completion of the project, Brandon hoped to inspire others to engage in sustainable activities and witness the positive impact they could make on their communities. He believed that by setting an example, he could encourage others to support organizations like SIM, which aim to help people in need. Thirty-one Scouts and scouters earned the basic Messengers of Peace award through working on this project.
Soon after project completion, a small conference was held at SIM and the attendees were able to to celebrate the project's completion, with most of the conference's activities taking place in the newly revitalized area. Brandon affectionately referred to this endeavor as his "Passion Project," emphasizing the educational component and the positive influence it could have on others.
In the end, Brandon Behrmann's Messenger of Peace Champion Award requirements and his journey to Eagle Scout allowed for a project that exemplifies the power of youth-driven initiatives to create meaningful change in their communities. Through his dedication to Scouting, environmental conservation, and community service, he has left an indelible mark that will inspire others for generations to come.
To learn more about the Messenger of Peace Champion Award click here.
