Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Gratefully Receives Grant from Gulf Coast Community Foundation

Oct7 by Jessica Miano

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida is proud to announce it has been awarded a generous grant from the Women’s Fund at Gulf Coast Community Foundation. This funding will directly support underserved girls and fund vital mental health programming within our organization.

The grant will be used to expand access to Girl Scout programs for girls facing economic hardships, ensuring they can participate in the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE) and benefit from activities promoting confidence, leadership, and essential life skills. In addition, the grant will enhance mental health initiatives designed to support emotional wellness and resilience among girls in Sarasota and Charlotte counties.

“We are incredibly grateful to Gulf Coast Community Foundation for their continued support of our mission to build girls of courage, confidence, and character,” said Mary Anne Servian, CEO of Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida. “This funding will make a significant difference in the lives of many girls, particularly those who face socioeconomic challenges. It will enable them to participate in transformative programs that empower them to succeed both now and in the future.”

In addition to supporting underserved girls, the grant will help implement mental health-focused activities, equipping Girl Scouts and their families with tools to manage stress, practice self-care, and promote emotional well-being. This initiative aligns with our commitment to holistic development, ensuring girls have the resources they need to navigate life’s challenges.

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida looks forward to using these funds to expand opportunities for all girls to explore new fields of knowledge, foster leadership, and develop lifelong skills that prepare them for a bright future.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Gulf Coast Community Foundation for their investment in the next generation of leaders.

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, Inc.: Girl Scouts create the world they want to live in and strive to make it better every single day. They explore their strengths, take on new challenges, and can always be themselves, regardless of background or ability. Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida council has a membership of nearly 3,500 girls in grades K-12, and more than 1,500 adult members. GSGCF is chartered by Girl Scouts of the USA and serves girls in ten counties including: Manatee, Hardee, Highlands, Sarasota, DeSoto, Charlotte, Glades, Lee, Hendry, and Collier. The council is governed by a volunteer board of directors who represent the geographic, ethnic, and social demographics of the council’s jurisdiction. For more information about Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida visit www.gsgcf.org.

About Gulf Coast Community Foundation
Headquartered in Venice, Fla. and with a second office in downtown Sarasota, Fla., Gulf Coast Community Foundation has transformed the region through bold and proactive philanthropy for nearly 30 years. Serving the needs of the region as a partner in philanthropy and leader in community initiatives, Gulf Coast has surpassed granting over $570 million in the areas of: health and human services, civic and economic development, education, arts and culture, and the environment. Gulf Coast was named one of the “Best Nonprofits To Work For” nationally by The NonProfit Times in 2010, 2011, 2017, 2020, 2021, and 2023. To learn more visit GulfCoastCF.org and follow us on Facebook.

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Krysta Fowler Earns Girl Scout Gold Award for Bat Conservation Project

Oct4 by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida proudly announces that Krysta Fowler, a Girl Scout of 13 years, has earned the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award for her innovative and educational project titled “BAT-vocate: Appreciation and Awareness for Bats.” Krysta, a student at North Port High School, dedicated her efforts to raising awareness about the importance of bats in the ecosystem and dispelling common myths that portray them negatively.

The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest achievement in Girl Scouting, recognizing girls who demonstrate extraordinary leadership and create sustainable, impactful community projects. Krysta’s project addressed the misconceptions surrounding bats and aimed to educate her community about their critical role as pollinators and insect controllers.

In addition to earning the Girl Scout Gold Award, Krysta also achieved the Bronze and Silver Awards, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to Girl Scouts and her dedication to leadership and community service.

Her Gold Award project included building and installing 26 bat houses throughout North Port and at Girl Scout campgrounds, Camp Honi Hanta and Camp Caloosa. Additionally, she hosted educational events at both camps, where attendees learned about bat conservation, met ambassador bats from Peace River Wildlife Center (PRWC), and participated in hands-on STEM activities. Krysta also developed a council patch program for Girl Scouts, encouraging girls to learn more about bats and their environmental significance.

Krysta explained her inspiration for pursuing the Gold Award, saying, “What inspired me to even strive for my Gold Award in the first place was attending my very first Young Women of Distinction Ceremony as a second-year Daisy. I learned what a Gold Award was at this event and wanted to earn it, to be like the girls who I saw on the stage. After seeing a bat at my school and hearing it got stepped on, I began my project, figuring out what to do to give bats the appreciation and awareness they deserve.”

