Lee County resident and Florida Gulf Coast University student Brittany Newman has earned Girl Scouting’s highest honor – the Gold Award – with her project titled, Out & About!

Newman realized a local park was so rundown that it was unsafe for children to play on and families to enjoy. The park and its playground were in desperate need of repairs and renovations.

Newman took on the challenge of addressing these safety concerns with the help of some volunteers. The group, with Newman as their leader, repaired and repainted the playground equipment and benches throughout the park.

Newman’s goal is that with a safer and more physically appealing place to play, children will be more inclined to put down electronic devices and play outside. She hopes the newly renovated park will be just the place children will want to go.

“Because this project was so successful, I am more confident,” Newman said. “My leadership skills will continue to grow as I take on more projects that benefit the community.”

The Girl Scout Gold Award, open to high school Girl Scouts, recognizes girls who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through take-action projects with sustainable impact in their communities. The Gold Award is so prestigious that 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.

Congratulations Brittany!