Since he was born, Ooltewah resident William Hazell has shared a home with at least one rescue dog.
Hank is his family's most recently adopted dog. They opened their home to Hank when his previous family decided they no longer wanted him.
"Rescue dogs have been put in bad situations, and they need homes more than [purebred dogs]," said William, as to why his family chooses to adopt dogs rather than purchasing them.
The Hunter Middle School eighth-grader and Boy Scout hopes to earn his Eagle Scout award in January, and for the required project he chose to help something close to his heart - rescue dogs.
He met with McKamey Volunteer Coordinator Karen Wilson, who told him the shelter needs elevated beds for dogs to use in their kennels and in the graveled area outdoors where they like to relax in the sun.
William and 20 volunteers, including fellow members of Troop 82, family and friends, made 25 dog beds using donated materials from Home Depot, Chattanooga Tent, Wilson's Fabric and Ferguson.
"I learned how to lead a project and how to buy the right materials. I also learned some leadership skills," William said.
A Scout since he was in first grade, William has a goal of earning the Eagle award by the time he finishes middle school. He said his father, a recipient of the award, inspired him to earn it.
Email Emily Crisman at ecrisman@timesfreepress.com.