Soldiers, Scouts, Students – FAQ & Guiding Principles
Introduction
Every community has a story worth preserving. Soldiers, Scouts, Students is not an organization — it’s an open-source idea designed to help people connect across generations and preserve the stories that define who we are.
Below are answers to common questions about how the program works, what it stands for, and how you can bring it to your community.
Does Soldiers, Scouts, Students accept donations?
No, and that’s by design.
We don’t ask for or accept money directly. The goal is to empower you and your community to use existing, trusted local nonprofits — like your American Legion Post, library, Scout troop, or historical society — for any fundraising.
This approach keeps the project simple, transparent, and community-centered. Every dollar raised stays local where it makes the most impact.
Is this project political in any way?
Absolutely not.
Soldiers, Scouts, Students is non-political and non-partisan. The project focuses on unity, service, and gratitude — not ideology. It brings people together through shared respect for history, community, and one another.
When is the best time to start a project?
The two most natural times are Veterans Day and Memorial Day.
Those days already unite people in service and remembrance. Many projects begin by simply meeting at a local monument after a ceremony to photograph, reflect, and plan the next steps.
How flexible is the Soldiers, Scouts, Students model?
Completely.
Every town can adapt this model to fit its own story. While it began with military monuments, the same concept can honor civil rights leaders, educators, community advocates, or local heroes.
These, too, are “soldiers” — people who stood for something greater than themselves.
What makes this approach different?
It’s grassroots, open, and sustainable.
There’s no membership, no dues, and no permission needed. Whether you’re a Scout, student, veteran, or teacher — you can start by simply documenting one story, one monument, or one square.
That’s how this grows — organically, one community at a time.
Can this count for service hours or awards?
Yes!
Many schools and organizations recognize these projects for volunteer or leadership requirements.
Common examples include:
- High school community service hours
- Scouting America / Boy Scouts
- National Honor Society credit
- Eagle Scout Service Project (BSA)
- Girl Scout Silver Award
- Junior ROTC, American Legion youth programs, and more
Participation also builds experience for college essays, applications, and resumes.
Closing Thought
Soldiers, Scouts, Students is a living idea — one that grows and adapts as each town adds its own story.
It’s about unity, remembrance, and connection. It’s about making history accessible — one QR code, one monument, one generation at a time.
“This is just the start — together, we can honor the past while shaping a future that inspires generations to come.”
— Phillip D. Olivo, Founder