2010 Gold Award Recipients
Below are the 2010 Gold Award Recipients. For your browsing convenience, the 67 awardees are grouped according to Association into the sections below:
BAY ASSOCIATION:
Alexandra
BAY ASSOCIATION
TROOP 68
To achieve her goal of establishing a recycling program in her high school, Alexandra needed to educate her peers in order to get them onboard with her idea. Starting with the Science National Honor Society, she planned a recycling seminar for the students. To spread the word further, she created a pamphlet with information about recycling and conservation, as well as establishing a Facebook group and message board for all students interested in volunteering. Due to Alexandra’s efforts, her high school now recycles paper and plastic, and has a ready supply of volunteers, along with a system for keeping everyone involved even after she graduates.
Alexandra is a senior at Oyster Bay High School, where she is a member of the Science National Honor Society, Interact Service Club, Mock Trial, and Student Council. She also serves as a tutor in the Homework Helpers program, and participates in her high school’s musical production. Outside of school, she sings in the choir of the First Presbyterian Church of Oyster Bay, volunteers with the Town of Oyster Bay Chabad, and rows on the Sagamore Crew Team. She plans to attend Brown University in the fall, where she will study environmental science and theater.
Kaitlin
BAY ASSOCIATION
TROOP 68
Kaitlin’s goal was to educate children about the environment in which they live and about their role in protecting it. To make this a reality, she compiled the “Junior Naturalist Booklet,” which is a coloring and activity booklet for the Theodore Roosevelt Audubon Center in Oyster Bay. This booklet was designed to engage young children in an interactive way while educating them about the fun and exciting natural world outside their front doors.
Kaitlin is graduating from Oyster Bay High School where she is active in varsity fencing, Pep Band, Marching Band, Chamber Singers, National Honor Society and Tri-M Music Honor Society. She is captain of the varsity badminton team, and is principal chair of the wind ensemble and of the symphonic band. Kaitlin represented Girl Scouts of Nassau County as a Girl Delegate to the Girl Scouts of the USA’s 51st National Convention. She will attend SUNY Fredonia in the fall.
BELLMORE ASSOCIATION:
Lauren
BELLMORE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 911
“Think Before You Act” is the title of Lauren’s Gold Award project, and that message was brought to young adults in her community through a day devoted to teaching about the effects of STD’s and educating them about the benefits of abstinence. Using her research, and with the help of professionals in the field, she presented a variety of information to her audience, and allowed them to have their questions answered in a non-threatening atmosphere.
Lauren is a senior at W.C. Mepham High School in Bellmore. She serves as manager of the football team, and has participated in cheerleading and badminton. She is an intern in a special education classroom at a local elementary school, and plans to study education at California University of Pennsylvania.
Sarah
BELLMORE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 942
Self-esteem in young girls is the concern of Sarah’s Gold Award project “Princess for a Day”. Through a variety of activities, Sarah and her volunteers planned and delivered a program that would give the 3 and 4-year old participants the opportunity to have fun while boosting their self-esteem. Her Princess parties showed the girls who attended how very special and unique they are. As they got the chance to celebrate themselves, they came away with increased confidence and the memory of a truly unique experience.
A 2009 graduate of Holy Trinity High School, Sarah was a member of the education club and the yearbook committee. Sarah has just completed her freshman year at Molloy College in Rockville Centre.
Jahniece
BELLMORE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 911
Jahniece addressed two important issues for girls – breast cancer awareness and self-image – in her Gold Award project “Girl Power”. Using her networking, organizational and public speaking skills, she was able to present a workshop for girls ages 12 to 18, in which they learned about breast health and participated in activities designed to increase their awareness and improve their self-esteem.
A senior at W.C. Mepham High School in Bellmore, Jahniece is a cheerleader and a member of the youth group at her church. She plans to attend SUNY College at Oneonta in the fall.
Allison
BELLMORE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 942
Allison and her sister Michelle teamed up on their Gold Award project “Tasty Treats and Tea”. A love of baking inspired her to teach a group of younger girls how to create a variety of delicious baked goods during a week-long cooking workshop. The girls who attended had fun learning a new skill, as they created desserts from simple to challenging. While some of their work was sampled by the girls, most was saved and used to provide refreshments at a tea party for senior citizens at the Bellmore Senior Center. Both groups benefited from this project, as the girls learned a new skill, and the seniors had the chance to meet the young bakers at their tea party.
Allison is a 2009 graduate of Our Lady of Mercy Academy in Syosset, where she was a member of National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, Italian Club, Forensics Club and Band. She has just completed her freshman year at Johnson & Wales University, where she is a member of Newman Club.
Michelle
BELLMORE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 942
Working with her sister Allison, Michelle’s goal for their Gold Award project “Tasty Treats and Tea” was to teach younger girls basic baking skills, while providing senior citizens with a delightful afternoon tea and social event. Both groups involved in the project benefited, and the community became more aware of Girl Scouting as a force for positive action.
Michelle is a 2009 graduate of Our Lady of Mercy Academy in Syosset, where she was a member of National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, Italian Honor Society, Italian Club, Forensics Club and Band. She has just completed her freshman year at Molloy College, where she is a member of the Gaelic Society and the Ultimate Frisbee Club.
