2019-20
The mark of the truly remarkable.
Celebrating those who earned the highest awards in Girl Scouting
DEAR GIRL SCOUTS, Congratulations! Whether you have earned the Bronze, Silver, or Gold Award, you have achieved something truly amazing. Dedicating so many hours of work to making a positive change in your community is no easy task. But you have stepped up and made it happen, and we are honored to have you in our sisterhood as Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award Girl Scouts! We hope you enjoy reading about all of the incredible Gold Award projects. These go-getter Girl Scouts made an incredible positive impact in their communities by working to address climate change, raise awareness about cyberbullying, provide access to STEM education for girls, and so much more. We are so proud of all of them! A lot is changing in our world today. At this point in history, we need young women like you—empathetic, resilient, and equipped with the skills and confidence to advocate for change—to help make the world a better place. Maybe you’re considering taking on your Silver or Gold Award project next, or you’re continuing your education, thinking about starting your career, or engaging in advocacy work. Whatever your next step, you will be ready. As Highest Award Girl Scouts, you have already developed the invaluable leadership skills you will need to make a difference, and you will stand firmly as empowered advocates for yourself and others. There is no limit to the impact you can make. Again, congratulations on earning the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards! Yours in Girl Scouting,
Caitríona Taylor Chief Executive Officer
Tricia Tilford Board Chair and President
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HIGHEST AWARDS When Girl Scouts focus on an issue they care about, learn the facts, and take action to make a difference, they gain the confidence and skills that will catapult them to lifelong success. To earn the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards, Girl Scouts must explore their community, identify an issue, make a plan to address it, put the plan in motion (execute the plan), and spread the word. And most important of all, girls must ensure the sustainability of their projects for long-lasting impact.
Bronze ⚬ the highest award Girl Scout Juniors (fourth or fifth grade) can earn ⚬ as a team, each girl dedicates a minimum of 20 hours of work to their project
Silver ⚬ the highest award Girl Scout Cadettes (sixth, seventh, or eighth grade) can earn ⚬ whether taking on a project solo or in a small group, each girl dedicates a minimum of 50 hours of work
Gold ⚬ the highest award Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors (ninth through twelfth grade) can earn ⚬ girls execute their projects individually, spending between one and two years on their projects, and dedicating a minimum of 80 hours of work
Did you know? Gold Award Girl Scouts are entitled to enlist in the armed forces at a higher pay grade.
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GOLD AWARD COMMITTEE Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts would like to thank the following individuals for their significant commitment of time and talent reviewing and approving proposals, supporting girls as they complete their projects, and officiating the completion of projects. Through their dedication to the Girl Scout Mission, they are making a difference in the lives of girls who, in turn, are making the world a better place. Melinda Burrows Eleanor Chabot Patricia Chadwick Katarina Cheng Deirdre Corrigan Vicki Crosson Ashley Cubley Mary Dalton Kerin Deely Amy Durbin Amy Fong Emma Galloway Stephanie Galvin Marianne Geoffroy
Natalie Giraldi Nini Gomez Irene Greenberg Christine Harnett Carolyn Hely Diane Kimball Susan Kohlman Eileen Koury Katelyn Lantz Caitlyn LeBlanc Nancy Marshall Courtney Medlin Gloria Rios-Monarrez Jessica Robinson
Paula Ruozzi Lisa Silletti Gail Spring Marissa Szabo Anne Valade Sally Webster Judith Wilchynski Committee Co-chairs Elizabeth Deck Cathy LeBlanc
Girl Scouts don’t just change the world for the better, they change it for good.
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to our Gold Award Girl Scouts!
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2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Sophia Li
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Acton
Expanding Girls’ STEM Education Growing up, Sophia was always interested in science. When she decided to attend a technical high school, she was grateful for the school’s Girls in STEM club because she was the only girl in the engineering program. Sophia created an all-girl STEM club for seventh and eighth grade girls to provide a comfortable and safe place for STEM exploration. Each meeting focused on a unique field, including anatomy, computer science, circuits, and environmental science, and included fun, hands-on activities such as creating electrical circuits, building a model lung, and constructing self-contained ecosystems. Members of the high school Girls in STEM club will continue to facilitate the middle school STEM club in the future.
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One of the most gratifying moments was when I asked the girls what they will take away from the club. They responded that they loved the stress-free learning atmosphere. Hearing this, I felt truly accomplished, having created a space where they’re not pressured and have the freedom to learn what they want.”
Samantha Currier
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Amesbury
Spreading Theatre Education to Adolescents in the Community To increase teenage involvement in local theatre, Samantha established a youth board at the Amesbury Community Theatre. She created a constitution to lay out the governance of the board. The youth board provides leadership opportunities, and members organize events and fundraisers for the theatre. The first event planned by the youth board was a 50s-themed open mic night that promoted auditions for the upcoming production of Grease. Samantha also created a mentorship program, pairing older and younger students to assist them through their involvement with the theatre. Through their participation, teenagers learn many skills that are beneficial throughout life, such as problem-solving and healthy coping skills.
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Girl Scouting to me, more than anything, means showing exceptional leadership and staying strong no matter what is thrown your way.” 9
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Annika Lof
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Arlington
Increasing Access to Information about Local Historical Sites To address the lack of information and awareness about Arlington’s historical sites and landmarks, Annika created brochures highlighting many local attractions. The brochures are available at tourist attractions and cultural landmarks around town, including a historical site from the Revolutionary War, the first free children’s library in the United States, an art museum, and a bikeway that used to be a railroad. She also made all of the information available online, and created a self-guided walking tour for people to explore Arlington’s history individually or with their families. The walking tour is available online and was posted in the Arlington Advocate every week throughout the spring.
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I learned that I’m capable of a lot more than I originally thought. I was really nervous about doing this project because I’m a pretty shy person, but I learned a lot about self-advocacy and was able to effectively create and lead a team.”
Gabriella Fournier
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Bedford
Oodles of Doodles Gabriella wanted to encourage people to use art as an outlet during times of change, challenge, stress, and growth. She created a series of workshops for students in grades 3-5 at the local youth center that focused on providing an emotional outlet that doesn’t necessarily involve expressing emotions through words. Art projects included dioramas, color wheels, and more. Students also made their own daily art log journals, so they can devote a few minutes a day to creative expression. Gabriella is working with art teachers and guidance counselors at the local high school to make the workshop materials and research available for more students, and she created a website with her workshops that is available to the public.
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Girl Scouts has taught me communication and leadership skills that will benefit me in the future. It has truly shaped me into the person I am today, and has allowed me to meet some incredible people.”
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Allison Kranz
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Bedford
Doing is Strength Allison couldn’t find many resources in her community about cancer, healthy choices to help prevent cancer, and how to be supportive to those with cancer. In response, she created an educational unit for the local school’s health curriculum consisting of information and statistics, suggestions for healthy choices to help prevent cancer, information on everyday items that are carcinogenic, and advice on how to best support others affected by cancer. She also created three informational brochures that are available at the library, and had a table at Bedford’s Relay for Life where she provided information and brochures.
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I think my biggest impact was conversations with students in my community. Yes, this subject is very dark to discuss, but by talking about what you can do to make your life and the lives around you healthier, and by being more conscious of what others may be going through, I was able to give them a light at the end of the tunnel.”
Simone French
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Beverly
Advanced Life Planning After experiencing the loss of loved ones, Simone was inspired to help others ease the toll these loses can take on families. With the Beverly Council on Aging, Simone taught seniors about advanced life planning, surveying the seniors on various topics and interviewing experts to gain more insight and resources on these subjects. Simone then interviewed two experts on the Council on Aging’s local cable access show, and conducted live audience presentations to talk more about these topics. She posted a video of the interviews on YouTube and distributed flyers with resources to senior housing facilities.
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I’ve been a part of Girl Scouts for 13 years and I appreciate being a part of something bigger than myself. I even attended the 100th year celebration in Washington, D.C. I enjoyed networking with other Girl Scouts from around the country and around the world and it’s one of my fondest experiences in Girl Scouting.”
