Scout seeks donations for fire station gym project

Canyon Laker Ethan Clark, a Boy Scout with Troop 444, is currently working on attaining Eagle Scout, the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouting program.

The project he has chosen is to build a gym at Canyon Lake Fire Station 60, which he is currently raising funds for. His goal is to raise $5,000 for equipment and rubber workout floor. “This will help the firefighters with their personal fitness as well as ensuring their readiness as firefighters,” said Ethan

Ethan said he chose this project because he wants to support his local fire station. “I have been a resident of Canyon Lake my whole life and I want to give back to my community and support my local fire station,” said the 17-year-old.

Ethan joined Cub Scout Pack 346 of Canyon Lake 11 years ago. His first rank was Tiger Cub. Through the years, Ethan has diligently worked his way up the ranks to earn Arrow of Light. When he joined Troop 444, he started at the rank of Scout and worked his way up to his current title of Life Scout.

“As a Scout, I have learned the importance of being trustworthy, loyal, helpful and friendly in everyday life,” Ethan said. “More importantly, I’ve learned to be a good leader.”

The Temescal Canyon High School senior is a fire explorer in the Riverside County Fire Explorer Program. The program is designed to allow male and female youth between the ages of 14 and 20 to explore a career in the fire service. Participants receive fire service training under the supervision of trained firefighters.

As a fire explorer I am continuously learning the job of a firefighter,” Ethan said. “I have been training and preparing myself for a career in this field for more than two years.”

Ethan recently earned the level of “Rideout” status, which allows him to go out on calls in uniform with firefighters where he can assist them and practice his learned skills.

“You may have seen me doing this with our own Canyon Lake firefighters of Station 60,” said Ethan.” I have had the extreme privilege of working with them on many occasions. I am proud to be a part of this service to our community.”

In addition to being a Boy Scout and explorer, Ethan played on his high school’s football team and was a member of the mountain bike team. He is also a faculty member of the National Youth Leadership Training program, helping adolescents learn the skills they need to become successful and respectable adults.

To date, Ethan has raised nearly $1,000 for gym equipment for Fire Station 60. He still needs to raise $4,000 and is seeking help from the community. Donations can be made at gofundme.com/canyon-lake-firestation-gym-project.