Beth
BELLMORE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 911
Beth used her artistic ability and leadership skills to teach younger children how to express themselves through art. Gathering a group of younger students from her school district, she led them in a series of classes designed to improve their artistic skills while allowing them to show their creativity. To further share the results of these classes, she organized an art show of the student works. The group also collaborated on a mural that was donated to the Guardian Brain Foundation, an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people who are diagnosed with brain tumors and injury.
Beth is a 2009 graduate of W.C. Mepham High School in Bellmore, where she enjoyed The World of Difference Club and Art Service Club. She also played soccer, lacrosse and track. Beth is currently a student at Nassau Community College.
CENTRAL PARK ASSOCIATION:
Jessalyn
CENTRAL PARK ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3521
The goal of Jessalyn’s Gold Award project was to help and support local veterans while raising awareness in the community. In an effort to educate her peers, Jessalyn arranged for a military veteran to speak at her school and discuss the issues of adjusting to civilian life upon returning home from active service. She also worked to collect 2 dozen backpacks and fill them with essential items for homeless veteran clients of the Catherine Martin Inn. The backpacks were donated to the Inn along with a decorated Christmas tree and home baked goodies to bring holiday cheer to these forgotten heroes.
Jessalyn is a senior at Bethpage High School and is an officer in Drama Club, a member of Spanish Club, Tri-M Music Honor Society, National Honor Society, and the tennis team. She also interns at Northrop Grumman Engineering and serves as an assistant teacher at her church’s Sunday school. In September, she will attend Iona College as a student in their Honors Program.
Anchal
CENTRAL PARK ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3405
Anchal wanted to do something to aid homeless women and their children. She recruited a volunteer group to assist her in her efforts in working with the residents of Bethany House. Bethany House is an organization dedicated to improving the lives of homeless women and children on Long Island. Anchal’s group visited the residents, entertained the children, gave the mothers a much-deserved break, and donated needed items to these families. The benefits of the project went both ways, as the residents saw that others care about them, and Anchal and her volunteers learned how important it is to have the support of a caring family.
Anchal will attend Duke University in the fall.
Nicole
CENTRAL PARK ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3405
Nicole put together a workshop called “Becoming Aware.” Her focus was on breast cancer awareness and protection, informing young girls about causes and risk factors. To provide a place where young girls can come together and share their feelings, she also arranged an event with author of “The Grumpy Frog,” Dana Perri. The message of Ms. Perri’s book is that you should think before you act, as she encourages children to be more thoughtful about their actions.
Nicole is graduating from Bethpage High School, where she participates in Philosophy Club, Students United for Tolerance, and National Honor Society. She will attend Fordham College at Lincoln Center, where she plans to major in history.
Catherine
CENTRAL PARK ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3445
Catherine’s Gold Award project “All Work and Some Play, Fun with Science” was designed to introduce science and math to younger students in a way that would make them enthusiastic about these topics. She wanted to convey her enjoyment of these subjects but knew that it had to be fun. Catherine researched and performed experiments for younger children in a series of afterschool workshops for children in grades 4 through 6. As a result of her work, they learned some new things, while coming to a new enjoyment of the field of science.
Catherine is a senior at St. Anthony’s High School where she is a menber of Kolbe Council and is on the soccer and track teams. She will attend Stony Brook University in the fall.
EAST MEADOW ASSOCIATION:
Krista
EAST MEADOW ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1116
Along with her project partner, Brooke Learned, Krista worked to furnish a resource room at the Rosa Parks emergency shelter, run by the Interfaith Nutrition Network. By providing the residents of the shelter with a quiet and inviting environment, parents would be able to complete paperwork, prepare for job searches, and get information about bus and train schedules. Children at the shelter would have a pleasant environment for homework or other quiet pursuits. In addition to their work at the shelter, the girls also worked to make the community more aware of the needs of the homeless in our county.
Krista is a 2009 graduate of W.T. Clarke High School in Westbury.
Brooke
EAST MEADOW ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1116
The issues of hunger and homelessness on Long Island were the topics of “New Beginnings” the Gold Award project of Brooke and her partner, Krista Bentson. After researching the problem, Brooke reached out to various groups in her community to educate them about the issues. Through her efforts, she was able to gather donations of computer equipment which was used to furnish a resource room within the Rosa Parks Memorial Homeless Shelter in Roosevelt. Students at her school also showed their concern by contributing food to a local soup kitchen.
Brooke is a 2009 graduate of W.T. Clarke High School in Westbury, and has completed her freshman year at SUNY Stony Brook, where she is a member of the Cheerleading Squad.
Kathryn
EAST MEADOW ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1512
Kathryn looked at the importance of music as it relates to a child’s development in her Gold Award project “Music is What Feeling Sounds Like”. She sought to inform children at an early age about music and how important it is in their lives, not only through the social aspect of music appreciation and performance, but also in the mental aspect of brain development. Her workshops introduced youngsters to both band and orchestral music through a combination of performance, crafts, stories and games.
A junior at W.T. Clarke High School in Westbury, Katie is active in Tri-M Music Honor Society, National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, NYS Science Honor Society, Chamber Orchestra, Key Club, LOTE ASL Honor Society and Mathletes. She is a member of Holy Family Church Youth Group and GSNC’s Girls Leading Girls group.
