The National Eagle Scout Association established the Glenn A. & Melinda W. Adams Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award (ESSPY) to recognize Eagle Scout candidates who go above and beyond in service to their communities. These projects represent the very best of Scouting—leadership, creativity, and a commitment to making a meaningful difference.
Each year, councils across the country nominate outstanding Eagle Scout service projects. From there, selections move through a competitive process—first at the local level, then to Council Service Territories (CST), and ultimately to a national review. Territory recipients receive a $350 award, while the national winner is awarded $3,500 to support educational or Scouting pursuits.
A Project That Brought Joy to Young Patients
In 2026, Owen Zamejtis-Brown of Troop 30 in Paradise Valley, was named the Council Service Territory 8 recipient of the ESSPY—an honor that places him among the top Eagle Scout projects across 16 councils spanning from Arizona to Arkansas. He now advances as a candidate for the national award.
Owen’s project focused on something simple, yet powerful: joy.
He organized a Pinewood Derby experience for children at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, many of whom face serious medical challenges and may never have the opportunity to participate in Scouting. Some patients used wheelchairs or walkers, but that didn’t stop them from fully engaging in the experience.
Owen and his team prepared Pinewood Derby kits in advance—assembling and painting cars so they were ready for the children to personalize. At the hospital, the young participants added their own creative touches using paint, stickers, and stencils before racing their cars down the track.
The result? Excitement, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
"My idea is to bring joy and excitement to the patients… an opportunity to forget about anything stressful or taxing on their bodies.”
Reflecting on the event, he added:
“The kids got super creative… Many raced their cars multiple times… This event gave them a lasting experience they won’t forget.”
The Heart of an Eagle Scout Project
Every Eagle Scout candidate must complete a service project that benefits an organization outside of Scouting. These projects require planning, leadership, fundraising, and execution—culminating in a final report that demonstrates impact and growth. Owen’s project stood out not only for its organization and scale, but for its emotional impact. While awards and recognition followed, the true success of the project was found in the smiles of the children he served.
A Well-Deserved Honor
Selected by the Grand Canyon Council’s NESA committee and advancing through territorial competition, Owen’s project earned top honors in CST 8. Along with a $350 award, he will receive a commemorative patch and certificate.
As he awaits national-level consideration, one thing is already clear: his project embodies the spirit of the ESSPY—service of exceptional nature, delivered with heart.
And for Owen, the greatest reward?
The laughter echoed through the halls of Phoenix Children’s Hospital.
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