2022
Gold Award Program GIRL SCOUTS OF SOUTHEAST FLORIDA
From the Desk of the CEO Dear Girl Scout Gold Award Class of 2022, Congratulations on earning the Girl Scout Gold Award! The world has changed, and we continue to experience a unique time in our Girl Scout history. Most of this year’s Gold Award Class embarked on this award-earning journey during a global pandemic. It is easy to see the determination, passion, and creativity that lives inside of you as we revel in this year’s impressive projects. When so much was uncertain and unsettling over the past two years, I remain astonished and impressed at your poise and sense of purpose. Your projects are extraordinary and significant, and I am incredibly proud of your collective accomplishments. This year, 27 Girl Scouts in our council earned our organization’s highest award for girls. Perhaps even more impressive is that your collective projects contributed just over 3,000 hours to our communities where help was desperately needed. You partnered with dozens of local organizations with projects that impacted thousands of lives. The Gold Award Class of 2022 took on issues surrounding chronic homelessness, mental health, stress management, food insecurity, and expanding the worlds of communication for the deaf, hard of hearing, and the elderly. Our Girl Scouts didn’t just talk about improving a situation or advancing a critical issue—you made plans, built teams, stuck it out, and genuinely made our world a better place. Becoming a Gold Award Girl Scout marks an important milestone in your Girl Scout career. The same vision, commitment, and leadership that brought you through the Gold Award process will now continue to carry you to new heights. This award will distinguish you on scholarship applications, college admission essays, and your resume—forever. The Gold Award will set you apart from your peers in all the best ways possible. In addition to accomplishing a challenging personal goal, you now join an elite group of Girl Scouts who share this extraordinary distinction and honor. Fewer than three percent of Girl Scouts earn the Gold Award, but those that do leave a legacy of impact, passion, and excellence. As you take your next steps, to finish high school, enter college, join the military, or the workforce, I invite you to stay with Girl Scouts for a lifetime. I encourage you to revisit the drive and grit you harnessed to earn the Gold Award often and hold on tightly to the enormous feeling of accomplishment you have today. All the determination, passion, and creativity that it took to achieve this goal lives inside you—Girl Scouting just gave you a place to direct it. Our world will always need the people who want to make it better, and Girl Scouts needs people who know what that truly means. We will need you because you’re a change-maker, action-taker, and leader! And I know this is just the beginning. Yours in Girl Scouting,
Lisa Y. Johnson
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Agenda 8:00 A.M. Registration, Networking, Photography & Retail Store Open in the Atrium
9:00 A.M. Pledge of Allegiance and Girl Scout Promise Opening Remarks Keynote Address Recognition of Gold Award Advisors Gold Award Ceremony Scholarship Presentations Closing Remarks
11:30 A.M. Atrium and Retail Store Reopen Class of 2022 Group Photos
SPECIAL THANKS Ruby Freeman, violinist Linda Saraniti, ceremony volunteer Ronica Deshmukh, ceremony volunteer Ashley Klement, Miss Gold Coast & 2018 Gold Award Girl Scout Juliet Murphy Roulhac J.D., Florida Power & Light Company Jennifer and Tony Montalto, Gina Rose Montalto Memorial Foundation Geri Emmett, GSSEF board member
Taking photos today? Share them on social media and use #GSSEFGold22
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More than 100 Years of Extraordinary Projects from Amazing Girls Starting in 1916, the best and brightest Girl Scouts have undertaken projects to improve their communities — and the world! The Golden Eaglet insignia, the highest award in Girl Scouts from 1916 to 1939, marked the beginning of a long tradition of recognizing the extraordinary efforts of trail-blazing girls. From 1940 to 1963, this achievement was rebranded as the Curved Bar Award and remained the highest honor in Girl Scouts. From 1963 to 1980, the highest award was rebranded again as the First Class. Finally, in 1980, the Gold Award was established and has inspired girls to find the greatness inside themselves and to share their ideas and passions ever since. In 2016, in celebration of its centennial, Girl Scouts of the USA recommitted itself to expanding the visibility of the Gold Award and the Girl Scouts who achieve it. To that end, Girl Scouts of the USA invited all women who earned the Golden Eaglet, Curved Bar Award, and First Class — to unite as Gold Award Girl Scouts, and with this one name, further strengthening our brand and our movement. In 2018, Girl Scouts of the USA and LinkedIn launched the Girl Scout Network. This opportunity invites our organization’s more than 50 million Girl Scout alums to connect with one another on the Girl Scout Network to enhance their career development among the 564 million LinkedIn users. Any girl who was a member may join — whether she was a Girl Scout Brownie for one year or stayed in a troop through 12th grade. Yes, there is a special built-in option for Girl Scouts who have earned the Gold Award, to add it to their LinkedIn profile.
About The Girl Scout Gold Award The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest award that a Girl Scout in grades 9–12 may earn. Someone once described the Gold Award as being “what you really want to be remembered for” in Girl Scouting. For many, the leadership and organizational skills, and sense of community and commitment that come from “going for the Gold” set the foundation for a lifetime of active citizenship.
