Girls who participate in the Girl Scout Cookie Program learn and practice five valuable skills: goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills, and business ethics.
The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida proudly announces the conclusion of another successful Girl Scout Cookie Program, which ran from January 3 to March 3, spanning the vibrant communities along the Gulf Coast. The Girl Scout Cookie Program provides an important ingredient for leadership by helping girls develop five key skills: goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills and business ethics.
This year’s program showcased remarkable achievements, with over 2,200 girls participating in the Cookie Program this year, and 17 girls attaining Top Seller status by distributing over 5000 boxes each.
One of the highlights of the GSGCF’s Cookie Program is the emphasis on giving back to the community. Through the Gift of Caring Program, customers can donate cookies that will be gifted to local hometown heroes, active military personnel, and veterans, both locally and overseas. Girl Scouts who contribute over 20 packages towards this initiative earn the prestigious Gift of Caring patch, recognizing their commitment to making a positive impact in their communities and abroad.
The Gift of Caring Program exemplifies the Girl Scouts’ dedication to serving those who serve our communities and country selflessly. At the conclusion of the program, GSGCF’s local Girl Scout troops personally deliver cookies to local military organizations. Additionally, the organization will partner with Soldier’s Angels, a renowned charity, to ensure that cookies reach deployed military personnel, bringing a taste of home to those serving far away from their loved ones.
In total, the Gift of Caring Program collected an impressive 50,007 boxes of Cookies, which will be distributed to support military personnel overseas, local police, firefighters, teachers, doctors and nurses, and to local senior centers and food pantries. Furthermore, the GSGCF’s Cookie Program achieved outstanding success, with a total of 1.1 million packages sold across the gulf coast, showcasing the enthusiasm and dedication of Girl Scouts and their supporters.
“We are immensely proud of the success of our 2024 Cookie Program and the meaningful impact it has had on our communities,” said Mary Anne Servian, CEO at GSGCF. “Through the generosity of our customers and the hard work of our Girl Scouts, we have been able to express gratitude and support to our local heroes and military personnel, both near and far. This program truly embodies the spirit of giving that is at the heart of Girl Scouts.”
As the 2024 Cookie Program draws to a close, GSGCF extends its appreciation to everyone who contributed to its success, including the dedicated Girl Scouts, supportive families, and generous customers.
The Estate of Sandi Stewart has generously provided a $10K match for donations made Noon to Noon April 9-10 as part of the 2024 Giving Challenge.
Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida is thrilled to announce a significant $10,000 match generously provided by the Estate of Sandi Stewart for the upcoming 2024 Giving Challenge. Sandi Stewart, whose profound dedication to empowering young girls spans over three decades, has left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and uplift.
Sandi’s journey with Girl Scouts began as a dedicated volunteer, driven by her passion for empowering young girls to become confident leaders. Over the years, she climbed the ladder within the organization, serving as the finance director and ultimately becoming the CEO in 1998. For a remarkable 23 years, she devoted herself to shaping the future of Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, Inc. During her tenure as CEO, Sandi accomplished incredible milestones, leaving an indelible mark on the organization and on the lives of countless young women.
“Sandi believed in the philanthropic nature of our community to support our wonderful local, non-profit organizations, and we are honored to be able to provide the match to support the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida,” said Allison Stewart.
A true visionary, Sandi Stewart instilled in young girls the belief in their ability to dream big and realize their full potential as leaders of courage, confidence, and character. Her legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those she inspired, fueling the mission to create a brighter future for generations of young women.
“We are deeply honored to receive this generous match in memory of Sandi Stewart,” said Mary Anne Servian, CEO at Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida. “Her passion for empowering girls has had a profound impact on our organization, and this match will enable us to continue her legacy of fostering courage, confidence, and character in young women.”
As the 2024 Giving Challenge approaches, Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida invites supporters to join in honoring Sandi Stewart’s remarkable legacy and contributing to the mission of empowering young women. Donations made during the Giving Challenge will be matched, doubling the impact of every gift.
