Girl Scout wins Gold Award with Assisting Superhero Sibilings Project

Mallie, an 11th grader at John Carroll Catholic High School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Mallie earned her Gold Award with her project “Assisting Superhero Siblings”. Her project focused on bringing support and awareness to the siblings of children with chronic arthritis. Mallie says that siblings can often feel overlooked or feel confused while their family members are dealing with the course of the disease.  She implemented the “rice bag project,” which included a rice bag with instructions on how to heat or cool it for the sick child. Mallie says this provides an opportunity for siblings of children with chronic arthritis to feel helpful and heard.

“The results of my surveys show that siblings want to help their brother or sister with arthritis,” Mallie said. “This project may mean nothing to people who have not gone through the struggles or heartbreak of a disease such as arthritis, but if even one family becomes closer, or one child understands that he or she is not alone, I will consider the project to be a roaring success.”

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Melva Tate, interim chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama. “Mallie 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 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.

About Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama

Girl Scouting gives every girl access to life-changing experiences that inspire her to do something BIG! Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama is a United Way community partner and serves over 15,000 girl members ages 5-17 and 5,000 volunteers in programs across 36 counties. For more information, call 800-734-4541 or visit girlscoutsnca.org.

 

Bob Jones Graduate Earns Goes Gold with Blood Drive Project

Ashlyn, a graduate of Bob Jones High School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Ashlyn earned her Gold Award for her project Ongoing Blood Drive at Messiah Lutheran Church. Ashlyn learned that many hospitals have a shortage of blood due to sickness and accidents. She told people why blood was important so more people would donate blood. She made a Blood Drive Manual and held a blood drive at Messiah Lutheran Church, which will continue to hold blood drives in the future. Ashlyn’s leadership skills grew as she learned more about the world, developed new relationships, and worked to solve an issue in the community.

“Only eight percent of the eligible 20 percent of people actually donate in Alabama...people did not realize this and some actually signed up to donate because of it,” said Ashlyn. “If everyone who could give a pint indeed gave on, we would have no worries about shortage of blood.”

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Melva Tate, interim chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “Ashlyn 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 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.

Decatur Graduate Goes Gold with International Reach

Ashley, a graduate of Decatur High School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Ashley earned her Gold Award for her project Healthy Starts Here. When Ashley became aware of complications children in Guatemala suffered because of poor personal hygiene, she acted. Ashley coordinated the donation of basic hygiene supplies like toothbrushes for the children, and she worked to teach the children how to maintain good personal hygiene when she traveled to the country. She made teaching plans and posters available for a local mission group to use when traveling to Guatemala. Ashley will continue to work with local dentists to make supplies available for every summer trip the group takes. Ashley’s project improved her communication and leadership skills.

“The most successful aspect of the project was getting the children excited about healthy habits,” said Ashley. “Many of them would tell me the next day that they brushed their teeth, and everyone seemed to be singing the songs I taught them about healthy habits.

“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 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.

Hartselle Graduate Earns Gold Award

Caitlin, a student at Troy University and graduate of Hartselle High School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Caitlin earned her Gold Award for her project Strive to Drive? Arrive Alive. She was concerned about the large number of people who have lost their lives due to distracted driving, and she wanted to encourage her peers to change their mindsets so they would be safer drivers. She used the testimonies of those affected by distracted driving to make a video to be shown to driver’s education classes at Hartselle High School. She also created a Facebook page and website to promote the initiative. This project taught Caitlin how to be an advocate for something she believes is important. She now feels more a part of her community, and she has more direction for her future career. 

“I believe that this project was only the beginning of my advocacy. As my video continues to be shown to students, I and the others involved will feel as though we have impacted the lives of each and every person who hears our message, and that maybe we have saved them in a small way,” said Caitlin.

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Melva Tate, interim chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “Caitlin 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 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.

Huntsville Girl Scout Goes Gold with Habitat for Bats Project

Savannah, a senior at Virgil Grissom High School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Savannah earned her Gold Award for her project Habitat for Bats. She was concerned about the rapid decline of the bat population and its effect on the larger ecosystem, so she built bat houses and educated people to give them a greater appreciation for bats. She held workshops throughout Huntsville and Madison, and she created information on bat houses for future Girl Scout troops so they can build more bat houses and continue to protect the animals. Through her project, Savannah’s leadership skills increased as she organized large groups of people to come together. She hopes there will soon be more bat sightings in the area as a result of the bat house protection.