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2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Jean Azar-Tanguay
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Boston
It’s where the apostrophe goes: Creating safe and welcoming environments for LGBTQ+ students in schools Jean created and shared a curriculum for teachers and educators on how to better support LGBTQ+ students and students with LGBTQ+ parents in school environments. The curriculum focused on microaggressions that come as a result of subtle heteronormativity in school lessons and society as a whole. Jean included data, survey results, tips for avoiding offensive scenarios, proper pronoun use, and examples of common microaggressions that she personally had experienced or witnessed. Jean provided the curriculum to COLAGE, an international organization by and for people with LGBTQ+ parents, along with a video recording of her final presentation for members of their staff.
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Teachers at my school expressed frustration with the lack of support for them in this area, sharing with me that the legal speech they get about inclusivity is far from enough. LGBTQ+ students and families deserve to have a comfortable, safe, and productive learning environment free from heteronormativity and exclusive language.”
Abigail McArthur Keith
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Dartmouth
Run Together The Unified Track Team at Abigail’s high school was created to offer all students access to the sport’s physical activity and comradery, and she was motivated to expand this opportunity to students at the middle school. The team created an all-inclusive environment that is important to all students, regardless of physical or neurological abilities. The team practiced once a week after school for five weeks, leading up to a meet with the high school Unified Track Team and a trip to the Special Olympics School Day Games hosted by the high school every year. Two Dartmouth high school students, who helped Abigail with the Unified Track Team, will run the team again this spring.
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Girl Scouting means having a lifelong sisterhood that will always stand behind you and support you, but also be there to help you up if you fall.”
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Jessica Elmhurst
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East Walpole
Composting Poster and Video Contest
National Gold Award Girl Scout Nominee
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Jessica is passionate about the benefits of composting for the environment, and as part of her Gold Award project, formed a composting committee within the green team at her high school. Together they created engaging presentations and visited elementary schools, Girl Scout troop meetings, Parent Advisory Council meetings, and town meetings to spread the message about composting, complete with worm composting boxes Jessica constructed herself. She also worked with the Board of Health Director to create a local composting contest. To participate, community members make informational posters or videos to get children excited about composting. The composting committee will continue to give presentations and run the contest each year.
Because I am a Girl Scout, I am more inclined to challenge myself and face problems. When I see an issue, I know I am empowered to take the initiative to change the world. Girl Scouting gave me the self-confidence to stand in front of a crowd or contact representatives in my town.”
Tanya Gupta
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East Walpole
Walpole Healthcare Activities Knowing that not all residents of a local assisted living facility have visitors, Tanya organized a series of healthy activities that fostered good well-being and social engagement with local students, many of whom do not have grandparents in the country. On Mondays, the students engaged in hand-eye coordination activities, such as timed writing and drawing exercises and a catching game. On Thursdays they focused on meditation, and on Fridays they focused on improving memory through reading comprehension activities and number games. Tanya also included a community awareness aspect to her project by creating a Facebook page for her program, which will continue running into the future with more volunteers.
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I am majoring in predental/dental-hygiene in college, which is a 3-year accelerated program. I had to face many obstacles as part of my project, so any problems that arise in my career pathway can also be fearlessly conquered.” 13
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Michaela Olah
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Franklin
The Gluten-Free Site: Franklin and Surrounding Areas Drawing from her own experience with celiac disease, Michaela wanted to aid and educate those recently diagnosed with this chronic autoimmune disease, their families, and the wider community. Michaela created a website with information on gluten-free restaurants in the community, an explanation and symptoms of celiac disease, reliable resources, feedback forms, a video of her workshop, and more. Her workshop includes a PowerPoint presentation and facilitated discussions, which she presented to various local groups. Michaela also created posters and educational brochures, and distributed them around her community in order to increase awareness. The website and information are being maintained by Franklin Pediatrics and a local community member.
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I aspire to go to medical school and become a child psychiatrist. Working with my local pediatrician’s office and diving deep into the fascinating science of the villi of the small intestine helped me to see the rewarding effects of working in the medical field.”
Shannon Reardon
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Franklin
Alzheimer’s Awareness for Kids Growing up, Shannon had a hard time knowing how to best interact with loved ones diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. To help other children in this situation, she created a kid-friendly pamphlet including facts about Alzheimer’s Disease, how children and teens might feel, what they can do to support their loved ones, and books and online resources for all ages. She also created a list of 50 activities to do with a person with Alzheimer’s Disease. Shannon made presentations to children, teens, caregivers, and Alzheimer’s and dementia advocates; they read age-appropriate books about Alzheimer’s Disease and made purple bracelets for Alzheimer’s Awareness.
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My experience as a Girl Scout taught me to be empathetic to others and helped me develop communication skills. It also taught me that a little kindness goes a long way and that helping others is a core value of humanity.”
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Clarissa LaGasse
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Groton
Hope Cards and Chats To decrease the isolation seniors experience in her community, Clarissa launched a program to forge new relationships between community members and senior citizens. Local Girl Scout troops and students visited a senior living facility to spend time with the residents, and then created cards and birthday bags for the residents to be delivered on their birthdays. Clarissa also educated the public about the issue of senior isolation, and advocated for a change in perception and treatment of seniors through a series of lessons and presentations. Girl Scout troops in the Nashaway Service Unit and students in the local high school’s Volunteer Club will continue to facilitate the visits and card delivery.
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My experience as a Girl Scout has taught me to network with community members and use my resources wisely to create solutions to problems.”
Diana Mendel
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Groton
Bat Education and Conservation To address the increasing number of mosquito-borne illnesses found locally, Diana dedicated her Gold Award project to improving bat conservation in her community and raising awareness of the importance of bats. Working closely with the Nashua River Watershed, Diana held classes for local children and Girl Scout troops to educate them on the importance of bats for the environment, the different endangered bat species, bat conservation efforts, and how to build bat boxes, which they were able to take home to install. Diana also worked in collaboration with the Groton Parks Department and Groton Conservation Trust to build and install multiple bat boxes around her community.
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I learned that I am very passionate about helping animals and the environment. I also learned that I am a strong leader who is not afraid of challenges, and I work well under pressure.” 15
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Libby Anderson
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Harwich
All Arts Night Libby noticed a decrease in students engaging in visual and performing arts as they moved from middle to high school. To increase arts education and exploration, she reinstated All Arts Night, a Harwich school tradition prior to their merge with the Monomoy schools. This event showcases the art from all of Chatham and Harwich Elementary, Monomoy Middle, and Monomoy High schools, while bringing the students together through a combined concert. There were around 200 performers in the concert, and between 350-400 people were in the audience. The concert was recorded and uploaded to YouTube, and the community is excited for the upcoming years of All Arts Night.
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Girl Scouting has done so much for me in my 12 years of being involved. Girl Scouts has helped me meet my best friends, learn life skills, and have fun with people around my community.”
Eliza Bastis
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Hingham
Hingham’s Helping Hands To create a culture of volunteerism among the younger generation, Eliza created an afterschool club to support various local service organizations. Each month she partnered with organizations including Pine Street Inn, Rosie’s Place, Father Bill’s Homeless Shelter, Friends of The Homeless South Shore, Hingham Food Pantry, and Project Linus. She created a fun and interactive service activity for students to engage in to support the organizations, such as assembling lunches, making fleece blankets, and creating self-care kits for teens and adults. She promoted the service organizations and projects in the school newsletter along with sign up information. The Plymouth River School PTO community service committee will continue to facilitate the club in the future.
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Although I had previous experience in leadership positions, such as during my Silver Award, Hingham’s Helping Hands taught me that I am much more capable of using these leadership qualities and my voice in a greater way to benefit others.”
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Katelyn Murray
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Hingham
STEAM Team Katelyn was concerned that there wasn’t a program introducing young students to the skills necessary for careers in the STEAM industries. In response, she created a 12-week after-school program for third through fifth grade students of all abilities that highlighted 12 women in STEAM fields with presentations about their lives and two hands-on labs related to the session subject. When the COVID-19 pandemic cancelled the in-person program, Katelyn transformed the remaining lessons into videos and instructions to complete the experiments with common household items. Katelyn is partnering with the high school Kindness Club to continue running the program in the future.