Shannon
EAST MEADOW ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1281
Shannon created a project she called “Health and Fitness Through Soccer and Dance” to help combat the issue of childhood obesity. Her aim was to reinforce an active lifestyle by inspiring children to have fun during exercise through the use of music and games. She did this by working with girls at a local dance studio as well as coaching a soccer team.
Shannon is a senior at East Meadow High School where she is active in track, soccer, and marching band. She will attend the University of Maryland, Baltimore County in September.
Carlie
EAST MEADOW ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1512
Carlie created a workshop called “Destination Asian Nations,” a project devoted to spreading traditional Asian culture to the girls of Meadowbrook Elementary School. Carlie set up five different stations to represent five different nations, each station loaded with information about each country. She had examples of traditional clothing from each country, different foods, as well as craft projects. Carlie made sure her workshop helped other girls to come away with a better understanding of different cultures.
Carlie is a sophomore at W.T. Clarke High School where she is active in Tri-M Music Honor Society, National English Honor Society, New York State Science Honor Society, and Pre-Med Club.
ELLM ASSOCIATION:
Amanda
ELLM ASSOCIATION
TROOP 2188
Amanda’s Gold Award project “Caring for People Caring for Pets” was designed to teach the young that you can relate being kind and respectful to pets to being kind and respectful to people. Through presentations at the Kindergarten center and with local Girl Scout troops, Amanda was able to help youngsters understand that the way they treat their pets is related to the way they treat their friends, as they learned the value of gentleness and compassion.
A senior at Lynbrook High School, Amanda is a member of Athletes Creating Excellence, the student kindergarten intern program, and the track and field team. Outside of school, she participates in local marathons. She plans to attend Westfield State College in the fall.
Carrie
ELLM ASSOCIATION
NTA-INDEPENDENT
Carrie wanted to make a simple way for people to learn about and participate in her church community. Using her knowledge of the computer and web design, she created a user-friendly web site for St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lynbrook. With just a few clicks of a mouse, anyone can now access information about upcoming events, or learn more about the church and its mission. Her Gold Award project “St. John’s Goes Cyber” has established an online presence for her church, which will continue to impact the community for many years to come.
Carrie is a sophomore at Lynbrook Senior High School, where she plays varsity soccer and lacrosse, and is a member of the National Honor Society. She is also an active member of her church, where she is an altar server and a member of the Youth Group.
Sarah
ELLM ASSOCIATION
TROOP 2198
Sarah designed her Gold Award project “Once Upon a Story” to help girls expand their knowledge of writing. By planning a variety of activities for the girls, Sarah exposed them to various written forms, such as poetry, plays, and science fiction. The girls also got the chance to learn more about the writing process, critical thinking, and their own talents.
A senior at Sacred Heart Academy, where she is involved in theater, and is a member of the Catholic League, Sarah will attend Salve Regina University in Newport, Rhode Island in September.
GARDEN CITY ASSOCIATION:
Meghan
GARDEN CITY ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1435
“Embracing the Pyramid on a Budget” was the aim of Meghan’s Gold award project. She targeted the clients of Mercy Haven, an organization that engages and supports Long Island’s most at-risk residents. To create a healthy cookbook that would appeal to this audience, she first solicited recipes from the participants in the Mercy Haven program. She then reviewed the recipes for nutritional value, and compiled the cookbook, including cooking hints, fun facts and healthy substitutes. Finally, she researched each recipe and came up with costs and calorie counts. As a final activity, Meghan cooked a healthy meal for some of the Mercy Haven clients, so that they could enjoy the practical results of her efforts.
Meghan is a junior at Garden City High School, where she has served as stage manager for their shows, and is a member of the Key Club. She sings in the St. Joseph’s Church Girls’ Choir and is a student of Tae kwon do.
GREAT NECK ASSOCIATION:
Zoe
GREAT NECK ASSOCIATION
INDEPENDENT-NTA
Visits to Eastern Europe and to Israel were the catalyst for Zoe’s Gold Award project “From Darkness into Light”. She hoped to raise awareness of the Holocaust so that people “never forget” what happened during this period. A compilation of memoirs, research, pictures, poetry, and art pieces documents her reactions to the darkness of the Holocaust and to the light of the Modern State of Israel. In order to share this story, she created a book, which was donated to area synagogues, Holocaust centers and her public library. To further convey her message, Zoe presented her project at various locations in her community and sought to reach a wide range of community members with her message so that history could be remembered, but not repeated.
A senior at William A. Shine Great Neck South High School, Zoe plays the flute in the Concert and Symphonic Bands, and is a member of Key Club and the class planning committee. Zoe also attends the Hebrew High School, where she has served two terms as Religious Education Vice President. She is an active member of her synagogue, serving as a Torah and Haphtarah reader, and volunteering as an assistant teacher in the temple religious school. Zoe plans to attend Brandeis University in September.
