Hearts Of Gold

Shay shares insights into her impactful Gold Award project, an art exhibition held at the Overture Center for the Arts. The exhibit aimed to raise awareness about mental health among teenage girls in a positive light, showcasing the strength and creativity of young women artists from the Madison and Dane County area. Shay discusses her motivation to present mental health discussions more positively and highlights the submission process that led to the selection of 16 unique artists. The episode also touches on the themes explored in the artwork, including culture and sexual identity, and the positive impact the exhibition had on attendees. Tune in to learn more about this inspiring initiative and the power of art in addressing important social issues. About Our Guest: I have been a proud Girl Scout for eleven years, having begun my journey as a first grade Daisy in Troop 2303. I grew up in Middleton and am currently a junior at Middleton High School. I have always been an artist with a deep love for creativity and storytelling. I enjoy drawing, reading, writing, and travel. My recent trips include visits to Barcelona and Paris, where I especially enjoyed visiting the museums and historical sites. I am hoping to pursue a career in visual arts and am currently in the process of applying to college. @herartexhibit on Instagram www.herartexhibit.org Her Art Exhibit catalogue on Amazon

Marley shares her inspiring journey of curating and developing a children's art gallery in partnership with the Southwest Art Gallery and Science Center. At just 16 years old, Marley embarked on this project to provide art-related opportunities for kids in her community in North Dakota, where such resources were scarce. She discusses her passion for art as a self-taught artist, the need she identified in her community, and how her collaboration with the Southwest Art Gallery, which shares her mission, facilitated the creation of this new space. Marley reflects on her experience as a volunteer and the process of curating the first exhibit, highlighting the importance of fostering creativity among youth. Tune in to learn how one young artist is making a difference in her community through art! About Our Guest: My name is Marly Barnett, I am a 17-year-old Girl Scout from Troop 85112 and I live in the SW region of North Dakota. My Gold Award project, titled “SW Art Gallery and Science Center's Children's Gallery”, was to develop a children's art gallery for grades K-12 within the physical building of the SW Art Gallery and Science Center. I started this project at age 16 in April 2024, and as a result, I have advanced from a volunteer position to a paid role as Student Director of the SW Art Gallery and Science Center's Children's Gallery in October. Most recently I added Social Media Coordinator to my responsibilities. The reason I chose this as my Gold Award project was for two reasons, one to play a more active role in my community and two, as a self-taught artist, to make the arts more accessible for young artists in Region 8 of North Dakota.  

Imagine a world where friendships are built one letter at a time. That's exactly what Hannah Crawley created with her Girl Scout Gold Award project—a nationwide pen pal program connecting Girl Scouts across the U.S. and even Japan. At a time when social media dominated communication, Hannah brought back the magic of handwritten letters, fostering deeper connections and lifelong friendships. Now serving in the military, Hannah reflects on how this project not only strengthened her communication skills but also prepared her for a future where letters remain a vital link. She shares the challenges of organizing the program, the excitement of receiving international candy swaps, and why she spent hours hand-drawing animals for each participant. Plus, we dive into her Girl Scout camp adventures, spooky camp counselor stories, and her favorite way to make s'mores.

Full transcription available on Substack Cee-Cee Deslaurier-Tate about her incredible Girl Scout Gold Award project, which honors the legacy of Amanda Blake, best known as Miss Kitty from Gunsmoke. Cee-Cee dedicated over 1,000 hours to creating a documentary highlighting Amanda's conservation work, including her efforts to save endangered cheetahs and launch the first no-kill animal shelter in Arizona. Through extensive research, interviews, and a fundraising initiative, Cee-Cee has helped preserve Amanda's impact on wildlife conservation. She shares how her passion for the Old West and storytelling led her to this project, the challenges she faced along the way, and how Amanda's legacy continues to inspire her. In This Episode, You'll Learn: ✨ How Cee-Cee discovered her passion for the Old West and Amanda Blake ✨ The process of making a documentary as part of a Gold Award project ✨ The importance of preserving history and conservation efforts ✨ Insights into the Girl Scout Gold Award journey

# Full transcription available at [heartsofgoldpodcast.com](http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/)   ## Episode Summary   Makayla Hoefs shares the inspiring story behind her Girl Scout Gold Award project, *"Coding for Cookies."* This innovative initiative bridges Girl Scouts and robotics, offering young girls hands-on STEM experiences through engaging events. Makayla discusses how her project evolved, collaborating with the Minnesota and Wisconsin Lakes & Pines Council, and making the program sustainable for future generations. Listen to hear about the impact she's made, the challenges she faced, and how she encourages girls to explore STEM fields.   ## More from Makayla   My name is Makayla Hoefs from Becker, Minnesota. I am a senior at Becker High School, and I plan on going to a four-year college next fall to get my master's degree in electrical engineering.   I have been a Girl Scout for about ten years. Throughout my time in Girl Scouts, I have earned my Bronze and Silver Awards and have completed many service projects. Last year, I was a Girl Scout delegate for my service unit.   I am also involved in Student Council, National Honors Society, archery, and robotics. This is my fourth year on the Becker Robotics team, *C.I.S. 4607.* I am part of the electrical department and facilitate *Failure Modes and Effects Analysis.* My time in robotics has inspired me to become an engineer and a woman in STEM.   ## What You'll Learn in This Episode   - How *"Coding for Cookies"* introduced over 100 Girl Scouts to robotics   - The collaboration between Makayla's robotics team and the Girl Scout council   - Challenges in creating sustainable robotics kits   - Makayla's advice for Gold Award candidates and key lessons from the process   ## Follow Makayla's Journey   Check out the resources from her project at [Coding for Cookies](https://sites.google.com/frc4607cis.com/cis4607/coding-for-cookies)   ## Connect with Us   Follow *Hearts of Gold* for more inspiring Gold Award stories. Don't forget to follow or subscribe and leave a review!  

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Montserrat Hidalgo, a recent high school graduate and environmental justice advocate. Montserrat shares her journey from Girl Scout Gold Award recipient to an emerging leader in her community. Learn how her project tackled urban heating and environmental racism in South East Los Angeles, the collaborative research that fueled her work, and the global connections she forged. About Our Guest: Montserrat Hidalgo is a recent graduate of South Gate High School and will be attending Williams College in the fall to double major in Environmental Studies and Biology. She has been a Girl Scout from 5th grade through 12th grade and completed her Gold Award by addressing urban heating and environmental racism in South East Los Angeles. As a passionate environmental justice advocate, Montserrat founded Youth Action!, an environmental justice club at her high school. She also collaborated with Communities for a Better Environment (cbecal.org), a statewide environmental justice organization, to conduct NASA-funded research with UC Irvine and Chapman University on hot spots, air quality, and green spaces in South East LA. This groundbreaking work not only laid the foundation for her Gold Award project but also connected her with a global network of changemakers. Key Takeaways from This Episode: The Inspiration: How Montserrat's experiences in South East LA motivated her to tackle environmental justice issues. The Gold Award Project: The impact of her work addressing urban heating and environmental racism and how it serves as a model for others. Youth Leadership: How she founded Youth Action! and collaborated with key organizations to make a difference. Actionable Advice: Tips for youth and community members looking to create meaningful environmental change. Links and Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Communities for a Better Environment: cbecal.org Learn more about the Girl Scout Gold Award: girlscouts.org/en/our-program/highest-awards/gold-award.html For more information about NASA-funded research: nasa.gov

This bonus episode has Isabel popping in to share her experience from her trip to the Sangam World Center in India.

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Today, we're thrilled to have Pepper join us to share her inspiring journey as a young aviator and her impactful Girl Scout Gold Award project. From her first flight at just 10 years old to becoming a certified pilot, Pepper has navigated the skies and shattered stereotypes in a male-dominated field. She passionately discusses her mission to introduce aviation to young women in her community through a series of engaging workshops, where she taught the fundamentals of flight and even organized a thrilling "fly day" for eager participants. But that's not all! Pepper also dives into the challenges she faced, from balancing her rigorous training with high school life to advocating for the reinstatement of aviation programs in Girl Scouts. With a wealth of scholarships and support from organizations like the 99s and EAA, she emphasizes the importance of perseverance and community in pursuing one's dreams. Tune in to hear about her incredible experiences, the lessons learned along the way, and her advice for anyone looking to explore new career paths. Don't miss this uplifting episode that proves with passion and grit, the sky's the limit!   More About Pepper: Autumn Pepper Rhodes is a 14 year Girl Scout, starting when she was only a daisy. She quickly got involved in cookie selling, camping, and career exploration within the Scout program. As she became a senior and ambassador, she transitioned into more of a mentor role, frequently volunteering with the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida (GSGCF). Pepper received the incredible opportunity to attend the 2017 G.I.R.L. Convention on the Media Team, as well as complete her Girl Scout Gold Award. Now as an adult member, Pepper is on the GSGCF Gold Award Committee! Outside of scouting, she attend Rice University in Houston, Texas for Mechanical Engineering and Astrophysics. She has a passion for aviation and aerospace, leading her to have earned Private Pilot's License and Instrument Flight Rating. Pepper also loves cycling, hiking, kayaking, and exploring nature with her friends. At Rice, she is on the Eclipse Collegiate Rocketry Team and the Duncan College Bike Team, both of which she found a home. Pepper wants to continue pursuing aviation as a career, eventually acting as a Aerospace or Aviation Design Engineer. Maybe even an astronaut one day! https://girlswhosoar.com/ https://www.instagram.com/the_dr_pepper/ Key Takeaways from this episode: Empowerment through Aviation: Pepper's Girl Scout Gold Award project focused on introducing young women in her community to aviation. She organized workshops that covered the basics of flight, hands-on activities, and opportunities to meet female pilots, aiming to inspire the next generation of women in aviation. Overcoming Challenges: Throughout her journey, Pepper faced various challenges, including financial barriers and the demands of balancing her aviation training with high school responsibilities. She emphasized the importance of perseverance, time management, and seeking scholarships to support her goals in aviation. Advocacy for Aviation Programs: Pepper actively advocated for the reinstatement of aviation programs within the Girl Scouts of the USA. She engaged with the organization to propose the creation of aviation badges and programming, highlighting the need for more resources and opportunities for young women interested in pursuing careers in aviation. Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Rachel shares her inspiring journey of earning the Girl Scout Gold Award through her project of constructing a trophy case for her high school's JROTC program. She discusses the motivation behind her project, which stemmed from the need to properly showcase the numerous trophies earned by cadets through various activities, including Raiders, drill, and rifle team. Rachel highlights the importance of community support, detailing how local businesses contributed materials and resources, significantly reducing project costs. She emphasizes the collaborative effort involved, mentioning her team, including the JROTC Booster Club and her project advisor, who provided guidance throughout the process. The episode also touches on the challenges Rachel faced during installation, particularly in coordinating volunteers and ensuring safety while handling glass materials. She reflects on her favorite memories from the project, including teaching metalworking skills to her peers. Additionally, Rachel discusses her experiences in Girl Scouts, including a memorable canoe trip in the Boundary Waters and her aspirations to pursue a career in meteorology through ROTC in college. She encourages future Gold Award candidates to utilize available resources and emphasizes the rewarding nature of the Gold Award process. Listeners will gain insights into the significance of leadership, community involvement, and personal growth through the Gold Award journey. More from Rachel: My name is Rachel Devoid, and I am from Florida. I joined Girl Scouts in kindergarten and have remained actively involved ever since. I have gone on countless camping trips with my troop and love the outdoors. Belonging to Girl Scouts has opened opportunities for me, such as traveling to Minnesota in 2022 for a seven-day canoe trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area through Girl Scout Destinations. In my free time, when I'm not camping, I love to stay active through Cross Country and Track and Field, along with participating in JROTC Raiders. After high school, I plan to attend college and get a degree in meteorology.   https://www.instagram.com/rachel.smachel1   Key Takeaways from this episode:   Community Involvement and Support: Rachel's Girl Scout Gold Award project, which involved building a trophy case for her high school's JROTC program, was significantly supported by community donations and collaboration. Local businesses contributed materials, and various groups, including the JROTC Booster Club, helped with funding and logistics, highlighting the importance of community engagement in successful projects. Leadership and Teamwork: The project emphasized the development of leadership skills and teamwork. Rachel noted how her experiences in both JROTC and Girl Scouts fostered her leadership abilities, which were crucial during the installation of the trophy case. She learned to coordinate volunteers and manage challenges, reinforcing the value of collaboration in achieving goals. Personal Growth and Future Aspirations: Rachel's involvement in Girl Scouts and JROTC has shaped her future aspirations, including her desire to study meteorology and pursue a career as a military officer. Her experiences have broadened her horizons, particularly in STEM fields, and she encourages others to take advantage of available resources to pursue their Gold Award, emphasizing the rewarding nature of the process.   Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/   Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Jackie shares her inspiring journey of earning the Girl Scout Gold Award through her project titled "Single-Use Less Plastic." She discusses her advocacy against single-use plastic pollution, highlighting the importance of public policy, education, and art in driving change. Jackie reflects on how the COVID-19 lockdown prompted her to notice the overwhelming amount of plastic waste generated by her family, leading her to participate in the Plastic Free July challenge. She created an art curriculum inspired by artist Aurora Robson, teaching students to make collages from plastic debris. Jackie also founded her school's environmental club, where she organized assemblies and engaged with local officials to promote legislation against plastic straws. Throughout the episode, Jackie shares the challenges she faced during the project, including the transition to virtual learning, and the valuable lessons she learned about self-expression and advocacy. She discusses her current endeavors as an art and design major at the University of Michigan, where she has launched her clothing brand, Vinny, which focuses on environmental themes and donates a portion of profits to conservation efforts. Listeners will gain insights into the Gold Award process, the importance of creating a website for projects, and the impact of Girl Scout experiences on personal growth. Jackie encourages future Gold Award candidates to pursue their passions and reach out to others for support. More About Jacqueline: Jacqueline Vinson, 13 year Girl Scout earned her Gold Award through raising awareness of the environmental hazards of single use plastic and how we can take environmental action in our communities. Through her extensive work interviewing New York Council Members and artists, designing a curriculum and petitioning, she received the Girl Scouts of Greater New York Carmen Dubroc Scholarship in 2023. Jackie's project made a difference in her community by raising awareness of Bill A90A, a law, banning plastic straws in NYC restaurants. She also successfully petitioned to end the use of plastic cutlery and plates in her school cafeteria. As a high school senior, her environmental art won a Scholastic Art and Writing Gold Key for her portfolio, “Single-Use Less Plastics”. She now studies Art and Design at the University of Michigan where she has continued to make environmental art. This summer, She started her own naturalist streetwear company, “VinNy”, selling shirts with her captivating geometric designs of nature and birds. VinNY's aim is to connect urban life to the natural world, and 10% of the profits go to urban environmental conservation organizations including the NYC Bird Alliance.   https://singleuselessplastic.com https://www.vinnylabel.com   Key Takeaways from this episode: Advocacy against single-use plastics through art and education. The importance of community engagement and public policy. Personal growth and self-expression through creative projects.