About The Gold Award Project The Gold Award project is something that a girl must be passionate about — in thought, deed, and action. The project fulfills a need within a girl’s community (whether local or global), creates change, and will become sustainable. If it is an event, the event should be something that people will continue for the next year; if it is a service, it should be something that creates change or action with long-term possibilities; if it is something tangible, it should come with a plan for use and maintenance within the community. Undertaking a Gold Award project is far more than just a nice service project. Gold Award projects demand the highest level of organizational, leadership, and project management skills.
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About The Gold Award Advisors The role of the council’s volunteer Gold Award Advisors is to guide, coach, and provide well-rounded support to individual girls as they work on their Gold Award project plan. Gold Award Advisors are appointed by council staff and agree to serve a two-year term. Our Advisors make a time commitment to a girl, agreeing to support her from the point of project approval through project completion. These volunteers demonstrate an incredibly high level of dedication, as they nurture a mentoring relationship that promotes girls’ success in leadership, communication, goal-setting, problem-solving, and project fulfillment. Once the Gold Award project has been completed, only the Gold Award Advisor may provide the final approval. Gold Award Advisors have a full working knowledge of the GSUSA Award framework, as well as the GSSEF Award guidelines, policies, and procedures. Each Advisor personally organizes and facilitates the council’s required Gold Award Workshops (for girls in high school) throughout the jurisdiction. They are flexible, organized, carry a strong skill set in the use of technology, and utilize patience, persistence, and passion to work with girls.
Our Gold Award Advisors Pamela Ashworth Ahlam “Lammy” Askar Angela Barnard Karyl Bertram Debra Byrne-Mathews
Sandra Clutter Julia Dourvetakis Tracey Eller Paula Fontaine Debbie Hanley
Merribeth Manning Dr. Nazly Nardi Tori-Lynn Saraniti Kimberly Schnitzius Joyce Shraim
Melanie Smith Emily Zarzycki
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Girl Scout Gold Award Class of 2022 SAVANNAH BRODERSON
TROOP 11641
Project Title: Kathy’s Kloset Gold Award Advisor: Debra Byrne-Mathews Hometown: Pembroke Pines Service Unit: Wildflower Dedicated to her Great Aunt Kathy, Savannah had a passionate mission to fill a community closet with appropriate, business-style clothing for high school students who would not otherwise be able to access such items. There was a need for teens to have clothing for job interviews, school competitions (like DECA), funerals, and special events. Savannah saw that limited, or no access, to this type of clothing caused stress and anxiety for students. For many who faceed this situation, she saw they simply did not attend events and competitions or apply for jobs. Savannah organized a large-scale clothing collection, cleaning, and photography effort so that the virtual closet could ‘come to life’ on social media channels for easy student access. Social media was initially used because distribution through schools was extremely limited. With help from News Anchor, Kristi Kruger from Local 10 WPLG, “Kathy’s Kloset” ultimately received approval from the Broward County School Board to be officially shared with local high school students. Look inside the kloset on Instagram: @kathyskloset.tlc
ISABELLA CHENET
W c e s c n W t p c o a h
TROOP 10711
Project Title: Bella’s Closet: Homelessness Awareness Gold Award Advisor: Ahlam “Lammy” Askar Hometown: Plantation Service Unit: Atikah Isabella wanted to create a meaningful project to address the growing problem of chronic homelessness in the Fort Lauderdale area and get more students involved in creating solutions. Chronic homelessness describes people who have experienced homelessness for at least one year, or repeatedly, while also struggling with mental illness, substance abuse, or physical disability. Someone in this situation will experience South Florida’s cold spells and extreme heat. Prolonged exposure leads to serious illness, dehydration, and heat exhaustion—all of which can be life-threatening. The project included a large-scale, multi-season clothing distribution through ongoing partnerships with All Saints Catholic Mission and the Exchange Club of Fort Lauderdale. The educational component of the program, to end the negative stigma of the chronically homeless, has now reached more than 500 people online and has been adopted by Texas District Exchange Clubs, Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles Council, and presented at the National Exchange Club Convention in Memphis, Tennessee. Watch an overview about the mission of Bella’s Closet here: youtu.be/UgITFD8eCVI
LAUREN DEVARONA
D t f r e f w li s in o f
ADULT, FORMERLY OF TROOP 11031
Project Title: Hope Center Stage Gold Award Advisor: Sandra Clutter Hometown: Pembroke Pines Service Unit: Magnolia Mandatory stay-at-home orders during the COVID-19 pandemic meant that many special needs and disabled adults were in isolation for long periods of time. In many cases, this exacerbated physical disabilities and caused critical setbacks of social skills and important daily routines. Underlying health issues caused this population to be at high risk for contacting COVID-19 and Lauren wanted to do something about it. Partnering with Scott Communities of South Florida and the Exceptional Theater Company in Pembroke Pines, they created a unique, live, drive-in “theater” event for adults with special needs. Hosting this event meant that the audience could safely interact, experience entertainment, feel hopeful, and enjoy something designed ‘just for them.’ Additionally, Lauren created “Hope in a Box” for others who wanted to duplicate the event. Boxes contained essential contact information such as the projector rental company, venue use information, ground flags for parking, a megaphone for communicating at the event, and decorations.
