Joe Valliere (right) poses for a photo with Bishop Robert P. Deeley. (Photo courtesy of Catholic Diocese)

When it came time to decide on an Eagle Scout service project, Joe Valliere knew immediately which organization he wanted to help.

“The basis for every Eagle Scout project is it has to benefit your community. Giving back to the Church seemed like a great idea because they have sponsored my troop and hosted our meetings on their property,” said the 16-year-old member of Troop 648, who has participated in the scouts since the first grade. “The St. Ambrose project was a project that I thought I could successfully accomplish.”

Valliere’s project will be to replace the flooring of the narthex, chapel, and altar at St. Ambrose Church, located on Kimball Street in Richmond.

“The existing flooring has served its useful life,” said Valliere.

The project started in earnest last fall when Valliere planned, organized and gained approval for the project.

“He presented his Eagle Scout project to the parish finance council in March and with a unanimous vote, the project was approved,” said the Rev. Thomas Murphy, pastor of All Saints Parish, of which St. Ambrose is a part.

“Planning it takes far more time than the actual replacement,” said Valliere, who consulted with Mike’s Flooring of Lisbon in assembling his proposal. “The new flooring will be carpet tiles as they are highly functional and can be replaced easily if damaged or worn.”

The pews will be measured in their original positions then removed, as will the existing carpet. The floor will be thoroughly cleaned, then professionals will prepare the floor for the installation of the new carpet tiles. Upon installation, the pews will be put back into their places.

“The replacement will take place in August and is estimated to take 10 days,” said Valliere. “I am required to track all related hours in order to provide a report at the end of the project.”

In recent weeks, Valliere has visited parish churches on the weekend to explain his plan as well as ask for financial support for the project, which will take around $10,000 to complete. He will continue his visits during the month of June.

“All fundraising proceeds cover materials and professional labor,” he said. “I’m grateful for any donations to cover the cost of the effort. Any funds left over will be designated for use towards updating the sound system at St. Ambrose.”

Valliere has raised $4,726 to date.

“Being able to complete my project will feel great,” said Valliere. “Obtaining the Eagle rank is the pinnacle achievement of Boy Scouts.”

Donations toward the project can be made online in the “St. Ambrose Carpet Replacement” section of allsaintsbrunswick.weshareonline.org. You can also mail your donations to: All Saints Parish, 144 Lincoln Street, Bath, ME 04530.