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Piya's project focused on increasing education and awareness around neurodiversity advocacy, a topic that is close to her heart. She began by founding her school's first neurodiversity affinity group, creating a safe space for neurodivergent youth. Piya shared her journey of developing workshops and assemblies for both her peers and teachers, emphasizing the importance of updated training on neurodiversity. With the support of her school's learning support team and feedback from neurodivergent students, she was able to create impactful presentations and a toolkit to help others start similar initiatives across the country. We discussed the challenges she faced, particularly in implementing neurodiversity training at her school, and how she overcame them through persistence and collaboration with school administration. Piya also reflected on the rewarding moments of her project, especially the positive feedback from students who felt represented and heard. In addition to her work with Girl Scouts, Piya is involved in the Miss America organization, where she continues her advocacy for neurodiversity. She highlighted how her experiences in both organizations have empowered her and provided her with unique opportunities to make a difference in her community. Piya encouraged other Girl Scouts to pursue their Gold Award, sharing how her passion for neurodiversity advocacy developed through her previous awards and experiences. She emphasized the importance of exploring interests and taking advantage of opportunities, as they can lead to impactful projects and personal growth. More About Piya: Piya Scielzo is an incoming freshman at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Piya has been an active Girl Scout since 1st grade, and is now a lifetime member. She has earned her bronze, silver, and gold awards. To earn her Gold Award, Piya led a small team in several neurodiversity initiatives to raise awareness, promote acceptance, and reduce stigma. She also created and distributed a comprehensive toolkit with resources for students to replicate creating a safe space and hosting educational workshops in their communities across the country. Piya has served on the Girl Advisory Board for the Nation's Capital for the past three years. Outside of Girl Scouts, Piya is the current Miss Montgomery County's Teen, under the Miss America Organization. Piya uses her pageant platform, ‘Think Differently', to share her neurodiversity advocacy with a wider audience. https://www.instagram.com/missmocosteenmd/ Key Takeaways from this episode: Neurodiversity Advocacy: Piya's Girl Scout Gold Award project focused on increasing education and awareness about neurodiversity, highlighting the importance of understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals in educational settings. Community Engagement: Piya successfully engaged with her school's learning support team and neurodivergent students to create effective training workshops for teachers, demonstrating the value of collaboration and feedback in community projects. Empowerment through Leadership: Piya's involvement in both Girl Scouts and the Miss America Organization has allowed her to expand her advocacy work, showing how leadership opportunities can enhance personal growth and community impact. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Mikenna shares how she created a platform to record and share the authentic stories of seniors in her community, which she then uploaded to YouTube and a dedicated website. She also made personalized booklets for each senior interviewed, ensuring they had a tangible copy of their story. Mikenna's journey began with her long-standing visits to a local nursing home, where she built meaningful relationships with the residents. Her project expanded beyond her initial nursing home to include another facility, capturing a diverse range of stories from a Holocaust survivor to a World War II veteran. Choosing podcasting as her medium, Mikenna found it to be a more comfortable and accessible format for the seniors, many of whom were hesitant about being on video. She emphasized the power of hearing someone's real voice and the deep connection it fosters. Throughout the project, Mikenna faced challenges such as understanding the technical aspects of podcasting and navigating legalities like consent forms. She also had to refine her Gold Award proposal multiple times to meet the requirements, learning valuable lessons about planning and execution. One of the most impactful stories she shared was about a Holocaust survivor, whose son helped recount her incredible acts of bravery and kindness. This experience, along with connecting with a young author who also worked with Holocaust survivors, highlighted the intergenerational impact of her project. Mikenna's dedication to her project didn't end with earning her Gold Award. She continues to interview seniors and has even developed an app concept to further her mission. Her story is a testament to the profound difference one can make through passion and perseverance. More About Mikenna: Mikenna has been involved in Girl Scouts for 13 years, where she has enjoyed working with her troop and mentoring younger troops by sharing the knowledge she has gained as a Girl Scout. For her Gold Award, she created a podcast series to interview seniors, giving them a platform to share their stories and ensuring they are remembered. Beyond visiting the nursing home that inspired her project, Mikenna enjoys singing, learning sign language, reading, writing stories, and volunteering. Looking ahead, she plans to continue supporting Girl Scouts, likely as a troop leader, while helping others in college and beyond. Even though her Gold Award project has been completed, Mikenna hopes to continue interviewing seniors as part of her ongoing efforts. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIO25jjEvAoq3m26XWHF7JQ https://sites.google.com/view/silver-stories-40202?usp=sharing Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. The Importance of Storytelling: Mikenna emphasizes the value of sharing authentic stories from seniors in her community through her Silver Stories podcast. This project not only preserves their voices but also connects different generations, highlighting the significance of understanding and valuing the experiences of older individuals. 2. Challenges and Growth in the Gold Award Process: Mikenna discusses the challenges she faced while navigating the Gold Award process, including the need for clear proposals and understanding the logistics of her project. She learned that thorough planning and adaptability are crucial for success, which ultimately helped her grow and refine her project. 3. Impact Beyond the Award: Mikenna's experience with the Gold Award has inspired her to continue her project beyond its completion. She has taken her initiative further by designing an app to facilitate the recording of seniors' stories, demonstrating that the Gold Award is not just about earning a badge but about making a lasting impact in the community. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Sammie, a remarkable Girl Scout who shares her journey of earning the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award. Sammie's project, Sammy's Toy Drive, was inspired by the tragic shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. Initially starting as a simple toy drive, it evolved into a full-fledged nonprofit organization aimed at supporting survivors of gun violence through healing events and community building. Sammie detailed the emotional and logistical challenges she faced, including the initial rejection of her first project proposal and the intense grief associated with her work. Despite these hurdles, her dedication to honoring the 21 victims of the Uvalde shooting kept her motivated. She shared touching stories about the victims and their families, emphasizing the importance of remembering and supporting those affected by gun violence. We also discussed the operational aspects of Sammie's Toy Drive, including how donations are collected and the types of events organized. Sammie highlighted the importance of empathy, patience, and taking breaks to avoid burnout during such emotionally taxing work. In addition to her Gold Award project, Sammie talked about her future plans, including attending trade school to become an esthetician, and her ongoing advocacy work. She also shared her experiences with other Girl Scout awards and her love for Twilight Camp. This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on a community and the importance of supporting survivors of gun violence. Sammie's story is both inspiring and heart-wrenching, showcasing her resilience and dedication to making a difference. More About Sammie: Sammie has been a member of Girl Scouts since the age of six and is now entering her final year this fall. During her time with Girl Scouts, she served as an OWL at Twilight Camp and earned her Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards. Sammie graduated from high school a year early and will be attending trade school to become an Esthetician this fall. In addition to her studies, she is co-authoring a book with another activist, focusing on the victims of gun violence in schools. https://www.sammiestoydrive.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sammiestoydrive?igsh=bXVxcDhuaXp6bmF2&utm_source=qr Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Community Healing Through Connection: Sammy's project, Sammy's Toy Drive, focuses on providing healing events for communities affected by gun violence, particularly in Uvalde. These events foster connections among families and children, helping them cope with their grief and build friendships. 2. Empathy and Advocacy: Throughout her journey, Sammy emphasizes the importance of empathy when working with families affected by gun violence. She aims to honor the victims by sharing their stories and advocating for awareness around the long-lasting impact of such tragedies on communities. 3. Resilience in Project Development: Sammy faced challenges, including the denial of her initial Gold Award project proposal. However, she demonstrated resilience by pivoting to the toy drive and emphasizing the importance of taking breaks and being patient with oneself during the project development process. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Amelia developed an app called Historic Lamont, a location-aware walking tour app that highlights the hidden historical gems of her hometown, Lamont, a suburb of Chicago. Inspired by a limited-availability walking tour from the Lamont Historical Society, Amelia wanted to make local history more accessible to everyone in her community. Amelia shared fascinating historical facts she uncovered, such as the local metro station witnessing President Lincoln's funeral train and being a site of the Lamont Massacre. She detailed the technical challenges she faced, including learning a new programming language and navigating Apple's stringent App Store approval process. Despite these hurdles, she successfully launched the app with the help of various community members, including the Lamont Historical Society, her history teacher, and students from her school's Historical Honor Society and Art Honor Society. Amelia also discussed the extensive community involvement in her project, estimating that over 1,000 hours were collectively invested. She emphasized the importance of starting early and being thorough in the Gold Award application process. Amelia's project not only made local history more accessible but also significantly boosted her confidence and skills, from writing professional emails to public speaking. Looking ahead, Amelia plans to attend the University of Chicago, majoring in computer science and possibly history or economics. She has already dabbled in AI and machine learning and hopes to integrate these fields with her historical interests. Amelia's story is a testament to the transformative power of the Girl Scout Gold Award, and she encourages other Girl Scouts to pursue their projects with dedication and passion. More About Amelia: Amelia Dunkin is a recent graduate of Lemont High School. She has been a dedicated member of the Girl Scouts for 12 years, progressing from Daisy to Ambassador. Throughout her involvement, she both attended and served as a counselor at her local Girl Scout summer camp. Amelia's Girl Scout journey culminated in earning her Gold Award through the development of an app called *Historic Lemont*, a location-aware iOS app designed to highlight the rich but often overlooked history of her town. In addition to her work with the Girl Scouts, Amelia was actively involved in various academic and extracurricular activities throughout high school. She participated in several honor societies, co-captained the Mathletes team, and played varsity on the Scholastic Bowl, Academic Challenge, and Bowling teams. She also volunteered with Special Olympics and the Northern Will County Special Recreation Association, where she is now employed. This fall, Amelia will attend the University of Chicago, where she plans to major in Computer Science and History. She aims to pursue interdisciplinary studies, particularly in the field of machine learning.   Key Takeaways from this episode: Community Involvement: Amelia's Girl Scout Gold Award project, the Historic Lamont app, was supported by various community members and organizations, including the Lamont Historical Society, local history teachers, and student groups, highlighting the importance of collaboration in community projects. Learning and Growth: The process of creating the app taught Amelia valuable skills, including coding in a new programming language and navigating the app submission process, which contributed to her personal development and confidence. Encouragement for Future Girl Scouts: Amelia emphasizes the transformative experience of pursuing the Gold Award, encouraging others to take on the challenge as it can significantly enhance their skills, self-perception, and community engagement. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Camilla's project aims to build more united communities by educating people about different Asian cultures through workshops, YouTube vlogs, and a beautifully illustrated book. Camilla shared that her project was prompted by the rise in Asian hate crimes during the pandemic, which motivated her to use education as a tool to foster understanding and empathy. She detailed the three components of her project: interactive workshops at YMCA branches, vlogs exploring various Asian communities in Los Angeles, and her book, which she successfully fundraised $6,000 to publish and distribute. We discussed the challenges she faced, particularly in fundraising and public speaking, and how she overcame them by leveraging her network and stepping out of her comfort zone. Camilla also highlighted the importance of persistence and creating opportunities for oneself. One of the most heartwarming moments she shared was a memory from a school presentation where a young boy excitedly talked about his love for pho, showcasing the impact her project had on children. Camilla's story is a testament to the power of passion and dedication in making a positive impact on the community.    More About Camilla: Camilla Chan is an Asian American who has been in Girl Scouts for 13 years. Her favorite Girl Scout activities are those associated with the outdoors: hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, etc. Outside of Girl Scouts, Camilla enjoys playing the violin, playing table tennis and pickleball, and drawing. For her Gold Award project, Camilla hosted workshops, vlogged local Asian communities, and wrote a children's book in order to educate others about Asian cultures and build more united communities. She aims to publish a second children's book that follows a similar theme. As a prospective computer engineering major at UCLA, she hopes to protect individuals from cyber attacks and contribute to a world with safe AI regulations. Whether it is through Girl Scouts or college, Camilla aims to hold true to the Girl Scout motto “Make the World a Better Place.” Website: hiddenjewelsofasia.com Instagram: @hiddenjewelsofasia Youtube Channel: www.youtube.com/@chicken6215   Key Takeaways from this episode: Camilla's Girl Scout Gold Award project, "Hidden Jewels of Asia," aimed to build more united communities through workshops, YouTube vlogs, and a published book. Camilla overcame challenges with funding and public speaking by finding passion in working with children and seeking support from her team, including her parents, teachers, friends, and community partners. Camilla's project had a global reach, with viewers from 21 states and 14 countries visiting her website, showcasing the impact and reach of her project. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Neha's project, centered around dogs and the issue of overcrowded shelters, led her to create a nonprofit called Pawprints. The nonprofit focuses on raising awareness about the importance of microchipping and GPS tracking collars to prevent dogs from getting lost and ending up in shelters. Neha shared her personal connection to the project, including her experience rescuing her dog Aggie, who was saved from euthanasia at an overcrowded shelter. She discussed the educational materials she created, which include information on properly registering microchips and options for GPS tracking collars. One of the biggest challenges Neha faced was her fear of public speaking, which she overcame by preparing thoroughly and diving into the experience. She credited her mom, project advisor Kelly Carey, and council advisor Marty Hall for their support throughout the project. Neha also reflected on her growth through the project, particularly in public speaking and time management, as she balanced her project with school and other activities. She encouraged future Girl Scouts to pursue their Gold Award despite the challenges, emphasizing the rewarding nature of the process. Neha shared her future plans, including her goal to become a dentist, and her hopes for the continuation of her nonprofit. We wrapped up with a fun question about how she makes her s'mores, revealing her preference for slightly burnt marshmallows.   More About Neha: After adopting her senior dog from a shelter, Neha understood the severity of overcrowding in animal shelters. While most people focus on pet adoption as a solution to overcrowding, she wanted to address the problem of people losing their pets, which often end up in shelters until they are found. Neha identified microchips and GPS collars as an easy but underutilized solution for lost pets. She spoke at shelters and created pamphlets, social media accounts, and a website to share information on GPS collars and encourage pet owners to purchase one for their pets. Neha has been in Girl Scouts since she was a Daisy in Kindergarten and plans to continue until she graduates from high school this upcoming school year. Through school, she is involved in the speech and debate team as well as the varsity bowling team. Outside of school, Neha enjoys participating in Krav Maga and playing the piano. After she graduates, she plans to pursue a career in dentistry.   Key Takeaways from this episode: Addressing Root Causes: Neha's Gold Award project focused on addressing the root causes of overcrowded shelters by promoting the use of microchips and GPS tracking collars to prevent dogs from getting lost and ending up in shelters. Personal Connection: Neha's personal connection to the project stemmed from her love for dogs, particularly her own rescue dog, Aggie, who was saved from being euthanized at an overcrowded shelter. Overcoming Challenges: Neha faced and overcame her fear of public speaking through her project, which ultimately helped her grow and become more confident in speaking engagements. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Adoriam, a passionate Girl Scout, shares her inspiring journey of earning the Girl Scout Gold Award. Adoriam's project focused on addressing the declining bird population in Houston, a city that ranks as the second worst in America for migratory birds. Through her project, she aimed to educate the community about the importance of being bird-friendly by conducting workshops, creating videos, and providing resources. Adoriam's interest in conservation was sparked by her involvement in the Glenn Miller Agriculture Program, where she connected with professionals in the field. This led her to collaborate with various organizations such as the YMCA, Houston Audubon, and the Nature Heritage Society. She conducted workshops teaching people how to make bird feeders and birdhouses from recycled materials and emphasized the importance of turning off lights at night to protect migratory birds. Throughout the episode, Adoriam shares the challenges she faced, including meeting deadlines and managing large events, and how these experiences helped her grow in networking and leadership skills. She also highlights the support she received from her family, mentors, and community, which was crucial to her success. Adoriam's passion for conservation and her dedication to her project have not only earned her the Gold Award but also inspired many others in her community. She offers valuable advice to other Girl Scouts considering the Gold Award, encouraging them to pursue their passions and make a difference. We also get a glimpse into Adoriam's other Girl Scout experiences, including a memorable Costa Rica trip fundraiser and her love for camping and outdoor activities. She concludes with a fun and detailed description of how she makes the perfect s'more. More About: Through Adoriam's 13-year Girl Scout journey, she has had some amazing experiences. From volunteering at events in Houston to earning her Gold Award, where she learned the power of service and dedication. Creating a virtual walkathon and Halloween carousel fundraiser for her Costa Rica trip taught her leadership skills and communication. Besides Girl Scouts, Adoriam has been a part of school clubs like BPA, Speech and Debate, and Student Council. After graduating high school, she now attends Texas A&M University as part of the class of 2027, studying Bioenvironmental Science. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adoriam_dewalt?igsh=MW1pNmoxcnBkdzh6Yw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Articles:  https://houstonaudublog.org/2023/01/30/diy-water-feature-with-drip/ https://houstonaudublog.org/2023/01/17/diy-bird-feeder/ https://aframnews.com/two-girls-educate-community-on-agriculture/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adoriam-dewalt-7aa21b26b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_con   Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Dorian's Girl Scout Gold Award project focused on addressing the decreasing bird population in Houston due to urbanization and industrialization. 2. Dorian connected with various organizations and partners, such as the YMCA, Glenn Miller Foundation, Houston Audubon, and Nature Heritage Society, to educate communities about bird conservation. 