Ryan Ludeman, son of Lance and Joanne Ludeman collected over 400 pairs of shoes and over 1,060 pairs of socks September 14-29 for his Eagle Scout project. In fact, it was so popular people asked Ludeman to extend it to accommodate additional donations.

Vine Maple Place, Redeeming Soles and Catholic Community Services were beneficiaries of the socks and shoes.

“Finding an eagle scout project, implementation of it, are huge undertakings in itself but the support and reward of doing this project has been exemplary” said Ryan Ludeman, Life Scout from BSA Troop 594.

Donation bins were set up geographically to encompass the community drive. Special thanks go to St. Barbara’s Church, Grocery Outlet, Columbia Bank, Hobart Store, and Covington Library for hosting bin sites. St. Barbara’s Church was a huge proponent of the project and Ludeman especially wants to thank Father Rogerson, Mary and Kareen for helping in the administration of this project.

A big thanks to Troop 594 who helped sort the socks, Sam, Eric, Malcolm, Nick, Alex, Ben, Daniel and their families who helped with pick up of the donations.

Ludeman also wishes to thank his parents, siblings Brent and Sarah, for their continued support.

The timing of the drive was coordinated to help out with back to school and winter approaching.

“The project has been rewarding, seeing the need is humbling so being able to help so many has been a great experience!” Ludeman wrote. “THANK YOU community members who all donated to this drive. It’s nice to know there will be many people who will have the proper footwear and warm feet this winter due to your generosity.”