Prior to the Giving Challenge, supporters are encouraged to mark their calendars for April 9th and 10th to #BeTheOne to #SupportGirlLeadership. For more information and to participate in the Giving Challenge, please visit https://www.gsgcf.org/en/support-us/2024givingchallenge.html.
During the Giving Challenge, individuals are invited to #BeTheOne to #SupportGirlLeadership by making a matching donation to honor Sandi Stewart’s legacy. Additionally, gifts up to $100 will receive a 1:1 match from The Patterson Foundation, amplifying the impact of every contribution.
Join Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida in honoring Sandi Stewart’s extraordinary legacy and supporting the next generation of female leaders during the 2024 Giving Challenge.
Envision a young girl battling anxiety, a teenager navigating life after a traumatic brain injury, a police officer coping with PTSD, or a mom facing the weight of depression. What binds them together? The potential for healing, thanks to the dedicated individuals committed to bettering our world and nurturing the growth of courage, confidence, and character.
Through the 2022 Giving Challenge, donors to Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida made a difference by enabling the Girl Scout Leadership Experience for all girls, including those facing unique mental and physical challenges.
Two years ago, the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida embarked on a quest to find a nonprofit partner that shared our passion for making a positive and sustainable impact on the lives of others. Enter the transformative collaboration between the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida and Prospect Riding Center during the 2022 Giving Challenge – a partnership poised to make a difference in the lives of those facing unique challenges.
Our partnership with the Prospect Riding Center developed organically, and quickly grew into a collaborative and prosperous relationship that we are still bragging about to this day.
Prospect Riding Center, nestled on 10 acres of farmland in the picturesque Myakka City, offered therapeutic and recreational horseback riding but also championed a mission to assist individuals with special needs through equine-assisted therapy. Their dedication to overcoming physical, developmental, and psychological challenges aligned seamlessly with the Girl Scouts’ commitment to making the world a better place, guided by the core value of courage.
The highlight of our partnership was undoubtedly the “Hootenanny at Honi,” a spectacular community event that unfolded at the Girl Scout Camp Honi Hanta on April 26, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. This event wasn’t just a gathering; it was a celebration of unity, compassion, and the collective strength that arises when individuals come together for a shared cause.
Our ambitious goal for the evening was to “stuff the boot” with supplies and gift cards for Prospect Riding Center’s therapeutic riding program. And let me tell you, the community responded with overwhelming generosity. The event transformed the camp into a vibrant haven of live music, delectable bites, yard games, stick horse races, and a donation station buzzing with the spirit of giving.
The atmosphere was electric, drawing in not only our steadfast supporters but also new donors eager to contribute to the cause. Laughter echoed through the air as children engaged in stick horse races, families enjoyed the live music by the 301 Travelers, and everyone reveled in the joy of giving back.
The impact of the “Hootenanny at Honi” extended far beyond the bounds of the event itself. On that remarkable day, the Prospect Riding Center described the collaboration with Girl Scouts as extremely successful. With funding from the 2022 Giving Challenge, both organizations could hardly wait to start dreaming up plans for future collaborations.
Our relationship didn’t fade away after the Giving Challenge; instead, it flourished into a lasting commitment. Prospect Riding Center became an integral part of the Girl Scout Cadette Leadership Program, bringing horses to teach girls about the role of large animals in therapeutic care and leadership.
Troops eagerly scheduled days to travel to the farm, gaining hands-on experience in animal care and exploring their interests with horses.
With educational sessions and recreational riding days, the impact of our partnership extended beyond just helping those with disabilities – also educating the public about the role of large animals in therapeutic care.
Additionally, Girl Scouts performed acts of service at the farm. The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast sent troops to Prospect Riding Center to revamp their sensory riding trail, ensuring it remains in top shape for therapeutic riding.
This collaborative spirit not only embodied the #BeTheOne theme but also reflected the Girl Scouts’ commitment to giving back to the community. Our mission to #BeTheOne to uplift those struggling did not end with the 2022 Giving Challenge; it evolved into a way of life. The dollars raised that weekend continued to enable educational programming for girls throughout our council, well beyond the Hootenanny and into the next Membership Year. Our participation in the Giving Challenge enabled us to connect with new donors and community partners, some of whom we are partnering with for the 2024 Giving Challenge.