3. Dorian's experience with the Girl Scouts, including fundraising for a Costa Rica trip, organizing virtual events during COVID, and participating in camping and outdoor activities, has shaped her passion for sustainability and conservation. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Savannah, a dedicated Girl Scout who shared her journey of earning the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award. Savannah's project focused on improving the trails at her local animal shelter. She identified the need for better-marked trails to help volunteers and visitors navigate the area more easily. Her project involved cleaning up existing trails, adding new ones, naming them, and creating a detailed map with mileage information. She also developed a pamphlet for new volunteers to help them understand the shelter's rules and how they can contribute. One of the unique aspects of Savannah's project was the creation of color-coded signs for the trails. Despite some challenges with the durability of the materials, she learned valuable lessons about project management and material selection. Savannah's dedication to her project, even while juggling a busy high school schedule, is truly commendable. Savannah also shared her experiences with time management, the importance of teamwork, and the support she received from her family, friends, and fellow scouts. She emphasized the significance of the global link in the Gold Award process, connecting her project to broader issues like volunteerism and health. In addition to her Gold Award project, Savannah continues to support her Girl Scout troop, helping younger members with their own awards and serving as a role model. She is currently a sophomore at Austin Peay State University, studying engineering technology with a concentration in mechatronics, and is actively involved in various roles on campus. Savannah's story is a testament to the impact of the Girl Scout Gold Award and the importance of perseverance, planning, and community support.    More About Savannah: Savannah has been a Girl Scout since she was in the second grade. Her mom became her troop leader when she was a first-year junior. Savannah earned her Silver Award in 2019. She is the first Girl Scout from her service unit to earn her Gold Award in 11 years and is the fourth Girl Scout to age out from her service unit within the same amount of time. As a senior in high school, she was part of many clubs but still found time to complete her Gold Award and lead the Girl Scout Seniors in earning badges. During the fall of 2023, she was a leader to the Brownies. Now, Savannah is mentoring the different age groups through their courses of earning the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards. When she had her last badge ceremony as a Girl Scout, her troop surprised her with a lifetime membership. This summer, Savannah is working as a nature counselor at Camp Sycamore Hills. She is attending Austin Peay State University and pursuing her bachelor's degree in engineering technology with a concentration in Mechatronics. At the university, she is also a writing tutor and a lab assistant for the engineering technology department.   Key Takeaways from this episode: Importance of Time Management: Savannah highlighted the challenge of time management during her Gold Award project, especially while juggling multiple responsibilities in high school. She emphasized the need to write everything down to keep track of hours and tasks effectively. Teamwork and Collaboration: Savannah's project involved a team effort, including volunteers, family, friends, and even Boy Scouts. The collaboration and support from her team members were crucial in successfully completing the project. Continuous Improvement and Adaptation: Despite facing challenges with the signage for the trails, Savannah remained resilient and open to feedback. She iterated on the design based on input from the animal shelter, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation in her project. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  We had the pleasure of speaking with Elizabeth, a freshman in college who recently completed her Girl Scout Gold Award project. Elizabeth's project, titled "Wisdom Wings," aims to support survivors of sexual abuse by providing care packages to police stations. These packages include stress toys, journals, pens, and informational pamphlets to help victims navigate the reporting process. Elizabeth shared her personal connection to the project, revealing her own experience with abuse as a child and the challenges she faced in reporting it. This deeply personal journey inspired her to write a children's book, "Lee Learns a Lesson," which teaches kids about consent and boundaries. The book is available on Amazon, and all profits go towards funding the care packages. Throughout the episode, Elizabeth discussed the various challenges she faced, including coordinating with police stations and writing a children's book. She also highlighted the support she received from her illustrator, Holly Perda, and the Orange County Mental Health Organization. Elizabeth's project has received positive feedback from both police officers and survivors who have benefited from the care packages. She also shared her favorite memories from the project, including her first public speaking event and receiving the first physical copy of her book. In addition to her Gold Award project, Elizabeth talked about her previous Girl Scout achievements, including her Bronze and Silver Awards. She also offered advice for other Girl Scouts considering similar projects, emphasizing the importance of passion and perseverance. Elizabeth's story is a powerful example of how personal experiences can inspire meaningful change. Her dedication to supporting survivors of sexual abuse and her passion for writing and public speaking are truly inspiring. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to share her journey on the Hearts of Gold podcast. More About Elizabeth: I've been in Girl Scouts since I was in first grade. I've completed my Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award. Through my Fold Award I have found my passion for writing a children's book, speaking out about my story, and supporting survivors of sexual abuse. I'm currently finishing my last week of my freshman year of college at Suny Cortland with a dual major in Business Economics and Communication. In addition, I have had my book placed in three libraries; Bruggemeyer Library (Monterey Park, CA), Alhambra Civic Library (Alhambra, CA), and Queens Public Library (Queens, NY). You can also find the eBook on my website at hiddenjewelsofasia.com. Website Link: https://linktr.ee/wisdomwings?utm_source=linktree_profile_share Link to ebook: www.hiddenjewelsofasia.com   Key Takeaways from this episode: Elizabeth's Girl Scout Gold Award project, Wisdom Wings, focuses on supporting survivors of sexual abuse by providing care packages and a children's book called "Lee Learns a Lesson." Elizabeth's personal connection to her project stems from her own experience of being abused as a child, which inspired her to create resources to help others in similar situations. Elizabeth's project has received positive feedback, with care packages being helpful to survivors and her book receiving support and praise. She has also expanded her project to college campuses and is continuously working to grow and sustain it. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  We had the pleasure of speaking with Haley about her impactful Girl Scout Gold Award project. Haley's project focuses on raising awareness about the dangers of distracted walking, particularly in her hometown of Houston, Texas. She observed that many people, especially younger generations, are often engrossed in their phones while walking, which poses significant safety risks. Haley shared how her project was inspired by the lack of attention given to pedestrian safety compared to the numerous campaigns on distracted driving. She created a website, brochure, and a Public Service Announcement (PSA) to educate students, particularly those in driving schools, about the importance of staying aware of their surroundings while walking. Haley's project was a collaborative effort, involving her mother, a video creator who served as her Gold Award advisor, and representatives from the Houston Police Department and Metro Rail. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Haley successfully completed her project with the support of her team. We also discussed the roles of a project advisor and a council mentor, and how Haley's advisor, with her video editing skills, significantly strengthened the project. Haley emphasized the importance of choosing a project advisor who can fill in the gaps in your skill set and provide valuable guidance. Haley reflected on the challenges she faced, including balancing her project with her senior year of high school and overcoming doubts about the project's importance. She shared her favorite memory of the project, which was the collaborative and fun process of editing the PSA video. In addition to her Gold Award project, Haley talked about her long-standing involvement with Girl Scouts, her experiences with volunteering, and a memorable destination trip to Los Angeles where she learned about filmmaking. She highlighted the importance of choosing a project that you are passionate about and the fulfillment that comes from making a positive impact on the community. Haley is currently a senior in college, pursuing a degree in computer science with a focus on data analytics. She plans to continue her involvement in volunteer and charity work while exploring her creative interests. To wrap up the episode, Haley shared her unique way of making s'mores, preferring a lightly toasted marshmallow with a honey graham cracker and a Hershey's bar. Thank you for joining us today, and be sure to follow or subscribe to stay updated on new episodes. If you have a Gold Award story to share, reach out to us at growandshareatoutlook.com. Catch up on previous episodes on your favorite podcast platforms or watch the full video versions on YouTube. More About Hailey: Hi! My name is Hailey, and I'm a proud Girl Scouts of San Jacinto County alum. I've been a Girl Scout from 2009 to 2022, and I've been awarded the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award. I've also been awarded the Senior and Cadette Journey Summit Award, and the Silver & Gold Torch Award. I'm currently in my senior year of college studying Computer Science at the University of Houston Clear Lake, and I plan on graduating this December 2024. Website Link: https://www.petextriansafety.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haileyrthomas01 Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Haley's Girl Scout Gold Award project focused on raising awareness about distracted walking, especially among younger generations. 2. Haley emphasized the importance of finding a project advisor who complements your skills and fills in your weak points to make the project stronger. 3. Haley shared her future plans of pursuing a degree in computer science and working in data analytics, while also expressing a desire to continue volunteering and charity work. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Valerie's Girl Scout Gold Award project addressed the critical issue of cat overpopulation in Waukesha County, Wisconsin. Partnering with her local Humane Society, HAWS, she contributed to their Project Guardian initiative by building weather-resistant cat shelters and creating an educational video presentation on the causes and effects of cat overpopulation. Valerie shared her journey, from her initial inspiration driven by her love for animals to the challenges she faced, particularly with the technological aspects of her project. She emphasized the importance of communication and leadership, skills she honed throughout her project. Valerie also highlighted the support she received from her project advisors, her troop, and her family, which was instrumental in her success. We delved into her favorite memories, including building the shelters with her troop and the satisfaction of seeing her project come to fruition. Valerie also offered valuable advice for other Girl Scouts considering their Gold Award, encouraging them to take the leap and reassuring them of the support available throughout the process. Currently studying mass communications with an emphasis on public relations at Winona State University, Valerie aspires to work for an organization that positively impacts the community, potentially even Girl Scouts. More About Valerie: Valerie has been a part of Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast since 1st grade. Her troop created birdhouses for the Chinook Program Center for their Bronze Award and organized a community game night at their middle school to collect supplies and raise awareness for veterans for their Silver Award. Now, she and her troop return to day camp as alumni volunteers. In addition to her involvement in Girl Scouts, Valerie has participated in the National Honor Society, the Girls Golf team, and the marching band at her high school. She is currently studying Mass Communications with an emphasis on Public Relations at Winona State University, where she is also a member of Delta Phi Epsilon. With her degree, she hopes to work for a business that gives back to the community, such as a local news station or her local Girl Scout council. Project Link: https://hawspets.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/2021_HAWS_TattleTails_AUGUST_forWeb.pdf Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Valerie's Girl Scout Gold Award project focused on addressing cat overpopulation in Waukesha County, Wisconsin, by creating shelters for feral cats and educating the community about the issue. 2. Valerie learned the importance of communication, leadership, and time management skills throughout her project, highlighting the support and guidance available to Gold Award candidates. 3. Starting her project in the sophomore year allowed Valerie to develop skills and passion for her project, although she acknowledged that working with shorter timeframes might have helped her prioritize tasks more efficiently. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/  Kaylee, an inspiring young woman who has achieved remarkable feats both in her Girl Scout journey and in her athletic endeavors, shares the story of her Girl Scout Gold Award project, where she built over 100 feet of wooden bridges on the John P. Saylor Trail in Gallitzin State Forest. This project was inspired by her own experiences running on the muddy trails and aimed to improve the trail for all users. She discusses the challenges she faced, and how she overcame them with the help of her friends and the local community. Kaylee also delved into her passion for ultra marathon running, revealing that she started running ultras at the age of 14 and recently became the youngest person to complete the Badwater 135, known as the world's toughest foot race and the crucial role her support crew played in her success. Throughout our conversation, Kaylee emphasized the importance of leadership, teamwork, and communication, skills she honed through both her Gold Award project and her ultra running. She also shared her future aspirations, including her double major in biology and secondary education, and offered encouraging words for future Gold Award Girl Scouts. Kaylee's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, community support, and the impact of Girl Scouts beyond just selling cookies. Her dedication to her projects and her sport is truly inspiring, and I am grateful she took the time to share her journey with us. More About Kaylee: Kaylee started Girl Scouts as a Daisy in Kindergarten and remained an active member all the way through her senior year of high school as an Ambassador. She was also very active in extracurriculars and sports at Conemaugh Township, including soccer, track and field, cross country, Rotary Interact Club, Jazz Band, and Spanish Club. Kaylee is a CrossFit Level One Trainer and an avid ultra-marathon runner outside of school. She is attending the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown to obtain a double major in biology and secondary education and a minor in chemistry with hopes of becoming a high school biology teacher. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaylee.frederick.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frederick.kaylee/ Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Kaylee's Gold Award project involved building wooden bridges on a local trail to improve the experience for hikers and runners. 2. Kaylee's experience running ultra marathons, including completing the challenging Badwater 135 race, showcases her determination and endurance. 3. Kaylee's involvement in CrossFit and coaching at a local gym demonstrates her commitment to fitness and helping others achieve their goals. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Isabel has been in Girl Scouts since kindergarten. Isabel and her troop have plans to stay together with her friends until they graduate from High School. They are saving all their cookies and fall products proceeds for a cruise in 2027. Some of Isabel's best memories in Girl Scouting were the photo booth they had at their Bronze Award Community Pet Care Fair, doing a baking class over zoom during COVID, and going to Universal and Savannah with her troop. Scouting has given her plenty of memories to share with others like camping in the low 30's in the treehouses at Indian Echo, attending the National Girl Scout Convention in Orlando where she met scouts from all over the World, all the fun they had renovating the Heritage Room for the Marines as part of their Silver Award, and many more. Through Girl Scouts, Isabel has been able to travel too… Last summer she went to Tallahassee, Helen, and Savannah Georgia, and Asheville North Carolina. After this spring break she'll be going to India; she can't wait for that trip. Besides Girl Scouts, she's also an active member of BSA. With them, she gets to camp every month and try outdoor activities like canoeing, tubing, outdoor cooking, hiking, etc. She also gets to meet scouts from other schools and try other things. Isabel's plans include attending college to pursue a STEM career like engineering. This summer she will attend a summer program training that would help her not only explore college campuses but also determine which type of engineering she likes. https://sites.google.com/view/isabels-gold-award-project/home?fbclid=IwAR3pDi5HySifOcCznVQ86bCkCCQWafI876v9O6Y5WtS-mQargrE8LT-k2RM Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Isabel's Girl Scout Gold Award project focused on water conservation, including replacing shower heads, installing rain barrels, and educating others on water efficiency. 2. Isabel learned the importance of accepting help from others during her Gold Award project, emphasizing that leadership involves collaboration and support. 3. Isabel shared her experience at Lowe's, highlighting the challenges of public speaking and the importance of persistence in engaging with the audience. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr   Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Sarah Bland is a high school senior from Richmond, Virginia, where she lives with her mom, dad, and brother. Sarah runs cross country and track year round, and she has been an active member of her Girl Scout troop for 13 years. In her free time, she loves exploring new restaurants, hiking with friends, baking, and working as a lifeguard. After graduation, she plans to attend university and study health sciences. Several years ago, Sarah experienced iron deficiency, which impacted her performance as an athlete and her health overall. After learning how common it is in female athletes, she decided to dedicate her Girl Scout Gold Project to educating others about iron deficiency in athletes. Her goal was to inform athletes, parents, and coaches about the importance of iron, and how to prevent and treat iron deficiency, so they can be healthy and reach their full potential. https://www.energetichealthyathlete.com/  https://www.wtvr.com/news/local-news/iron-deficiency-jan-18-2024 Key Takeaways from this episode: 1. Iron Deficiency in Athletes: Sarah's Gold Award project focused on spreading awareness about iron deficiency in athletes, particularly female athletes. Up to 35% of female athletes may experience this condition, which is often overlooked by doctors. Sarah's project aimed to educate coaches, parents, and athletes about the signs and importance of getting tested for iron deficiency. 2. Creating Awareness through Infographics and Videos: Sarah utilized tools like Canva to create infographics and Doodly to make videos to explain the key information about iron deficiency. These visual aids helped in effectively communicating the message and educating the audience about the importance of iron levels in the body. 3. Persistence and Passion in Achieving Goals: Sarah's project took over 200 hours to complete, highlighting the time-consuming nature of the Gold Award process. Despite the challenges faced in creating a website, video, and conducting research, Sarah's passion for informing others about iron deficiency kept her motivated. She learned that with dedication and persistence, she could achieve her goals and make a positive impact in her community. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Watch the full episode! https://youtu.be/Z4CUJSXgLOw Sophia shares her inspiring Girl Scout Gold Award project, "Beyond the Attic Boutique," aimed at providing formal and special occasion wear for foster youth without the need to disclose their foster care status. She discusses how she collected donations, the process for foster children to access the boutique, and the heartwarming feedback she received. Sophia also reflects on her previous bronze and silver award projects, her experiences as a National Girl Scout Convention delegate, and the valuable skills she gained through Girl Scouting. She offers advice for Girl Scouts pursuing their Gold Award and highlights the importance of resilience in the face of rejection. Additionally, Sophia talks about her future plans in nursing and the support she received from her team. Don't miss this insightful conversation filled with empowerment and determination. More from Sofia: My name is Sofia Martinez and I'm from Las Vegas, Nevada. I started Girl Scouts in the second grade going in as a Brownie and ended as an Ambassador after I graduated and have moved on to being a lifetime member. Since then, I've gone on to receive my Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award and become involved in many other Girl Scout related activities such as Being selected as a Delegate for the National Girl Scout Convention, Dessert before Dinner, and more. Aside from Girl Scouts, I've played soccer my whole life and am an avid reader. Throughout high school, I was involved in many clubs such as Medical Society, NHS, and Key Club. Currently, I'm a freshman at the University of Alabama majoring in Nursing with plans to pursue a Master's degree and become a Nurse Practitioner. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MIJu-7QXu0 Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4y