Krysta recognized that bats are often misunderstood and undervalued due to widespread misconceptions and negative stereotypes. These myths, such as bats being diseased or a nuisance, were perpetuated by popular culture and a lack of knowledge about their crucial role in the ecosystem. In her reflection, Krysta explained that even her own family members shared these misconceptions, which inspired her to take action and educate others. She wanted to prevent these false beliefs from spreading to future generations.

Krysta highlighted that bats play a vital role as pollinators, insect controllers, and contributors to agriculture, helping to reduce the need for pesticides. She aimed to shed light on their environmental benefits and to dispel the myths surrounding them. Her commitment to education and awareness extended beyond her local community as she created a website that provides bat-related resources and features a custom patch program that Girl Scouts can earn by completing specific activities.

Reflecting on her leadership growth, Krysta shared, “I learned that diving into challenges headfirst, even when it feels uncomfortable, is key to success. The outreach and momentum my project gained showed me the power of stepping up and communicating my passion.” Her determination and vision created a sustainable impact in her community, and her project will continue to raise awareness about the importance of bats for years to come.

When asked what advice she would give to others considering pursuing the Gold Award, Krysta encouraged perseverance: “Once you find something you’re passionate to make your project on, don’t stop and don’t procrastinate anything. Even if the project gets hard—because it will, believe me—don’t ever think about quitting. Instead, think about those who your project is aiming to benefit and about how much you’ll be helping them.”

Krysta will receive formal recognition for her Gold Award at the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida’s annual Young Women of Distinction Ceremony in May.

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Soar at Naples Airport’s Girls in Aviation Day

Oct3 by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

Over 50 eager Girl Scouts from across the Gulfcoast Florida region gathered at Naples Airport on Saturday, September 21, for an inspiring Girls in Aviation Day event, hosted in partnership with the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida.

This special event, designed to empower young girls with knowledge about aviation and highlight women’s contributions in the field, featured an engaging tour of Naples Airport. Participants had the unique opportunity to explore various aircraft, guided by experienced professionals.

Highlights of the day included hands-on activities such as sitting in a Cessna, practicing a pilot’s checklist, and mastering airfield communication using marshalling signals.

The event also included a captivating Q&A session with a female pilot, providing valuable insights into the excitement and possibilities within the aviation industry. This interactive session encouraged girls to consider aviation not only as a thrilling hobby but also as a promising career path.

“This event was a fantastic opportunity for our Girl Scouts to explore the world of aviation firsthand,” Mary Anne Servian, CEO at Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida. “We’re grateful to Naples Airport for their partnership in making this day both educational and inspirational. Experiences like these help our girls envision their futures in fields they may not have previously considered.”

Girls in Aviation Day at Naples Airport was open exclusively to registered Girl Scout adult members with approved background checks, ensuring a safe and enriching environment for all participants. Adults were able to register on a first-come, first-served basis, reflecting the event’s popularity and the community’s enthusiasm for introducing girls to new opportunities.

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Troop 601 Takes Flight with Aviation Workshop

Sep17 by Jessica Miano

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Troop 601 recently soared into the world of aviation with a hands-on workshop hosted by female pilot Sahara at The Pilot Place in Sarasota, FL. The workshop, aimed at fostering interest in aviation among young girls, provided an immersive experience into the principles of flight, aircraft design, and the pivotal role of pilots in the aviation industry.

The Pilot Place, renowned for its flight school services catering to the Sarasota area, generously hosted Troop 601 for a day filled with educational activities.

The girls engaged in a captivating scavenger hunt using VFR sectional maps. A VFR sectional chart, also known as a sectional aeronautical chart, is a navigational map used by pilots for visual flight rules (VFR). It’s the primary map used by VFR pilots to navigate between airports and operate at new or unfamiliar airports.

They also had the unique opportunity to explore the cockpit of a Cessna airplane, igniting their curiosity about the inner workings of aircraft.

12 girls participated in the workshop, including Summer, Hannah, Amelia, Jenna, Victoria, Avelyn, Addison, Aliyah, Indy, Charlotte, Lainey, and Kyleigh.

Despite advancements, women remain underrepresented in aviation, including as airline pilots. In 2022, only 4.9% of all pilots with FAA certificates as airline pilots were women, highlighting the importance of initiatives like this workshop in encouraging young girls to explore aviation as a viable career path.