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My experience as a Girl Scout prepared me to take action because it showed me the countless ways that I can become involved within my community and how I can make a difference within it. Journeys and earning badges allowed me to have a goal and learn how to achieve it through teamwork, trial and error, and confidence.”
Samantha Altman
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Hopkinton
Obesity Awareness in Pets for Low Income Pet Owners To address pet obesity in low income communities, Samantha teamed up with veterinarians and veterinarian students at Tufts Veterinary School. After conducting research, Samantha created a pamphlet to raise awareness and provide resources on healthy pet care. She distributed the pamphlets to several animal shelters and local pet owners in low-income housing who were participating in a study with Tufts. Additionally, she and a veterinarian presented on pet obesity to pet owners who came to have their pets evaluated at a pet wellness day. Samantha also created a PowerPoint that she presented to younger Girl Scout troops in her community and provided to animal rights organizations.
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As a result of completing my Gold Award, I learned more about leadership and problemsolving. I know how to be a good leader and I am confident in myself because of being a Girl Scout.” 17
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Catharine Barry
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Hopkinton
Staying Safe During Natural Disasters To increase awareness and provide information on how to prepare for a natural emergency, Catharine worked with emergency staff in her community to create an accessible and easy-to-read flyer with information on what to do before, during, and after an emergency. The Fire Chief included the flyer in emergency bags provided to seniors, and Catharine distributed flyers and talked to many families at the local farmers market and at the town’s fair-style event featuring various Town of Hopkinton departments. She also worked with the town’s IT department to provide the information online, and with the local town paper to include it in an issue.
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The main thing I learned during my project was to advocate for myself. I learned how to walk into a meeting prepared, and get what I wanted to get accomplished done during the meeting.”
Pooja Kawatkar
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Lexington
Lexington Conservation Program When there was a drought in Pooja’s hometown of Lexington, there were no restrictions on the outdoor usage of water, resulting in unsafe conditions in the event of a fire emergency. Pooja reached out to representatives of local towns to conduct research on their successful implementation of rain barrels, a low-impact green infrastructure solution that uses stored rainwater for outdoor usage. She then created and proposed a rain barrel program to the Lexington Department of Public Works and a potential vendor. The program was approved, and Pooja led the program promotion throughout town. The first round of barrel distribution was a success, with 94 barrels distributed and demand for more. The Department of Public Works will continue the rain barrel program into the future.
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As Girl Scouts, we learn to be innovative. We find a problem and work as a team to figure out ways to solve it and then execute it. We’re always finding ways to interact with the community and see how to make it better.”
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Katherine Corbin
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Marlborough
An End to Cyberbullying To address the cyberbullying issue in her community, Katherine created a cyberbullying awareness program for students ages 11-18. With assistance from members of a community service group at her school, Katherine developed a curriculum that included interactive activities, presentations, and resources educating students on the causes and effects of cyberbullying. The community service group will continue to offer the cyberbullying awareness program to students.
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Part of being a good leader is being able to listen to others and incorporate different ideas to make the best final product possible. I believe this project strengthened my leadership skills and made me a better person.”
Sarah Gustafson
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Marlborough
Cause a Buzz To foster a thriving bee population in her community, Sarah created a bee-friendly perennial garden using organic fertilizers and non-genetically engineered plants. To spread awareness about the declining bee population globally, Sarah presented at the Barnstable County Fair alongside the Barnstable Beekeeper Association, as well as at the weekly Harwich Farmers Market and the New England Home Show. She also created and distributed informational fliers and bee baths, which give bees a safe place to drink without the fear of drowning. MA Audubon will display an informational poster Sarah created at the Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary in Barnstable, and the garden will be maintained by a private company that is donating mulch each year.
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The most successful part of my project for me personally was learning how to speak to people. I was forced to conquer my fears of talking to random people. This skill made me become less shy and more confident in myself.”
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2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Catherine Callahan
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Medfield
Majestic Monarchs of Medfield Upon learning of the sharp decline of the monarch butterfly population due to land development and pesticide use, Catherine knew she wanted to create a monarch waystation at a local school. She planted milkweed and nectar plants to support the local monarch population. She also rescued monarch butterfly eggs from dangerous locations in her community, raised them in her home and at the local library, and released them into the waystation when they were full-grown. Catherine also taught a curriculum to second grade students about the importance of and threats to this species. She also mailed seed packets and informational activities to Girl Scout troops in other states along the monarch migration route.
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Girl Scouts produces active leaders that are not afraid to address community needs and find solutions. At every meeting I feel honored to be among such brilliant and inspiring peers and leaders.”
Haley Dion
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Medway
R.E.A.C.H. (Reaffirming Educational Achievements for the Children of Haiti) After a trip to Haiti as the head of her high school’s St. Marguerite’s Haitian Partnership, Haley wanted to improve the education conditions for children in Haiti. She decided to run school supply collection drives, sending all donations to a partner school in Haiti. Additionally, she raised awareness about the importance of education in Haiti by creating and leading a Haitian program for local Girl Scout troops, and presenting on Haiti at her town’s International Day Celebration with a local troop. She also created a new annual sports event at her high school called Play for Haiti Day to raise monetary donations to fund Haitian teacher salaries and collect school supplies.
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I am majoring in Global Health and Neuroscience at Duke University to become a doctor and open my eyes to global perspectives on health care. I am also taking classes on Creole and plan on returning to Haiti to provide care to community members in need, in addition to helping strengthen their health care system from the inside out.”
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Katie Bernard
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Middleton
Girl Power STEM Olympics Katie and her sister tried joining many STEM programs in their community when they were younger, but felt frustrated by the gender imbalance. Katie was inspired to create a program designed specifically for young girls to explore their STEM interests in a supportive girl-only space. She created a four-week hands-on STEM class for girls in grades 3-5, with a curriculum focused on chemistry, biology, engineering, and computer science. High school students served as mentors as the younger girls participated in lessons, experiments, and hands-on activities, earning themselves a medal for each class. They also learned about professional women who excel in each of these STEM fields. Katie provided her curriculum to her high school administration so the after-school program can continue.
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I plan to attend college and am interested in studying science. My project was teaching girls STEM, and that furthered my own interest in science.”
Mira Plante
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Middleton
Litter: Let’s Sort it Out! Upon noticing increasing amounts of trash on the streets and in waterways in her town, Mira decided to address the issue through education, prevention, and clean-ups. She worked with Middleton Recreation to run litter and recycling education games for children attending their summer program, and wrote an interactive story called “What’s Happening to the Ipswich River?” Mira also spoke with the Board of Selectmen and town representatives about providing trash bags to coaches during sports events, and expanding the Massachusetts bottle bill to include plastic water bottles. She also provided schools with landfill signs for school trash bins to encourage recycling, and created the Give Thanks Challenge to inspire litter cleanups. Mira provided her curriculum to schools, the library, and local organizations to continue these efforts.
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The Journeys I completed as a Girl Scout Ambassador helped me to realize my commitment to my community. The Advocacy Journey in particular helped me to build relationships with community members that were sustained through my Gold Award project.” 23
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Jacquelyn Welby
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Millis
Reading for the Future In order to boost literacy among young children in her community, Jacquelyn put together a presentation about literacy among Americans and the importance of developing literacy skills at a young age. She presented to families at various community events, and surveyed participants to track retention. Jacquelyn also assembled a team to build boxes for book donations for a local family shelter and lead story times for children. The Teen Library Council at the local high school will continue to facilitate the story times.
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Girl Scouting is about helping others. You can use what you’re good at, or what you like— making a change with your unique self.”
Emily Arthur
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Natick
Seated Dance Fitness Class To make exercise more appealing and accessible to seniors, Emily developed and taught a seated dance-based fitness class for residents of a local healthcare center. She developed the classes with assistance from physical therapists, and focused them on both physical and mental health. Emily also made videos of the classes, which are available to the public on YouTube, and the activities department at the healthcare center is continuing to host the classes.