As we fast-forward to 2024, Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida is staying true to our mission of empowering girls to make the world a better place. This time, we are collaborating with the non-profit National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Sarasota Manatee Counties and our for-profit business partner, Children’s World, for the 2024 Giving Challenge.
Our collaboration with NAMI has already commenced. Through this partnership, girls will have the chance to earn GSUSA’s new Mental Health Badges at HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital in March. Licensed facilitators will guide the girls through activities designed to help them earn the Junior Knowing My Emotions Badge, Cadette Finding My Voice Badge, and Senior and Ambassador Showing Up For Me and You Badge. The badge curriculum, developed by GSUSA in collaboration with NAMI, aims to foster mental health awareness and increased well-being.
A Self Care Fair, sponsored by the GSGCF Board of Directors, is planned at Camp Honi Hanta on April 6, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. This free family event promises an afternoon filled with arts & crafts, games, yoga, and other mental wellness activities. Attendees will learn to identify and journal their feelings, relax with yoga and meditation, and gain insights into valuable community resources. The event will be open to youth throughout community, and Girl Scouts will receive a 2024 Giving Challenge Patch for attending.
In June, a third collaborative event is planned with NAMI. At our annual Volunteer Celebration at the Plantation Golf & Country Club in Venice for their volunteer leaders. During the event, NAMI Sarasota and Manatee Counties will facilitate a 30-minute wellness-based training activity that the Girl Scout leaders can then present to their troops.
You too can join the movement to #BeTheOne to #KnowYourWorth, as the Girl Scouts continue to support girls’ mental health and empower them be unique, united, and unstoppable.
“Through our partnership with NAMI Sarasota Manatee Counties, we are not just fostering mental health; we are igniting a flame of resilience, courage, and strength. At Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, we believe in being the one to make a difference,” said Mary Anne Servian, Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida CEO. “By standing shoulder to shoulder with NAMI, we are amplifying our commitment to inspire courage, build confidence, and shape the character of the young girls we serve. Together, we are not only breaking down stigmas but also creating a community where each individual can recognize their worth and celebrate their uniqueness. This partnership is a testament to the enduring power of unity, compassion, and the belief that, collectively, we can #BeTheOne to uplift and empower every girl, fostering a world where mental wellness is a shared journey towards strength and resilience.”
Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this transformative experience. Register soon, as attendance is limited. Let’s come together and #BeTheOne to make a difference! Register for the Self Care Fair today on Eventbrite.
Over a dozen accomplished women came to speak with Girl Scouts about their careers at the event.
Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida would like to share a successful career exploration event recently hosted by Girl Scouts from Collier County. The event, held on Saturday, Jan. 27 at the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences at 14700 Immokalee Road in Naples, brought together girls of all ages to interact with accomplished women across various professions, inspiring them to dream big and explore diverse career paths.
Troop 392 Ambassador Girl Scouts Kaitlyn and Marissa successfully organized the event, creating a platform for information-sharing, networking, and showcasing the endless possibilities available to young girls as they navigate their future career paths. Several Collier troops enthusiastically participated in the “You Can Be Anything” Event, where an inspiring array of accomplished professionals shared their experiences with the eager attendees.
Mary Anne Servian, CEO of Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, also attended the event as a guest speaker. She spoke enthusiastically about the impact of the event: “At Girl Scouts, we believe in providing girls with opportunities to discover their potential and pursue their passions. The career exploring event was aligned perfectly with our mission to empower girls to become leaders in their chosen fields. The fact that it was led by girls, for girls, is also inspiring. It was truly amazing to see the enthusiasm and curiosity of the girls as they engaged with successful women from different careers.”