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida supports such initiatives through its STEM career exploration badges, designed to introduce girls to various STEM fields, including aviation. These badges empower girls to discover their potential in STEM careers such as computer science, engineering, and environmental science, fostering a diverse and inclusive future workforce.

“Our STEM Career Exploration Badges play a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of leaders by nurturing their curiosity and helping them envision a future where they can excel and make a meaningful impact,” said Mary Anne Servian, CEO of Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida.

“We are pleased to see Girl Scout troops taking advantage of local resources, such as this aviation workshop, to introduce girls to diverse fields and hands-on learning,” Servian added. “At Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, we are dedicated to empowering girls to discover new skills and explore career opportunities through engaging and educational experiences.”

Girl Scouts will host fall and winter events open to families

Sep13 by Jessica Miano

The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida are ready to bring you a season full of adventure, creativity, and learning! From outdoor exploration to holiday celebrations and creative arts, Girl Scouts and their families are invited to experience these exciting events.

It’s not too late to join Girl Scouts and participate in these memorable activities! For Join now: https://www.gsgcf.org/en/get-involved/join.html

Check out our upcoming events!

Fun in the Wilderness

Date: Saturday, October 5, 2024 | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Camp Caloosa, Fort Myers
Experience the great outdoors with kayaking, archery, bird-watching, and more! This family-friendly event offers a chance to connect with nature and learn Girl Scout traditions.
Cost: FREE!
Open to: All girls age K-12 and their families. Bring a friend and join the fun!

Opera Brava! with the Sarasota Opera

Date: Thursday, October 10, 2024 | 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: Betty Ethel Amphitheater at Camp Honi Hanta, Bradenton
Join Sarasota Opera’s Studio Artists for an enchanting afternoon of opera excerpts and a Q&A session at the newly constructed Betty Ethel Ampitheater at Girl Scout Camp Honi Hanta. Discover the world of opera and explore careers in the arts. Open to all Girl Scout levels.
Registration Deadline: October 3, 2024
Open to: Registered Girl Scout members. Register today to join the fun!

STEM Career Exploration with NeoGenomics

Date: Monday, October 14, 2024 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: NeoGenomics, Fort Myers
Junior to Ambassador Girl Scouts will earn the STEM Career Exploration badge through hands-on activities and career exploration in STEM fields. Meet female professionals and learn about the exciting opportunities in STEM!
Registration Deadline: October 3, 2024
Open to: Registered Girl Scout members. Register today to join the fun!

Creepy Caloosa Family Campfire Circle

Date: Friday, October 18, 2024 | 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: Camp Caloosa, North Fort Myers
Celebrate Halloween with spooky fun, Girl Scout traditions, and activities for the whole family. From pumpkin decorating to a costume contest, this event is packed with excitement.
Cost: $6 per person
Registration Deadline: October 10, 2024
Open to: All girls age K-12 and their families. Bring a friend and join the fun!

Fun in the Wilderness

Date: Saturday, October 26, 2024 | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Camp Honi Hanta, Bradenton
Experience the great outdoors with kayaking, archery, bird-watching, and more! This family-friendly event offers a chance to connect with nature and learn Girl Scout traditions.
Cost: FREE!
Open to: All girls age K-12 and their families. Bring a friend and join the fun!

Ninja Warriors Family Campfire Circle

Date: Friday, November 1, 2024 | 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: Camp Caloosa, North Fort Myers
Join us for a Ninja Warrior-inspired campfire event filled with obstacle courses and team-building activities. Enjoy skits, songs, and of course, s’mores!
Cost: $6 per person
Registration Deadline: October 24, 2024
Open to: All girls age K-12 and their families. Bring a friend and join the fun!

Outdoor Cooking Challenge: Troop Cook-Off

Date: Saturday, November 2, 2024 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Camp Caloosa, North Fort Myers
Teams of Girl Scouts will compete in this cooking challenge, preparing a three-course meal using camp-style techniques. Who will take home the gold medal?
Registration Deadline: October 17, 2024
Open to: Registered Girl Scout members. Register today to join the fun!

Holiday Bakers

Date: Sunday, November 3, 2024 | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Camp Caloosa, North Fort Myers
Daisies and Brownies will learn essential baking skills while preparing holiday-themed treats. This hands-on culinary experience is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit!
Registration Deadline: October 17, 2024
Open to: Registered Girl Scout members. Register today to join the fun!