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S t a o w n p s w d a e
ALANA DOOBROW
TROOP 10393
Project Title: Dancing Through the Stress Gold Award Advisor: Julia Dourvetakis Hometown: Weston Service Unit: Royal Palm When Alana witnessed the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic that caused children to experience feelings of isolation and anxiety, lose socialization skills, and limit extracurricular physical fitness activities—she knew her Gold Award project needed to help solve the problem. Alana loves to dance and experiences it as a gateway to self-expression, confidence, and exuberance. With her talent, she could share a healthy solution to combat the new realities facing kids stuck at home and feeling stressed out. Partnering with the YMCA in Weston and the Weston Dance Academy, Alana created a six-week, no-cost dance series offered through in-person classes, Zoom online, and YouTube videos. Alana learned from a pediatric psychiatrist that exercise allows the body to release serotonin, which boosts mood and helps children feel more positive about external circumstances. Her dance classes offered a wide range of dynamic choreography, high-energy music, popular routines, and a judgement-free zone for all dancers at any level or interest. Learn her choreography to “Summer” from the movie Frozen here: youtube.com/watch?v=y1hyZasyNeA
DALEY EISENMANN
TROOP 10711
Project Title: Daley Pantry Gold Award Advisor: Julia Dourvetakis Hometown: Plantation Service Unit: Atikah Daley learned that households with children are more likely to experience food insecurity than those without them, and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly 25% of families experienced food insecurity. This startling realization inspired her to create small, easily accessible, and refillable food pantries alongside local churches. To help keep the pantries stocked, Daley enacted a grassroots educational campaign to help change negative views about those who are food insecure. She wanted to break uninformed perceptions and build awareness about those who are food insecure, in order to create a group of passionate, lifelong pantry donors—just like her. Daley wanted to provide ongoing access to food items without inflicting any undue stress or embarrassment on the families in need. She also wanted her unique pantry idea to be inspirational and duplicatable for anyone who shares her commitment to combating the struggle of food insecurity. Visit the Daley Pantry Facebook page here: facebook.com/groups/daleypantry
SAVANNAH GARRETT
ADULT, FORMERLY OF TROOP 20962
Project Title: Open Your Heart, Open a Book Gold Award Advisor: Sandra Clutter Hometown: Boca Raton Service Unit: Luna Savannah’s goal was to address childhood trauma with the power of books. Because childhood trauma often has a negative impact on in-school learning, making a child more easily distracted and less likely absorb new information, books can be a powerful tool. Savannah saw books as an outlet for children to understand their emotions and mitigate anxiety and depression. Partnering with the Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse, Inc. (AVDA) in Delray Beach, they installed a ‘booknook’ for children whose parents or guardians are involved in the sometimes lengthy “intake” process. The space is now filled with a wide range of books with comfortable, private, quiet spaces for reading and ‘escape’ for children of all ages. Savannah created an informational website to explain the value and need of books for children in stressful situations and to gather donations. Inside each book, Savannah placed a sticker with a QR code that leads children to another section of the website offering book recommendations, empathy, compassion, and encouragement to use reading to help relieve anxiety.
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MORGAN GOLD
TROOP 10442
Project Title: Dancing Dreams Gold Award Advisor: Debbie Hanley Hometown: Plantation Service Unit: Atikah Morgan set out to use dance to highlight the significance of exercise, alongside the health benefits of increased flexibility and maintaining an active lifestyle. Dancing improves heart and lung function, balance, spatial awareness, muscular strength and endurance, and motor skills. Plus, anyone can dance at any age! To reach people at home, during and following the COVID-19 pandemic, Morgan created a robust and motivational website with helpful, easy-to-follow videos. As a dancer, Morgan knew how to engage visitors with the most valuable information and instruction on stretching, jumping, posing, and injury prevention. The website also features original dance routines in different genres, including ballet, lyrical, jazz, tap, and hip-hop. You can get dancing with Morgan here: mgold0601.wixsite.com/dancing-dreams
JUSTINE HERARD
TROOP 10909
Project Title: Learning In Today’s World Gold Award Advisor: Merribeth Manning Hometown: Sunrise Service Unit: Kowechobe Isolation can lead to anxiety and depression—especially for the elderly. Justine realized that the quarantine to keep senior citizens safe during the COVID-19 pandemic was extremely challenging and led to increased loneliness. Much of our elderly population lack the skills needed to take advantage of technology as an effective tool to stay in touch with family and friends. Justine wanted to help seniors learn about technology to feel confident and connected. By utilizing interesting topics and increasing online socialization, Justine could effectively teach this audience modern tech skills, even when secluded for their health and safety. Partnering with the Grand Villa assisted living and memory care community in Deerfield Beach, Justine developed and led a series of courses to help residents increase their interest and aptitude using smartphones. The courses also explored other common uses for technology, including email, news and search engines, ancestry research, mental health and self-care, games, and social media. Over five months, the resident’s skills and confidence increased significantly—just like their spirits!