Erika shares her journey from her Gold Award project to becoming a mental health advocate, speaker, and author. Erika's Gold Award project combined her passion for dance with her desire to work with children, leading her to teach dance to underserved kids in Chicago. This experience not only fulfilled her goal of exposing children to the arts but also taught her invaluable lessons about love, leadership, and the impact of creative outlets on mental health. Erika opened up about her personal struggles with clinical depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety, which she has been dealing with since childhood. Her journey through these challenges led her to become an NBA cheerleader for the Chicago Bulls, a role that played a significant part in her path to recovery. Erika's experiences have fueled her mission to educate and empower others about mental health and wellness. She has since authored middle-grade books that weave mental health themes into engaging stories for young readers. Her books, "Squad Goals," "Cookie Monsters," and the upcoming "Insta Famous," aim to provide children with the language and tools to navigate their mental health and to normalize therapy. Erika's work is a testament to the power of channeling one's struggles into positive change for oneself and others. More about Erika: Erika J. Kendrick is a bestselling author, an award-winning national speaker, and a mental fitness expert. She earned a psychology degree from Stanford University and an MBA in marketing and international business from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Erika was an NBA cheerleader for the Chicago Bulls before writing her novels, Confessions of a Rookie Cheerleader and Appetite (Random House). She is currently touring her bestselling middle grade novels, Squad Goals and Cookie Monsters (Little, Brown Publishing). Her next novel, Instafamous, has a fall 2024 publication date. After battling her brain pain, Erika founded Mental Fitness for Life where she launched her Mental Fitness book tour, “Who Moved My Happy?” While talking to audiences of all backgrounds and ages, Erika shares her story of brain pain and inspires hope by creating safe spaces for life-saving conversations. She has presented, keynoted, and guest lectured at colleges and universities across the country as well as the US Army and Air Force, national sororities and fraternities, middle and high schools, conferences, and Fortune 500 corporations. She has toured with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and is a speaker with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) where she has been inducted into their Hall of Fame. Erika is a recipient of several “Who's Who” honors, a Rising Icon honor, and several Awards of Excellence. Erika has taken the stage for TEDx, appeared on Good Morning America, NBC News, CBS News, The Wendy Williams Experience, national television and radio segments, and a host of other media outlets. She has been featured in several publications, including Page Six of The New York Post, The Huffington Post, The Chicago Tribune, and various magazines and digital media. https://www.instagram.com/erikajkendrick/ https://www.facebook.com/erikakendrick/ http://xoerika.com/ Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Sarah wrote a children's book interviewing girls from different countries. She connected with girls across the world to showcase how our lives may differ, but we share common interests and humanity. Sarah worked on this project all through high school and published the book on Amazon - what an impressive accomplishment! She shares her thought's on cross-cultural connections, youth leadership development, or taking on big creative projects. More from Sarah: I joined girl scouts as a daisy in 1st grade. I have been with the same troop since 2nd grade to graduation, they are all my best friends! I earned my silver award in 2018 for my project on water conservation. I began working on my Gold Award in my freshman year of high school, and I earned it my senior year. I currently attend Texas State University and I am double majoring in English and German. I am the Community Service Director for my sorority, Chi Omega. I am also apart of the women's rugby team. In the future I'd like to work in education or publishing! https://www.amazon.com/Girls-Around-World-celebration-illustrated/dp/B0BVPFKQRP https://sarahhennig01.wixsite.com/girls-around-the-wor Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Elsie created a wildlife habitat at Council Ground State Park. Discover how she built a butterfly garden, birdhouses, and a bat house, and engaged the community through educational sessions. Listen as she reflects on the challenges she faced, the support she received, and the impact of her project on wildlife. Her love for animals shines through as she discusses her studies in animal and veterinary biosciences and her dream of becoming a veterinarian. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation filled with tips on how you can help wildlife in your own backyard. Follow along as she shares her experiences and encourages listeners to take action and make a difference. More from Elsie: Hi! I'm Elsie and I've been in Girl Scouts since kindergarten; I even have my "lifetime membership"! In addition to my Gold Award, I have also earned my Bronze and Silver awards. Another highlight of my Girl Scout background was my troop's trip to New York City when I was in high school. Outside of scouting, I am involved in dance and orchestra. More importantly, I have a strong passion for animal welfare. I am currently studying Animal & Veterinary Biosciences at the University of Wisconsin - Madison with the goal of attending vet school in the future. I hope my passion for welfare shined through my Gold Award as I worked to engage my community in wildlife conservation. https://www.facebook.com/WildlifeHabitatsWI https://sites.google.com/view/wildlifehabitatswi/home Key takeaways from the episode: Passion for Animal Welfare: Elsie's deep passion for animals and animal welfare shines through in every aspect of her project. From building a butterfly garden to educating the community on wildlife conservation, her dedication to helping wildlife is truly inspiring. Overcoming Challenges: Despite facing time constraints and navigating red tape at the state park, Elsie persevered and successfully completed her project. Her ability to stay organized, focused, and adaptable in the face of challenges is a testament to her determination and commitment. Community Engagement: Through educational sessions and outreach efforts, Elsie was able to engage the community and inspire others to take action in their own backyards. By sharing resources and practical tips, she empowered others to make a difference and support wildlife conservation efforts. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable, already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Afton, a former Girl Scout Gold Award recipient, shares her experience of completing her project in 2007, which involved collecting toiletries for domestic shelters in Knoxville, Tennessee. She reflects on the impact of her Girl Scout troop and her mother, who was the troop leader, in shaping her passion for community service and politics. Afton discusses how her Gold Award project influenced her career as a community organizer and state representative in Tennessee, where she advocates for voting rights and eliminating the grocery tax. She emphasizes the importance of pursuing projects that align with one's passion and encourages young women to make a difference in their communities.  More about Aftyn: Representative Aftyn Behn is the newest member of the Tennessee House of Representatives, serving House District 51, where she is the first female representative in over 50 years. She is the youngest serving woman in the Tennessee House and the only woman representing Nashville. She's currently the Campaign Director for RuralOrganizing.org, overseeing the organization's electoral strategy and execution and shaping the political and policy landscape impacting small towns and rural communities. Previously, she worked at the Indivisible Project as the Distributed Organizing Manager, building out national programs, including Indivisible's national rural program, one of the largest in the country. She also supported Indivisible's distributed network in long-term power building as the former senior regional organizer for Kentucky and Tennessee. Before Indivisible, she organized with the Tennessee Justice Center in 2017 during the national Medicaid and Affordable Care Act congressional fights. In 2016, she consulted with Switzerland's United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), developing community-based protection policies for special-interest refugee groups. Aftyn is from East Tennessee, a Girl Scout Gold Award winner, and received her MSW from the University of Texas at Austin Steve Hicks School of Social Work, specializing in public policy. http://instagram.com/aftynbehn https://twitter.com/AftynBehn Key takeaways from the episode: 1. Initiative and Resilience: Afton's Gold Award project required her to take initiative and show resilience by organizing and executing a toiletry donation drive for domestic shelters in Knoxville. 2. Impact of Girl Scouts: Afton's experience in Girl Scouts, including camping, learning about feminism, and community service, influenced her career path as a social worker and state representative, emphasizing the importance of the skills and values gained through Girl Scouts. 3. Community Engagement: Afton highlighted the importance of engaging with the community and using platforms like social media to amplify the impact of projects, emphasizing the need for passion and involvement in projects that address issues that resonate with the individual. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable, already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Margaret Anne Mary Moore shares her inspiring story of overcoming obstacles and achieving her greatest ambitions. Born with cerebral palsy, she relies on a motorized wheelchair, walker, and communication device. However, her family has a positive outlook, teaching her to see herself as a kid who could play, laugh, and learn just like anyone else. With the support of her mother, she pursued regular education, athletics, and activities like Girl Scouting. As a recipient of the Gold Award, she created the Yes, You Can Movement, motivating people of all ages and abilities to overcome obstacles and reach their goals. Tune in to hear her powerful journey and how she uses her life experiences to inspire others. More from Margaret: I am a Lifetime Girl Scout and have been in Scouting since Daisies. I have served as a National Delegate for Girl Scouts of Connecticut for two consecutive terms (2014-2017, 2017-2020). I earned my Gold Award in 2015 and was awarded Girl Scouts of Connecticut's Courage, Confidence, and Character Award in 2021. A 2022 graduate of Fairfield University's Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Program and a 2020 magna cum laude graduate of Fairfield University with a bachelor's degree in English/Creative Writing and minor in psychology, I currently work as a book editor and marketing coordinator for Woodhall Press and an ambassador for PRC-Saltillo. My debut disability memoir Bold, Brave, and Breathless: Reveling in Childhood's Splendiferous Glories While Facing Disability and Loss was released in October and became an Amazon Bestseller on publication day, remaining on the bestseller list for several weeks. I am now working on the sequel.   https://www.instagram.com/margaretannemarymoore_author/ https://margaretannemarymoore.com/ Bold, Brave, and Breathless: Reveling in Childhood's Splendiferous Glories While Facing Disability and Loss Key takeaways from the episode: Despite being born with cerebral palsy and facing physical limitations, Margaret's family instills in her a positive outlook on her disability. They taught her that she could play, laugh, and learn just like her able-bodied peers, which shaped her mindset and allowed her to overcome obstacles. Margaret has a strong support system, including her family, friends, mentors, and organizations like Girl Scouts. These individuals and groups provide guidance, encouragement, and opportunities for her to pursue her ambitions and make a difference in the world. Margaret has faced stereotypes and challenges throughout her life, including being told that kids with disabilities don't earn the Girl Scouts Gold Award. However, she persists and finds ways to overcome these obstacles, proving that anything is possible with determination and belief in oneself. Her experiences in running and completing races also highlight her ability to push through fatigue and achieve her goals. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable, already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ  