HARDSCRABBLE ASSOCIATION:
Kelly Ann
HARDSCRABBLE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3045
Kelly Ann’s Gold Award project “God Bless America: Past, Present and Future” was designed to re-ignite the patriotic spirit and unite different groups in her community. By recruiting students from her high school band to entertain local veterans groups, she honored the past. As she reached out to friends, family, church members, Girl Scouts and local schoolchildren to write cards and letters to military personnel currently serving overseas, she impacted the present. For the future, she taught flag etiquette to younger Girl Scouts, as she collected and retired 165 worn and tattered flags.
Kelly Ann is a senior at Farmingdale High School where she is a member of the National Honor Society, National Business Honor Society, Key Club, Go Green Club and Varsity Leaders Club. She is a member of the Marching Band and Pep Band, as well as a four-year varsity softball player and is team captain this year. Outside of school, Kelly Ann is an altar server and mentor at St. James Church in Seaford.
Alessandra Rose
HARDSCRABBLE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3058
A summer spent as a volunteer in Appalachia inspired Alessandra to raise the public’s awareness of the needs of the people in that area. Through workshops, discussions, and lectures, she educated several different community groups about the culture and the needs of the Appalachian people. She then followed up with a myriad of service activities such as collections of books, toys and personal care items. To further cement the connection between the two groups, she also started a pen pal program so the children in her community could correspond with the children of Appalachia.
Alessandra is a senior at Holy Trinity High School in Hicksville, where she is captain of the varsity swim team and participates in campus and music ministry and Global Awareness Club. Outside of school, she has sung in the GSNC Chorus, at NYSSMA’s All County Music Festival, and participates in summer theater with St. Kilian players.
HERRICKS ASSOCIATION:
Victoria
HERRICKS ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1089
Victoria’s Gold Award Project was designed to create a climate in which abusive relationships would not be tolerated. Working with her partner, Gillian Slavit, the girls started a club “Students Taking Action Against Abusive Relationships” (STAAAR) at their high school. Through monthly meetings and other awareness raising activities, they helped inform students of the dangers and problems that come with being in an abusive relationship, as well as providing information to students who may already be involved in an unhealthy relationship.
Victoria is a junior at Herricks High School where, in addition to co-founding STAAAR, she participates in the Anti –Defamation League, softball, World Affairs Club, and winter track.
Kelly
HERRICKS ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1089
As an animal lover, Kelly knew that younger children, while eager to have a pet, may sometimes not realize all that goes into their care. Her Gold Award project, “Awareness and Aid of Animals in Need” was designed to teach children how to care for their animals. Another aspect of the project was to make them aware of the issues of animal abandonment and abuse, and gave them some knowledge that could possibly prevent some of these situations.
Kelly is a junior at Herricks High School, where she is on the executive board of the songwriting club, and is a member of the orchestra. Outside of school, she pursues her interest in music by studying viola, piano and guitar, as well as writing songs and performing with a local band. Kelly also teaches religion at her church.
Regina
HERRICKS ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1823
Regina wanted to share her love of reading with younger students, and started her Gold Award project with a local summer reading program, at which children in her community could do some fun craft activities along with their summer reading. Soon she realized that there were children in other communities who needed even more support to build their reading skills. She worked with the children of Belmont Racetrack workers and established a reading hour for grades K – 3, so that they could improve their reading skills during the summer vacation period. When school resumed, she then ran a tutoring program for seventh graders, giving them extra help with their studies, which resulted in improvements in their test scores.
A senior at Herricks High School, Regina participates in photography club, T.V. Studio and psychology club. She will attend Purchase College, SUNY in September, where she plans to major in literature.
Gillian
HERRICKS ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1089
Gillian wanted to do something to fight against the growing number of abusive relationships among teenagers. To that end, she joined forces with Victoria Andreacchi to create the STAAAR (Students Taking Action Against Abusive Relationships) Club at her school. The STAAAR Club developed the “1 in 3 Campaign,” to spread awareness of the fact that one out of every three teen relationships is abusive. They also arranged for a guest speaker on the issue from the Coalition Against Domestic Abuse to give a talk to the students.
Gillian is a junior at Herricks High School where her favorite activities are Herricks International Children Aid Program, model Congress, Students Mentoring Young Learners, cross country track, and of course, STAAAR.
HICKSVILLE ASSOCIATION:
Sheena
HICKSVILLE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3389
Sheena wanted to inform her community about the benefits of volunteering. As an active volunteer herself, she spoke to various groups in her town to underline the importance of community service, and to enlist them to help in a project that she was involved in “Ronald McDonald Wish List”. By motivating others to get on board, she hoped to inspire them to continue to help their community, as they learned firsthand how rewarding it can be to help others.
Sheena is a junior at Hicksville High School, where she is a member of the Thespian National Honor Society, Future Business Leaders of America, Ecology Club, Key Club, German Club, and stage crew. Outside of school, Sheena takes dance classes, and is a true entrepreneur, as she runs babysitting, pet sitting, and yard maintenance service businesses in her neighborhood.
Caitlin Marie
HICKSVILLE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3002
As a counselor at a local summer camp, Caitlin was struck by the number of young children in her care who were overweight. She designed her Gold Award project, “Nutrition = Kids” to teach youngsters to make smart choices when picking out meals and snacks. Through activities such as games, discussions, and sports, she taught them about healthy food choices and the importance of exercise. To be sure that her message went beyond the camp, she also created nutritional information packets for their parents.