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To me, Girl Scouting means being able to help other people and giving back to my community, while still having fun and developing skills to be used in my future.”
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Grace Hartigan
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Natick
Kids Serve Too Drawing from her own experience as a child in a military family, Grace wanted to provide support for children who have family members serving in the military overseas. Working with the school superintendent and principal, Grace created an afterschool club for kids in military families in Natick. Together the children engaged in a range of activities including making posters for a school building, learning coping techniques through yoga, interviewing a Natick veteran, and more. A teacher in the Natick school system and her two children, who are a part of a military family, are continuing the club.
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Girl Scouts has become a family to me. I’ve gained relationships with so many people that I now call my sisters. I help others in need and do good for my community with them. In Girl Scouts I’ve grown up looking up to older girls in my community, and now I am passing down these responsibilities to younger future leaders in my town.”
Cecilia Rose
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Natick
Military Mission Uplift Cecilia was motivated to support soldiers in her community and create a community that is more aware of the purpose and function of the military. Cecilia offered a series of classes for adults and students of all ages on the branches of the military, our freedoms and rights, and the many stressors soldiers and their families endure during deployments and reentering society. Cecilia also organized a mass service for veterans, active military members, and their families, as well as a meet-and-greet reception. Local Girl Scouts volunteered at both events and were able to engage with the honored guests. Cecilia also hosted a donation drive at the local elementary school to support the local group Helping Our Troops.
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I learned I had the strengths, skills, and talents to undertake this intense project working with people more knowledgeable than myself, creating and managing the team, making last minute changes, and delegating. The project has instilled in me the importance of community involvement, making an impact, and promoting change.”
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2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Pranali Ashara
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North Andover
Food for Thought Globally, more than one billion tons of food end up in landfills, producing greenhouse gases that are destructive to the environment. At the same time, about 800 million people in the world experience malnutrition. Pranali created a Food Rescue program at a local elementary school, encouraging students to donate their uneaten food to someone in need in their community. Students placed any unopened food in bins to be sorted and donated to a local homeless shelter. Pranali also facilitated workshops about food waste with Girl Scout troops, Boy Scout troops, and fifth grade classes at the school. Pranali also created a website called Operation: Zero Waste, which houses educational materials on the effect of food waste on our environment and includes an extensive guide for students to initiate Food Rescue programs in their schools.
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I envision myself working as an environmental scientist to further sustainability and eventually save our planet from this environmental crisis. In Girl Scouts I have gained the skills necessary to realize this goal: courage, determination, communication, and leadership.”
Amy Guggenberger
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North Andover
History Hike To bring awareness to her town’s history and to promote healthy activities, Amy created a history hike along the Stevens-to-Stevens trail in North Andover. After conducting research on North Andover’s history, Amy put together 18 pages of information on local buildings, events, and community members throughout time. Along the trail, Amy and her team installed wooden brackets to existing map stands for her town history pages as well as activity pages for children, both of which will be changed throughout the year and beyond.
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Our town’s history is very rich and very interesting; it is important to know who came before us and what our town used to look like."
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Alexya Lee
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North Chelmsford
The Ground We Walk On: Remembering Local History Alexya assembled and led a team in researching the history of the local high school’s property, which includes a history of slavery. She created a curriculum for middle school students based on their findings, and she also presented the research and history of the property to members of the community at an exhibition night. The team also presented their research methods, including their archeological work, which resulted in the discovery of some historical artifacts. Alexya also began working with school representatives on a memorial project for those who were enslaved on the property, which she will continue working on into the future. Alexya supplied the lessons and research to the middle school history teachers so that they can continue teaching the curriculum, and also met with the Head of School to inform him of the property history as well.
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I didn’t realize how strong I had become in my beliefs about the importance of acknowledging a history of slavery until I heard people disagree with me—it showed me that despite the fact that I was being challenged, I held strong in my opinion and I knew what I was talking about.”
Morgan Wahlstrom
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Rockland
Music Wall Morgan and her team created a music wall at a local playground for community members of all ages, abilities, languages, and backgrounds. This inclusive space made of recycled and sustainable materials was constructed to support the sensory, emotional, and physical needs of young children, and to increase their access to music. Morgan created and distributed brochures about the new music wall throughout town, and is hosting programs with the music wall for youth groups and Girl Scout troops throughout the community.
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I am proud of the way the wall turned out and know that my skills brought it to “life.” I had to make adjustments along the way and realized I was able to give direction and take suggestions to make my dream a reality.”
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2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Alexandra Flodman
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Rowley
A Peek into the Past: The First Congregational Church of Rowley To preserve her town’s history, Alexandra created a video documentary about the history of the relations between the First Congregational Church of Rowley and the Town of Rowley. She researched the church’s history and impact in the town by conducting a number of interviews with members of the church and residents of the town. After editing the footage and finalizing the video, Alexandra hosted two viewing parties, each followed by a discussion about the video with church members and youth. The documentary is available on DVD at the church and local library, as well as on YouTube. There will be a viewing and discussion of the documentary every year.
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This project has made me realize that I do have the skills and the leadership to take on large projects to help my community. Completing this project gave me a new confidence and sense of accomplishment that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.”
Sarah Harrington
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Rowley
Let’s Run To boost physical activity among children in her community, Sarah created a running camp for children ages 5-12 to help them learn proper running form, increase the distance they can run, and adopt healthy habits. Each day the children performed proper stretches and participated in running games. They also engaged in abdominal workouts and learned about pacing through the running forms of different animals. The camp culminated with a 5K race and award ceremony. Members of the local high school female cross-country team will continue to host the camp in the future, and youth organizations will continue to market the camp to families.
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I used my leadership skills to create the camp and rally up fellow runners to volunteer. I was able to pass on what I have learned from my coaches, summer running camps, and my own running journey.”
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Genevieve Withington
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Stoughton
Outdoor Multicultural Literacy Classroom Genevieve knew there was a need for more diverse and multicultural texts in her community. She also wanted to create an outdoor learning space for students. She started by assembling a team of volunteers who together cleaned up an outdoor space at a local school. Then they created an outdoor literacy space accessible to all members of the school and the community. The space includes authentic texts from a variety of communities and countries with positive messages that promote a love for community and for learning. Genevieve also started a book club at the school; school members and administration are maintaining the outdoor literary space.
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I plan to attend a four-year college and major in elementary education so I can continue to work with elementary students and show every child that with hard work and determination, there is nothing that can’t be accomplished.”
Emily Fisher
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Sudbury
Homelessness Education and Assistance Program Knowing that almost 20,000 people in Massachusetts experience homelessness today—a number that has doubled since 1990—Emily wanted to raise awareness of this growing reality among the youth in her community. She developed an interactive educational program about homelessness for middle school students, which included online activities and a tenant association simulation. Emily also facilitated an essential goods collection drive to support those experiencing homelessness locally. The youth educators at a local church will continue to offer the homeless youth education program.
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I believe that the creativity and insight that I put into the simulation made it an exercise that helped open the eyes of the young participants to some of the real-world issues associated with homelessness.”
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2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Theresa Meehan
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Sudbury
Let’s Go Science Theresa is passionate about environmental science and is a member of her high school’s science club. Upon noticing a lack of science enrichment experiences for younger students, she created an after-school science club for elementary and middle school students. She assembled a team of administrators and high school students, and developed and taught courses on topics including the solar system, the formation of planet Earth, the impact of industrialization, and the resulting problems of global warming, climate change, and mass extinctions. Students performed weekly science experiments and compared outcomes when variables were changed. Theresa and her team are continuing to lead the after-school science club at the school.
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The Gold Award project showed me the importance of looking at the needs in my community and finding solutions.”
