Most bridges serve a practical purpose, helping people cross from one place to another. But throughout history, bridges also have carried symbolic meaning. They can be used to represent life transitions, connection between groups of people, the ability to overcome obstacles and more.   

It’s fitting, then, that the most visible part of Wesley Blaker’s Eagle Scout project is a new bridge at Northeastern Center’s DeKalb County Outpatient office. Not only will the bridge allow staff to reach the mailboxes, but it will also serve as a symbol of hope for clients who come there each day.  

Planning and execution 

Blaker, a 2026 graduate of Garrett High School, built and installed the new bridge in April, as part of a project that will hopefully help him earn the Scouts BSA rank of Eagle Scout later this year. Additionally, he built two raised flower beds that were added to the west side of the building, bringing some cheer and color under the windows of the reception area.  

When selecting a potential Eagle Scout project, Blaker reflected on his previous experience in therapy and the difference it made in his life.  

“This place has done so much for me, so I thought if I can give back to them, that’s great,” he said.   

A member of Troop 169, Blaker started planning his Eagle Scout project late last year. When the building weekend arrived, he had to lead his team of volunteers through a few unexpected challenges.  

For example: “While disassembling the bridge, we found concrete pads that were going unused and were able to move them to make an unplanned path that makes it easier to step up to the new bridge,” he said in his project report.  

In the end, everything came together, and Blaker had the honor of putting the finishing touch on his project.  

“Everyone stopped and let me put in the final screw,” he said.  

Building together 

Just as bridges bring people together, so did Blaker’s project. Northeastern Center would like to extend its gratitude to Blaker and everyone who helped him, including:  

  • Blaker’s team of 13 volunteer friends and family members, which included six other registered Scouts.  
  • Hixon Sand & Gravel, for their donation of the gravel used around the flower beds and bridge. 
  • Big C Lumber, for providing a hefty discount on lumber, screws and bolts.  
  • Blaker’s family, for supplying the funds needed to complete his project.  
  • Blaker’s grandmother, for donating the flowers that were planted in the flower beds.  

Bridge to the future 

Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in the Scouts BSA program of Scouting America. Blaker, who has been a Scout since he was in third grade, is currently at the second highest rank of Life.  

Though he has finished the bulk of his Eagle Scout requirements, Blaker still has to complete a few more steps in the process. Hopefully, he will find out later this year if he has officially attained the rank of Eagle Scout.  

Either way, he’s built something to be proud of, and he’s left his mark at the Northeastern Center.