The event featured over a dozen guest speakers, including law enforcement officers, physicians, animal shelter workers, a judge, and Mary Anne Servian herself. These accomplished women shared their personal journeys, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and determination in achieving their goals. Attendees had the unique opportunity to meet and interact with women from various career fields, including a judge, a CEO, a CAO, a doctor, an author, an engineer, an animal rescuer, an animal biologist, a social media specialist, a public relations director, a retired Army helicopter pilot/current Medflight Chief Pilot, and Collier County Sheriff’s Officers. The girls not only gained valuable insights into different professions but also had the chance to connect with these role models, fostering a sense of empowerment and expanding their horizons.
Girls of all ages were treated to hands-on activities suitable for diverse interests. High school girls, in particular, gained access to valuable information about potential career paths and job opportunities. The event also fostered a sense of inclusivity by encouraging girls to bring friends along.
The event was open to Girl Scouts as well as the general public, with a nominal registration fee of $2. Attendees also received an exclusive event patch.
GSGCF CEO Mary Anne Servian spoke with girls at the event about her career accomplishments.A judge also “presided” at the event, talking to attendees about their future career choices.
The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida (GSGCF) is thrilled to announce that we have been awarded a $6,226.05 grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, provided by the Edward K. Roberts Emerging Needs Fund. This grant is designated to support the implementation of the Brightly software package for our five council properties.
The implementation of the Brightly software package, made possible by the generous grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, will significantly impact the operational efficiency and reservation processes at five council properties owned by GSGCF. These properties include the historical Camp Honi Hanta in Bradenton, FL, Camp Caloosa in Fort Myers, the Collier Girl Scout House, the Arcadia Girl Scout House, and the central hub of activities at our Sarasota Headquarters.
The upgrade aims to streamline property and equipment reservations at these locations, ensuring seamless experiences for members, volunteers, and staff engaged in training, programming, and various educational and leadership activities. This initiative aligns with our commitment to providing an optimal environment for the Girl Scout Leadership Experience and furthering the impact of our organization across the Gulf Coast Florida region.
Mary Anne Servian, GSGCF CEO, said, “The new software upgrade will streamline reservation processes for our volunteers, and allow our council to offer more flexibility in scheduling property reservations. The implementation of the Brightly software is poised to elevate both customer, volunteer, and employee satisfaction, optimizing the utilization of our facilities and, consequently, boosting property site revenue.”
“We are grateful to the Community Foundation of Sarasota County for their support and commitment to our mission. This grant will significantly contribute to the success of our programs and initiatives, allowing us to continue providing valuable experiences to our members,” added Mary Anne Servian.
The Community Foundation of Sarasota County is a vital supporter of philanthropy and community impact. With assets of $488 million in over 1,580 charitable funds, the Community Foundation awarded grants and scholarships totaling $40 million last year in various areas, including education, the arts, health and human services, civic engagement, animal welfare, and the environment.
For more information about the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, visit gsgcf.org
About the Community Foundation of Sarasota County:
The Community Foundation of Sarasota County is a public charity founded in 1979 by the Southwest Florida Estate Planning Council as a resource for caring individuals and the causes they support, enabling them to make a charitable impact on the community. With assets of $488 million in more than 1,580 charitable funds, the Community Foundation awarded grants and scholarships totaling $40 million dollars last year in the areas of education, the arts, health and human services, civic engagement, animal welfare, and the environment. Since its founding, the Community Foundation has been able to grant more than $435.8 million to area nonprofit organizations to our community thanks to the generosity of charitable individuals, families, and businesses. For more information, visit www.CFSarasota.org or call (941) 955-3000.
Ashley Gill, a GSGCF veteran employee, will take on the new role in Jan. 2024
The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida (GSGCF) is thrilled to announce the promotion of Ashley Gill to the position of Director of Member Experience, effective January 2024. Ashley has been an integral part of the GSGCF team since April 6, 2018, and her dedication and proficiency have earned her this well-deserved promotion.
In her previous role, Ashley served as a valuable member of the organization, contributing significantly to its success. Her commitment to the mission and values of Girl Scouts has been evident throughout her tenure. As Director of Member Experience, Ashley will play a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience for the GSGCF membership.
