I was very impressed with the mentorship program mentioned in your recent article concerning the Journeymen (“Journeymen to hold fundraiser, help island boys grow,” Sept. 20.) Availability of another program to serve pre-teen and teenage boys is a welcome addition.

As I read how the program uses role models, a significant connection to nature, challenge courses and the tenants of compassion, integrity, resiliency, community, leadership, equity and service, I immediately thought of an organization that has been providing such a program for the 11- to 17-year-old boys of Vashon Island for more than 70 years, the Boy Scouts of America. While the national organization has had some issues until recently, the local Vashon Boy Scout Troop has served hundreds of boys of all socio-economic and racial backgrounds for decades.

Having served as an adult leader for six years, I was introduced to many boys who graduated from Vashon High School in 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002. In that regard, I have witnessed the quality of fine young men these boys became.

In these trying times, our youth needs all the support it can receive. I commend Alex Craighead for introducing his program to our schools.

— Scott Harvey