DARIA HERNANDEZ
S e a y C t f M D a d a a
TROOP 10393
Project Title: The Helping Hands Project Gold Award Advisor: Joyce Shraim Hometown: Weston Service Unit: Royal Palm Words in the English language can be tricky and ambiguous. Now, consider how the deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) population must confront words with multiple meanings, such as “run”— the single word can mean running in the park, running a business, or running for President. Daria was frustrated after discovering that there are virtually no resources that teach these language nuances for the DHH community or tools for teachers and caregivers to access. So, Daria decided to tackle the problem head-on and partnered with Peters Elementary School in Plantation and other Broward County DHH educators to create interactive, reusable workbooks. These books feature American Sign Language (ASL) hand signs to aid students in understanding and learning multiple-meaning words. The design of the workbooks includes laminated pages that allow students to write and then wipe away their work, creating an easy, reusable tool for teachers to use in their classrooms. Students increased their vocabulary, improved ASL signing skills, and learned many new multiple-meaning words that will support expanded communication for a lifetime.
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P li a g T h m a r in S
JAMILAH JOHNSON
TROOP 10450
Project Title: Operation H.O.P.E. (Helping Others Prosper Everyday) Gold Award Advisor: Tori-Lynn Saraniti Hometown: Tamarac Service Unit: Orange Blossom The COVID-19 pandemic revealed that more people than ever before are facing the issue of food instability, inspiring Jamilah to think about how she could help the homeless population in her community. Affordable housing, unemployment, mental illness, substance abuse, limited services, rental discrimination, past foreclosure, lack of education, failed relationships, and the death of a loved one, are all factors that lead to poverty and food insecurity. The pandemic only made this situation worse because of new joblessness, limited public transportation options, overcrowded hospitals, short-staffed agencies, and fewer donors. Despite this, Jamilah was passionate about bringing together community non-profit organizations to discuss the problem and collaborate on bringing valuable services to the homeless. She established a partnership with Williams Memorial CME Church and the volunteer organization HandsOn Broward in Fort Lauderdale to build a team of volunteers who created the H.O.P.E. box and continue to work towards long-term solutions. Each box contained essential daily care and food items for distribution to nearly 200 homeless individuals in the downtown Fort Lauderdale area.
SARA KAUFMAN
INDEPENDENTLY REGISTERED MEMBER
Project Title: A Dance Worth Facing: Helping Kids Cope with Anxiety Gold Award Advisor: Tori-Lynn Saraniti Hometown: Cooper City Service Unit: Hibiscus Social anxiety impacts an individual’s ability to function normally and comfortably in a “social environment” like a party or when meeting new people. According to the CDC, nearly 11% of all American preteens and teens have been diagnosed with anxiety. Sara worried about the young people who go undiagnosed, and the growth of social anxiety following the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her goal was to create a tool for children to identify and better manage their anxiety, improve relationships, and strengthen social interactions for a successful, anxietyfree future. Sara worked with multiple psychotherapists and connected with the Broward and Miami-Dade school boards to learn more about the topic, so she could write her book titled A Dance Worth Facing. The story revolves around Bella, a sixth-grader who is very anxious about an upcoming school dance. Unable to focus or sleep, the overwhelming thought of going to the dance seems to take over her life. Sara’s book has been shared with more than 1,000 schools across the country and sold nearly 200 copies. Find A Dance Worth Facing on Amazon here: amazon.com/dp/B08RG55YP7/
SARA LESMES
ADULT, FORMERLY OF TROOP 10369
Project Title: Passing on Paper Gold Award Advisor: Paula Fontaine Hometown: Coral Springs Service Unit: Everglades Paper has an incredibly negative effect on the environment from the beginning to the end of its life cycle and Sara is passionate about educating others about its impact. Despite being deemed an “eco-friendly” alternative to plastic, paper products occupy most landfills and emit harmful greenhouse gases when they are manufactured and again as they are broken down and burned. The disposable nature of paper has become convenient and affordable, but its overconsumption heavily contributes to the waste that fuels pollution. Sara set out to educate students on the misleading life cycle of paper as well as the dangers related to the way greenhouse gases harm an ecosystem through deforestation, loss of biodiversity, climate change, habitat loss, and acid rain. Sara developed a curriculum filled with information and solutions to “pass on paper” for in-person and virtual students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland and the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Youth Group in Coral Springs.
