A Young Man's Legacy image

A Young Man's Legacy

An aspiring Eagle Scout's last project needs your help.

$109,254 raised

$100,000 goal

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In late July 2021, Jennifer Bender visited us at the Clarksburg Mission to talk about her son, Levi, who was a Life Scout working toward becoming an Eagle Scout. To achieve this highest rank in the Boy Scouts, a young man has to complete a community service project.

The Benders had been involved with the Mission though cooking and serving meals since January 2019. Levi loved serving meals and talking with our residents. He and his family had seen the poorly laid out, antiquated kitchen. They saw the old equipment and the inadequate space.

Levi’s mother was reaching out on his behalf to plan a project and we looked forward to working with Levi. Sadly, we never got the chance. Less than a week later, on August 1, 2021, Levi died in a tragic car accident. This Scout was only 16 years old.

Ron and Jennifer, Levi's parents, have decided to finish his project. They want to honor the memory of their precious young son. We are working together to achieve a total renovation of our kitchen. We are hoping to raise $100,000 to complete this redesign and overhaul. This effort will include flooring, equipment, painting, plumbing, and more.

Levi Bender wanted to complete a project that would have an impact well beyond simply attaining his Eagle Scout rank. A new kitchen at the Mission would have a life of its own, giving and welcoming and feeding people long after the work is done. This is an ambitious project, but Levi's heart was big and generous and kind.

The Levi Bender Project is both an expression of grief and a celebration of life. Though Levi died much too young, we have a chance to be part of his legacy. Please, consider opening your heart and becoming a partner in this good work.

We have a fundraising completion date of October 31st and plan to have the project completed as soon as possible.

Thank you in advance for honoring this Scout’s memory and his family’s hearts.