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Speak Up, Stand Out Journalism for Young Activists addressed a lack of diversity in her high school's journalism community. Grace developed a free camp for underserved kids in her community to introduce them to journalism. With the help of Dream Catchers, the camp became a part of their summer program and impacted 70 students. The camp taught journalism skills, and the students could write articles on topics they cared about. Grace also created a website with all the camp resources for sustainability and to help other journalism teachers create their own summer camps. More from Grace: Hi! My name is Grace Gormley, and I'm a senior in high school in the Bay Area. I've been a girl scout for twelve years and a journalist for three. In my Gold Award, Stand Up, Speak Out, I addressed the lack of diversity in the journalism community by creating a free journalism summer camp for underserved middle schoolers in my district. Outside of Girl Scouts, I am an Editor-in-Chief for The Viking Sports Magazine and a competitive swimmer. I also run my school's Best Buddies club, and I love reading and hanging out with friends. https://susocamp.weebly.com/ https://gg28214.wixsite.com/portfolio Key takeaways from the episode: Grace's Girl Scout Gold Award project, "Speak Up, Stand Out Journalism for Young Activists," addressed the lack of diversity in her school's journalism community. She developed a free camp for underserved kids in her community to introduce them to journalism at a younger age and inspire them to join the community in high school. Grace emphasized the importance of flexibility in managing a large team and coordinating a successful program. She delegated tasks to her peers and worked with Dreamcatchers, an organization in her community, to market and expand the camp. She also had to adjust the curriculum and timeline to meet printing deadlines for the magazine. Through her Gold Award process, Grace developed skills in flexibility, persistence, and resilience. These skills have helped her manage her schoolwork, swimming, and role as editor-in-chief of Viking Magazine, a national sports magazine. She emphasized the importance of pursuing activities that she is passionate about and finding joy in her commitments. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Valencia's project, titled "Giselle Learns About Alzheimer's," was inspired by her personal experience with her grandfather's battle with Alzheimer's disease. Through her project, Valencia created a children's book to educate and support children who have grandparents with Alzheimer's or who are interested in learning about the disease. Valencia's project not only reached her target audience of second and third graders but also extended to Alzheimer's patients and children across the country. Join us as Valencia shares her journey and the profound impact her project has had on others. More about Valencia: Valencia Julien, a recent graduate of Morristown High School in Morristown, NJ, is a scholar of knowledge who enjoys history, writing, and reading books on actual crimes and philosophy. She is an active member of her community who volunteers for various non-profit organizations. A self-assured and exhilarating performer in sports or on a theater stage. In 2022, she earned her Girl Scouts Gold Award for her leadership project by publishing a children's book on Alzheimer's. This book is also accessible by E-book and in 10 different languages. This year, she was awarded her region's international Girl Scouts Gold Award scholarship. Currently, she attends Temple University and plans to pursue two majors in Criminal Justice and Anthropology that will allow her to overcome adversity, help those in need with behavioral analysis, and be an extraordinary role model as a criminal investigator. This career choice will allow her to assist different communities and visually promote young girls to envision themselves pursuing a career within local/federal law enforcement agencies. She intends to continue volunteering and serving as a role model for younger girls as a Lifetime Girl Scout when the opportunity presents itself. https://www.youtube.com/@gisellelearnsabout4008 Key takeaways from the episode: The Girl Scout Gold Award project can significantly impact the community: Valencia's project, "Giselle Learns About Alzheimer's," aimed to educate children about Alzheimer's disease and how to interact with family members who have the condition. Through her sessions and book, Valencia reached not only her target audience of second and third-graders but also Alzheimer's patients and children across the country. Collaboration and support are essential for a successful Gold Award project: Valencia had a team of advisors and supporters who played crucial roles in her project. Her head advisor from the New Jersey Alzheimer's Association guided her in connecting with Alzheimer's patients and provided assistance in various aspects of the project. A teacher helped edit the book to ensure it was understandable for second and third-graders, and Valencia's mom provided support and assistance throughout the process. The Gold Award project can be a personal and emotional journey: Valencia's motivation for her project came from her personal experience with her grandfather's battle with Alzheimer's. His passing during the project was a significant emotional challenge for her. However, she found strength in knowing that her project could help others and honor her grandfather's memory. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ As an adoptee herself, Madalyn's project was deeply rooted in her own personal story and the desire to raise awareness about adoption in her community. Through a thoughtfully designed poster and a YouTube video featuring interviews with individuals involved in the adoption process, Madalyn aimed to convey that every child deserves a chance at a better life. Her project serves as a reminder that the opportunity for a brighter future is available to every mother who cannot care for their child. Tune in to hear Madalyn's heartfelt story and the impact of her project on adoption awareness. More from Madalyn: I've been in Girl Scouts from kindergarten through graduation, which has taught me many important life skills! I was in cheerleading, student council, National Honor Society, and DECA in high school, along with several other clubs and activities. I am currently attending Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, and am majoring in Graphic Design. https://youtu.be/7xfDcsQR6U0?si=68cjxfoF5-86trp4 Key takeaways from the episode: Madalyn's Girl Scout Gold Award project focused on adoption awareness in her county. She designed a poster that incorporated logos of organizations referenced by the local pregnancy center. The poster also featured a QR code linked to a YouTube video where Madalyn interviewed various individuals involved in the adoption process, including a foster mom, an adoptee, and an adoptive mother. Madalyn's personal experience as an adoptee greatly inspired her project. She was adopted from Guatemala at six months old and recognized the opportunities and better life that adoption provided for her. Madalyn's birth mother's wishes for her to receive an education and follow her faith motivated her to raise awareness about adoption and the positive impact it can have on both the mother and child. The core message of Madalyn's project was to convey that adoption is a valuable option for mothers facing difficult circumstances. She wanted to emphasize that there are multiple choices available and that adoption can bring joy and happiness not only to the mother and child but also to the community. Madalyn aimed to spread a positive message about adoption and empower mothers to consider it a viable option. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Dorothy shares how she was inspired by her involvement in the Munster Junior Historical Society and how she created seven trail signs that highlight different aspects of Munster's history. Dorothy's favorite sign focuses on women in history. She also discusses her collaboration with the Munster Historical Society to ensure historical accuracy. Tune in to learn more about Dorothy's impactful project. More from Dorothy: I started Girl Scouts in Kindergarten as a Daisy. This will be my 13th year as a Girl Scout. Girl Scouts has provided me with many opportunities and some of my best friends. I have traveled to London with Girl Scouts, have been on the girl board and also the girl merchandising board. This year my troop has many activities planned such as an overnight to Carmel, Indiana to visit the Christkindl market and a Cultural potluck. I have earned my Bronze, Silver, and now Gold Award. I have also earned the Presidential Gold Volunteer award, and in October I am receiving the Pinnacle Leadership Award. Activities: -On my HS dance team for 3 years -take dance classes -In choir for 3 years -second year of being on the school newspaper. I earned the Quill & Scroll Gold Key Award last year. I am currently second in command for our school newspaper. -Clubs: Best Buddies, Munster Volunteer Project, Spanish Club, French Club, Mental Health Club, and might join a few more clubs this year. -National Honor Society Member - Munster Junior Historical Society: HS Legacy Ambassador. Through MJHS, I earned the DOC 200 Award. -HUM Group: Northwest Indiana's South Asian student association. I also have a student writing internship with NWI Life, an online newspaper. I write monthly about my school. I'm a DARE role model for my elementary school. I bake for local homeless shelters, volunteer with the food bank and local parks department, and love helping out when needed. My future plans are to go to college for sports journalism. I'm currently in the process of applying to colleges. I plan to stay involved with Girl Scouts at college and beyond. Key takeaways from the episode: The Girl Scout Gold Award project, titled "Bringing History Outside," involved creating seven trail signs in Munster, highlighting different aspects of the town's history. The project also included updating a Girl Scout history packet and creating a shadow box to honor a young girl who passed away. The project received a lot of support from various individuals and organizations, including the Munster Junior Historical Society and fellow Girl Scouts. The support and collaboration helped make the project successful and allowed for the organization of an event for Girl Scouts to earn a Munster History patch. The Gold Award project helped the Girl Scout, Dorothy, develop leadership skills and confidence. She had to communicate with different people, coordinate activities, and take on a leadership role during the event. The project also allowed her to explore her passion for volunteering and history, and she plans to continue being involved with Girl Scouts and her other interests in the future.

