For many, the holiday season is a time of giving, but for 13-year-old Emerson Kruithof of Troop 51 in Schertz, TX, it’s also a chance to make a meaningful difference in his community. Through dedication and compassion, Emerson used the rewards from his Scouting efforts to bring joy to children in need.
This year, Emerson set an ambitious goal during the popcorn fundraising season: to sell enough popcorn to earn three Amazon gift cards through the Alamo Area Council’s incentive program. His motivation was twofold—he wanted to excel as the top seller in his troop, and he wanted to use one of the $200 gift cards to buy Christmas presents for children at Boysville, a local organization dedicated to helping children from broken homes and crisis situations.
Boysville, affectionately known as “The Home with a Heart,” has served the San Antonio community for over 80 years, providing a safe haven for children and helping them transition to successful adulthood. The Kruithof family first learned about Boysville after seeing it every day on their drive to school. Curiosity led them to research the organization, and their admiration grew when they discovered its mission of supporting children of all ages, from infants to young adults, through comprehensive care and education.
From Idea to Action

With the holiday season approaching, Emerson and his family reached out to Boysville to learn how they could contribute. They were connected with the coordinator for the home’s Christmas Angel Tree program, who provided wish lists for two children: a young boy and a teenage girl. Armed with these lists, Emerson and his father, Justin, spent a day shopping, ensuring every item—from toys to an MP3 player—were carefully selected for the kids.
This experience was particularly meaningful for Emerson, as these children were close to his age. While he didn’t get to meet the recipients to respect their privacy, he found fulfillment in knowing he had made their holiday brighter.
Emerson’s generosity reflects his family’s longstanding commitment to giving, and this time, Scouting empowered him to fundraise independently. Starting his Scouting journey with the British Scouts in England in 2019 while his family was stationed there. He then transitioned to Scouts BSA starting in England and continued after moving to the U.S. He’s an active participant in the Alamo Area Council’s programs, attending Merit Badge Universities and recently earning the Coin Collecting merit badge, which even garnered a letter and collectible coin from President Trump’s office.
A Parent’s Perspective
According to his mom, Erica, Emerson’s success is a source of pride – as it should be. His determination to be the top seller in his unit paid off, but it’s his mom who underscores the real takeaway: “Scouting has given him more opportunities and more confidence, and I’m happy Scouting provided an opportunity to do that.”
As the Kruithof family prepares to celebrate Emerson’s January birthday—a time they traditionally dedicate to supporting local causes—it’s clear that his generous spirit will continue to inspire others. Erica hopes her son’s story encourages more Scouts to think about how their efforts can benefit others, saying, “His generosity has made me so proud, and I hope it inspires others to do the same.”
This holiday season, stories like Emerson’s serve as a reminder of the profound impact one Scout can have on their community through determination, compassion, and the values of Scouting.
Has Scouting made a difference in your family’s life? We’d love to celebrate your story! Share it with us by emailing Scouting@AlamoAreaBSA.org and inspire others with your Scouting journey.