When the Boy Scouts of America decided in early 2019 to allow girls to join, Grace Van Dewater and Stephanie Kelly welcomed the opportunity.
Van Dewater had fun as a girl scout, but wanted a more adventurous experience that she believes the Boy Scouts offer. Kelly felt the same way.
They joined Troop 100, based at St. Martin of Tours.
Because of the circumstances, they were given an extension to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. Typically, requirements must be completed by the time the individual turns 18.
Both young ladies earned a series of merit badges and displayed the appropriate amount of Scout spirit, service, attitude, teamwork and leadership.
Next, it was time for their service project.
Kelly, 20, painted rooms at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, at 5th Street and Nedro Avenue in Olney. Van Dewater, 19, built a prayer garden at St. Martin’s.
Kelly recently had her Court of Honor, while Van Dewater’s took place on Saturday.
Troop 100 is proud of its latest two Eagle Scouts, as just 4 percent of Scouts achieve the rank. The new Scouts thank other members of the troop for their support.
“There’s no way either one of us could have done it by ourselves,” said Kelly, a Holme Circle resident and graduate of Decatur Elementary School and George Washington High School.
Kelly and Van Dewater plan to remain with the troop as leaders.
“I want to give back to the troop and the community,” said Van Dewater, a Tacony resident and graduate of St. Martin’s and Archbishop Ryan who is a part-time student at Temple.
Van Dewater is the third Eagle Scout in her family, following older brothers David and Sean. ••