“When I found out how important the local caves were to many endangered bats, I felt inspired to tell people and teach them,” said Savannah. “This way the world would spread about how important the local ecosystems are.”

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Melva Tate, interim chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “Savannah 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 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.

Girl Scout Earns Gold Award with Asperger's Awareness Project

Julie, a graduate of Bob Jones High School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Ashley earned her Gold Award for her project Asperger’s Awareness. Asperger’s is a mild form of Autism, and because people often do not know how to diagnose or treat it, Julie wanted to educate people so the students affected by it will do well in school. She put together a presentation and pamphlets for the groups she spoke to, and she was able to share her personal experiences of watching her brother struggle with Asperger’s. Her presentation helped teachers better understand their students’ behaviors. Julie’s project helped grow her leadership and research skills, which will benefit her when she goes to college and graduate school.

“I was able to help people in my community learn about a worldwide problem,” said Julie.

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Melva Tate, interim chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “Julie 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.

Rogersville Girl Scout Earns Gold Award

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.

Tuscaloosa Native Earns Gold Award with Success in School Project

Audrey, a student at the Alabama School of Math and Science and Tuscaloosa native, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Audrey earned her Gold Award for her project Success Starts in School. Audrey was concerned about the large number of adolescents dropping out of school in her region, so she focused on educating middle school girls on the importance of staying in school. She created a website with a motivational video designed to teach girls to stay in school and make good decisions for their futures, and she gave a seminar about the importance of staying in school. Ninety percent of the seminar attendees said they learned and/or gained skills or knowledge from the seminar. Audrey’s project will be sustained by Women of the World as they continue to educate middle school girls on the importance of continuing their education. Audrey’s project taught her how to communicate more effectively and how to be more self-reliant.

“The interaction with the girls I was reaching out to with this project was very positive, and it was a rewarding feeling to know that my project affected them,” said Audrey.

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Melva Tate, interim chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “Audrey 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 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.

Mountain Brook Senior Earns Gold Award with Library Project

Riva, a senior at Mountain Brook High School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Riva earned her Gold Award for her project Reading to Recovery. Riva created a library for the patients at UAB’s psychiatric hospital. Through book drives and donations, patients at the hospital can now benefit from using puzzle books and reading new materials on several subjects. The nurses and other Girl Scout troops will help to sustain the project so there will be a steady supply of books in the library at all times. Riva hopes her project will help to combat the stereotype of people with disabilities. The project helped Riva become more confident in herself as a leader, and it helped her develop her career goals.

“Mental health is a huge community issue that many who don’t feel affected by it overlook. I want to bring to light more problems in the community because I now know that there are people who are willing and eager to help others..I want to do more to raise awareness, and now I feel like I really can,” said Riva.

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Sheila Smith, chief financial officer and interim chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “Riva 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.

Huntsville Senior Earns Gold Award for Animal Hope Chest Project

Isis, a senior at Bob Jones High School, recently earned 

the Girl Scout Gold Award. Isis earned her Gold Award for her project the Animal Hope Chest. Her project focused on educating people about animal cruelty and adoption. She held educational sessions where professional speakers taught attendees about animal care. Each person left with a bag of age-appropriate information about animal care, strays and adoption. Through her project Isis learned networking and public speaking skills, and she now wants to help her community in any way she can.

“I am looking forward for more projects to come, and I am definitely excited for what the Animal Hope Chest will do for animals of all kinds, everywhere,” said Isis.

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Sheila Smith, chief financial officer and interim chief executive office of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “Isis 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.

Gadsden Girl Scout Earns Gold Award with Clothes Closet Project

Karen, a graduate of Gadsden City High School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Karen earned her Gold Award for her project Clothes for All. She focused on providing clothes for people who were in need because of house fires or other extenuating circumstances. Karen raised awareness about her project using word-of-mouth and flyers. She coordinated the donation of supplies to build an area for the clothes, plus she organized volunteers to help with the clothes closet. Karen’s project will be sustained by the youth of Bellevue Baptist Church so people will continue to benefit from her efforts.

“I hope that those that we help will be touched and be able to help someone else down the road as we have helped them,” said Karen.