Ariana Casella
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Swampscott
Making Friends Knowing that socialization is vital to those with Dementia, Ariana wanted to make a difference and create opportunities for socialization for those who might not have them otherwise. After assessing the problem and diving deep into research, Ariana created a program for teenagers to visit the local assisted living center and engage with the residents. Ariana presented to students at St. John’s Parish and in the high school National Honor Society to recruit a team of volunteers. Every weekend, these students visited the residents in the Dementia unit to play bingo, work on art projects, cook meals, and converse with them. Ariana also created a website with all of her Dementia research and the details of the program, and the assisted living center is continuing to offer this volunteering opportunity to students.
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I learned how far true devotion to a cause can take you. As long as you put your best foot forward and are passionate about what you’re doing, you can do anything.”
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Olivia Scott
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Topsfield
Transportation Education: Road Safety in a Rural Community Olivia’s hometown is small and has many narrow and winding roads without sidewalks that can be unsafe for pedestrians, bikers, and drivers. Olivia started by conducting research on road safety, speaking to local police officers and safety officials. Then she held classes at the local elementary school to teach students in fourth through sixth grade about pedestrian and bike safety. After the class series, Olivia organized a Walk to School Day, on which students demonstrated what they had learned. The school principal will continue to use the safety curriculum and host the Walk to School Day annually.
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I learned that if I put in courage and determination, I can accomplish anything. There may be a few bumps in the road on the way, but I learned that as long as I’m flexible and I stay on track, anything can happen.”
Amanda Taylor
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Townsend
Embrace a Busier Lifestyle As students get older, it can be challenging for them to keep up with assignments, tests and quizzes, and extracurricular activities, which can affect grades, mood, and productivity. To help students with this adjustment, Amanda ran workshops at the youth center in her town, teaching middle school students effective organization habits. Topics included using a planner, decorating, labeling, keeping important documents in binders and folders, and organizing academic and personal items. After running a few successful sessions, she turned the workshops into a club that will be facilitated by Amanda’s advisor and student volunteers.
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Girl Scouts has led me to some of my best life experiences, such as traveling to Paris, France, and I am grateful that Girl Scouts has brought me closer to my community.”
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2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Qian Long
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Wayland
Capturing the World Around Us
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Qian wanted to show young students that photography is more than taking photos on a smartphone. Though a series of photography workshops, Qian taught elementary and middle school students how to use a camera, how photography can relieve stress and express emotions, and how photography can make one more connected to the world. Students also learned how to pursue various photography careers and how to edit photos. At the culmination of the workshops, Qian put together a gallery at the town library displaying the students’ photos for the community to see. Qian plans to host the workshops in future school years.
I took the role as an educator and teacher. As I went through my lessons, I often answered questions, floated around to help, and inspired my photography club participants. I learned independence, time management, and how to be organized.”
Ciara Murphy
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Wayland
Medical Club In order to cultivate connections between high school students and medical professionals within her town, Ciara created a Medical Club for students of all ages who have an interest in medicine. For each meeting, they invited a local medical professional to instruct and facilitate an activity related to their field of practice. Among other lessons, students learned how to tape an injured ankle, and got certified by Stop the Bleed, a nationwide campaign teaching students how to stop small or large bleeds for both personal first aid and overall community safety. More than 100 students have already enrolled in next year’s medical club.
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I really enjoyed doing my Gold Award project and I think I would like to continue similar projects in the future. I also believe as a young woman, we should not be afraid to go into STEM fields and that we should feel confident in ourselves.”
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Julianne Klurfeld
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Wellesley
Building Connections through Music Help The band and choral programs at Julianne’s high school are large and consist of students from all grade levels. As a result, there can be a disconnect between students who aren’t already friends or in the same grade. To address this problem, Julianne created a music help program. Though the program, students who would like help learning and playing their instrument (mainly underclassmen) are matched with peers (mainly upperclassmen) who are willing to help them. Students were not only able to improve their music skills, but also meet other students, build new friendships, and gain more connections in the music department. The program will be run and led by two rising seniors next year.
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Girl Scouting is something I cherish. Not only have I been able to work on my leadership and teamwork skills, I have also been able to make many lifelong friendships.”
Johanna van der Wal
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Wellesley
Band Rejuvenation There had been a trend of students dropping out of the band programs in the Wellesley public school system. This sometimes prevented the bands from taking part in music competitions due to a lack of diverse instrumentation. To address these dropoff rates, Johanna created a program for high school players to participate in middle and elementary school rehearsals as volunteers and mentors. Through her program, Johanna created a supportive environment that boosted young students’ inspiration and motivation to remain in the band program through middle and high school. The middle and high school band directors will continue this collaboration in the future.
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I learned how to stand up for myself and others to authority figures. I will now always be prepared to do this in the future. I also practiced being a role model for younger students, and I gained the ability to effectively recruit and organize volunteers.” 35
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Katherine Ann Barlow
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Weston
Women in America’s Early Days Katherine believes that learning about the past can impact our future. Drawing from her interest in the colonial unit of her US history class, Katherine began by researching women from colonial times who used their voices to stand up for what they believed in. Katherine taught lessons on these women to fifth grade students, with accompanying crafts and activities. She also trained a team of volunteers to help facilitate the lessons. She distributed the lesson plan to fifth grade teachers to continue teaching more students.
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The career field I want to go into is law. In order to be strong in that field, one needs to be able to form strong arguments to cause change. This connects to my project about how women used their voices in the past and how that empowers us to use our voices now and in the future.”
Shraddha Lulla
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Weston
Stress Reduction through Music Therapy and Food Shraddha noticed that as soon as she and her classmates entered high school, the amount of stress and pressure skyrocketed. She personally uses cooking, baking, and music to reduce her stress, and thought these techniques might be helpful to her peers as well. Shraddha created and taught a course at her high school on stress reduction through music therapy and food. One part of the course focused on pie therapy—specifically the calming, repetitive movements of making dough—and another focused on music therapy, involving listening to relaxing music and the sounds of nature. Shraddha also created an Instagram page and wrote articles for the town newspaper with stress reduction tips.
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My Gold Award project taught me so much about leadership, communication, and teamwork. I also learned how to create and teach a course, and I am definitely more appreciative of all of my teachers, who have to do these things on a regular basis!”
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Laurel Barnett
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Westwood
Music Matters for Seniors Laurel created a music program at the Senior Center in Westwood to combat loneliness, provide intellectual stimulation, and boost musical engagement among seniors and caretakers. Laurel coordinated lunchtime lectures on topics including John Williams and movie scores, jazz in the Boston area, Beethoven, and the many health benefits of musical engagement. Laurel also created a series of flyers and newspaper articles to educate the public about the health benefits of music. When the COVID-19 pandemic halted the program and her plans to take the seniors on a trip to see the New England Conservatory’s Youth Symphony, Laurel created a YouTube channel where she posted a recorded lecture from a New England Conservatory orchestra conductor as well as videos of students singing or playing instruments. This content also aired on the local cable access channel, and the senior center will continue the program in person in the future.
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I learned to be less hesitant in asking for help or delegating. I was surprised by just how willing people I asked were to help with my project and be involved when they could.”
Sallyrose Savage
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Weymouth
Preserving our Past for our Future Sallyrose wanted to address the lack of community knowledge and access to information about Hingham’s history. Working with the town’s historic administrator and information technology, community planning, and conservation departments, Sallyrose digitized historical records (including housing forms, newspaper articles, and photos) to create one electronic file for each town address providing information on its architecture, significance, and history. Sallyrose made the files available on a Geographic Information Systems website and map, and has created instructions for community members on how to add files and create new records. She presented the new system to the Hingham Historical Commission, and the information is available on the town of Hingham’s website and at the Town Hall.
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I am now no longer afraid to assert myself among others instead of having my opinions pushed aside. Because of all I’ve learned, I will no longer be afraid to take a leadership position. For example, because of this project, I took a leap of faith and ran for National Honor Society President and won.”
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2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Stephanie Bianco
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Winchester
Mystic Lake Water Clarity Stephanie learned that the water quality and herring migration in Mystic Lake was being negatively impacted by development and phosphorus overuse around the lake. Another negative impact was the development of a large algae bloom that made the lake unsafe for the community. Stephanie began measuring and tracking the water clarity each week using a Secchi disk to provide this important data to scientific organizations such as the Mystic River Watershed Association and the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Stephanie trained local sailing instructors on the importance of this issue and how to record weekly water clarity measurements to continue providing this data.