Caitlin is a senior at Syosset High School, where she participates in Habitat for Humanity and other community service activities, and plays sports. She will attend Sacred Heart University in September
Jane
HICKSVILLE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3389
The halls and classrooms of St. Stephen’s Nursery school were in dire need of a facelift, and Jane and her partner Jaclyn Shurman took on the task. They wanted their work to be more than just a redecoration, so they planned the project to incorporate the students and parents as well. Using their artistic talents, they added a lively mural to the walls, and the students had the opportunity to leave their marks (literally) on the project, as they painted their handprints along the staircase at the school.
Jane is a senior at Hicksville High School, where she is a member of the National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, and the Spanish Honor Society. She will attend Adelphi University in the fall.
Pamela
HICKSVILLE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3389
Pamela sought to educate her community about the very real need for blood donations, and how this most precious commodity can save lives. Through her Gold Award project, she arranged to speak to various groups in the community. By custom-tailoring her presentation to the audience, she was able to illustrate her point through games and coloring books for the younger groups to slide shows and speeches for the older listeners. As a result of her efforts, she was able to garner many new blood donors, and capped off her project with a blood donation drive.
Pamela is a junior at Holy Trinity Diocesan High School, where she is on the badminton team, and participates in may community service projects. Outside of school, she is active with the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church youth group (GOYA) and is on their volleyball team. She also volunteers for Elija School for Autism, and holds a part-time job.
Nicole
HICKSVILLE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3361
If it takes a village to raise a child, Nicole’s Gold Award project “Kids Count” brought the village together. With a goal of giving parents information they need to raise their children in a positive, safe, and healthy environment, she designed a parent-child workshop. While the children were entertained, parents got information from a speech pathologist, pediatric dentist, and a CPR instructor. A demonstration of how to respond to choking victims was very helpful, and attendees learned how to sign up for CPR classes. The information gathered by Nicole was compiled into a booklet that will be available at various locations in her community, so that those who couldn’t attend her workshop can benefit from her work.
Nicole is a 2009 graduate of Holy Trinity High School, and has just completed her freshman year at Adelphi University, where she is a recipient of a Gold Award Scholarship.
Jaclyn
HICKSVILLE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3389
Jaclyn teamed up with Jane Judson to create a project called “St. Stephen’s Artistic Expression.” The two girls wanted to provide a new, friendly and inviting environment for the children at the St. Stephen’s Nursery School and the members of the church, and they did this by painting the lobby walls and hallways with cheerful designs. They further engaged the St. Stephen’s community by involving the students in the decoration of the hallways. Jaclyn is graduating from Hicksville High School, where she is passionate about National Art Honor Society, and National Honor Society. She participates in Spanish Club, Science Olympiad and is a member of the wind ensemble. Jaclyn volunteers at Nassau University Medical Center and is an altar server and Sunday school teacher at St. Stephen’s. She will attend Iona College next year.
MANHASSET ASSOCIATION:
Annie
MANHASSET ASSOCIATION
TROOP 516
Annie’s Gold Award project idea came from an article from USA Swimming that talked about children who did not know how to swim, and the potential dangers for them. Living on an island, the chances of children being around water are high, and knowing how to swim would not only keep them safe, but would enable them to fully enjoy our beaches. Working with a group of twenty 8 -10 year olds from a low income housing facility, Annie secured donations of swimsuits, caps, and goggles for her students. Annie also provided a series of lessons that brought them from fear of entering the water, to the ability to swim a stroke for the length of the pool. A senior at Sacred Heart Academy in Hempstead, Annie is a member of the swim team at her school, and participates in USA Swim Team as well. She will attend The Catholic University of America in the fall.
Natalie
MANHASSET ASSOCIATION
TROOP 502
Natalie’s Gold Award project was a series of fun, yet educational activities for pre-teens which taught them how to make healthy food choices at home and at popular restaurants. Using actual menus from fast food chains, the workshop participants worked to find the healthier options offered by these restaurants, while raising their awareness of nutritional content and “empty calories”. By partnering with Manhasset’s CASA (Community Against Substance Abuse) organization, she was able to reach students at the EOC center and in local elementary schools.
A senior at Manhasset High School, where she is President of National Honor Society, Natalie also is a member of World of Difference Club, and plays volleyball. She will attend Duke University in the fall, where she plans to study engineering.
Katherine
MANHASSET ASSOCIATION
TROOP 502
The monitoring and management of daily medications is an important issue for senior citizens and their caregivers. After seeing how difficult it was for her grandmother to keep track of her medications, Katie developed a system that would make it easier. Using a chart and labeling system, Katie then shared her ideas with caregivers and patients at local senior centers and adult day programs for dementia patients. Using her easy to read booklet and sample chart, anyone can now use the system effectively.
Katherine is a senior at Manhasset High School, where she is a member of the Latin Honor Society, the Spanish Honor Society, and is the manager of the volleyball team. Outside of school, she volunteers for the Alley Pond Environmental Center and Shorehaven Civic Association. She plans to attend the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing in the fall.