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Sheila Smith, chief financial officer and interim chief executive office of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “Karen 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.

Hoover High Graduate Works with Children's Hospital to Earn Gold Award

Ashley, a Hoover High School graduate who plans to attend the University of Alabama in the fall of 2013, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Ashley earned her Gold Award for her project Tera’s Treasures. Her project focused on providing the patients of Children’s Hospital an escape from their illnesses. She organized a tie-dying party and a cookie/snow cone party for the children, and she recruited several students and groups to help with her project, including the Hoover Juniorettes, Hoover High School Ambassadors, Hoover High School Chamber Choir and other Girl Scouts. They put together 175 toiletry kits for the patients, and they provided 100 pillowcases and T-shirts to tie-dye. The Hoover Juniorettes will sustain the project in the future. Ashley educated those who helped with her project by giving them information about childhood cancer and the Children’s Hospital cancer unit. Ashley’s project encouraged her to pursue a career in this area. She even got to shadow a child life specialist in the cancer unit one afternoon.

“You could tell how much [the children] needed time away from all their tests and sickness. If just for a little while, they had fun and there were lots of smiled and laughter, even in the midst of bandages, wheelchairs and IV poles,” said Ashley.

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Trish Coghlan, 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. 

Hoover Graduate Earns Gold Award for Senior Citizens' Independence Day Celebration Project

Olivia, a Hoover High School graduate planning on attending Rhodes College in the fall of 2013, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Olivia earned her Gold Award for her project South Haven Nursing Home Independence Day Celebration. Her project focused on recognizing the military service of veterans in South Haven Nursing Home. She put into place the Veteran’s Appreciation Program, which included an Independence Day celebration. She made decorations for all the residents’ doors, indicating which residents were veterans with special signs and decorations. Olivia also organized a program where Hoover High School Chamber Choir members sang the national anthem and the Hoover High School featured twirler performed. Veterans were recognized as songs for each branch of the military were played. She, other Girl Scouts and friends visited with residents as they enjoyed a huge red, white and blue cake. Olivia’s brother-in-law, who was deployed but able to come home for Christmas, also visited with residents and thanked them for their service. He also helped Olivia deliver blankets she and her friends made for the residents. The staff at the nursing home plans to continue the program as an annual tradition, and it is already on the calendar for 2013.  

“I learned that taking an interest in people goes a long way in making them feel valuable and contributing to their overall wellness. When talking to the veterans, asking about their lives and making an effort to make their day better, I saw the joy that was brought by such a simple act,” said Olivia.

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Trish Coghlan, chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “Olivia 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.

Hoover High Graduate Earns Gold Award with Teen Driving Safety Class Project

Elizabeth, a Hoover High School graduate who plans on attending Auburn University in the fall of 2013, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Elizabeth earned her Gold Award for her project Teen Driving Safety Awareness. Her project focused on educating teens at Hoover High School about Alabama’s graduated drivers’ license laws, and how the laws are designed to keep teens safe. Young drivers and their parents attended a presentation where Elizabeth talked about the laws, local professionals gave advice on safe driving and a mother talked about losing her child to unsafe driving. Elizabeth also created a curriculum for drivers’ education teachers at Hoover High School. She received positive feedback from a survey she gave at the end of her presentation, and one drivers’ education teacher she talked with said Elizabeth’s curriculum was helpful in educating his students about graduated license laws. The teachers who received the curriculum will continue to use it in their classrooms and will update it as laws change.

“I think that the most successful aspect of my project was relaying to teenagers that they are not invincible and that driving is a serious task,” said Elizabeth.

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Trish Coghlan, chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “Elizabeth 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 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. 

Altamont Junior's Garden for Glenwood Project Earns Gold Award

Isabella, a junior at the Altamont School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Isabella earned her Gold Award for her project A Garden for Glenwood. Her project focused on providing a garden for the children at Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center. While the adults at Glenwood had access to gardening, the children did not, and Isabella wanted to provide this activity for them. After researching the therapeutic benefits of gardening and finding that gardening activities benefit children with behavioral issues, Isabella designed a garden plan and coordinated with Home Depot and Lowe’s to obtain supplies for the project. She spoke to a class at her school about her project, presenting to them an area of the community about which they knew little. A Glenwood employee and an Altamont student will sustain her project into the future.