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I am by nature introverted. I learned that I could make an oral presentation to a scientist and older teenagers about the project and how to do it. This gave me great confidence after doing these presentations.”
Courtney Dalton
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Winchester
Love for Leukemia Courtney dedicated her Gold Award project to supporting leukemia patients. Working in collaboration with Tufts Medical Center in Boston, Courtney created a token program in which student volunteers created message-in-a-bottle tokens with positive messages on them for leukemia patients at Tufts. Courtney also presented to students and community members at a booth at the annual town fair about how to join the National Bone Marrow Donor Registry; only 2% of potential donors are on the registry. Courtney also contacted local senators and representatives to advocate for the PACT (Patient Access to Cellular Transplant) Act. Courtney did a lot of this work with peers from the Healthcare Occupations Club at the local high school, who will continue these efforts in the future.
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The most successful part of my project was by far going to Tufts Medical Center and presenting the tokens to staff and patients. Seeing the faces of young adults light up because I took time to make something that materializes their cancer journey and emphasizes hope was unforgettable.”
2019-20 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Dhwani Sreenivas
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Winchester
fEmpower To offer new opportunities and resources for young girls to explore their interests in STEM, Dhwani created fEmpower, a web-based computer science curriculum for elementary school girls in third through fifth grade. The six-day course teaches basic fundamentals in coding such as operators, algorithms, loops, and conditional statements. Girls were able to practice both practical and innovative thinking skills, and apply their creativity to solve problems and create their own projects. The program can be self-guided by students, and is easily expandable to communities with few resources to teach formal computer science classes in schools. Dhwani is continuing lessons over the summer, and has shared the curriculum with local elementary school principals to share with their students.
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The part of the project that I found most fulfilling was when the girls worked on their coding projects outside of class and asked me questions so that they could continue to explore at home. I feel like the success came from igniting their curiosity.”
Holly Thompson
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Winchester
Don’t Start Vaping To address the significant problem of vaping among high school students in her community, Holly created an educational video geared toward preteens that explains in an understandable way why children should not start to vape. The video includes scientific facts about the chemicals found in an electronic cigarette, what happens in a child’s growing body and brain when the vapors of an electronic cigarette are inhaled, and the impact that addiction can have on a child’s life and future. The video is available to the public on YouTube, and The Winchester Coalition for a Safer Community will continue to use it as an educational tool for the community and in their substance abuse prevention programs for students.
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The activities that I have participated in as a Girl Scout since Kindergarten have taught me that I can choose something that I’m passionate about and make a difference pursing it. Girl Scouts provided an encouraging and caring environment that gave me the confidence I needed to assemble and lead a team to achieve a goal.” 39
2019-2020 SILVER AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Congratulations to our Silver Award Girl Scouts Marissa Abshire Jessica Allard Karen Sofia Altenhoff Katrina Baiardi Julia Barlow Ally Barry Olivia Basso Isabelle Basso Noa-Lee Bastien Ellie Bavey Ellie Bedard Erin Belger Charlotte Bizup Lucy Bland Caroline Blum Leah Blum Karisa Bockley Kylie Bogar Chloe Bouchard Emma Boucher Nicole Boyce Elizabeth Bradshaw Sophie Brandt Eliza Brennan Harmony Briggs Sydney Brooks Madison Brown Julia Cafarella Sarah Cafarelli Emma Callahan Emma Campbell Ellie Caro Rachel Chagnon Bella Chan-MacRae Niharika Chawla Harmonie Chen Veronica Cheng Sarrah Cherawala Cate Childs 40
Emily Callahan Sabrina Cohen Brianna Cole Abigail Coleman Adrienne Cramer Hannah Cronin Mary Crowley Sarah Cullen Meghan Cummiskey Samantha Curry Deven Dacey Sarah Davidsen Maya DeBettencourt Meghan DeCourcy Manasi Deepak Amy DeMartinis Raya DeSimone Emily Dillon Anna Dionne Rachel Dodos Olivia Doherty Emma Donovan Annabelle Drayer Lucinda Driscoll Anna Drost Jacquelyn DuBois Lily Duval Lucy Dwyer Madelaine Edmondson Clara Eikeboom Zoe Eisen Marguerite Eno Maggie Fallon Morigan Famous Elizabeth Fazio Alice Feng Earlise Fergus Gabrielle Fielding Kathryn Fischmann
Rachel Fisk Maija Foley Evelyn Ford Charlotte Foulger Julia Francis Kate Freeman Beth French Maia Frost Neva Fuller Emma Gardiner Jane Gargano Catherine Gebhard Sarah Gelbert Rachel George Kyra Georgeakakis Paige Giuffre Olivia Gjelsvik Amelia Gladysz Reagan Golbitz Kaleigh Gothie Abigail Grafton Grace Grauwiler Caitlin Graziano Mia Grisco Susana Hailey Meghan Hall Isabella Hamblin Gray Hanegan Gwen Hanson Abbie Hardenbrook Holly Hardin Jessica Harris Aidyn Harris Sophia Hartford Alexandra Hauber Taylor Hauff Mya Herlihy Charlotte Hill Madisen Hobbs
2019-2020 SILVER AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Brianna Holleran Allison Hopkins Amelia Hopp Gracie Howes Mackenzie Howland Grace Hu Elizabeth Huettig Kiley Hunter Ciarra Hupp Simon Huynh Lauren Hymes Isabella Indresano AĂąia Jacob Livia Johnson Clara Johnson Catherine Jones Emilia Joyce Gabby Kaluski Caroline Kane Emma Keating Jessica Keene Amelia Kelley-Lanser Rowan Kelly Ellie Kiernan Abigail Kollar Khyathi Kondamereddy Annie Koniczka Anastasija Koyutis Rohita Krishnakumar Neha Kunam Vivi Langlois Olivia Lappin Jordan Lavoie Melissa Leone Izzy Lima Kara Lin Chloe Lin Kaytlyn Lockwood Caroline Longo Cassandra Lopes Lily Lotarski Rebecca Lupkas Mary Grace Lynch Alice MacGarvie Thompson Caitlin MacKay Jackie MacWhinnie Helen Mager Zoe Maggioni Lucy Manley
Molly Mara Lillian Grace Marto Katelyn Massey Mckenzie McConnell Lindsey McDonald Ella McDonnell Lily McDonough Haviland McEnaney Gianna McKeown Zoe McLaughlin Sarah McLaughlin Piper Mead Shea Mealey Isabel Melanson Emily Mello Rose Mendez Taylor Mills Gabriella Minasian Courtney Mitchell Tanya Mollo AiLi Montague Makayla Moran Corinne Morgan Caitlin Morin Lauren Morley Mackenzie Morong Lizzie Morrow Kate Morrow Keira Murphy Charlotte Murphy ZoĂŤ Musante Shrreya Narayanakumar Johanna Nathman Emily Nauen Katherine Nial Holly Nichols Samantha Nie Katharina Niss Natalie Nordahl Bibi Noury-Ello Lauren O'Connor Grace O'Connor Megan O'Donnell Erica O'Donnell Jenna Olson Jing O'Neil Elizabeth O'Neill Summer O'Sullivan
Ellie Owens Leah Pagan Patricia Pak Carina Panfili Sara Parulekar Rheeya Patel Harshini Pathivada Ellen Pechinsky Julia Pekowitz Samantha Pellegrino Claudia Petrucci Haley Phillips Sydney Phylis Brianna Piraino Shruti Pokharna Kate Pomeroy Audrey Pontiff Iniya Poovannan Emily Prucher Sara Pudvah Anamika Pusalkar Shayla Quill Natalie Rassiger Kriti Rathore Avani Rebbi Violet Ren Ellen Richards Caroline Riley Madeleine Ritterbusch Chelsea Roberts Chloe Robertson Eileen Rose Kaitlin Ross Sadie Rothstein Eliza Rousseau Ella Rowe Ameera Saba Abby Santos Amber Sawyer Lillian Scire Anna Serevitch Isabelle Sharpe Ava Shelgren Kayla Simas Lile Simmons Taylor Simpson Mia Simuang Hannah Smith Marielle Soluri 41
2019-2020 SILVER AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Nadia Sovick Sarah Spires Sophie Starck Lillian Stephenson Natalie Stone Aviel Stutman Hannah Sullivan Samantha Sweetman Madeline Tajalli Sasha Tanguay Catherine Taylor Isabella Thoen Peyton Thompson Molly Thornton Kyra Torgerson
Adele Daisy Touloukian Gabriella Turco Sabrina Turner Bree Tuxbury Jessica Urlage Vanessa Villalba Jesenia Villanueva Jenna Vincenzino Morgan Vreeland Julia Wall Kelly Warhover Hannah Waring Ava Watson Georgia Webster Isabella Wellington
Clara Werkema Olivia Werkema Maeve White Gina Wierzbowski Angelina Wilbur Emily Wildfeuer Kayla Wilen Ariana Williams Chuning Yang Laura Yatsuhashi Amelia York Emily Zadig Kaitlin Zarrillo Rhen Sophie Quilty Zielinski Annaliese Zimmerman
SILVER AWARD SPOTLIGHT
Advocacy in Action for Families For their Silver Award, Cadette Troop 65254 of Sudbury was determined to help those experiencing homelessness by taking the L.E.A.D. (legislate, educate, advocate, and donate). In partnership with Representative Carmine Gentile, the girls advocated for Bill SD.1952/H.1314: “An Act Providing a Bill of Rights for People Experiencing Homelessness”, and organized a letter-writing campaign resulting in 100 signed letters sent to the State House. Hosting a collection drive, the girls made home goods kits for Family Promise of MetroWest, and sewed stuffed toy animals to sell and donate to Mass Coalition for the Homeless’ A Bed for Every Child. To inform the public, Troop 65254 arranged guest speakers at their middle school and set up booths at community events, and the girls believe the ripple effect of their actions will be widespread for years to come.