Elizabeth
MANHASSET ASSOCIATION
TROOP 502
The goal of Elizabeth’s Gold Award project “Water Safety for All” was to empower and inform children ages 5 -7 about water safety. She chose to work with a group of summer campers at the EOC (Economic Opportunity Center) in Great Neck. During their twice-weekly scheduled water time Elizabeth worked with the children on water safety awareness and strategies for lifesaving techniques. Under Elizabeth’s tutelage, these children, many of whom had been afraid of the water, learned to tread water and float if they got into deep water. They also learned safe techniques for assisting someone else without putting themselves in jeopardy.
Elizabeth is a senior at Manhasset High School, where she is a member of the crew team, varsity swim team, National Honor Society, Math Honor Society and Science Honor Society. She serves as a lector at St. Mary’s R.C. Church, where she is also an active member of their Youth Ministry. Elizabeth will attend Princeton University in the fall.
Briana
MANHASSET ASSOCIATION
TROOP 516
Briana was concerned about the issue of childhood obesity and the health issues it can cause in children. Her Gold Award project was a nutrition clinic for grades 1 through 4, in with children were encouraged to try healthy food options. Her lesson plans integrated math, science, and language arts to give children positive, motivating messages about healthy eating and physical activity throughout the school setting.
Briana is a senior at St. Mary’s High School in Manhasset, where she is active in Model U.N., Mock Trial, Poetry Club, Art Club and is Special Features Editor of the school newspaper. She also plays varsity badminton and is co-captain of the varsity tennis team. Outside of school, she is an assistant catechist at St. Mary’s RC Church, volunteers at St. Anne’s Soup Kitchen and in the tutoring program at Adventures in Learning. Briana will attend Stonehill College in the fall, with plans for a career in law.
Hayley
MANHASSET ASSOCIATION
TROOP 502
In her role as a camp counselor, Hayley understood the importance of safety rules, and she designed her Gold Award project to teach campers and counselors ways to be safer while at camp. Through fun activities such as game shows, activity books and safety circles, she focused on preventing dehydration, getting enough sleep, avoiding sunburn, and obeying camp rules. Through her efforts, campers had fun and gained the knowledge that would also keep them safe and healthy.
Hayley is a senior at Manhasset High School, where she is a member of the Key Club. She also participates in badminton, cheerleading and at an afterschool homework help program with children at the community center. She plans to attend Suny Oneonta in September.
MASSAPEQUA ASSOCTIATION:
Katelyn
MASSAPEQUA ASSOCIATION
TROOP 2028
Katelyn wanted to use her language skills to help members of the Spanish-speaking community gain greater facility in the English language. Running a ten-week series of workshops at her local library, Katelyn taught community members some basic language skills. In order to ensure that her subject matter would be available even after her Gold Award Project was complete, she also created a binder which included all of the course topics that were covered. The binder was donated to her local library, where it will be an ongoing resource to community members.
Katelyn will graduate in 2010 from Massapequa High School, where she is on the varsity swim team. She is a member of the pit orchestra for her high school musicals, and is an officer of the National Honor Society, and of the Tri-M Music Honor Society. A member of the Long Island Flute Club, Katelyn also works as a lifeguard and participates in a travel swim team.
Devon Marie
MASSAPEQUA ASSOCIATION
TROOP 2081
For her Gold Award project “Arts for Awareness: Empowering the Community” Devon wanted to educate her community members about how they could connect with local nonprofit organizations. In order to gain an audience for her message, she arranged for an arts event at her high school. As the students came to the music performance and art exhibit, they also had the opportunity to learn more about any of the twelve community agencies that were on hand. Through this event, Devon hoped to create connections between the agencies and potential student volunteers, and to show how easy and rewarding it is to get involved in your community.
A senior at Massapequa High School, Devon is a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Club, Rifle Team, and Chamber Singers. Outside of school, she studies dance and is a member of the St. Rose of Lima Church choir, and of the Roslyn Rifle and Revolver Club. Devon will attend Loyola University Maryland, where she plans to major in Psychology.
Kristen
MASSAPEQUA ASSOCIATION
TROOP 2081
Kristen focused her Gold Award project on the Sophia Garden in Amityville, a local organic garden community. Her vision was to make the joys of gardening accessible to all, including those adults and children who may have physical disabilities. In building raised planting beds at the garden, Kristen opened the world of organic farming up to everyone in the community for years to come.
Kristen is a senior at Massapequa High School, where she was stage manager for the spring musical, assistant director in Drama Club, and is on the Environmental Committee of the PTSA. Outside of school, she plays travel soccer, and serves as a soccer referee. Kristen will attend SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in the fall.
MASSAPEQUA ASSOCIATION
TROOP 2028
A dancer for the past 14 years, Nicole wanted to share the benefits of dance with girls who may not have the opportunity or the resources to take dance classes. For her Gold Award project, she designed and led a series of dance classes, ranging from ballet to jazz. As her students were exposed to the fun of dancing, they also learned how it could relieve stress, and provide a positive outlet for self-expression. Through Nicole’s’ efforts, the girls were able to try something new and build their self-confidence.
Nicole is a senior at Massapequa High School, where she is a member of National Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society, and wind ensemble. She is an officer in student government and of the Zumba (fitness) Club. Nicole plans to attend University of Delaware to study elementary education.
