LAMORINDA WEEKLY | Troop 204 Scout's Eagle Project Benefits Shelter, Inc.


Jackson Reilly at work with friends on the shed. Photo provided

When Jackson Reilly, a member of Lafayette's Boy Scout Troop 204, was looking for a potential project last spring for his Eagle Scout requirement, he asked if Shelter, Inc. might have a need for his services. He was introduced to Shelter, Inc.'s volunteer coordinator Teresita Gonzalez, and he learned about a need at Mountain View Family Shelter to replace two old, metal storage sheds.

Reilly likes to build things and has learned about building from his dad, a general contractor, and in his design and fabrication class at Acalanes High School.

There was a great deal to do before actually starting the building, and Reilly soon realized he would need lots of volunteers and to raise money to cover all the building costs. He started contacting various businesses, including Dolan's Lumber, Kelly-Moore Paint Company, Cresco Express Tool and Equipment Rental, Skyline Roofing and Diamond K. Supply, and with help from fellow Scouts Mike Roux and Michael Williams, along with his good friends, Ian Ferrer, Ezra Zimmer and Mateo Terrien, Reilly got to work. The project took over 150 hours of actual hands-on work over a two-week period.

The result? A beautiful, useful 10 foot by 10 foot shed that Shelter's Mountain View Family Shelter will put to good use storing seasonal equipment, extra bedding and furniture, and some food and cleaning supplies.