Eagle Scout’s Playground Additions Bolster Play Learning

When Indian Creek School junior Owen Crum considered his options for an Eagle Scout project, he didn’t have to look any further than his own troop’s backyard. Crum is part of Troop 993, based at Severna Park United Methodist Church (SPUMC). He worked with Catherine Myers, director of the church’s nursery school, to design and build an outdoor play kitchen and install a balance beam for the young students.

Over the summer, Crum studied imaginative playground designs and came up with a plan for SPUMC nursery school. The mud kitchen and balance beam were planned as two distinct projects with a foreman assigned by Crum for each. The build took place on August 31 and September 1, 2024, and included between 20–30 Scouts each day, with Crum providing complete oversight of each project.

The church and the nursery school staff were so excited about the playground additions that the two organizations offered to fund the projects. Crum only needed to fundraise for incidentals, round up the necessary tools, and recruit adults with carpentry skills who could share their knowledge with the Scouts assigned to the projects.

“The Severna Park (United Methodist Church) Nursery School has thoroughly enjoyed the balance beam and mud kitchen crafted by Owen for his Eagle Scout project,” Myers said. “Both additions have become a hit with the children, providing fun and imaginative play. The balance beam encourages physical activity and coordination, while the mud kitchen sparks creativity as the kids get their hands dirty, making ‘meals’ and working together.

“Owen’s thoughtful project has truly enhanced our outdoor play area,” Myers continued, “bringing joy and fostering teamwork among the children.”

A Scout since first grade, Crum said he’s learned many life lessons and business skills that he will take with him for a lifetime.

“The major skill Scouting offers is the opportunity to develop leadership qualities,” Crum said. “Scouting doesn’t tell you how to act but describes what you, as a Scout, are and what you are to live up to.”

Crum’s father, Nathan, and brother, Ryan Alcorn, are also Eagle Scouts. Crum added that his father played a large role in getting him interested in Scouting, and he loved everything he’s learned, like how to work as part of a team and how to lead a team, first aid, working with tools, cooking, perseverance, outdoor skills, and so much more.

Crum received his Eagle rank at his Court of Honor ceremony in December.

“I’m really proud of my Eagle rank,” he said. “I think it shows how much hard work I’ve put in. I might be finished with this part of my Scouting journey, but I am currently active in the local chapter and on a national level. I look forward to continuing with Scouting and mentoring new Scouts.”

Crum is a four-sport athlete in high school, expecting to play water polo in college and study business and linguistics. He is the son of Lauren and Nathan Crum of Millersville.