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet

Date: Sunday, November 17, 2024 | 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, Fort Myers
Celebrate the holiday season with a magical performance of The Nutcracker! Girl Scouts will be transported to the Land of Sweets in this enchanting ballet performance.
Registration Deadline: October 2, 2024
Open to: Registered Girl Scout members. Register today to join the fun!

A Christmas Carol at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre

Date: Sunday, December 15, 2024 | 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, Fort Myers
Enjoy the classic tale of A Christmas Carol at Broadway Palm Theatre! This festive production will teach girls about kindness, empathy, and the true meaning of Christmas.
Registration Deadline: November 14, 2024
Open to: Registered Girl Scout members. Register today to join the fun!

Want to be part of these exciting events? Join Girl Scouts today! Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventure, creative arts, or STEM exploration, Girl Scouts offers amazing opportunities for growth, leadership, and fun. Visit Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida for more details and to register.

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Girl Scouts earn award for providing clothing and food supplies to those in need

Sep12 by Jessica Miano

Francesca L. and Zoey B., members of Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Troop 47 in Bradenton, have successfully completed their Girl Scout Bronze Award project by focusing on serving women in need within their community. The centerpiece of their initiative was the creation and distribution of “blessing bags,” containing gently used clothing, snacks, and drinks, aimed at supporting individuals during holidays and after hurricanes.

The project, which spanned 10 months, required dedicated effort and approximately 20 hours of work from each participant. Despite challenges such as organizing donations and logistics for packing the bags, Francesca and Zoey remained committed to their goal, driven by a desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of community members facing adversity.

The girls were motivated to help their community after witnessing neighbors struggling in the aftermath of recent hurricanes Troop Leader Laurie Leclercq said, “Our girls know that everyone has tough times sometimes and they need help. Especially if a storm or hurricane comes and destroys all your belongings.”

Earn the Girl Scout Bronze Award!

Central to the success of their endeavor was collaboration with local organizations including Umbrella Women, a nonprofit serving homeless in Manatee and Sarasota counties, and Kim’s Crew, a food pantry that services Manatee county families and individuals in emergency situations. These partnerships enabled Francesca and Zoey to extend their impact across Manatee and Sarasota Counties, ensuring that their efforts reached those most in need.

Looking ahead, the troop plans to establish their project as an annual event. They are also considering the potential for expansion to involve other troops or community organizations. This commitment to sustainability reflects the core values of the Girl Scout Bronze Award, which encourages girls to develop leadership skills, build connections within their community, and foster a sense of empowerment.

The Girl Scout Bronze Award is the highest honor a Girl Scout Junior can achieve. It emphasizes the importance of community service and personal development. Through projects like Francesca and Zoey’s, participants gain valuable life skills and experiences that prepare them for future challenges and opportunities.

A group of Junior Scouts and volunteers standing on a white bridge together A group of Junior Scouts and volunteers standing on a white bridge together

Girls work with a team to make positive change in their communities and earn the Girl Scout Bronze Award, the highest award a Girl Scout Junior can earn. (Photo: GSUSA)

Advocacy in Action: Gov. Ron Desantis Reconsiders “Great Outdoors Initiative”

Aug29 by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

In response to recent developments regarding proposed developments at Florida state parks, including the “Great Outdoors Initiative,” Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida underscores the power of citizen advocacy in affecting positive change.

The decision by Governor Ron DeSantis to revisit and reconsider these proposals, following widespread public outcry and bipartisan opposition, exemplifies the impact of community engagement and advocacy. The voices of concerned citizens, including Girl Scouts and their families, have been instrumental in highlighting the importance of preserving our natural resources and public lands for future generations.

At Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, we believe in the importance of civic engagement and environmental stewardship as core values. Our members are actively involved in initiatives that promote conservation and sustainability, ensuring that our communities and natural habitats thrive.

While we commend the Governor’s decision to pause and reevaluate these plans, we remain committed to monitoring developments closely. It is crucial that any future decisions regarding our state parks prioritize conservation, accessibility, and the preservation of our natural heritage.

We encourage all Girl Scouts and community members to continue advocating for policies that protect and enhance our environment. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the future of our state and beyond.