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JULIANA MAESTRI
TROOP 10392
Project Title: Glow from Within: Peer Teen Mentor/Volunteer Program Gold Award Advisor: Debbie Hanley Hometown: Miami Lakes Service Unit: Hibiscus The mental health crisis is a growing concern for teenage girls. Juliana lost count of the times she overheard statements such as “they’re fat”, “she’s so fake”, she’s a geek”, and “she’s so weird” in the hallways at school. Juliana knew that she could create a forum and resource to provide positive reinforcement for teens her age that would address the lack of confidence, emerging anxiety, and depressive disorders to change the conversation to support one another. She created a partnership between B.L.I.S.S. Club (Beauty Lies in Sisters Serving) at Archbishop McCarthy High School in Southwest Ranches and the Big Children’s Foundation, a not-forprofit organization focused on the needs of foster teens, for a new peer mentorship group. The program features group discussions and relaxation techniques with one-on-one participation in expressive arts such as writing, design, dancing, photography, singing, and painting with foster teens. Explore even more on the Glow from Within website here: glowfromwithin.club/
EMILY MILLER
TROOP 30143
Project Title: Emily’s Corner Gold Award Advisor: Emily Zarzycki Hometown: Stuart Service Unit: Sea Star Children can gain comprehension and literacy skills from the day they are born. The stage known as emergent literacy begins at birth and continues through preschool, where speech and language development are the foundation for vocabulary, advanced literacy, effective communication, and problem-solving. New research shows that reading to kids at home, in the emergent literacy stage, teaches them about 1.4 million more words and increases overall cognitive ability versus kids who weren’t read to at home. Emily decided to partner with the Gertrude Walden Child Care Center in Stuart to create a “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” program with a simple, innovative, and fun approach to establishing strong early literacy skills for children ages 2-5. With new lesson planning tools for teachers and volunteers and a brandnew library filled with books, the 90 students have already made strides to becoming readers— and leaders.
SYDNEY RIGAUD
TROOP 50318
Project Title: Protect Your Port and Your Life Gold Award Advisor: Karyl Bertram Hometown: Sebastian Service Unit: Indian Treasure Wearing a seatbelt saves lives. Sydney was alarmed after learning that some chemotherapy and kidney dialysis patients chose not to buckle up due to their treatment port—they lived in fear of excruciating pain and damage to chest ports by using standard automobile safety belts. With help from law enforcement, nursing professionals, and dialysis patients, Sydney developed a port protector for those wearing seatbelts through trial and error. Needing to be confident the design would not interfere with the correct placement and the manufacturer’s intended effectiveness of various safety belt systems was very important. Sydney partnered with Cleveland Clinic Indian River Scully-Welsh Cancer Center, DaVita Dialysis Center, and the Dialysis Center in Sebastian to distribute the port protectors and share an instructional video. The Daughters of the American Revolution Gainesville Chapter, and their 180 members, have agreed to adopt the project and continue manufacturing and distributing to the people who will benefit from this innovation.
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KAYLEE ROMPOT
TROOP 50318
Project Title: Flag Savvy Gold Award Advisor: Merribeth Manning Hometown: Sebastian Service Unit: Indian Treasure The next generation will shape this land long after we’re gone. Kaylee believes one of the best ways to ensure that the United States remains the world’s greatest nation is to share American traditions with children—especially about our beloved symbol of freedom, the American Flag. Kaylee’s Gold Award project focused on educating about the American Flag, including etiquette on handling it, flying it, folding it, and instruction on a proper retirement ceremony to honor those who served and died for our nation. Flag disposal and retirement were the key focus areas for Kaylee because flags were being thrown away improperly due to a lack of education. Kaylee set out to make a difference by partnering with the American Legion Post 189 Sebastian to create an educational curriculum that would share traditions and proper etiquette with young people at Sebastian River Middle School and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Indian River County in Sebastian.
SELA ROSEN
TROOP 30822
Project Title: Climate Change: The Crisis of Our Time Gold Award Advisor: Merribeth Manning Hometown: Palm City Service Unit: Sea Star It is important to understand how the climate is changing so that we can prepare for the future. More frequent and intense droughts, storms, heatwaves, rising sea levels, and warming oceans cause harm to animals, destroy the places they live, and wreak havoc on people’s livelihoods and communities. Sela highlighted this critical conversation in the community by organizing a comprehensive climate change symposium that was free to members and open to anyone who wanted to learn more and be a part of the solution. Five local environmental organizations made presentations about their missions, how climate change affects them, and how they work to fight climate change. These organizations included Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach, Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Foundation in Vero Beach, the City of Port St. Lucie, National Audubon Society, and Florida Power & Light Company. Sela recorded the symposium to share on social networks and created a follow-up informational pamphlet emailed to the participants. Additionally, Sela revived the Green Club at Martin County High School with 15 new student members to share information and create volunteer opportunities. Check out a video of the Climate Change Symposium here: youtube.com/watch?v=fCqxKa-vmd4&t=1s
IMANI SANCHEZ
ADULT, FORMERLY OF TROOP 10663
Project Title: High School Introduction: What You Need to Know Gold Award Advisor: Debra Byrne-Mathews Hometown: Pembroke Pines Service Unit: Wildflower Students who transitioned from middle school into high school during the years impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and remote learning experienced new, unexpected challenges. Peer connection and social interaction became more difficult than ever before. Imani created a Gold Award project to support eighth-graders entering high school in the Fall of 2021 from Franklin Academy Charter School in Pembroke Pines. Imani’s online experience offered real-life insight into entering high school and a safe space for students to share fears and concerns about their near future. Session elements for incoming freshmen included an overview of high school classes, GPA, graduation requirements, special programs, extracurriculars opportunities (clubs, sports, CTE courses, AP courses), and college readiness. The eighth-graders were encouraged to ask questions and talk about any trepidation they might have, given the amount of time spent away from a traditional school setting. Feedback from students and teachers was overwhelmingly positive; it was a true asset to this future Class of 2025.