Victoria
MASSAPEQUA ASSOCIATION
TROOP 2384
Victoria wanted to do something to bring encouragement to young cancer patients. Knowing that the loss of one’s hair due to chemotherapy can be a real blow to the ego, she collaborated with a local organization to create colorful caps for those affected. Her handmade caps helped to build the self-confidence in these patients, while showing them that others are thinking of them.
Victoria is a senior at St. Anthony’s High School in South Huntington and plans to attend Farmingdale State College SUNY to study nursing.
Fiona
MASSAPEQUA ASSOCIATION
TROOP 2028
Since the economy not only affects adults, Fiona created a program to help children who have been impacted by the current recession. She calls her project “The Value of Money: Empowering Children During a Recession,” and her goal was to teach children the importance of saving and spending wisely, as well as what they can do to help their families during difficult economic times. She worked with the Town of Oyster Bay’s Workforce Center to find families who had been affected by the downturn, and worked with the children of these families to discuss the difference between wants and needs, finding low-cost and no-cost alternatives for various activities, and how minors can find employment. Fiona is active in the bowling team and Yearbook Club at Massapequa High School, where she is a graduating senior. She will attend St. Joseph’s College, where she plans to major in psychology.
Chelsea
MASSAPEQUA ASSOCIATION
TROOP 2028
An interest in the marine environment that is so important to Long Island gave Chelsea the inspiration for her Gold Award project. Chelsea gave a presentation at Atlantis Marine World in Riverhead called “Tips to Protect Your LI Environment.” Her talk focused on the importance of sea stars and horseshoe crabs to the Long Island marine ecosystem. Chelsea also created a “Kids Only” activity station with coloring pages to keep children entertained while she could educate their older siblings and parents on this vital topic.
Chelsea is a senior at Massapequa High School where she is active in track, American Sign Language, High School Heroes, SADD Club, and Safe Halloween. She plans to attend SUNY at Stony Brook.
Allison
MASSAPEQUA ASSOCIATION
TROOP 2076
Allison wanted to increase understanding of the issues of the deaf and the deaf culture among students in her community. Using her knowledge of American Sign Language, she taught the students some signs and a bit about the culture of the Deaf Community, while also educating them about issues of respect and diversity. She presented her workshop at schools in her town, and created a DVD lesson, so that others could benefit from her message. Allison is a senior at Massapequa High School, where she is a member of the American Sign Language Club, French Club, Key Club, and National Honor Society. She has also participated in People-to-People Ambassador Programs, and is a volunteer teacher’s aide at Young People’s Cultural Arts Workshop of Massapequa. Allison will attend C.W. Post in the fall.
MERRICK ASSOCIATION:
Kelli Marie
MERRICK ASSOCIATION
TROOP 2274
Kelli wanted to reach out to young girls in her community to make them aware of the dangers of sun exposure and the effects of tanning. Using her research, she developed and delivered a presentation on this topic that she brought to various groups in town. She supplemented her talk with a pamphlet that she designed and distributed, and also created a display to further illustrate her topic. By promoting a healthy approach to skincare and tanning, Kelli has made an impact on the youth in her community.
A senior at Sanford H. Calhoun High School in Merrick, Kelli plays varsity lacrosse and is treasurer of the Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) club. She will attend Wagner College in the fall.
OCEANSIDE ASSOCIATION:
Lauren
OCEANSIDE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 2164
Lauren’s Gold Award Project “Don’t Give Up” was inspired by her own family’s experience with breast cancer. Knowing how uncomfortable a post-surgery patient can be, Lauren decided to rally a group of community volunteers to create comfort pillows for these patients. She used her leadership skills to recruit volunteers from different groups in her community, as she then taught them how to cut, assemble, and stuff the pillow. The patients received both physical and emotional comfort as they received the pillows made by those who care.
Lauren is completing her Junior year at Oceanside High School, where she participates in softball and marching band. Outside of school, she also plays softball and is a member of the Fire Department Band.
Katherine
OCEANSIDE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 2238
Katherine’s belief that through knowledge we alleviate fear and hatred led her to develop her Gold Award project “Tolerance Day at LWA”. Using her organizational talents and her ability to express her goals with passion and objectivity, she was able to develop a program for the students at Lawrence-Woodmere Academy and for the members of the community. Connecting with a diverse group of religious leaders from the community, she invited them to come and speak with her fellow students and to openly discuss religious traditions and rituals. Through these discussions, students gained knowledge, religious tolerance, and in a broader respect, acceptance of those who are different from themselves.
A senior at Lawrence Woodmere Academy, Katherine participates in the multi-cultural club, band and chorus. Outside of school, she is president of Lutheran Youth Organization of Metro NY. Other activities include fencing, scuba diving, sailing and snowboarding. She plans to attend the University of Rhode Island in the fall.