Girl Scouts, you can continue to stay involved in advocacy related to this issue by reaching out to your state representatives. Contact your local representatives and Florida’s government officials to express your opposition to the development plans. Remind them how vital these parks are to our outdoor experiences and environmental stewardship.

You can also continue to voice your concerns directly to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection! Public input is an important and valued part of all DEP decision-making and activities, and they are encouraging the public to submit written comments on the draft proposals through this portal. Share your opinion here.

How to Hold a Meeting with Your Elected Officials

Aug29 by Jessica Miano

President Barack Obama talks with Girl Scout Gold Award winners in the Oval Office, June 8, 2012. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

As Girl Scouts, you have the power to shape the future by advocating for issues you care about. Whether it’s gender equity, education, or environmental sustainability, connecting with elected officials can make a real difference.

For Girl Scouts working on a Bronze, Silver, or Gold Award project or initiating a Take Action project in your community, connecting with your elected officials can make a lasting impact. By engaging with the legislative branch, you can help ensure your project’s sustainability and drive real change.

1. Requesting the Visit: Coordinate a meeting with your local or state representatives. Whether in-person or virtual, these meetings are a key step in advocating for your cause. When working on a Highest Award or Take Action project, gathering support from lawmakers can amplify your efforts and help you address broader community needs.

2. Preparing for the Visit: Research your elected officials’ positions on the issues related to your project. Prepare talking points that explain why your project is important and how it benefits the community. Show how legislative support can help sustain and expand your initiative.

3. Making Your Voice Heard: During the meeting, clearly state your position and make a specific request. If your project aims to address a local issue, ask for support on a related policy or for help in raising awareness. Decide beforehand who will present your group’s points and who will make the ask.

4. After the Visit: Follow up promptly. Send a thank-you note summarizing what was discussed and any commitments made by the official. Sharing the results with your troop or organization can inspire others to incorporate advocacy into their own projects.

5. Tips and Tricks: Plan visits during times when legislators are likely to meet with constituents, such as district work weeks. Personalize your comments with local examples to highlight the impact of your project. By connecting your project to broader legislative goals, you’re helping to ensure its long-term success.

By integrating civic engagement into your Highest Award or Take Action project, you’re not just advocating for change—you’re laying the groundwork for a sustainable future. Take the lead, inspire others, and make a lasting difference in your community.

Your voice matters. Start advocating today!

Start Making a Difference Today

Are you ready to make your voice heard and create lasting change in your community? Finding your local state representative is the first step! Use the link below to enter your address and discover who represents you in the Florida House. Whether you’re working on a Take Action project or advocating for a cause that matters to you, knowing your local rep is key to making a difference.

👉 Find Your Representative

Take the lead, Girl Scouts—your community is counting on you!

Additionally, below is the contact information for the U.S. Senators and House Representatives serving our council footprint, which includes the counties of Manatee, Hardee, Highlands, Sarasota, DeSoto, Charlotte, Glades, Lee, Hendry, and Collier in Florida:

Federal Level

U.S. Senators for Florida

Senator Marco Rubio (R)
- Washington, DC Office: 284 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
- Phone: (202) 224-3041
- Website: rubio.senate.gov
Senator Rick Scott (R)
- Washington, DC Office: 716 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
- Phone: (202) 224-5274
- Website: rickscott.senate.gov

U.S. House of Representatives

Representatives Covering the Counties Mentioned:

Rep. Vern Buchanan (R) – District 16
- Covers: Manatee, Sarasota counties
- Washington, DC Office: 2110 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515
- Phone: (202) 225-5015
- Website: buchanan.house.gov
Rep. Greg Steube (R) – District 17
- Covers: Hardee, Highlands, Sarasota, DeSoto, Charlotte counties
- Washington, DC Office: 2457 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515
- Phone: (202) 225-5792
- Website: steube.house.gov
Rep. Byron Donalds (R) – District 19
- Covers: Collier, Lee, Hendry counties
- Washington, DC Office: 523 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515
- Phone: (202) 225-2536
- Website: donalds.house.gov

This list includes key federal-level officials relevant to your counties of interest. For local state officials, you’ll need to refer to specific state-level resources for additional contacts

Girl Scouts of Florida Unite to Protect State Parks

Aug27 by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

Florida’s natural beauty and outdoor spaces are under threat from proposed developments in our state parks—places that have long been essential to the Girl Scout experience. Recognizing the importance of preserving these natural treasures, Girl Scout Councils across Florida have come together to take a stand.

