Lounge & Learn
At Independence Park, visitors may notice something new along the walking paths — six thoughtfully placed benches inviting them to sit, reflect and learn. For Sam Tinkham, those benches represent far more than a place to rest. They are the culmination of years of dedication, leadership and a lifelong goal: earning the rank of Eagle Scout.
An 18-year-old senior at Center Grove High School, Sam has been involved in scouting since first grade.
“Someone came to speak to his classroom and he came home all excited saying he wanted to be an Eagle Scout someday,” says his mother, Jennifer Tinkham.
That early spark turned into years of commitment, from Cub Scouts through Boy Scouts, shaping not only his skills but also his character.
Along the way, Sam found joy in the outdoors and in serving others. He embraced campouts, learned to cook for his troop and volunteered within the community. Even during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic — when meetings shifted online and many of his peers stepped away — Sam stayed the course.
“He thought about quitting, but he stuck with it,” Jennifer says. “He really flourished when he transitioned into Boy Scouts.”
His journey came full circle as he began inspiring younger students, just as he had once been inspired. Through visits to local elementary schools, he introduced others to scouting, sharing his passion and encouraging them to get involved.
For his Eagle Scout project, Sam wanted to create something lasting and meaningful.
“With my project I wanted to find a way to benefit my favorite local park, Independence Park, while also integrating my passion for technology,” Sam says.
The result is “Lounge & Learn,” a series of six benches, each dedicated to a different organization making a positive impact. Each bench includes signage with QR codes, allowing visitors to learn more about the causes they represent.
“Each bench represents an organization that I am fond of, important to our community, and that is working to solve a pressing crisis in our world,” Sam explains.
One bench honors Shine On, an organization founded in memory of his late uncle that supports children of veterans, children affected by suicide and local scouts. Others highlight the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Wounded Warrior Project, Kic-It, Cancer Research Foundation and Kids In Need Foundation.
While the finished project appears seamless, the process behind it was anything but simple.
“Lots of time went into planning and orchestrating the project,” Sam says.
From fundraising and recruiting volunteers to managing work groups, sourcing materials and constructing the benches, the project required months of coordination and perseverance.
In total, the effort spanned around eight months and included multiple phases — from building the benches to installing them in the park and designing custom laser-cut signage at the library. Sam even had to adapt along the way, working through setbacks like design adjustments required by the parks department and delays due to equipment repairs.
Leadership played a central role throughout.
“Sam did a great job of recruiting friends and adult members of Troop 245 to help bring his project to completion,” Jennifer says. “He also did a great job of delegating tasks.”
That leadership was especially evident during build days, including one memorable afternoon when volunteers formed an assembly line in the family’s garage.
“They got quicker with each bench being built,” Jennifer says. “The boys all looked so proud after finishing the last bench.”
For Sam, one of the most rewarding moments was seeing his vision come to life.
“Watching all the people who came out to help me build what I’d been dreaming up,” he says, “was incredible.”
Now complete, the benches are already making an impact.
“I’ve seen the benches in use as I visit the park frequently,” Sam says. “Most of all I hope people take the time during their daily walks to sit at a bench and learn about each bench and the bench’s respective organization.”
Earning the rank of Eagle Scout marks both an achievement and a turning point.
“My family was overjoyed and proud of my achievement,” Sam says. “Although for me it puts a bittersweet capstone on the incredible journey of scouting in my life.”
His parents share that pride.
“Scouting has helped him become the awesome young man he is today,” Jennifer and Shawn Tinkham say. “We are so proud of Sam.”
As he looks ahead, Sam plans to attend Indiana University Bloomington, where he will study cybersecurity and global policy. He also hopes to join ROTC and one day serve in the United States Air Force, with a goal of working in cybersecurity for national defense.
For now, his legacy is already visible at Independence Park — a place where community members can pause, reflect and connect. Through “Lounge & Learn,” Sam has created more than benches. He has created an experience rooted in service, education and the enduring values of scouting.
