You’re tired. You’ve spent your day seeing beautiful quilts, meeting new people, getting inspired. You’ve bought a lot of cool tools and supplies for your next project. You’re tired of carrying all of your stuff around but you don’t want to haul it out to your car in case you’ll miss out on something. Sound familiar? Feel familiar? No need to get worried, anxious, or burdened. The Boy Scouts of America are ready and able to help relieve this kind of stress during Road to California.
Troop 628, a member of the California Inland Empire Council and chartered through Water of Life Church in Fontana, California, has been coming to the rescue of Road attendees for the past 10 years. The Reese family has a long history with this troop. Carolyn’s son Mike was an assistant scout master. His son, Matt Reese, went all the way through the troop, eventually earning the Eagle Rank. They know firsthand all about the “helping other people at all times” promise of boy scouts.
Troop 628 appreciates being able to assist patrons with their belongings. For a suggested donation of just $2.00 per bag, attendees can leave whatever they want at the scout station. And for 25 cents per visit, patrons are welcome to take their belongings in and out of the secured area. These prices have remained the same for the entire ten years. And of course, tips are always welcomed.
The scouts and their leaders volunteer their time during the week. A portion of the proceeds earned goes in to the boys’ individual fund raising accounts which are used for camping trips, merit badges, and other Boy Scout expenses.
Burnell, age 17 and a Life Scout, said, “Serving at Road is a big help for my camp expenses. It is a wonderful opportunity to help other people and prepares us for adulthood. I especially like providing service for elderly women. I like being able to help in some small way.” The biggest tip he ever got? “$20.00!!!”
Issac, age 12, is a Tenderfoot. He commented that it is really fun and very busy because there are a lot of customers. His favorite part? “Counting the money, bagging the goods, and watching the stuff.”
The boys appreciate the opportunity to serve as they practice valuable life skills such as face-to-face interacting with people of all ages, how to make change, and the chance to practice their “Please” and “Thank Yous.” 
“Doing a good turn daily,” is what Troop 628 is all about, especially during Road to California.
What do you think about Troop 628’s service?
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We think quilters are just the nicest group of people. They all seem to be smiling and having such a wonderful day. It’s very contagious. It’s a fun day for both my son and I and those amazing quilts are an added bonus. I’ve loved seeing my son learn real life work skills in such a positive supportive environment.
Thanks for your kind comments. We are glad your son has been acquainted with real life experiences from the quilt show.