Lansing High School sophomore Gabriel Njoku set out to collect 600 pairs of shoes for students in need through his Eagle Scout project, Soles for Souls, earlier this school year. Thanks to the incredible support of our Lansing community, that goal was not only met, it was exceeded.
In total, 631 pairs of shoes were collected, with even more donations coming in after the official end of the drive.
The impact has already reached students and families. A school-based giveaway provided 54 pairs of shoes directly to students, while 278 pairs were placed in local donation bins. The remaining shoes were donated to the Leavenworth Interfaith Community of Hope, helping extend support beyond our district.
Gabriel shared his appreciation for the many people who helped make the project possible:
"This project would not have been possible without the support of many incredible people. Special thanks to Superintendent Marty Kobza for allowing me to carry out this project. Thank you to Boy Scout Troop 165, Lansing High and Middle School Student Council, Mona Hauver, and Stephanie Hawks for helping create donation boxes and posters.
A huge thank you to my parents. This would not have been possible without you. Thank you to Emerald Peters for organizing efforts at the middle school, which led to the highest number of donations (133 pairs). I also want to recognize Principal Alan Penrose and Dr. Jennifer Kolb for being flexible and supportive throughout the process.
Thank you to Sharon Burns for sharing my messages, and to Katie Wangsgaard and Scarlett Bergman for helping with early planning and logistics, especially Katie’s idea for the shoe box car collection box.
Thank you to everyone who attended the Soles for Souls shoe shine event, and to NHS (National Honor Society) volunteers for their help. I’m also grateful to the social workers, including Janet Farrar and Mrs. Davis, for helping get shoes to those who need them most.
If I missed anyone, I sincerely apologize, but please know I am incredibly grateful to everyone who supported this project."
Lansing USD 469 would like to thank Gabriel for bringing this project to life. His leadership and dedication made a meaningful difference for our students and community.