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Leila shares the story behind her Girl Scout Gold Award project, "Growing As You Grow Older," which centered around providing social interaction and increased mobility for elderly individuals in her community. Motivated by her grandmother's isolation during the COVID pandemic, Leila organized bi-weekly gardening meetings where participants engaged in hands-on activities such as pressed flower crafts and ornament decoration. With volunteers' help, Leila spread awareness through interviews, meetings, and an Instagram page. She also reflects on the challenges faced during the project, such as adapting to COVID restrictions and ensuring the project met the criteria for the Gold Award. More from Leila: I am a rising senior at Sage Creek High School in Carlsbad, California. Since completing my Gold Award I have had the opportunity to spread my journey to podcasts, and am an upcoming speaker at San Diego Girl Scouts Gold Award Conference. I am involved in school clubs such as Key Club, National Honors Society, and Biomedical Club. In addition, I enjoy giving back to my community alongside my mother-daughter philanthropic group, NCL, as I achieved 400+ community service hours. Currently, I spend my time dual enrolled at a local community college to outsource unavailable classes at my school while maintaining my bakery job. I plan to study public health, pre-medicine, or biomedical engineering in college. Links: https://www.instagram.com/growingasyourgrowolder Key takeaways from the episode: 1️⃣ The Power of Personal Experience: Leila's deep connection to the medical field stems from her own experiences with medical issues. Having been through countless hospital visits and procedures, she has developed a strong passion for making a positive impact in this field. Her personal journey has fueled her desire to help others and create change. 2️⃣ The Importance of Support: Leila emphasizes the significance of having a strong support group during challenging times. She acknowledges that pursuing a project like the Girl Scout Gold Award requires dedication and hard work. However, with the right support system, the effort pays off, and the impact on the community and individuals involved is immeasurable. 3️⃣ Overcoming Obstacles: Leila's project took place during the COVID-19 pandemic, which presented unique challenges. Despite the lockdowns and restrictions, she found innovative ways to engage with the seniors she was helping. Through remote meetings and providing activity kits, she encouraged them to stay active and involved, even from the comfort of their own beds. Her determination and adaptability in the face of adversity are truly inspiring. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Mirika's project aimed to promote literacy and engage youth with reading and literature. She organized workshops, conducted book drives, interviewed authors, and even started a podcast to share her love for reading. Despite facing challenges due to the pandemic, Mirika adapted her project to a digital format and expanded it globally, forming chapters in different countries. She also created a database of books and provided personalized book recommendations to children. Mirika reflects on her Girl Scout journey, highlighting the personal growth and leadership skills she gained. She encourages other Girl Scouts to take on the Gold Award challenge and emphasizes the flexibility and impact it can have. More from Mirika: For over a decade, my journey as a Girl Scout has woven a tapestry of leadership, service, and personal growth as I've worked toward earning my Bronze, Silver, and Gold Girl Scout awards. Being able to give back to my community through Girl Scouts has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and the program has instilled in me a lifelong commitment to service. In high school, I actively engaged in community service initiatives through volunteering with different nonprofits. I was also highly involved with my school's newspaper and publications, varsity swim team, and various research labs. I plan to continue my academic journey at Harvard University, where I intend to concentrate in Molecular Biology and Government. I hope to pursue a career at the intersection of scientific advancement and societal well-being. I am looking forward to broadening my horizons and expanding my Gold Award project to reach youth in Cambridge through partnering with local organizations. My journey with Girl Scouts has been fulfilling and inspiring, and I am excited to see where my future endeavors take me as I continue to grow and develop as a leader and changemaker. https://www.bookorators.org/ @bookorators on Instagram and Linkedin Key takeaways from the episode: Mirika's Girl Scout Gold Award project, called Book Raiders, aimed to engage youth with reading and literature. She hosted workshops, conducted book drives, interviewed authors, and even started a podcast to share her love for reading with others. Mirika's inspiration for her project came from her own love for reading and her observation of how technology and STEM education have taken precedence over reading in children's lives. She wanted to reconnect younger children with books and emphasize the importance of reading for communication skills. Mirika faced challenges during her project, especially when the pandemic hit and she had to shift everything to a digital format. However, she overcame these challenges by creating a website, reaching out to like-minded individuals globally, and expanding Book Raiders into a global organization with chapters in different countries. She also learned that the Gold Award process is flexible and allows Girl Scouts to pursue their passions and make a meaningful impact in their communities. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable, already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Amira created a three-day program to inspire youth to get involved in civic engagement and political campaigns, regardless of their political party. Amira discusses her inspiration for the project, including her experience working with older individuals in the political landscape at a young age. She also shares a life-altering event that motivated her to pave a better path for others interested in joining campaigns. Despite not being old enough to vote, Amira remains actively involved in campaigns. Tune in to hear her inspiring story of youth empowerment and activism. More from Amira: Amira Ismail is a 17-year-old Egyptian-Palestinian teen organizer and youth leader in her community of Woodside and Astoria Queens in New York City. There, she leads the Muslim Girl Scouts of Astoria, composed of Arab youth aged 5 to 18. Working with MGSA, she has become an advocate for Girl Scouts at the council and national level, speaking at events, unveiling programs, frequently participating, and leading in virtual programming for the organization. As an intern for GSGNY, Amira created new badge guides to be used across the nation, advocated for creating Arab Heritage Month programming for the Girl Scouts events calendar, and designed the program. In the fall of 2021, she was a Muslim Community Network youth fellow where she discovered the value of civic education and developed the ability to comprehend a variety of perspectives on critical current events confidently. She also is a Malikah youth fellow where she creates programming for North African youth promoting leadership in young people through lessons in financial literacy, community organization, and political activism. Most recently, Amira has embarked on creating her program, launching earlier this year, titled Make U Listen. There, she continues her passion for civic engagement at the youth level, educating young people on how to get involved in the political process despite barriers of age, gender, and ethnicity. In speaking of the hardships she has faced in reaching her position of prominence and influence in her community, she hopes to inspire young people to advocate for their passions. Key takeaways from the episode: 1️⃣ Passion and Commitment: Amira's Gold Award project took three years to complete, and she faced challenges. However, she never gave up and stayed committed to her goal. It's a reminder that when we are passionate about something, we must trust our intuition and persevere, even when faced with obstacles. 2️⃣ Empowering Youth: Amira's project aimed to inspire and engage young people in civic engagement and political campaigns, regardless of their political party. She recognized the importance of giving youth a voice and creating opportunities for them to make a difference. It's a powerful reminder that young voices matter and can significantly impact shaping our communities. 3️⃣ Building Community: Amira's involvement in her council and various Girl Scout activities showcased the power of community. From creating a Girl Advisory Board to organizing events and programs, she actively worked towards bringing people together and creating a supportive network. It's a reminder that we can achieve more when we collaborate and support one another.