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2019-2020 BRONZE AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Congratulations to our Bronze Award Girl Scouts Isabella Abboud Emma Acheson Casey Ackerman Lucia Addesa Claire Adler Shyla Ahluwalia Josephine Albornoz Mulligan Varsha Alladi Maayan Almog Sophia Aloise Ruth Ann Ambrose Alexia Anderson Grace Anderson Brooke Arcari Katelyn Ardila Lilly Arkin Violet Arone Olivia Arsenault Laney Arsenault Valeria Artigas Lottie Ash Nicolette Attubato Selena Baker Amelia Bala Sireeta Banerjee Amira Barnett Lauren Barr Sarah Bartos Lily Bastis KariAnn Bates Lalannah Beckman Anna Beirne Abby Bender Sophia Benedetto Sofie Bentley Molly Bergeron Alexa Berthold Zanna Berthold Sabrina Berthold Katherine Bettano
Suravi Bhatia Sophie Bilsky-Endo Erika Bjork Amanda Blasberg Samantha Bodnar Bella Bordieri Isabella Borelli Emery Bouchard Maeve Boucher Leah Boucher Audrey Boulter Meryn Boutin Carly Boutin Mackenzie Boyle Phoebe Bracken Laela Brazell Vivian Brevard Abigail Brogna Juliette Bromark Kylie Brooks Elizabeth Brown Sydney Brown Gabriella Buckley Grace Buser Adriana Caballero Sophia Cable Lucy Calder Meghan Caldera Isabella Calisi Cordelia Cannon Reaghan Carleton Kathleen Carr Marisa Carroll Abby Cartisser Olivia Carty Jordan Carvalho Tessa Cary Rowan CasaĂąas Jessica Case Makayla Cassie
Elise Casso Gabriella Casto Emma Catalano Iyana Cedeno Scarlett Chan-Macrae Shyna Chaudhry Florence E. Chen Sarah Chi Meghan Clemmons Abigail Clemons Mireille Climenson Mickayla Codd Charlotte Colagiovanni Madison Colgan Abigail Conover Kate Conway Marissa Cooley Taylor Coolidge Kate Cormier Olivia Correnti Jeisa Costa Emma Cotnoir Reagen Coughlin Regan Covel Ryleigh Cox Camryn Cox Mackenzie Crawford Grace Cremin Zaria Cripps Aria Cronin Keira Cronin Allison Cronin Sydney Cruz Faith Cullen Alivia Cunningham Kirsten Currier Isabella Curtis Ainsley Cuthbertson Harriet Dabrush Izabelle Damasceno 43
2019-2020 BRONZE AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Ashyia Damon Sarah D'Angelo Samantha D'Angelo Gabriella Dansereau Aviv Dar Nalini Datta Kaili Dawson Hannah Dean Ruby DeBruin Sara Del Llano Emiliana Del Sesto Maeve Devlin Ella Dextradeur Aida DiBisceglie Sofia DiCarlo Isabel Dion-Chase Grace Ditchfield Diya Dodhia Grace Doherty Meara Donald Samantha Donaldson Katherine Donovan Megan Dorman Alana Doroquez Kenady Dorr Anna Doten Genevieve Doucette Brynn Dowie Audrey Downing Lydia Drapeau Sara Dussault Anna Dutkewych Vivian Dykema Lily Eaton Paige Eddy Olivia Edmond Samantha Ehlers Emma Ehring Dianne Erkkila Olivia Eldredge Lilla Eliet Samantha Elwell Margret Engel Addison Engel Mia Engels Aubrey Fairfield Grace Farina Ava Ferragamo Lainie Ferree 44
Lily Ferrone Gabbie Fetter Elise Fickes Amber M. Figelski Grace Finnerty Callia Fiore Thea G. Fischmann Alexi Fishbone Molly Fitch Emma Fitzgerald Mya Flores Paez Bianca Flory-Romero Clara Floyd Aubrey Flynn Ashley Forster Sofie Forsythe Hannah Fortuin Kathryne Foss Katherine Fossey Audrey Fraher Cara Fredriksen Lorelei Frye Morgan Gaeta Jenna Gale Karly Gallucci Alyvia Garneau Autumn Gelina Emily Gelinas Isabelle Georgantas Sabrina Germain Sanna Gibbons Hirut Gibson Rosalyn Girard Samantha Girard Taleena Gonneea Katherine Goodrich Mia Gorrasi Sarah Greco Gabriella Greenbaum Alexandria Greenwood Ava Griffith Sophia Groot-Fekkes Elizabeth Guitard Penelope Guitard Julia Guzman Hadley Haas Yasmin Hagayegi Kaelin Hailey Juliette Hale
Allison Hall Riley Hamilton Amira Hanks Alexandra Hanks Kaylee-Anne Harding Julia Hardy Shelbi Harimon Arianna Harris Parker Harrison Flora Hart Madison Hatch Aili Heise Sarah Hendrickson Cate Hennessey Aubrey Henney Quinn Herter Siena Hesbach Grace Higgins Aubrey Hill Lyla Hill Rebecca Hillman Sarah Hilston Julianne Himes Ryan Hinchley Braydan L. Hirshon Hazel Hitchcock Chloe Ho Christina Hodder Riley Hoffman Elissa Holdgate Anne Homenko Amelie Hopkins Georgia Hopkins-Lisle AnaBelle Horn Grace Howe-Roberts Maria Huang Eden Hughes Maya Huling Alexia Hultin Zoe Hunermund Kaelee Hunt Carly Hutchins Eva Hutchinson Mia Iannelli Ruby Ide Gabriella Ilin Madeline Isabel Kayla Jackson Evie James
2019-2020 BRONZE AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Tess Jarger Noelle Jatczak Elizabeth Jazo Julia Jimenez-Grima Zaira Johnson Emma Johnson Tedi Johnson Sarah Johnson Lila Johnson Lexi Johnson Anna Kallio Charlotte Kane Ayesha Kapoor Viktoria Kariuki Makayla Kasakoff Fumiko Kato Zoe Katsiaficas Ava Katz Kelsey Kaufmann Ava Keating Annamae Keiley McKenzie Keis Sydney Kelleher Maryeileen Kelleher Abby Kelley Roisin Kelley-Heafitz Anna Kelly Catherine Kennedy Marley Kerlin Zoe Kerr Rory Kilgore Jubin Kim Heidi Kim Sophia King Emma King Ashley Klatt Katie Klatt Allie Knight Emaline Knight Alexandra Knittel Emma Kola Grace Kopcinski Taylor Kotch Abigail Kowalski Emma Kowalski Rachel Krula Abby Kuhn Sophie Kuo Eleanor Kutschke
Maddy Labosky Kali LaBossiere Fiona Laffan Leianne Laine Kristyn Landers Audrey Larson Caroline Larson DiPalma Ronan Lasiewski Hannah Lavarone Sofia Laviano Andrea Le Livia Leblanc Sutton LeBrecht Sophie Lee Alanna Lee Grace Lehan-Allen Caroline Leonhardt Sarah Lewis Sophia Li Mason Lieberman Kate Lincecum Katie Loghinov Meadow Long Charlotte Lussier Julia Luster Cara Lynch Lily MacCrimmon Mia MacLean Ashley Maddocks Marina Maddocks Jenna Mahoney Olivia Mainvielle Gloria Mancuso Aliza Mansfield Willa Marschke Madison Marsh Rosalia Martinez Sierra Mason Carolyn Mason Shea Mason Brooke Mastrullo Gabriella Mayorga Kennedy McCartin Keira McCormack Caroline McCormick Abigail McCready Vivianna McDonald Juliana McDonald Maggie McDonald