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ALENA SANTOS
TROOP 40182
Project Title: Garden of Life Gold Award Advisor: Emily Zarzycki Hometown: Port St. Lucie Service Unit: Gemini Approximatly 114,000 people in the United States are currently on a transplant waiting list. An average of 20 Americans on these lists die every day waiting for the organs they need to survive. Because of this startling fact, Alena decided to shine a light on the immediate need for organ donors. Working closely with Life Alliance Organ Recovery and Donate Life Florida, Alena created a garden at the Lawnwood Regional Medical Center in Fort Pierce with two goals in mind: recognizing and thanking local organ donors and offering information encouraging people to register themselves as organ donors for the furture. The garden’s grand opening was covered by WPBF Channel 25 on National Donor Day, and Alena’s call to action for potential new organ donors reached thousands of viewers and online readers. The garden continues to educate others and increase registration at donatelifeflorida.org. Watch Alena’s powerful video entitled “Just Say Yes” here: youtube.com/watch?v=cSS8LmDHmu8
SHREYA SHENOY
TROOP 12321
Project Title: Girls Know Money Gold Award Advisor: Pamela Ashworth Hometown: Coral Springs Service Unit: Blazing Star Shreya was alarmed at the lack of education and awareness about personal finance in children and teens ages 6-18 and a startling underrepresentation of women working in professional finance fields. According to Forbes magazine, only 15 percent of financial service employees at the executive level are women. Because most schools do not provide personal finance classes, Shreya decided to create an original curriculum to teach young female students about the Value of Money, Budgeting, and Credit 101. Shreya was determined to teach these topics in a fun, hands-on way, to increase interest in finance concepts, and empower girls with the skills they need to take charge of their personal finances and be independent. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and limitations to in-person groups, Shreya created a website to compliment the dynamic workshop sessions and reach even more young people with these important life lessons. Visit Shreya’s website here: girlsknowmoney.com
MADELYN STREISFELD
TROOP 10442
Project Title: Generation Art-Z Gold Award Advisor: Julia Dourvetakis Hometown: Davie Service Unit: Atikah Madelyn was driven to promote creativity and activism among her peers. Too often, teens struggle to discover ways to be ‘heard’ on issues that matter, and the easiest option in most cases is to post on social media. These posts have good intentions but are not particularly fulfilling and get drowned out quickly; this is commonly known as “slacktivism”. Madelyn’s Gold Award project aimed to encourage a new method of online activism centered around art. With this unique idea, Madelyn created an Instagram page where students and young adults could send in videos, audio, or photos of their art, whether physical or performance, to be shared as part of a larger social media campaign. The art pieces can focus on any message important to the artist, providing a platform for teen activism and allowing young people to share art in all forms that might otherwise go unnoticed or ignored. Madelyn carved out a digital space for poetry, powerful school speeches, artwork, performance art videos, and idea sharing that can be preserved and shared to promote civic engagement and positive activism. Visit Madelyn’s Instagram: @generationartz
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CASSIDY STUMER
TROOP 10442
Project Title: Recycled Crafts with Cassidy Gold Award Advisor: Tori-Lynn Saraniti Hometown: Plantation Service Unit: Atikah Recycling is an issue everyone talks about, but many people are unaware of the the incredibly negative results for our planet when we neglect to do it. A failure to recycle contributes to the climate crisis, impacts wildlife, and causes harm to the public health. Cassidy decided to inspire youngsters with a crafty how-to website that would build a lifelong appreciation of recycling. She produced step-by-step videos for crafts that kids can make at home using materials found inside recycling bins. Through the use of eco-friendly and recyclable materials, elementary school students can approach their role in recycling with more awareness and the anticipation of fun. Introducing the concept of up-cycling is key to reducing overall waste. The website features crafts organized by age, interest, and difficulty level, so parents can help guide the learning process. Additionally, Cassidy’s website includes local resources regarding recycling so more adults can understand the benefits too. Get crafting with Cassidy right here: cassidyhope.wixsite.com/craftswithcassidy
LINDSAY STUMER
TROOP 10442
Project Title: Too Many Allergies? Not in Our Kitchen! Gold Award Advisor: Melanie Smith Hometown: Plantation Service Unit: Atikah Frequently, meals prepared in restaurants for customers with food allergies are not prepared properly, and there is no training for employees on how to handle the food for these diners. Lindsay knew that if restaurant managers and owners weren’t knowledgeable about food allergies, then employees likely weren’t either, leading to an unsafe experience for customers. To address this problem, Lindsay created an allergy training manual for restaurants in the community with information about major allergens and cross-contamination, plus how to identify, prepare, cook, serve, and store allergy-free food. The manual includes restaurant cleaning and safety guidelines for self-service areas, such as color-coding allergens and updating a restaurants computer system. Lindsay presented at the City of Plantation City Commission meeting to bring awareness to the issue, and her manual has already been implemented by seven restaurants in the community.