Mary Anne Servian, CEO of Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, expressed her confidence in Ashley’s abilities, stating, “Ashley is a proficient and highly regarded team member at Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida. We have full confidence that Ashley will thrive in her new role and will contribute to the enhancement of our membership’s overall experience.”
Ashley Gill brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having been involved with Girl Scouts for a total of almost 6 years as a staff member. In addition to her staff role, Ashley has spent 3 years as a Girl Scout and dedicated 10 years as a volunteer, earning recognition with awards such as the Volunteer of Excellence and Green Angel.
Ashley conveyed her excitement for her new role, expressing her anticipation of collaborating with girls and families to enhance their Girl Scout experience. Over the past two years, she has connected with them through the Product Program, and now she looks forward to incorporating Programs into her responsibilities, finding the prospect of being involved in both aspects to be particularly rewarding.
The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida congratulates Ashley Gill on her promotion and looks forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly bring to the organization and its members.
GSGCF employee Connie Martin accepted the check from The Community Foundation on behalf of the Girl Scouts on Dec. 13, 2023.
Girl Scouts of Gulf Coast Florida (GSGCF) is excited to announce that it has been awarded a generous grant of $5,000 from The Community Foundation. This significant contribution will empower GSGCF to further deliver the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE) to girls in Lee and Hendry County, fostering their growth as leaders and contributing members of their communities.
The grant was officially presented to GSGCF at a ceremony where Connie Martin, a dedicated employee of Girl Scouts, accepted the check on behalf of the organization. This funding will enable GSGCF to expand its reach and impact, providing the GSLE to even more girls in Cape Coral and surrounding communities in Lee and Hendry County.
The Girl Scout Leadership Experience is a transformative program that encourages girls to discover themselves, connect with others, and take action to make the world a better place. Guided by supportive adults and peers, Girl Scouts engage in age-appropriate activities that are girl-led, cooperative, and hands-on. Participating in the GSLE helps girls develop crucial leadership skills needed for success in adulthood.
“Girls who engage in the GSLE are more likely to enjoy and attribute their leadership skills to Girl Scouts,” said Mary Anne Servian, CEO at GSGCF. “The GSLE delivers ‘fun with purpose’ by helping girls gain valuable life skills and amazing new experiences while having fun and building friendships!”
GSGCF currently serves more than 95 troops and over 1,000 Girl Scouts in Cape Coral and other surrounding communities in Lee and Hendry County. With the support of The Community Foundation’s grant, GSGCF can continue its mission of empowering girls to become confident leaders, compassionate individuals, and responsible citizens.
“We are proud and thankful to receive this grant from The Community Foundation,” expressed Mary Anne Servian. “It will significantly contribute to the positive impact Girl Scouts is making on the lives of young girls in our community.”
This partnership between Girl Scouts of Gulf Coast Florida and The Community Foundation exemplifies the shared commitment to fostering leadership skills, personal growth, and community engagement among girls. The grant will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy, positively shaping the lives of countless young girls in Lee and Hendry County.
Fund of the Manatee Community Foundation to Enhance Camp Honi Hanta Amenities
The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida is delighted to announce the generous grant of $5,000 awarded by the Bishop Parker Foundation Fund of the Manatee Community Foundation (MCF). This grant will be instrumental in providing essential air conditioning units for Camp Honi Hanta, ensuring a comfortable and conducive environment for year-round activities.
Camp Honi Hanta, a cherished retreat nestled in the heart of our community, serves as a crucial space for Girl Scouts to embark on their Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE). The GSLE empowers girls to discover themselves, connect with others, and take action to make a positive impact on the world. With this grant, Girl Scouts will now have the opportunity to engage in these transformative experiences throughout the entire year.
The air conditioning units funded by the Bishop Parker Foundation Fund of the Manatee Community Foundation will not only enhance the overall experience for the Girl Scouts but also enable them to participate in age-appropriate, girl-led, cooperative, and hands-on activities. Guided by supportive adults and peers, the GSLE fosters the development of important leadership skills that are crucial for the girls’ future success.