“I believe that giving the children at Glenwood the opportunity to plant, water and harvest vegetables, herbs and fruits in a garden of their own would nurture their curiosity, confidence and sense of ownership. This project also allows the children to bond with and appreciate the wonders of Mother Nature,” said Isabella. 

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Trish Coghlan, chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “Isabella 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. 

The Girl Scout 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.

Lovelady Center Project Earns Silver Award

Troop 577 members Stella from Hewitt-Trussville Middle School and Emily, homeschooled through Cahaba Academy, recently earned the Girl Scout Silver Award for their project Operation Lovelady Kids. They gathered donations to update the children’s area of the Lovelady Center. Through a donation drive within their troop, they were able to obtain paint, furniture, toys and books for the organization. They also updated the center’s library and preschool lunch room. 

The Girl Scout Silver Award is the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette (grades 6-8) can earn. This award symbolizes a Girl Scout Cadette's accomplishments in Girl Scouting and community activities as she matures and works to better her life and the lives of others.

John Carroll Senior Earns Gold Award by Addressing Homelessness Awareness

Rachel, a senior at John Carroll Catholic High School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Rachel earned her Gold Award for her project Homelessness-Pathways to Transition. Her project focused on providing immediate help the homeless in the Birmingham area and on increasing awareness of the problem of homelessness. She educated homeless people in social media, showing them how it can be used to find employment, and she provided women who were transitioning from a shelter into a home with “moving day baskets” filled with supplies. The project also provided the homeless with blankets and backpacks. To raise awareness of homelessness, Rachel designed an activity book for young children, produced a YouTube video, distributed flyers, utilized social media and wrote a book targeting teenagers designed to get them involved. This book, along with the activity book and YouTube video, will be placed in the Sixth Avenue Baptist Church’s library. The church will also continue the project in the future. 

“It is important that people are reminded that the homeless do not include just the drug addict of the ‘lazy bum who does not want to work,’” said Rachel. “It could be your next door neighbor, or a child, or an abused woman with children fleeing to save her life and her child’s life from the hands of an abusive husband or family member. It is our responsibility to help.”

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Trish Coghlan, chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “Rachel 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. 

The Girl Scout 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.

College Freshman Goes Gold with Project about Girls' Self Image

America, a graduate of Homeland Christian Academy and freshman at Highlands College, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. America earned her Gold Award for her project Fearlessly Unashamed. Her project focused girls’ self image. She saw that peer pressure caused girls to try and live up to a certain standard, and she wanted to show them that beauty is found in all shapes and sizes. America created a website featuring real girls with real stories about how they came to have healthy views of body image. She met with girls about her project, and she hopes to continue to work with them to teach them about inner beauty. “I never want to see any girl get discouraged about the way she looks. All girls are beautiful in their own way,” said America. “I hope this website helps people to understand how teenagers truly feel about themselves and how they should react to worldly pressures about their appearance.” 

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Trish Coghlan, chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “America 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. 

The Girl Scout 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.

Hoover High Senior Earns Gold Award

Rachel, a senior at Hoover High School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award for her project Hats for Hope. Her project focused on supporting the women served by Sav-A-Life, Vestavia. She taught her peers and others how to crochet baby hats and then donated them to the organization. She hoped that women who seek out Sav-A-Life for support when they have an unplanned pregnancy would be encouraged by these hats when they see how the community cares about them. At the end of November 2012 she had donated 75 caps, exceeding her goal of 50. She and her group are continuing the project into the future to provide more expecting mothers with the caps.

“By giving them something handmade, they are reminded that the community cares about them and their child.” said Rachel. “Hopefully, they will look forward to having their baby wear it one day.”

“By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Trish Coghlan, chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, “Rachel 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. 

The Girl Scout 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.

Seventh Graders Earn Silver Award with Volunteering, Blanket Donation Project

Troop 455 members Clare, LeeAllyn, Reagan and Anne, seventh graders at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School, recently earned the Girl Scout Silver Award for their project Serving the Homeless and Touching Souls. The girls held a blanket drive at their church and donated the blankets to the homeless. They also volunteered by serving dinner at Firehouse Shelter.

The Girl Scout Silver Award is the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette (grades 6-8) can earn. This award symbolizes a Girl Scout Cadette's accomplishments in Girl Scouting and community activities as she matures and works to better her life and the lives of others.