Not every Boy Scout becomes an Eagle Scout, the highest rank a Scout can achieve but, for Jake Loofs, it was inevitable that he would carry on the family tradition. A 16-year-old sophomore at Rouse High School, Jake is the third Loofs son to become an Eagle Scout. Jake achieved the honor in January as a Scout in Georgetown’s Troop 405. “It was a relief and so rewarding in so many ways,” he shares. “Just to see all the achievements and goals I’ve spent time working towards over the past few years finally come to fruition—it was really nice.”
His choice of service project was an easy one, as both his brothers served at STARRY, a nonprofit organization that helps children and families via counseling, family support services, foster care, fatherhood, and adoption. “It was like carrying on the family tradition,” Jake says. “It’s a cool thing to give back to an organization that gives to so many people.”
With the help of fellow Boy Scouts and some of their fathers, Jake assembled and painted new picnic tables and two planter boxes for STARRY’s office in Round Rock. They also did some gardening to improve the scenery. The new and improved outdoor area has been a blessing for STARRY counselors and clients who have been forced to meet virtually or outside during the pandemic.
LESSONS AND FRIENDSHIPS
Since joining the Boy Scouts in 5th grade, Jake has enjoyed fun opportunities like campouts, archery, shooting, and water sports, which led to 30 merit badges (Eagle Scouts need 21). More importantly, he learned lessons in responsibility and perseverance while nurturing camaraderie among friends. It’s those relationships that made his Eagle Scout honor possible, Jake says. “I wouldn’t have gotten here without the leadership in the troop and friends pushing me through it. It’s a collective achievement,” he says.
Not many people realize the impact Scouting has on kids, Jake adds. “I think it provides a unique experience you don’t get anywhere else; learning lessons about first aid, going on campouts and exploring nature with friends,” he shares. “The Eagle-required ones are more important; citizenship, personal fitness, and management. Those are different skills they can really build on.”
When things get back to normal and in-person Boy Scout meetings resume, Jake plans to continue passing on those lessons by coaching new Scouts. “I’ve been able to give back to the organization that did so much for me,” he says.