Ashley, a freshman at Harding University and resident of Rogersville, recently earned the Girl
Scout Gold Award. Ashley earned her Gold Award for her project School Supplies for Orphans. She wanted to build the self-esteem of the children at the North Alabama Christian Children’s Home by showing them that people love and care for them. Ashley knew wanted to break the cycle of relationship issues and habits children who grow up in children’s homes often experience. She held educational sessions for the residents of the home, and she also incorporated a recycling program into her project so the home could generate funds to provide items like school supplies for the children. Because of this project, Ashley’s observation, public speaking and leadership skills have grown.
“I feel much more empowered to make a difference. Before this project, I would never have thought anyone would listen to a high school student about starting any kind of project. But I was wrong…I now know that kids can make a difference if they the desire to do something,” said Ashley.
“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Melva Tate, interim chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “Ashley has become a community leader. Her accomplishments reflect leadership and citizenship skills that set her apart.”
The girl who goes for the Gold embraces challenges, achieves excellence, and works diligently to make the world a better place, in her own unique way. Her leadership, vision, and boundless energy is an inspiration to all Girl Scouts. Each girl earning her Gold Award demonstrates excellence through a leadership project totaling more than 65 hours. Girls who earn their Gold Award are also recognized by the President of the United States, the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Armed Services, state legislatures, colleges and universities for admission and scholarship opportunities, and the American Legion. Some universities and colleges offer scholarships unique to Gold Award recipients, and girls who enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces may receive advanced rank in recognition of their achievements.
About the Girl Scout Gold Award
The Gold Award represents the highest achievement in Girl Scouting; it recognizes girls in grades 9 through 12 who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through sustainable and measurable Take Action projects. Since 1916, girls have successfully answered the call to go gold, an act that indelibly marks them as accomplished members of their communities and the world. For more information about the Gold Award, visit girlscoutsnca.org/gogold.