By Brandon Kathman
Special to the Clarkston News

Clarkston Scout Vivien Burke of Troop 185G is renovating the viewing room at OATS (Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles), a nonprofit equestrian center located in Ortonville, to fulfill her last requirement for the rank of Eagle Scout.
OATS offers alternative therapy through the healing power of horses for special needs children and adults, disabled veterans, and youth campers. Their facility spans 40 acres and offers year-round programming for those they serve.
According to Burke, she has volunteered as a horse guide for OATS several times, and her cousin received therapy through their programs.
“This project will help OATS for years to come, providing a welcoming space for parents to watch their kids, volunteers to relax, or even help clients decompress if they get overwhelmed,” Burke said. “My hope for this Eagle Project is to help people in the community for years to come.”
The viewing room presently fulfills multiple functions, serving also as a family gathering area and volunteer break room. With many years of intense use having taken a toll, Burke endeavored to make the room warm and inviting.
After removing the old furniture, she gave the space a deep clean and painted the walls to match the OATS color scheme. The prospective Eagle is also installing new flooring and furnishings, including sensory games and activities tailored for OATS’ many autistic riders.
“It will benefit so many people here at OATS,” said Doug Rohrabaugh, the center’s executive director. “The Scouting community has been very kind to OATS throughout the years.”
On completion of her project, Burke will go before an Eagle Board of Review to secure final approval to receive the Eagle rank, which is Scouting’s highest honor. Only around four percent of youth who participate in the program fulfill the requirements for the badge.

PHOTO: Clarkston Scout Vivien Burke paints the OATS viewing room during a recent project workday as part of her Eagle Scout endeavor. Photo: Brandon Kathman