Four siblings from Yuma County’s 2024 Scout Family of the Year—Erin, Michael, Joey, and AJ—have each earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Erin also made history as the county’s second female Eagle and the first young woman west of the Mississippi to earn Dual Honors
Erin L., Troop 8051
As if becoming an Eagle Scout wasn’t impressive enough, Erin L. also earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. She is Yuma County’s second female Eagle Scout and the first young woman west of the Mississippi to earn Dual Honors.
In achieving these milestones, Erin continues a proud family tradition rooted in Scouting. Her parents are long-time leaders, and three of her four brothers also recently earned their Eagle Scout rank. All four siblings were recognized together at their Eagle Scout Court of Honor this May.
Last year, the family was honored as Yuma County’s Scout Family of the Year. Kristin Little and Gary Goodwill have served as dedicated leaders and mentors for more than a decade. They manage popcorn sales for all Scouting America units in Yuma, and Kristin serves as the Scoutmaster for Troop 8051 for girls, chartered by Christ Lutheran Church.
In January, Erin completed her Eagle Scout service project, Stop the Chaos, which involved revitalizing a shared storage space at Sierra Vista Presbyterian Church. In addition to her remarkable Scouting accomplishments, Erin graduated from Kofa High School the night before her family’s Court of Honor. She plans to study engineering at Montana Tech in Butte.
Michael G, Troop 8051 and Crew 8051
Michael G., Erin’s oldest brother, led an Eagle Scout service project focused on teaching classmates and teachers how to use a tourniquet to stop life-threatening bleeding. His initiative, Stop the Bleed, trained over 300 students and staff at Kofa High School. Since then, the Yuma Union High School District expanded the effort to include all district high schools, with 80 students at Cibola High School receiving training. The program is expected to roll out to the remaining schools next year. As part of the project, Michael also inventoried and restocked emergency supply buckets in each classroom.
Michael was inspired to take action after witnessing someone survive a crushed arm injury by using a tourniquet. “My project was to teach both staff and students Stop the Bleed and restock emergency buckets,” he said. “Now, my school is equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to respond in an emergency. It’s growing and has the potential to become ongoing. EMS response times vary, but when seconds count, having trained individuals and accessible equipment can save lives.”
Younger brothers Joseph “Joey” and Anthony James “AJ” both passed their Eagle Scout Boards of Review on May 23, 2025.
Joey G., Troop 8051
Joey’s Eagle Scout service project supported Saddles of Joy by improving their petting zoo. Completed in January, the project included reinforcing fencing, building a climbing area for goats, adding a shade structure, and partnering with a Girl Scout troop to construct a tortoise enclosure. One recommendation praised Joey as “a great example of an Eagle Scout,” noting his respectfulness and commitment to living the Scout Law daily.
AJ G., Troop 8051, Troop 8054
AJ earned all his ranks and merit badges by age 13. For his Eagle Scout service project, he installed a gaga ball pit at Amerischools Academy, expanding recreational opportunities for students of all ages.
“One of the most influential experiences was being voted in as Senior Patrol Leader for Troop 8954,” AJ said. “It pushed me to guide others and better understand my own strengths. That confidence and preparation will stay with me. I’m still exploring future career paths, but Scouting has opened up many options. I know the experiences and skills I’ve gained will help shape my future.”
I’m still exploring future career paths, but Scouting has opened up many options. I know the experiences and skills I’ve gained will help shape my future.
The achievements of Erin, Michael, Joey, and AJ reflect not only individual dedication but also the strength of a family deeply committed to the values of Scouting. From service projects that impact lives to leadership that inspires others, the Goodwill-Little family exemplifies what it means to live the Scout Oath and Law.
Their shared journey—marked by four Eagle Scouts, a Gold Award, and a legacy of mentorship—serves as a reminder of how Scouting shapes lives and strengthens communities for generations to come.
Credit: Joyce Lobeck
