The 2023 Annual YouCan Missions/Jaguar Scouts Shoe Drive
The 2023 Annual YouCan Missions/Jaguar Scouts shoe drive took place this year from June 13 to 19.
Over 2,000 pairs of shoes were distributed to students & nearby communities with 50+ volunteers working tirelessly during the week of service & mission work. This year saw a team of 22 volunteers from Wisconsin, split between Ascension Lutheran Church & YouCan Mission Volunteers. A great number of Venture Scouts, Cub Scouts, and Scouts from the 27th Cayo Santa Elena Jaguar Scouts participated.
The Wisconsin volunteers got to immerse in Belizean culture by visiting the local farmers market, exploring Mayan temples & engaging in traditional Mayan experiences & cooking. They were able to get a first-hand look at the daily lives of Belizeans. Altogether the team visited 4 schools – St. Joseph RC (Duck Run ll), Los Tambos RC (Los Tambos), Esperanza RC (Esperanza) & SE Baptist School (Santa Elena). Other community projects included the baskets of blessings, which were food baskets prepared by our volunteers and then delivered to nearby homes in the community, touching a handful of homes & creating an impact, and the painting of picnic tables with several designs & writing of Bible verses. These tables will be distributed within the community.
The final night included a dinner potluck where guests were able to indulge in Belizean cuisine and enjoy a night of fun & laughter.
This year’s shoe drive was a huge success as many lives were impacted. No matter how small it may be, we all were left with the satisfaction of giving back to our community.