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Callie shares her Girl Scout Gold Award project, which focuses on addressing the issue of food deserts in her town. She talks about her long-standing connection with the Bart Garrison Agricultural Museum and how she proposed the idea of creating a garden there to combat the lack of access to healthy foods. Inspired by World War II victory gardens, Callie's project aims to provide a sustainable solution for her community. More from Callie: My name is Callie Majors and I am from Pendleton, South Carolina. My Girl Scout journey started when I was five years old at the Daisy level. Throughout my time in Girl Scouts, I have participated in many summer camps, community service activities, Girl Scout Trail Blazers, destinations, and earned my Bronze, Sliver, and Gold Award. Growing up, I was also a part of Cross Country, Track and Field, Symphonic Band, The American Legion, Girls State, Beta Club, and National Honors Society. I am currently at the United States Military Academy beginning my second year. After graduation, I will commission into the United States Army as a 2nd Lieutenant and my goal is to become an Aviation Officer. After 20 years in the Army, I plan to retire and begin my career as a Park Ranger for the National Forest Service. I would like to mention, however, the activity where I developed the most communication, confidence, planning, leadership, character, mental fortitude, and public speaking skills was in Girl Scouts. Girl Scouts is the biggest contributor to my success that I am experiencing today and I will be forever grateful.

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Isabel shares her Girl Scout Gold Award project focused on raising awareness about breast cancer in men. Isabel's journey began when her grandfather was diagnosed with breast cancer, which shocked her family as they were unaware that men could also be affected. Isabel delves into the statistics, highlighting that 1% of cancer diagnoses are in men, which equates to thousands of lives. She emphasizes the importance of including men in breast cancer awareness campaigns, as they are often diagnosed at a later stage and may feel ashamed or overlooked. Isabel's goal is to tackle the lack of education and support for male breast cancer patients and their families, ensuring that everyone is included in this important cause. More from Isabel: I am part of the Caribe Girl Scouts Council. I started as a Daisy and continued till I graduated as an Ambassador. I loved going on nature adventures with my troop. As a Senior and Ambassador, I was a Staff at GS Camp, and it was the most fun experience. I was the girl who would scream the loudest of all GS songs. During 2020 and 2021, I interned with Girl Scouts USA as part of the G-TEAM. We were 25 girls from the US, Italy, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. Initially, we were supposed to plan the National Girl Scout Convention, but the pandemic hit, and plans changed. We became an advisory team for GSUSA strategy and operations. One of my most significant projects was being a producer and host of the first GS talk show, G-TEAM TV, where we discussed many topics around health and sustainability and brought guest speakers. G-TEAM TV has 10 episodes that are all on YouTube. Then, in 2021 I was 1 of 6 girls chosen to interview Michelle Obama for the launch of the badge "Becoming Me." It was a breathtaking and remarkable experience. As a GS, I got to grow professionally and truly feel GS's impact on an ambitious girl. It all started in 2019 when my grandfather was diagnosed with breast cancer. He was shocked, ashamed, and confused about how a man could get breast cancer. At this moment, my Girl Scouts mindset wanted to take action and save lives by creating awareness. Statistics say 1% of breast cancer diagnoses are in men. It may sound small... but that 1% equals thousands of lives! I noticed most breast cancer campaigns are directed to only women. Men often detect breast cancer at later stages. So, my project, "The One Percent: A Human Race Breast Cancer Awareness," began. I managed social media pages, interviewed breast cancer survivors, gave educational talks, and collaborated with well-known breast cancer organizations. As part of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, on January 2021, I proposed the idea to declare the second Friday of October of every year as Male Breast Cancer Awareness Day in Puerto Rico. After lobbying at the Senate, House of Representatives, and Governor of Puerto Rico, it got signed as Law 50-2021. This raises the voice for male breast cancer awareness to reach the early detection and support needed. On my social media pages, I introduced an international perspective with an interview of male breast cancer survivor Marius Soler from Spain and a national view with the interview with male survivor José Cockran. It helped me understand and share the pattern of lack of education and support. Mr. Soler told me about his journey from having trouble finding information about breast cancer in men when diagnosed and how he feels excluded from support communities. Mr. Cockran hit my heart hard when he told me his dad stopped talking to him for seven years because he thought his son wasn't "manly" enough after being diagnosed with breast cancer. I continue raising awareness that men get breast cancer because we never know whose life we can change with this information. You never know it can be a relative, dad, brother, uncle, or neighbor. A cancer diagnosis is hard; detecting it late because you didn't think you could get breast cancer, not finding a community you can relate with, or being isolated because others give in to stereotypes will make it even harder. Getting the message out there is the goal of my project. More educational efforts and more awareness being created will bring early detection, save lives, and support for patients and families, which is so much needed. The organizations I collaborated with, Susan G. Komen, American Cancer Association, and Puerto Rican League Against Cancer, have committed to continue spreading my message. I want to add that my grandfather beat stage 2 breast cancer. Now, in 2023, he's in remission. I am grateful. Now, I am so grateful and honored to have been selected for the 2023 GSUSA Gold Award Scholarship! My Gold Award has had a tremendous impact on me. I've learned so many new skills and discovered qualities in myself that will help me in my future goals. I now study at The Ohio State University, double majoring in communications and environmental policy. I aspire to be an advocate for environmental and social issues. Instagram: @theonepercent_breastcancer Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheOnePercentHumanRaceBreastCancerAwareness/ Here are some key takeaways from Isabel's project: 1️⃣ Male Breast Cancer Awareness: Isabel's project highlights the often overlooked fact that men can also be diagnosed with breast cancer. By sharing her grandfather's story and interviewing other male breast cancer survivors, Isabel aims to break the stigma and raise awareness about this important issue. 2️⃣ Lack of Education and Support: Isabel discovered that there is a lack of education and support for men diagnosed with breast cancer. Many campaigns and resources are directed solely towards women, leaving men feeling isolated and ashamed. Isabel's project aims to change this by providing a platform for men to share their experiences and promoting the importance of regular check-ups for everyone, regardless of gender. 3️⃣ Advocacy and Legislation: Isabel's dedication to her cause led her to successfully advocate for the declaration of the second Friday of October as Male Breast Cancer Awareness Day in Puerto Rico. This achievement, known as Law 15 2021, aims to raise awareness and provide support for male breast cancer patients. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable, already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ In this episode of Hearts of Gold, we hear from Himani, who shares her Girl Scout Gold Award project called "Project Save the Girl Child." Himani's project aims to raise awareness about the issue of female gendercide, which is the preference for a male child over a female child in patriarchal societies. She educates people about the consequences of this issue through gendercide awareness seminars and distributing brochures in India. Himani also partners with an organization called the Invisible Girl Project to rescue girls who are at high risk of being victims of female gendercide in India. Tune in to learn more about this important project and its impact. More about Himani: Himani Kalra is a Gold Award Girl Scout from Atlanta. Her project "Save the Girl Child" worked to raise awareness of female gendercide and promote gender equality through education and healthcare for underprivileged girls in Georgia and India. Himani partnered with over 40 global organizations to promote girl empowerment and is the Youth Brand Ambassador for the Invisible Girl Project working to end gendercide in India. She designed a science curriculum to empower refugee girls in Clarkston for future STEM careers, and has fundraised enough to set up five village schools with the Ekal Foundation and donated 36,000 books and educational supplies for girls in the Delhi slum districts. Himani was a Girl Scout Council Young Woman of Distinction and National Gold Award Scholarship recipient. She has been recognized as a Prudential Spirit of Community Distinguished Finalist, an honoree of the George W Bush Point of Light Awards, and is a two-time recipient of the Presidential Volunteer Service Award. Outside of Girl Scouts, Himani is a nationally ranked fencer, Kathak classical dancer, bassoon player, and avid travel enthusiast. Links: Website: https://www.savethegirlchild.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Save-The-Girl-Child/100064826106012/ Key takeaways from the episode: Take Charge of Your Passion: Himani's project, Project Save the Girl Child, was inspired by her personal experiences and passion for addressing the issue of female gender side. Her advice to other Girl Scouts is to identify a cause or passion they are interested in and see how far they can take it. The Gold Award provides a platform to make a difference and learn valuable skills along the way. Overcoming Challenges: Himani faced challenges in tackling a culturally and politically sensitive topic as a high school student. She had to educate people about an issue that many were unaware of or reluctant to discuss. However, she persevered and found ways to raise awareness and make connections with organizations and individuals who could support her cause. The Power of Connection: Himani's experience at Camp CEO taught her the importance of finding connections with others, regardless of age or professional background. She realized that meaningful conversations and relationships can be formed in unexpected places, and these connections can lead to new opportunities and growth. Empowering Girls through Education: Himani's project aimed to empower girls through education and healthcare, challenging the mindset that devalues girls in certain societies. By providing girls with equal access to education and healthcare, their potential can be recognized and society can be transformed. This takeaway highlights the importance of investing in girls' education and breaking down gender barriers to create a more equitable future. The issue of female gendercide is a serious problem in many Asian countries, where there is a preference for male children over female children. Himani's project, "Project Save the Girl Child," aims to raise awareness about this issue and its consequences on societies and populations. Himani's project was inspired by personal experiences, including being the second daughter in an Asian household and witnessing gender inequalities during her visits to India. She also drew inspiration from her grandmother, who was a doctor and emphasized the importance of education and support for her daughters. Himani's project has continued to grow even after her Gold Award project, and she plans to expand it further in New York City. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ In this episode of Hearts of Gold, Janae-Rose shares her Girl Scout Gold Award project called Youth Connect Charlotte. She addresses the issue of segregation in her home city and the lack of interaction between youth from different backgrounds. Janae-Rose's project involves partnering with Transforming Youth Movement to connect participants with students from other areas of Charlotte, allowing them to discuss the issues they see in the city and build connections. Through this initiative, Janae-Rose aims to promote positive change and bridge the divide in her community. More about Janae-Rose: Janae-Rose Fageyinbo is a born-and-raised Charlottean who is proud of her immigrant roots! In fact, her efforts to give back to any community she is a part of comes from her value for collaboration between people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Currently, she is a rising sophomore at Yale University and still participates in Girl Scouts as a leader at the local Boys and Girls Club. Janae-Rose has a few different career ideas up from going into academia, teaching, or working in healthcare and she's excited about all the opportunities ahead of her. As a Girl Scout since 1st grade, Janae-Rose has definitely benefited from being exposed to a variety of fields and opportunities since elementary school.In her free time, Janae-Rose enjoys reading, baking, and hanging out with friends. Links: https://youthconnectclt.wixsite.com/website https://www.instagram.com/youthconnectclt/ Key takeaways from the episode: 1️⃣ Building Bridges: My Gold Award project, Youth Connect Charlotte, aimed to bridge the gap between different communities in my city. By bringing together youth from diverse backgrounds, we were able to foster understanding, break down barriers, and create a sense of unity. It reminded me of the power of everyday conversations in driving positive change. 2️⃣ Finding the Right Partners: One of the challenges I faced was finding the right community partner for my project. I discovered Transforming Youth Movement, an organization already working with court-referred students. Their goals aligned perfectly with mine, and their support was instrumental in the success of the project. It taught me the importance of finding partners who share your vision and are eager to help you execute it. 3️⃣ Embracing Iteration: Throughout the project, I learned the value of flexibility and iteration. I initially started with a book club, but quickly realized it wasn't engaging for everyone. So, I adapted and transformed it into a conversation club, which sparked more meaningful discussions. It reminded me that being open to feedback and making adjustments is crucial for creating a program that truly resonates with participants. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

With the upcoming new Girl Scout year and new Silver Award requirements, I thought I would share an episode I recorded with Sarah Heeter for her podcast 'Troop Leader Experience' last spring. Girl Scout Councils are rolling out this updated information. Check your council's website for updates and GSLearn for trainings for your Girl Scouts (and you). We also recorded an episode about the Highest Awards, especially the Gold Award! https://pod.link/1439828810/episode/824ccd0587f406f4ad6855d0f3074e76 Check out that episode and other great information regarding troop leadership at Troop Leader Experience wherever you listen to audio. https://pod.link/1439828810