MADISON SUSMAN
TROOP 10434
Project Title: Purr-fect For You Gold Award Advisor: Paula Fontaine Hometown: Coral Springs Service Unit: Everglades Madison was moved by the plight of unadopted senior-aged cats and those with pre-existing medical conditions. These cats, in countless shelters, are being abandoned by owners and overlooked for adoption because of the perception that “younger is better.” Madison felt that if potential adoptee-families could be more familiar with the common medical conditions of senior cats and understand the signage provided on shelter cages, these special animals would find more loving forever homes. Working alongside the Tri-County Animal Rescue in Boca Raton, Madison hosted a variety of on-site educational presentations and fun “meet and greets” with long-time senior cat residents. These on-site meetings encouraged people to make connections and learn more about what makes these animals great for adoption. Madison also partnered with local PetCo and Pet Supermarket retail locations to distribute her printed information and host live event presentations. Check out the dedicated webpage with Madison’s message here: tricountyanimalrescue.com/senior-pets
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LEAH VAN BOMMEL
TROOP 20644
Project Title: Teaching ASL to the DD Community and Its Volunteers Gold Award Advisor: Melanie Smith Hometown: Juno Beach Service Unit: Jupiter American Sign Language has traditionally been used in communication with people who have hearing impairments. However, ASL has also been used effectively to connect with populations with developmental disabilities who have little or no communication skills. Leah created a partnership with The Arc of Palm Beach County and set out to teach American Sign Language to the agency’s volunteers who work with nonverbal clients served there. Leah successfully taught 50 volunteers a curriculum of the ASL alphabet, including 17 common signs to share emotions and demands, six greetings, and the song “Happy Birthday” through lively in-person classes, four supplemental educational videos, and an Instagram page. Above all, Leah shared the vital messages about the power of communication and the value of human connection. Learn how to sign “Happy Birthday” with Leah here: youtube.com/watch?v=CjUcz6CSxTg
BROOKE VLAUN
TROOP 10088
Project Title: Surf Like A BRAT! Gold Award Advisor: Karyl Bertram Hometown: St. Johns Service Unit: Royal Palm In 1921, a book assigned the term “BRAT” (British Regiment Attached Traveler) for children who traveled abroad with a parent soldier. Brooke knows the term because she has traveled around the world as part of a United States Armed Forces service family. She combined her love of the ocean and passion for bringing BRATs together for camaraderie and education by forming a partnership with Naval Station Mayport and the Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Brooke designed the surfing curriculum, recruited the instructors and lifeguards, provided swim tests, coordinated logistics, and served 13 to 18-year-old BRAT campers from the North Florida areas. Together, campers learned basic surfing techniques, safety, teamwork, self-confidence, as well as education about protecting sea life and preserving our oceans.
HANNAH WAGNER
TROOP 10259
Project Title: Scouting Through the Obstacles Gold Award Advisor: Tori-Lynn Saraniti Hometown: Sunrise Service Unit: Royal Palm Kids, teens, and adults with intellectual developmental disabilities (IDD) can be overlooked and underserved in the Girl and Boy Scout communities because people too often see disabilities rather than the abilities they have. IDD individuals want to participate in these valuable programs, but sometimes struggle to find the right troop or pack to fit their unique needs. Based on previous volunteer experiences, Hannah knew firsthand that Girl and Boy Scout activities are ideal for individuals with special needs because there are so many high-quality activities, hands-on instruction, teamwork, and opportunities for achieving goals, yet most volunteers don’t have confidence in their own skill set or resources to modify the leadership requirements. Hannah set out to change that! She partnered with the Giborim program at the David Posnack Jewish Community Center in Davie and created a comprehensive 22-week troop/pack experience for 10 “scouts” with IDD where they completed activities and earned the respective Girl Scout badges and Boy Scout merit awards in art, outdoor adventure, meditation, STEM, sports, community service, friendship, cooking, and life skills that any volunteer can now use to welcome and serve individuals with a range of abilities in a troop or pack setting.
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Scholarships Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida is a respected authority on the lives of girls—as well as the issues they face. Our organization is proud to partner with like-minded companies, foundations, and individuals who share our belief in the unlimited power of girls to make this world a better place. Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida works with other leaders in our community so college-bound Girl Scouts can receive the recognition and financial boost that they so often need to turn their dreams of higher education into a reality.