Anna McDonald Elizabeth McDonnell Christina McGrath Izzy Mcgrew Lily McKinley Ella McManus Chloe McQuade Hildee Medeiros Sophia Medeiros Polina Melnikova Skylar Melo Emily Mercier Haylee Merrill Evelyn Miller Brooke Mitchell Gabrielle Monagle-Fleming Skylar Monahan Adrianna Monegro Marin Mooney Meghan Moran Elizabeth Moran Madelynn Morhous Miranda Moriarty Shayla Morin Cadence Morley Rebekah Moroze Avery Morrill Ciara Morrissey Sophie Moynihan Lucy Mulcunry Elizabeth Muller Katelyn Mullins Evie Murillo Ciara Murphy Erika Murphy Melody Murray Scout Myers-Smith Sanya Nadeem Nadia Napadow Baquero Madison Naughton Isabella Nelson Leila Newman Piper Newman Nora Newsham Alexandra Nicholas Sierra Nicholas Morgan Niziolek Emily Noble Sidney Nunes 45
2019-2020 BRONZE AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Keira Nunes Tatiana Nunes Arianna O’Neill Lindsey ODonnell Delaney C. Ogden Giovanna Ohannesian Ella O'Hare Leila Ohashi Marianela Oquendo Vargas Kaitlyn Oravitz Nora O'Reilly Genevieve Ostrowski Sophia O'Toole Ayla Oztunc Michaela Panagako Maya Papenhausen Emma Parker Mackenzie Pauly Daytona Pearson Alessandra Persechini Alexa Petropoulas Chloe Phan Cassidy Phillips Anna Pileggi Hansa Pimental Daniella Pinales Olivia Plaisted Nora Platt Zahara Pless Madeline Plurad Renee Poblenz Maren Poesepp Leila Poor Sashka Popovich Christina Portante Sanskriti Pradhan Emma Pray Alexandra Price Samantha Price Olivia Prince Audrey Pruneau Emily Puljanowski Annabella Putignano Sylvie Quinn Isabella Raffaele Pravya Ramesh Lana Romie Randazzo Carley Ray Frances Redford 46
Lucy Reid Phebe Richardson Paulina Rivero Emelia Roberts Lila Robinson Shea Rockwell Theodora Rodine Jillian Rodrigues Marilla Rogers Caterina Romano Eve Rose Mariah Rose Leah Rotman Eliza Russell Allison Ryan Maggy Ryan Laura Sabo Hannah Sacco Giana Sacco Siena Sage Paige Sams Lexie Sandoval Elizabeth Santella Olivia Saragosa Hannah Sareault Janna Sargavakian Haley Sargent Lillianna Sauer Eliana Fay Sauer-Budge Sarah Scanlon Victoire Schaeffer Samantha Schena Leah Schneyer-Vanzile Meredith Schuh Elena Schuster Nicole Schuster Audreanna Scotina Kierra Scully Callie Seager Meghan Sears Maya Seide Celestine Selin Edie Shackelford Margaret Shea Melanie Sheedy Laura Shepard Ashley Sherlock Norah Shiple Ariana Shokrollahi
Aleeza Shusterman Mia Silva Ally Silveira Tanya Singh Annabelle Sinins Mary Slankas Camille Smiley Caroline Smith Shelby Smith Brooke Smith Stella Snyder Anna Snyder Maya Soto Masey Sowers Catherine Sperry Katelyn Stagno Claire Stanfield Jamie Stanford Jane Starr Madeline K. Stephan Charlotte Stevens Elizabeth Stevens Jillian Stevenson Lila Stevenson Taryn Streck McKenzie Sullivan Kit Sullivan Declyn Sullivan Celia Suttles Sophie Swift Elinor Swirski Abigail Sylvester Ava Sylvester Mia Tao Alice Taub Alexandria Taylor Abigail Taylor Sophie Teachout Ariana Teixeira Sofia Tentindo Leilani Thayer Jolie Thorsen Sydney Thuo Julia Tjaden Emily Tonis Addison Toole Madison Tormay Avery Townsend Ella Trethaway
2019-2020 BRONZE AWARD GIRL SCOUTS
Mia Troncoso Josie Troppoli Adrianna Trubiano Katie Truch Adalina Tucker Alexandra Tungol Isabella Tungol Anika Umapathy Marley Underwood Jill Valentino Eva Valle Gabrielle Van Beek Giselle Vari Kaelyn Veltry Iniya Venkat
Maya Vishwanathan Karolina Vogel Brooke Wade Annie Wagner Kaylin Wall Kayla Wallace Sofia Walsh Sabine Wenzel Hannah West Isabelle Westcott Fiona White Lilah White Lena Wilcox Emmy Williams Annalise Wilson
Natalya Woodman Caledonia Wotherspoon Veronica Wu Ariona Xhemaili Rhea Yadav Sophia Yelverton Charlotte Yusah Mya Zepkoski Ivana Zeuli Sarafina Zhang Hannah Zoldak Cecilia Zullo-Michalski Jamie Zwicker
BRONZE AWARD SPOTLIGHT
Voting Yes to Less Waste Junior Troop 62558 took to Brookline Town Hall to present their Bronze Award project as an official town resolution. Warrant Article 21 would encourage local businesses to change from simply disposing unopened and non-expired textiles, foods, and other goods, and instead donating to non-profits, aiding neighbors in need (as well as reducing commercial waste). The Girl Scouts had spent months researching, speaking at town meetings, and getting votes to support their cause, and received a unanimous “YES” vote to officially pass the resolution! Now, Brookline businesses can opt into the program and post a “WA 21” decal in their shop windows, and also get connected to local charities with the continued help of the go-getters of Troop 62558.
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HISTORY OF THE HIGHEST AWARD IN GIRL SCOUTS Golden Eagle of Merit 1916 - 1919
Golden Eaglet 1919 - 1938
First Class 1938 - 1940
Curved Bar 1940 - 1963
First Class 1963 - 1980
Gold Award 1980 - present
CONNECT TO THE GIRL SCOUT NETWORK The Girl Scout Network is a powerful community of adults—Girl Scout alums and supporters from across the country—who believe in preparing girls to be the leaders of the future. Connect at gsema.org/alum 48 48
GIRL SCOUTS OF EASTERN MASSACHUSETTS 265 Beaver Street, Waltham, MA 02452