Cooper Alfiero was very young when he first joined his mom to volunteer at Council on Aging’s Coastal Community Senior Center in St. Augustine. Through the years, he returned with his St. Augustine Boy Scout Troop 345 to volunteer. When the time came for Cooper to pursue his Eagle Scout designation with the Boy Scouts, he decided his goal would be to make a positive difference in the lives of St. Augustine seniors.
Fast forward to this year, when Cooper, now a student at St. Augustine High School, became eligible to pursue his Eagle Scout designation. He returned to COA and created a plan to repair and renovate the outdoor deck. He consulted with Boy Scout advisors and met with COA facilities manager Ray Franklin. He solicited material support and received donations from White’s Lumber & Supply and discounts at Lowe’s Home Improvement.
Cooper then assembled a multi-generational team to help him with the project. His girlfriend, school friends, fellow Boy Scouts and advisors were joined by Cooper’s grandfather, Brian, who taught them how to repair the deck boards, and great-grandfather, Joe, who transported supplies. They worked tirelessly to replace the rotting wood, cleaned, repainted, and power-washed the concrete slab. As a final touch, they cleared out the surrounding brush and installed new landscaping and flowers to beautify the area. “I’m really thankful for all the help I received from the community to take on this renovation project,” Cooper said. “I hope it will bring happiness to the seniors and staff at the Council on Aging.”
Now, that the project is complete, Cooper looks forward to submitting his Eagle Scout application. He plans to attend college to study musical theater and political science. COA Executive Director Becky Yanni said, “It is so heartwarming to see young people in our community give of their time and energy to improve the lives of older adults,” she said. “Every day, Council on Aging relies on the caring of people like Cooper and his friends. We are so grateful and proud of their contribution.” Learn more about the programs and services Council on Aging offers for older adults in St. Johns County at (904) 209-3700.