Florida Power & Light Company Scholarship Florida Power & Light Company is committed to supporting a new pipeline of female leaders into the STEM fields. While the national workforce is 50% female, only one quarter of STEM related jobs are filled by women today. FPL is both passionate and strategically focused on assisting girls who have interests in STEM fields and plan to make it a part of their post-secondary educational pursuit.
Scholarship award: $2,500 Raunak Manchanda Palm Beach Gardens Troop 20245 University of Texas at Austin
Paul C. Emmett “MVP Champion of the Community” Scholarship In 2001, father, husband and entrepreneur Paul Emmett, president, and owner of Lake Worth-based Duffy’s Sports Grill, brought with him a vision to transform a few beloved local establishments into the sports-themed, casual-dining phenomenon we know today. Infusing a passion for top quality food combined with welcoming, memorable hospitality in a family friendly atmosphere, he made Duffy’s a community favorite across the state of Florida. Paul passed away in 2015 after a lengthy battle with cancer. His family has pledged to carry his legacy forward, by staying true to his principles and beliefs. At an early age Paul was a community service leader and believed Duffy’s should always be an integral part of each community we serve. In 2016, the Emmett family established the Duffy’s Foundation, created in his memory, to keep his passion for community involvement and charitable giving alive. In 2019, his family proudly launched the Paul C. Emmett “MVP Champion of the Community” Scholarship in honor of his commitment to community and forward-focused outlook in both work and life.
Scholarship award: $1,500
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Gina Rose Montalto Scholarship Gina Rose Montalto was a victim of the mass shooting at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, on February 14, 2018. Gina was an extraordinary person; her smile lit up a room, her laughter was infectious, and her warm heart invited new friends wherever she went. With a kind and generous spirit, Gina always lent a helping hand, and led a life full of joy and love. She was a talented artist, loved cooking, reading, playing sports and was a top student. As a lifelong Girl Scout, Gina used
Julia Yu Delray Beach Troop 10952 Florida State University
all of her many talents to make the world a better place. As a high school freshman, Gina was already actively exploring ideas for her future Girl Scout Gold Award. Gina’s loving parents, Tony and Jennifer, knew that even as her life was cut short, the dreams of Girl Scouts earning the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award lives on in so many others. This scholarship is dedicated to Gina’s memory, her spirit of giving and her passion for Girl Scouting.
Scholarship award: $1,500
Doreen A. Scott “Forever Green” Scholarship Doreen A. Scott loved the outdoors. She had a passion for nature and outdoor activities that was second only to the love for her daughters and their Girl Scout experience. She was always “right at home” camping or in a park. She was an avid camper, equestrian, fisherwoman, and tennis player. She deeply valued the Girl Scout experience she shared with her own daughters.
Sophia Revis Fort Lauderdale Troop 11110 Samford University
In 2021, Doreen passed away unexpectedly, and her family wanted to discover meaningful ways her passions and values could live on to inspire others. To that end, her family created the Doreen A. Scott Forever Green Girl Scout Scholarship for Girl Scouts who share her connection and commitment to the great outdoors.
Scholarship award: $1,500
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Barbara Ann Turner “Service from the Heart” Scholarship Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida is honored to award the “Service from the Heart” Scholarship in memory of Barbara Ann Turner, a dedicated volunteer. Barbara had many interests in her life, but nothing was as dear to her, as the Girl Scouts. She served as a leader, council trainer, service unit manager, and women’s history committee member. She shared her enthusiasm and commitment to the Girl Scout volunteer spirit in the many service projects
Gabriella Hidalgo Sunrise Troop 10442 University of Florida
she organized. Her wish was that an ongoing scholarship be established to recognize exceptional community service. This dream was realized when the first scholarship was awarded in 2008 to one Girl Scout in the amount of $500.00. Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida has been extremely pleased that, thanks to the generosity of ongoing donations, the scholarship has been increased to $1,000.00 that is awarded annually to a local Girl Scout who has given exceptional service in her community.
Scholarship award: $1,000
Congratulations
to all of this year’s Scholarship Recipients!
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Girlscoutshop.com/SOUTHEAST-FLORIDA-COUNCIL
Girl Scout Promise On my honor, I WILL TRY: to serve GOD and MY COUNTRY, to HELP people AT ALL TIMES, and to live by the GIRL SCOUT LAW.
Girl Scout Law I will do my best to be HONEST and FAIR, FRIENDLY and HELPFUL, CONSIDERATE and CARING, COURAGEOUS and STRONG, and RESPONSIBLE for what I SAY and DO, and to RESPECT MYSELF and OTHERS, RESPECT AUTHORITY, use RESOURCES WISELY, make the WORLD a BETTER PLACE, and be a SISTER to every GIRL SCOUT.
Girl Scout Mission GIRL SCOUTING B U I L D S girls of courage, confidence and character , who make the
world a better place.