Today, the leadership of Florida’s Girl Scout Councils is proud to announce the release of a letter addressed to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). This letter strongly encourages the Florida DEP to consider the detrimental impact of projects that could disrupt the integrity and accessibility of our beloved state parks to our state’s youth.

The letter encourages all Floridians, especially Girl Scouts and their families, to join the movement by sharing the letter and reaching out to their local representatives. By uniting our voices, we can protect the parks that play a vital role in shaping our outdoor experiences and leadership journeys.

Girl Scouts, here’s how you can help:

Share the letter! Leadership from Florida’s Girl Scout Councils have drafted a letter opposing the proposed developments in our beautiful state parks. Add your voice to ours by sharing our letter to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Let’s show them that preserving our parks is essential for future generations of Girl Scouts.
Reach out to your state representatives. Contact your local representatives and Florida’s government officials to express your opposition to the development plans. Remind them how vital these parks are to our outdoor experiences and environmental stewardship.
Voice Your Concerns directly to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection! Public input is an important and valued part of all DEP decision-making and activities, and they are encouraging the public to submit written comments on the draft proposals through this portal. Share your opinion here.
Earn the Girl Scouts Love State Parks Patch. Girl Scouts Love State Parks Weekend is back and better than ever! Spending time outdoors is a wonderful way to relax and connect with others. Gather your friends, family, or troop and explore the beauty of our state parks. Our council is excited to offer you multiple participation options this year at 5 different state parks across the gulf coast. Learn more here.

Let’s make a difference—together, we can protect our parks! 🌳💚

Girl Scouts dedicate 150 hours to bee conservation in Bradenton

Aug13 by Jessica Miano

Troop 521 earned the Girl Scout Silver Award/ Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

A group of three passionate Girl Scouts earned the Silver Award, the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette can earn.

Bradenton, FL – Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida is proud to announce that three dedicated members of Troop 521 of the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida——Isabel S., Olivia J., and Audrey C.—have earned the prestigious Silver Award, the highest honor a Girl Scout Cadette can achieve. Their project, titled “Bee The Change Bradenton,” highlights their commitment to environmental stewardship and community education.

The project, “Bee The Change Bradenton,” addresses the critical issue of declining bee populations due to habitat loss and the widespread use of pesticides. Recognizing the essential role that bees play in pollinating plants and supporting food production, the girls aimed to educate the local community on the importance of bees and encourage the planting of pollinator-friendly gardens.

Each of the girls dedicated 50 hours to the project. The team developed educational materials, including posters, brochures, and a coloring book for children, which detailed the significance of bees in the ecosystem. They distributed the coloring book within their community.

They also created seed paper embedded with Florida-friendly seeds that community members could plant to start their own pollinator gardens. They planted pollinator-friendly plants in their own communities, as well.

To ensure the sustainability of their project, the girls built a website, Bee The Change Bradenton, offering resources and information on how to support bee populations.

Reflecting on the project, Isabel S. shared, “I learned that with perseverance and teamwork, we can accomplish anything. It felt amazing to see our project grow from an idea to something that could actually help the environment.”

Olivia J. added that she took pride in what she had accomplished, stating “This project made me realize how important bees are to our everyday lives. I’m proud that we could make a difference, even in a small way.”

The girls also reflected on the lessons they learned about environmental advocacy through the project. Audrey C. said, “Working on this project taught me that no matter how young we are, we can still make a significant impact on our community.”

The Girl Scout Silver Award is a symbol of excellence and leadership for girls in grades 6-8. To earn this award, Girl Scouts must complete a Take Action project of a minimum of 50 hours that addresses a root cause of an issue, has a measurable impact, and is sustainable over time. Through this process, girls gain valuable skills such as project management, teamwork, and communication, empowering them to make a lasting difference in their communities and beyond.

Mary Anne Servian, CEO of Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, emphasized the importance of the Girl Scout highest awards in fostering leadership and empowering young girls. “The Girl Scout Silver Award challenges our young members to identify real-world issues and develop sustainable solutions,” Servian said. “By pursuing these highest awards, girls learn the value of hard work, resilience, and the impact they can have on their communities. We empower girls to take on these projects because it helps them grow into confident leaders who are equipped to make meaningful change in the world.”

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