Manatee County resident and Lakewood Ranch High School graduate Cypress Potter earned Girl Scouting’s highest honor—the Gold Award—with her project titled Baskets for the Brain.
Cypress’s project helped senior citizens at The Sheridan at Lakewood Ranch assisted living facility relearn fine motor skills, discover a creative outlet, and experience positive social interaction. In a workshop setting, she taught a crochet pattern to the residents that resulted in a bag that could be adapted to hang on either a wheelchair or walker. Not only did the crocheting improve the residents’ dexterity and sharpen their minds, Cypress noted the bags allowed them to gain a newfound feeling of accomplishment and self-worth.
“I know now, as a result of my project, that I can address social issues that I never anticipated were part of my interests.”
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 Girl Scouts, and girls who enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces may receive advanced rank in recognition of their achievements.
Congratulations, Cypress!
Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, Inc. 
Really great project! Congratulations on your accomplishments.
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