Mary Anne Servian, CEO at Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, expressed her gratitude, saying, “We are incredibly thankful to the Bishop Parker Foundation Fund of the Manatee Community Foundation for their generous grant. This support will make a significant difference in the lives of our Girl Scouts, providing them with a comfortable and enriching environment to learn, grow, and build lifelong friendships.”
The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida are excited about the positive impact this grant will have on the girls’ experiences at Camp Honi Hanta and extends its heartfelt thanks to the Bishop Parker Foundation Fund and the Manatee Community Foundation for their commitment to supporting the development of our future leaders.
Calling all makers! Did you know that anybody can be a maker? It’s true! All it takes are the right tools, a little bit of inspiration, and a whole lot of creativity. Of course, it never hurts to have a little help. That’s why Girl Scouts is excited to introduce our Art and Design, Create and Innovate, and Craft and Tinker badges for Daisies, Brownies, and Juniors made possible by Stanley Black & Decker. Each maker badge introduces different concepts and ways to bring ideas to life. Whether your Girl Scout is interested in woodwork, crafting a birdhouse out of milk cartons, welding, or brainstorming how to use solar energy to power a car, there’s an activity for every Girl Scout.
Art and Design
In this badge, Girl Scouts will learn about the basics of art and design. They’ll learn how to find inspiration in their world and see that anything can inspire! They’ll learn how to translate the images and ideas in their mind onto a blank page or mold a sculpture. Then they’ll discover the magic of sharing creative work with others. They’ll start learning how to share their pieces with others to spread joy.
Craft and Tinker
This badge teaches Girl Scouts how to craft new objects and improve their functionality. By tapping into their imagination, Girl Scouts will see that they can make crafts from almost anything, including recycled materials found around their house—such as turning milk cartons into paper, or using egg cartons as pots for plants. Through doing so, Girl Scouts will learn how to create with users in mind, then ask for feedback to further improve their creation.
Create and Innovate
Girl Scouts have big dreams and ideas they want to bring to life. With this badge, they’ll tap into their creativity and needed business skills, while learning more about how their big ideas could impact the world around them. Whether it’s diving into an at-home science project or making a creation to benefit the entire STEM community, Girl Scouts will get to unlock their inner innovator, learn the design thinking process, and how to share their innovations with the world.
Girl Scouts are good at so many things, from learning new skills to spreading joy and giving back to their communities. One thing that unites Girl Scouts is their desire to create positive change and help others. With their boundless curiosity, Girl Scouts have the power to make a difference in the world, not only in the lives of people, but also in the lives of every creature we share the planet with: animals!
Animals close to home can provide companionship and support, or make our lives easier. Animals far away can spark a new interest or teach us more about the world. But some animals face danger every day. Because they can’t speak up when they need help, it’s our job to protect them. When your Daisy, Junior, or Cadette starts earning one of the new Girl Scout Animal Badges, they’ll embark on a fun journey into the world of animals.
Girl Scouts are naturally curious and eager to explore their surroundings. With the new Animal Observer badge, Daisy Girl Scouts will hone in on their observation skills to discover more about animals, near and far. They’ll start by using their senses to identify animal sounds, prints, and behaviors and take notes like an animal scientist. Then they’ll play games to solidify their knowledge and have the chance to visit one of their favorite animals in real life!
Animals live in all types of homes—in trees, underground, underwater, and even on glaciers! With the Animal Habitats badge, Junior Girl Scouts can investigate different animal habitats at home and around the world. They’ll use their curiosity to explore animal homes and try their hand at building one. Then they’ll learn about endangered animals and the importance of protecting their habitats to benefit the planet.
The connection between humans and animals has always existed. Whether animals are serving to protect or provide comfort in difficult times, the animal-human connection is an essential part of human history. With the Animal Helpers badge, Cadette Girl Scouts will learn about this connection and its mutual benefits. They will learn to translate knowledge into action and become advocates for animals by actively participating in organizations dedicated to animal welfare.
The Girl Scout Animal badges not only teach Girl Scouts about their favorite animals, they also help them discover more about the world around them and how to use what they learn to create positive change.