Eagle Scout Candidate Sophia Roux’s deep-rooted connection to St. Louis Center has blossomed into a heartfelt mission to create a lasting space of peace and reflection for the community she holds dear.
Sophia Roux is no stranger to St. Louis Center
Her mother worked at the Center while she was in college and later ‘adopted’ Stanley, one of the residents, inviting him to family celebrations throughout the years. Sophia often accompanied her mother on trips to the Center and she knew the campus well. When it was time for her to complete her Eagle Scout project, she quickly decided to improve the Center’s campus.
Gracious blessings
St. Louis Center is blessed to be the recipient of many Eagle Scout Projects. We have had young adults come to make Adirondack chairs and birdhouses, help with painting projects, create garden walkways, and clear out nature trails that feature birdhouses and deer feeders. This year, Sophia decided to redesign the tranquility garden overlooking the pond at St. Louis Center. She wanted the garden to be a renewed place of prayer and meditation for not only SLC residents but also the staff.
Sophia’s vision
Since the garden was planted almost ten years ago by several adult residents of the Center and their parents, it has become overgrown. But Sophia had a vision and completed her renovations in no time, thanks to the fact that she was joined by her father, and a group of volunteers from her troop!
Starting a project this big can be intimidating; however, Sophia created several drawings and plans and prepared for the challenges she knew she might face. Because of the enormity of the project, a large team was imperative. Many of her volunteers were other like-minded young people who have a passion for service. Even though this group of volunteers was mainly comprised of her peers, Sophia knew that delegation, a sense of understanding, an open mind, and problem-solving skills would be the keys to success.
Many hands make light work
After the paperwork and planning were complete, Sophia, her parents, family, and Scout Troop members worked to tame the Tranquility Garden from August 16th to 18th. The garden is located in the area that connects St. Joseph Hall–where Stanley lives–to the rest of the Center’s campus. 
Sophia wanted a fresh canvas to work with as she redesigned this tranquil place. After the removal of much overgrown vegetation, save for a few deeply rooted trees and shrubs, it was time to plant the new vegetation Sofia handpicked for the garden. After the new plants were installed, mulch and gravel were added. Sophia powerwashed the pair of benches installed in the garden before its makeover and kept the statue of the Blessed Mother Mary, which is displayed in the middle of the peaceful area.
Now, the residents and staff at St. Louis Center have a beautiful and peaceful garden to relax, pray, and meditate in! St. Louis Center is beyond grateful for Sophia and her passion for the individuals here.
Read the entire issue of St. Louis Spirit here!
