Building Hope: Laine Kneisler’s Eagle Scout Project for Bridge to Home

For Life Scout Laine Kneisler of Troop 583, Scouting has been a defining part of his life since the age of six. Now, as he works toward earning the rank of Eagle Scout, Laine is channeling years of leadership, service and commitment into a meaningful community project that will directly benefit local families experiencing homelessness.
Laine has partnered with Bridge to Home, a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals and families transition out of homelessness by providing shelter, support services, job placement assistance and pathways to stable housing. Their new family units can house up to six family members, but the outdoor space currently consists of only a concrete slab. Bridge to Home has asked for help transforming this area into something functional, welcoming and enriching for the families they serve.
Laine’s project will create an inviting outdoor living space, complete with sitting benches, raised garden planters and a children’s play area. The garden will also support a program run by Bridge to Home’s kitchen staff, introducing families to sustainable gardening practices that can help supply fresh ingredients for daily meals. In total, the project includes five benches that seat up to twelve people, four raised planters with custom stainless steel liners, soil, vegetables, irrigation and the construction of a safe play space for children.
The build is scheduled for February 13, 14 and 15, with fundraising needing to be completed by January. Laine has set up a Venmo account for monetary donations. Those wishing to donate by check may reach out directly to Laine for mailing details.
Any additional funds raised beyond what is required will be donated directly to Bridge to Home to support the ongoing needs of their family units.
Inspired by the message in Galatians to “carry each other’s burdens,” Laine hopes this project will serve as a source of encouragement and compassion for every family who finds refuge at Bridge to Home. For those unable to contribute financially, there are still many ways to help. Donations of tools, materials and supplies can significantly reduce project costs.

Supply Donations Needed:

Lumber:
Qty 6 – 4x4x8
Qty 10 – 2x6x12
Qty 7 – 2x12x8
Qty 5 – 2x6x16
Qty 2 – 2x4x8
Qty 5 – 2x4x10

Tools & Supplies:
Chop saw
Palm sanders
24 inch level
Cordless drills
Work gloves
Safety glasses

Volunteer Support:
Gift cards to local eateries like Jersey Mike’s, In-N-Out, or any quick-service restaurant are greatly appreciated and will be used to provide lunch for the volunteers during the three-day construction build.
Every donor will be recognized with a custom tile or plaque placed at the project site as a lasting tribute to their generosity.
To learn more or to donate supplies, gift cards or materials, please contact Laine at LKNEISLER4709@GMAIL.COM.
Together, the community can help bring comfort, dignity and hope to the families served by Bridge to Home, one bench, one garden and one act of kindness at a time.