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ In this episode of Hearts of Gold, we hear from Jaansi, a 15-year-old Girl Scout and proud Gold Award winner. Jaansi shares her project, Project Neurify, which aims to make AI education accessible to all. She fundraised through a workshop and used the money to build a website with a free video curriculum and curated resources. Despite starting her project before ChatGPT became popular, Jaansi's timely focus on AI education is commendable. Tune in to learn more about her inspiring journey. More about Jaansi: Jaansi is a Girl Scout from New Jersey attending Phillips Exeter Academy. She has been a Girl Scout for nearly a decade, beginning her journey as a Daisy in kindergarten. Her Gold Award initiative, Project Neurify, is a free online curriculum with helpful videos and curated resource lists that provide a platform for computer science and artificial intelligence education to be available for anyone and everyone. Jaansi has also completed her Bronze and Silver Awards. She is passionate about making mental health and computer science education more accessible, especially for marginalized communities. Outside of Girl Scouts, Jaansi runs a podcast of her own, LearnOn Podcast. Links: https://www.projectneurify.org/ https://pod.link/1526489066 Jaansi's Gold Award project, Project Neurify, aimed to make computer science and artificial intelligence education accessible to all. She fundraised through a workshop and used the funds to build a website with a free video curriculum and curated resources. Her fascination inspired Jaansi's project with artificial intelligence in medicine and her awareness of the lack of accessibility and representation in higher computer science education. She wanted to provide a more comprehensive and accessible teaching curriculum for those who may be socioeconomically disadvantaged. Jaansi faced challenges in running her project virtually and had to find ways to establish a human connection with her team of volunteers. She used communication platforms like Discord and organization tools like Notion to keep everyone connected and accountable. Documenting everything was also crucial for her final report and for cherishing the journey of her project. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ On this episode of Hearts of Gold, Anna talks about her Girl Scout Gold Award project called "Step to Specs". Anna noticed that she had a lot of unused glasses frames in her room and realized that other people in her town might be in the same predicament. She started collecting donated glasses and passed them on to people who couldn't afford them. After amassing around 4,000 pairs of glasses, Anna partnered with the LAC USC hospital and created an online database to distribute the glasses to patients in need. Tune in to learn more about Anna's inspiring project. More about Anna: Anna has worn glasses since five years old, which has fueled her passion of helping others with impaired vision. She created “Step to Specs” to distribute free donated glasses to Los Angeles residents in need. To do so, she collected over 4,000 pairs of glasses from her community, measured the prescription of each pair with a lensmeter, built an online database to catalog them, and established a free glasses program at the Los Angeles County+USC Hospital. With the help of USC ophthalmologists and medical students, she gave out over 1,000 pairs of glasses to patients at Los Angeles County Hospital, where many are uninsured and can't afford to pay for glasses out of pocket. Through this program, many patients have regained the ability to read, walk, and drive again. She published a peer reviewed research paper about the impact of the program on the LA patient population. Lastly, Step to Specs is a service learning partner of the Keck School of Medicine. Anna is a senior at La Canada High School. She is the president of the National Honors Society, Healthcare Professionals Club, and Origami Club, and is her district's student representative on the school board. She is also a laboratory assistant at the Keck School of Medicine and a hospital volunteer. After working closely with patients during her project, she aspires to be a doctor. Links: https://steptospecs.com Research paper: https://doi.org/10.47611/jsrhs.v11i2.3344 Key takeaways from the episode: Anna's research paper on glasses distribution: Anna discusses her research paper on glasses distribution and the unique search function she developed for prescription glasses. The paper is available online for other hospitals to implement a similar program. This research paper has been beneficial for Anna's resume and college applications, showcasing her passion for research and ability to overcome writing hurdles. Connecting people through glasses donation: Anna plans to go to medical school and wants to take on a more active role in patient care. She has been volunteering in hospitals and working with patients to gain experience. Anna's project of collecting donated glasses from her small town and distributing them to people in need in Los Angeles has connected people and revived stories. She feels privileged to be able to help people and breathe new life into the glasses. Collaboration and data privacy in a community project: Anna discusses her experience working with nurses, doctors, and patients in a community project. She emphasizes the importance of building connections with nurses to gain access to doctors and being cautious about HIPAA laws when collecting data. The project involved collaboration with various individuals and organizations, including a project advisor, community organizations, ophthalmology residents, medical students, and USC undergrad students. Note: This episode highlights Anna's journey in distributing glasses to those in need, the challenges she faced, and the impact of her volunteer work. It also emphasizes the importance of collaboration, flexibility, and support in achieving goals. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3rx06pr Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ On this episode of Hearts of Gold, Sim shares her Girl Scout Gold Award project, Honoring the Missing Man. Sim explains that her project was inspired by the dedication and perseverance of the veterans she met through her involvement in the Air Force Junior ROTC program. She set out to raise awareness about the Missing Man table, a table that is set up to recognize POW and MIA soldiers. With the help of her fellow cadets, Sim donated kits to over 15 schools and presented to the school board. Her project was a great success in honoring and educating others about the sacrifices of our soldiers. More about Simran: Simran Carl is a junior at Cedar Park High School. She has been an active member of the Girl Scouts since kindergarten and has recently completed her Gold Award. She served on the Advisory Board and is currently a National Delegate. In addition to my home troop, I am a member of the only scuba diving-based Girl Scout in the country. Her Gold Award project focused on creating missing man tables and donating them to Leander Independent School District schools. Through her dedication and hard work, Simran has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving her community and positively impacting those around her. In addition to her community service work, Simran enjoys spending time with her friends and family, pursuing creative hobbies, and exploring new interests. She lives with her sister, parents, and a particularly heavy orange barn cat in Austin, Texas. After high school, Simran hopes to go to college to study business or pre-medicine. Links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/honoringthemissingman/ In this episode of the podcast, Hearts of Gold, produced by the Grow and Share Network, guests who have earned their Girl Scout Gold Award share their experiences and projects with the audience. The podcast aims to inspire and motivate listeners to pursue their own Gold Award projects and make a positive impact in their communities. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the podcast and catch up on previous episodes, which are available on various podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the guests featured on the podcast is Sim, who completed her Girl Scout Gold Award project called Honoring the Missing Man. Sim's project involved setting up a Missing Man table to recognize POW and MIA soldiers. Through her high school's Air Force Junior ROTC program, Sim worked with veterans and discovered that many of her fellow cadets were not aware of the Missing Man table. She set out to make sure everyone knew about it by putting together a team of ROTC cadets and donating kits to over 15 schools in her district. She also presented to the school board and donated a kit to them. The Missing Man table is a simple round table with multiple items on it that represent different things, and Sim wanted to make sure that people knew that POW and MIA soldiers may be gone, but they are not forgotten. Sim's project impacted many people in her community, and she received a lot of positive feedback from those who helped her along the way. Sim shares her future plans, which include studying either medicine or business. She has been involved in HOSA, a future health professionals club, since her freshman year of high school and has been around doctors her whole life, as her mother and family members are doctors. Sim also shares her love for s'mores and her technique for making them, which involves either burning them to a crisp or spending 30 minutes trying to get them golden brown, but ultimately as long as they have chocolate, graham cracker, and marshmallow, she considers it a s'more. Overall, the Hearts of Gold podcast is a great resource for anyone interested in learning about the amazing projects completed by Girl Scout Gold Award recipients. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ In this episode of Hearts of Gold, Lakshanya talks about her Girl Scout Gold Award project, which focuses on inspiring young children to navigate through media effectively. Lakshanya created a curriculum where she presented information to schools in India, her local community, and her high school. She provided tips and tricks on how to safely navigate through the internet and social media by having a Q&A session with the students. Lakshanya's project aims to protect the next generation from negative effects and provide children with the necessary skills to safely navigate through media. More from Lakshanya: I have been a Girl Scout since I was in Kindergarten and if it's one thing I learned it's that Samoas and Thin Mints are the superior cookies... I'm kidding. Girl Scouts has taught me that you need resilience and creativity, not just one or the other(especially when it comes to selling cookies), but it has also shown the power of being a woman. I have completed the Silver Award and met some of my best friends while doing the project! I also participate in science fairs, am the vice president of the Speech and Debate club at my school, the founder of the Women in Science Club at my high school, lead for Student Government, and have participated in track and field for 5 years. In the future, I hope to become an MD PhD and use the leadership skills that I have learned to help others succeed in the process! Website link: https://rajaganapathilaksh.wixsite.com/my-site-1/blog Key points from the episode: Media literacy for young children. In today's world, media is everywhere. From television to social media, it is difficult to escape the constant barrage of information. For young children, this can be overwhelming and confusing. That is why media literacy is so important. Media literacy is the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and create media in a variety of forms. It is a crucial skill that can help children navigate the complex world of media. Lakshanya, a Girl Scout, recognized the importance of media literacy and decided to make it the focus of her Gold Award project. Her project aimed to inspire young children, specifically elementary schoolers and high schoolers, on effective ways to navigate through media. Lakshanya created a curriculum that she presented to schools in India, her local community, and at her high school. Instead of a traditional presentation, she opted for a Q&A format that made the students feel like they were getting advice from a peer. For elementary schoolers, Lakshanya used an analogy to help them understand the importance of media literacy. She asked them if they ever saw a bright packaging at the store and wanted to buy it just because of the packaging. She then compared this to the colorful pictures and videos on YouTube that may not be safe. For high schoolers, Lakshanya talked about the negative effects of social media, like catfishing attempts and cyberbullying. Lakshanya's project had a significant impact on the students she presented to. She realized that many students did not know about the negative sides of social media and were not aware of the importance of media literacy. In addition to her presentations, Lakshanya also created a website that allows students to reflect on situations that have happened, give advice, and provide videos on further media literacy. Lakshanya's project is an excellent example of the importance of media literacy for young children. It is crucial to teach children how to navigate through media safely and effectively. With the constant barrage of information that children face, media literacy is a crucial skill that can help them make informed decisions and avoid negative consequences. By teaching children media literacy, we can help them become responsible and informed media consumers. Social media can harm. During her sessions with elementary school students, Lakshanya was surprised to find that many of them did not understand the impact of social media. They saw it as a tool for being cool and scrolling through content, but did not realize the potential harm it could cause. Lakshanya explained to them how one word on Instagram or Snapchat could flip someone's world upside down. She also taught them tips and tricks on how to stay safe online, such as checking with parents before watching videos on YouTube. The biggest challenge Lakshanya faced during her project was getting students to attend her sessions. However, she overcame this by offering incentives to engage them and make the sessions more fun. Her efforts paid off, as attendance increased from three to twenty students. Through her project, Lakshanya learned that many young people are not actively thinking about their actions on social media and the potential harm it can cause. By teaching media literacy, she hopes to change this and create a more informed and responsible generation of media consumers. Lakshanya's favorite part of the project was talking to elementary school students and hearing their tips and tricks on how to stay safe online. She also created a Media Literacy Council in her school and community to spread awareness and promote media literacy. Additionally, she conducted a session in India, where media literacy is not typically included in the curriculum. By teaching children in India about media literacy, Lakshanya hopes to make a positive impact on their lives and help them become responsible media consumers. Ask for help, fulfill dreams. Lakshanya's success was not achieved alone. Throughout her project, she had a team of supporters who helped her along the way. Her grandpa and aunt provided her with a store to collect donations and her cousins in India helped her make custom pens and pencils. Additionally, her parents, media teacher, principal, and ninth-grade English teacher all played a significant role in supporting her project. Without their support, Lakshana's project may not have been as successful as it was. Lakshanya's project also taught her valuable lessons about the Girl Scout Gold Award process. She learned how to balance her time between schoolwork and the project and how to focus on sessions that would be most impactful for the students. She also learned the importance of setting goals and staying focused on them. Although she initially wanted to create a website and go international, she realized that focusing on her community and conducting a session in India would have a more significant impact. One of the most important lessons Lakshanya learned was not to be afraid to ask for help. Throughout her project, she received tremendous support from her team of supporters, who were all passionate and helpful. Asking for help allowed her to complete her project successfully and fulfill her dreams of promoting media literacy in her community and in India. Believe in yourself and adventure. The podcast episode featuring Lakshanya highlights the importance of believing in oneself and embracing adventure. Throughout her Girl Scout journey, Lakshanya has experienced countless adventures, from camping trips to science experiments. She credits Girl Scouts with opening her eyes to the endless possibilities available to girls and women, including fields such as science, architecture, and coding. Lakshanya's journey culminated in the completion of her Girl Scout Gold Award project, which focused on promoting media literacy among children. Through her project, she emphasized the importance of being a responsible media consumer and seeking help when needed. Lakshanya's project serves as an inspiration to all of us, reminding us of the power of asking for help and promoting media literacy in our communities. Looking towards the future, Lakshanya is excited for the adventure that lies ahead. As she pursues her dream of becoming a doctor and helping others, she hopes to continue empowering and inspiring those around her. She encourages others to believe in themselves and to embrace the adventure that life has to offer. Lakshanya's story serves as a reminder of the importance of believing in oneself and embracing adventure. Whether it's through Girl Scouts or pursuing our dreams, we should all strive to push ourselves outside of our comfort zones and embrace the unknown. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Ripley shared her experience of creating her Girl Scout Gold Award project—a book discussing the difficulties of being disabled in a world that largely ignores invisible illnesses. Ripley herself has multiple chronic illnesses and was misdiagnosed with psychological ailments before being able to name what she was facing. She wrote the book to redefine the idea of disability and to discuss the ableism found in our community and how we can help those suffering from health issues. Her motivation stemmed from her journaling and a writing project she completed in college which her professor commended her for. More about Ripley: Ripley finished her Girl Scout Gold Award Project, A Unicorn's Childhood, to bring awareness to invisible disabilities, ableism, and the failures of the American Healthcare system for women. Ripley was a Girl Scout for 13 years, starting when she was a Daisy in kindergarten and finishing at 18 years old as a freshman in college. Ripley is an avid reader, writer, and equestrian; her partner in crime Radar (an OTTB), is mentioned often in her project. She is pursuing a degree in Psychology with the intent of focusing on changing how pain psychology is approached in the medical industry. Links: Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/laura.cusinato.716) Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/rip_chazire/) Goodreads: (https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22956923.Ripp_N_Chazire) My Project: (https://www.amazon.com/Unicorns-Childhood-Ripp-N-Chazire/dp/B0BQ9LLRCV/ref=sr_1_1?crid=ZMRX1LXXKBI4&keywords=ripp+chazire&qid=1682439468&s=books&sprefix=ripp+chazire%2Cstripbooks%2C110&sr=1-1) My Website: (https://ripleyatlas.wixsite.com/chazire-s-updates) Key points from the episode: The world needs your story. Ripley is an example of someone who has used her story to make a difference in the world. Through her Girl Scout Gold Award project, she wrote a book about her journey with multiple chronic illnesses. Ripley was misdiagnosed many times and it took her five times longer to get the correct diagnosis. Her book discusses the idea of being disabled in a community that only needs you as disabled if you have a visible disability. It also talks about the failures of the public health care system and the public school system, particularly around women and mental health. Ripley found the confidence to share her experiences and create her book through her love of writing. She had kept a journal and was a writer from a young age. She also had the support of her professor and classmates who encouraged her to write a book. They saw the power in her story and knew that it needed to be shared with the world. Fighting illness with creativity. Ripley was diagnosed with a chronic illness at a young age. Despite the challenges she faced, she was determined to make a difference in the world. She used her creative talents to write a book about her experiences with her illness. Ripley had to balance the creative process of writing a book with meeting the expectations of her Gold Award project. Writing the book was the easy part, but she had to figure out how to publish it without spending any money. She reached out to many people, but no one was willing to sponsor her project. She then took graphic design courses and taught herself how to design her own book cover. Ripley also had to edit her book, which was the most time-consuming part of the process. She had to go back through and edit her own work, which was difficult since she had to maintain her creative process and not change too much. She also had to make sure the book was sustainable, so she chose to publish it on Amazon, which ships internationally. Write for your audience. When it comes to writing, it is important to remember that you are writing for your audience. Whether you are writing a book, a blog post, or a script, you need to consider who your audience is and what they want to read. If you are writing a book, you should consider the age group of your readers and the type of content they are looking for. If you are writing a blog post, you should consider the topics that your readers are interested in. If you are writing a script, you should consider the type of story that will resonate with your audience. Take time, be creative. When it comes to creative writing, it is especially important to take your time and be creative. You don't want to rush through your work and end up with something that is not up to your standards. It is important to give yourself enough time to explore different ideas and develop your story. It is also important to take breaks and come back to your project with fresh eyes. One way to ensure you are taking your time and being creative is to use the Pomodoro method. This method involves setting a timer for a set amount of time and then rewarding yourself after that time is up. Don't make assumptions. However, it is also important to remember that not all people have the same abilities. Many people suffer from invisible disabilities, such as chronic illnesses and mental health issues, that can make it difficult for them to do things that the average person can do with ease. It is important to recognize that these people may need more support than others, and to not make assumptions about them. The first step in not making assumptions is to educate yourself. If you know someone with an invisible disability, ask them questions and find out what they need. This will help you to understand their situation better and to be more supportive. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Elisa's Gold Award project is called An Esther Generation. It is a ministry aimed at helping teen girls and young adult women to draw closer to God and better understand their identity and purpose in life. She provides digital resources, writing and speaking opportunities to assist people on their spiritual journeys. Elisa shares how her own faith journey was ignited by her family, who adopted daily Bible reading times, and her church which provided many resources for her. Additionally, during Covid she experienced God in a powerful and tangible way that helped to strengthen her faith. More from Elisa: My name is Elisa John, and I am a Girl Scout Ambassador with Troop 312 in Texas. I started Girl Scouts when I was in 3rd grade and have gone on to earn my Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards. In my free time, I enjoy reading, photography, playing soccer, and trying new foods. I'm an introvert, and although I initially viewed this as a weakness, I've realized what a powerful gift this is. From a young age, I was very passionate about using my words to create change. My faith is very important to me, and as I grew older, I continued deepening my relationship with Jesus. The more I learned about Him, the more I felt called to utilize my love of writing and speaking to share the love of God with others. This ignited my spark for ministry and enabled me to create An Esther Generation ministry through my Gold Award project. My future plans are to continue growing this ministry, developing more digital resources, and organizing an annual in-person Rise Up Conference for teen girls and young adult women. My dream is to also write my own book one day. Website: https://anesthergeneration.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anesthergeneration/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/AnEstherGeneration Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3UuRmd6VkZUPvIpNRr5zsS Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anesthergeneration Freebies: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1i8O8hHtv_br25zVIggEDNtteDKEWV9Dc?usp=sharing Key points from the episode: Grow in faith and purpose. Growth in faith and purpose is a journey that many of us have taken at some point in our lives. For some, this journey begins in childhood, when we are taught about the power of faith and the importance of having a purpose. For others, it begins later in life, when we are presented with the opportunity to explore our faith and discover our purpose. Elisa, a Girl Scout Gold Award recipient, is a prime example of someone who has taken this journey of faith and purpose. Through her Gold Award project, Elisa sought to help teen girls and young adult women draw closer to their relationship with God and learn more about their eternal identity and purpose. Elisa believes that the best way to learn more about who you are is to learn more about who Jesus is, and this is the focus of her project. Through Anesthesia Generation, Elisa has created an Instagram account to post encouraging content and a website with blog articles and free digital resources. Her goal is to provide girls with the tools they need to stay faithful in their relationship with God. Elisa credits her parents for instilling in her a strong faith from a young age. Through daily Bible readings and church attendance, Elisa was able to learn more about her faith and how to use it to glorify God. Even during the pandemic, Elisa was able to find solace in her faith and use it to fuel her project. Growth in faith and purpose is a journey that we all take at some point in our lives. For Elisa, this journey began in childhood and has only been strengthened by her Girl Scout Gold Award project. Through Anesthesia Generation, Elisa is helping other girls learn more about their faith and purpose, and inspiring them to use their gifts to glorify God. God's promises are true. Elisa's project was inspired by a prayer she had with her mother before starting her project. She prayed that God would use her project to touch the right people and create an internal impact. In a world filled with darkness and brokenness, Elisa believes that it is important to form connections between teens and adults. She created digital affirmation cards to help girls recognize the difference between their emotions and validating their emotions. The cards also help girls to go back to the word of God and remember His promises. Elisa also created 31 days of prayers and journal prompts to help girls prioritize their relationship with God. She also created a worksheet to help girls understand what they are taking away from their Bible readings. In addition to these free resources, Elisa also created free small group notes so that girls can always go back and read what passages of scripture they read. Elisa's team was made up of different members of her community and her local church. They helped her by providing support and encouragement throughout her project. Elisa's project is a shining example of how we can use our gifts to glorify God and make a difference in the lives of others. God's promises are true, no matter what we face or what challenges we may face. Elisa's project is a testament to this truth and a reminder that we can always turn to God and His Word for hope and strength. Through Elisa's project, she is helping other girls to understand the importance of faith and to be encouraged to share their faith with others in their communities. We can all learn from Elisa's example and be inspired to use our gifts to glorify God and make a difference in the lives of others. Trust God through your weaknesses. When it comes to trusting God through our weaknesses, Elisa's story is a great example of how God can use our weaknesses to accomplish His will. Elisa faced rejection multiple times when trying to get her project approved, but she kept her faith and trusted that God had a plan. She was then guided by her teachers, troop leaders, church members, and pastor who all encouraged her and helped her to make her project a success. Through their guidance and support, Elisa was able to create a ministry that would equip girls and young women to grow in their faith and share their faith with others. Elisa's story is a reminder that God can use our weaknesses to accomplish His will. We may feel discouraged when facing rejection or failure, but we can trust that God has a plan for us. We can rely on the support of others to help us through difficult times and use our gifts to make a difference in the lives of those around us. Elisa's story is an example of how trusting God through our weaknesses can lead to great things. Trust the process, impact others. Elisa faced several challenges when attempting to start her own business. Despite the discouragement she experienced, she decided to focus on her ministry and use her words to reach out to others. She realized that even if she only had one person in her audience, it was still just as important as having a large audience. Through her online small group, Elisa was able to grow her own faith while encouraging those around her. Elisa also had to learn the importance of trusting that every change, no matter how discouraging, can have a positive impact on others. She learned to be willing to adapt, while still staying true to her passion and vision. Even when her project was rejected, Elisa kept going and eventually reached people who needed to hear the love of Jesus through her project. Elisa also created a podcast to share her story. She had to research and practice with a microphone to get the hang of things. Through this process, she learned that even though things may not always be perfect, the spontaneous moments can be beautiful. Elisa's story is a reminder to trust the process. Despite delays and discouragement, we can trust that God has a plan for us and that the right people, at the right time, will be impacted by our project. Perseverance leads to impact. Perseverance is an important part of life. It is easy to become discouraged and overwhelmed when faced with a challenge. Elisa's story of creating a podcast for her Gold Award project is a testament to the importance of perseverance. Despite feeling overly stimulated and discouraged, Elisa continued to work on her project. She was able to draw strength from her faith in God, and she was able to find comfort in the knowledge that her project could make a difference in someone's life. Elisa's story is a reminder that we should trust the process, even when it is difficult. We can draw strength from our faith in God and from the support of others. We can use our gifts to make a difference in the world. We can trust that God has a plan for us and that the right people, at the right time, will be impacted by our project. Elisa's perseverance has led to a great impact. Through her podcast, she has been able to spread hope and encouragement to many people. She has been able to connect with people and share her story. Her podcast has been a source of comfort and strength for those who are struggling with mental health issues. Use your gifts and voice. Elisa was in a discouraging place, feeling like she wasn't doing anything that mattered. Despite feeling hopeless, she kept on posting with the hope that someone would reach out. Then, one day, she got a message from an account called AJNK that said her post was exactly what they needed to hear. She and AJNK connected and it turned out that they were both in similar situations. Through this connection, Elisa was able to meet two amazing girls, Kaylee and Aliyah, who she now considers her closest friends. This connection changed Elisa's life and allowed her to create content for her ministry. Elisa's story shows us the importance of using our gifts and voice. It's easy to feel like what we have to offer doesn't matter, but Elisa's story proves that it does. Our gifts and voice can be used to make a difference in the lives of others. We can use our gifts to create something bigger and better than ourselves. Elisa also learned valuable lessons through her Girl Scout experiences. She learned how to plan, organize, and break down a project into manageable pieces. She also learned how to draft a proposal, form a team, and budget correctly. These lessons taught Elisa to be a better leader and to not just talk, but to listen, take direction, and involve others. Elisa's story is proof that our gifts and voice can make a difference in the world. Pursue your purpose faithfully. No matter what our project may be, it is important to take the time to appreciate the beauty in it. We should celebrate every step and find joy in the progress we make. We should also remember that we are sharing light and hope with others and that our work matters. This can be a source of motivation when we feel overwhelmed or discouraged. We should also be mindful of the importance of communication. Whether it be through writing, speaking, or creating resources, we should use our gifts to touch the lives of others. We should strive to make a positive impact in the world and pursue our purpose faithfully. Elisa's story is a reminder that we should not give up on our dreams, no matter how difficult they may seem. We should keep being faithful, and trust that our work will make a difference in the lives of others. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ In this episode of the Hearts of Gold podcast, Rebekkah shares about her Girl Scout Gold Award project called "Through the Eyes". She explains that it was an immersive experience aimed at all ages and backgrounds to teach about several eye conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and amblyopia. Rebekkah created a sensory board with a Braille alphabet, simulation glasses, and a hands-on Braille activity with a muffin tin and balls. She added a UV lamp and QR codes for sustainability and global impact. The project was inspired by Rebekkah 's personal struggles with her vision. More from Rebekka: My name is Rebekkah. I am a 17 year old, Adult Girl Scout. More importantly, I am also a 3-time high award recipient. I have been in Girl Scouts for 12 years. I joined as a daisy and have aged out. I have sold thousands of boxes of cookies and have hundreds of hours of community service. Girl Scouts has allowed me to learn perseverance, make lifelong friends, kindness, and how to be a sister to every girl scout. I plan on attending Georgia Southern University starting Fall of 2023 and majoring in psychology. I would love to become a trauma therapist for the youth or an autism specialist. https://rebekkahgold.weebly.com/ https://www.instagram.com/rebekkah.go.gold/ https://ms-my.facebook.com/RebekkahGoGold/ Key points from the episode: Make a Difference Through Service. The importance of service is often overlooked, but it can have a huge impact on people's lives. For example, Rebekkah, a Girl Scout, used her Gold Award project to make a difference in her community. Through her project, "Through the Eyes," Rebekkah created an immersive experience to raise awareness about visual impairments. Rebekkah was inspired to create her project after struggling with her own visual impairments. She was born with amblyopia and strabismus and later suffered a horrific eye infection that caused her vision to decrease significantly. As a result of her struggles, she was bullied and told she would never be able to drive. However, Rebekkah persevered and used her experience to create a project that would help others. Rebekkah's project took place at the local community center and included a sensory board with Braille alphabet simulation glasses, a hands-on activity using a muffin tin and six balls, and a UV lamp with QR codes linking to her website and social media pages. Through her project, Rebekkah was able to spread awareness about visual impairments and connect with people from all over the world. Rebekkah's project demonstrates the power of service. By using her own personal experience, Rebekkah was able to create something that had a lasting impact on her community. Her project not only raised awareness about visual impairments, but also showed the importance of perseverance and resilience. By making a difference through service, Rebekkah was able to create a positive change in her community. Take charge and be bossy. Rebekkah's project also shows the importance of taking charge and being bossy. Despite the obstacles she faced due to the pandemic, Rebekkah was able to stay focused on her goal and take charge of the situation. She worked closely with her neighbor, an OT specialist, to develop her idea and proposed it to her eye doctor. When the library she wanted to put her project in was undergoing renovations, Rebekkah had to quickly pivot and put it in the community center instead. Rebekkah's leadership skills were evident throughout her project. She led the meetings and outlined what needed to be done. She also took charge of the shopping trip to get supplies and wrote the list of items needed. Rebekkah was also the one who made the decisions and stuck to them, no matter what. Rebekkah's project shows that taking charge and being bossy can be a powerful tool. She was able to use her leadership skills to create a successful project that had a lasting impact on her community. Rebekkah's project shows that it is possible to make a difference through service and that taking charge and being bossy can be a powerful tool for creating positive change. Partnerships are essential. Partnerships are essential for any successful project. Rebekkah's Gold Award project is an excellent example of this. She was able to partner with Girl Scouts Historic Georgia to take over their social media for a day during their Quest Fest event. This partnership allowed her to reach a wider audience and spread the word about her project. She also partnered with Kristina Lachagh, who helped boost Rebekkah's social media presence and gave her access to more resources. Rebekkah's project is a great example of how powerful partnerships can be. Not only did she gain access to more resources, but she was also able to make meaningful connections with people who could help her succeed. Partnerships are essential to any successful project because they provide access to resources and connect people who can help each other reach their goals. Rebekkah's project also highlights the importance of networking. She was able to make meaningful connections with people who could help her succeed. Networking allows people to find mentors, supporters, and resources that can help them reach their goals. Rebekkah's project demonstrates the power of networking and how it can help people achieve their goals. Partnerships and networking are essential for any successful project. Rebekkah's Gold Award project is an excellent example of this. She was able to make meaningful connections. Ask questions and take risks. Rebekkah was able to make her project a success by asking questions and taking risks. She went to the Juliette Gordon Low Museum on a date with her boyfriend and took pictures to use for her project. She also asked for help from the Georgia Historic Society and the birthplace, which shared her content. She even met with the CEO of the Georgia Historic Society, Sue Allen, and was part of the St. Patrick's Day parade. Rebekkah also took risks in her project. She had to be brave and put herself out there in order to make her project successful. She was able to make videos and post them on YouTube, even though she was camera shy. She also created light switch covers to promote electricity saving and redid the whole bath center at the Liberty Humane Shelter. Rebekkah's project shows that it is important to ask questions and take risks in order to make a difference. By putting herself out there, she was able to gain access to resources that allowed her to make a lasting impact on her community. Her project is an example of how taking charge and being bossy can be a powerful tool for creating positive change. Use all resources available. Rebekkah and her Girl Scout troupe were able to take on a Silver Award project that seemed daunting at first. Despite their lack of experience and resources, they were able to make it happen by utilizing the knowledge and resources of their family members. They had to do research to figure out what tools they needed, and budget for the supplies. By taking the initiative and using all the resources available to them, they were able to complete a project that still works to this day. Rebekkah's experience shows that it's important to think outside the box when it comes to problem-solving. Even if you don't have the skills or resources to complete a task, there are always people who can help. It's important to ask for help and to be open to new ideas and methods. By utilizing all the resources available, you can make a bigger impact than you ever thought possible. Rebekkah's experience also shows that taking risks and being brave is important. She and her troupe could have easily given up on their project, but they decided to take a chance and see what they could do. By pushing themselves and taking risks, they could achieve something they never thought possible. Share this show with your friends on Twitter. 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Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Supriya created a nutrition organization to promote healthy hearts. More about Supriya: Supriya Kotnani is currently a pre-med Anthropology student at Baylor University. An 8 year Girl Scout member, she earned her Girl Scout Silver Award in 2016 and Girl Scout Gold Award in 2020. Her Girl Scout Silver Award was awarded for planting a community garden and her Gold Award was awarded for the creation of the nutrition organization, Heartbeet for Healthy. In May 2022, Supriya was invited to speak at a Girl Scout Award event about her experience as a Girl Scout Gold Award recipient. In university, Supriya has participated as a Student Researcher and Supplemental Instructor, in addition to expanding Heartbeet for Healthy. In the future, she aspires to become a physician and further serve her community. Website: www.heartbeetforhealthy.org Article written about Heartbeet for Healthy: https://baylorlariat.com/2023/03/14/heartbeet-for-healthy-pumps-positive-message-into-nutrition/ Instagram: @heartbeetforhealthy Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ

Full transcription available at http://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/ Mehaa created a computer lab for the village of Kampot in Cambodia. More about Mehaa: Mehaa Raja is a freshman at UC Berkeley, studying Mechanical Engineering. She started Girl Scouts in 4th grade as a junior, and graduated as a Senior Ambassador. Over the span of almost a decade in Girl Scouts Mehaa took part in various community service projects with her troop, to name a few; annual canned food drives, making blankets for animal shelters, and making goodie bags for the local Women's shelter. Girl Scouts also engulfed her with special memories such as the annual sleepover at the local baseball field, Twilight Camp, and the local Winter Parade. Aside from Girl Scouts, Mehaa enjoys dancing with her sister and trying out new recipes in the kitchen. Instagram @mehaa.raja Share this show with your friends on Twitter. Click to have an editable already written tweet! https://ctt.ac/33zKe Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/sherylmrobinson/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherylmrobinson/?hl=en Please subscribe to Hearts of Gold on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/sherylmrobinson or on your favorite podcast app. Support future Hearts of Gold episodes at https://www.patreon.com/heartsofgold Editing by https://www.offthewalter.com/ Walter's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt0wFZRVaOpUd_nXc_8-4yQ