PARK ASSOCIATION:
Jisha
PARK ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1520
Jisha’s Gold Award project “Helping Others While Helping Ourselves” had a dual goal. Her first aim was to help younger girls in her community feel more confident about themselves and their potential. Through a workshop dedicated to improving their self-esteem, the 9 to 14 year olds who attended did some self-evaluation, learned about healthy habits and skin care, and were given information about helpful websites. Since we all feel better when we help others, Jisha also asked the girls who attended to bring donations of needed items that were shipped to our military in Iraq. The girls also wrote letters to the troops, which were sent along with the care packages. A 2009 graduate of New Hyde Park Memorial Junior-Senior High School, Jisha served as president of the Red Cross Club, secretary of the New Hyde Park Step Team, participated in Model U.N., Science Research, and the Big Brother, Big Sister program. She is currently attending The Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education.
PLAINEDGE ASSOCIATION:
Ariel
PLAINEDGE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3543
Ariel’s Gold Award project established a Youth Disaster Service Team within the American Red Cross of Nassau County. This was a new idea for the Red Cross, and Ariel needed to convince the decision-makers in the local organization that this team would be an asset for them and a positive experience for the young volunteers. This team provides the youth of our county with further opportunities to volunteer in areas that would allow them to gain unique experiences and skills. The Youth Disaster Team volunteers were able to add to the skill base of Red Cross volunteers, particularly in the area of technology. Ariel is a junior at Plainedge High School, where she is manager of the set design and stage crews and is a member of the Art Club and the Foreign Language Honor Society. She volunteers for the American Red Cross and is an instructor of First Aid, CPR, and AED. She also volunteers for programs that offer therapeutic horseback riding.
ROCKVILLE CENTRE ASSOCIATION:
Danielle
ROCKVILLE CENTRE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 805
For her Girl Scout Gold Award project, Danielle wanted to combine her passion for dance, performing arts, and teaching. Her project, entitled “Create.Express.Dance” consisted of weekly sessions with a group of developmentally challenged students at her high school. Under the guidance of a physical therapist and a special education teacher, Danielle developed lessons that introduced the students to movement and dance in a non-competitive environment, with the end result that these students became more confident and creative in expressing themselves. Danielle’s intent is to have this program continue with the support of her school district.
Danielle is a junior at South Side High School in Rockville Centre, where she is an active participant in the musical productions, Drama Guild, Center Stage Club, and Best Buddies. Outside of school, she continues her interest in dance and performance through dance classes and vocal lessons.
Caitlin
ROCKVILLE CENTRE ASSOCIATION
TROOP 810
Caitlin’s goal was to give girls in her town more knowledge and appreciation of cultures other than their own. She met with girls over a period of six months, and helped them to research other countries and create displays that would illustrate their cultures. As a culminating event, local Girl Scouts, as well as community members, were invited to an event where they could learn about the various cultures represented, as well as about Girl Scouts. Attendees were asked to bring a donation of food , which was donated to a local food pantry. A highlight of the day was a performance of Chinese New Year dances performed by members of the Chinese American Center of Long Island.
Caitlin is a senior at Holy Trinity High School in Hicksville where she volunteers as a tutor, is a member of National Honor Society, Student Council, and Captain of the varsity tennis team. She also serves as a Eucharistic Minister. Outside of school, she is an altar server and lector at St. Agnes Cathedral and is an officer of the Teen Advisory Group at Rockville Centre Library. She plans to attend University of Maryland, College Park in the fall.
SEAFORD/WANTAGH ASSOCIATION:
Briana
SEAFORD/WANTGH ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3581
The teens in Briana’s community now have an inviting setting in which to relax, socialize, play games, and watch movies – thanks to her Gold Award Project “Creating A Place for Teens”. Using her design skills and creativity to renovate the teen youth room at a local church, Briana updated the décor to make the room a more appealing place in which to spend time. Through her efforts, teens in her community now have a safe, supervised, and attractive place of their own.
Briana is a junior at Wantagh High School and participates in Sports Night and is a member of the school yearbook staff. Aside from her school activities, Briana volunteers for a number of community events, including Making Strides Walk and the LI Marathon. She also serves as a teacher for Sunday School, and at Vacation Bible School, and is a camp counselor.
Lauren
SEAFORD/WANTGH ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3581
Lauren wanted to share her love of theater and the performing arts with children in her community. Working with Eden Held, their Gold Award project “Be A Star” gave elementary school students the opportunity to participate in a 5-week series of performance classes, capped by a performance for friends and families. Through this experience, they hoped that the students would gain a confidence that would be a lifelong benefit.
A junior at Wantagh High School, Lauren participates in Key Club, and other community service organizations, and is a member of Wantagh Animal Rights and Recycling Club, National Honor Society and Foreign Language Honor Society. Her membership in Drama club is most important to her. Outside of school, she is an active member of her church, where she is a junior lector. She also studies voice and dance.
Eden
SEAFORD/WANTAGH ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3581
Knowing that many elementary school students are not introduced to the performing arts until they reach middle school or high school, Eden decided to offer a series of classes that would give them a taste of these activities. Working with Lauren Dash, Eden used her skills in teaching, singing, and piano to expose youngsters to the joys of performing. As a result, they became more confident, had the chance to express themselves, and had the opportunity to act, dance, and sing.
Eden is a junior at Wantagh High School, where she is a member of Key Club, Spanish Club, National Honor Society, Music Honor Society, Foreign Language Honor Society, Wantagh Animal Rights and Recycling Club, orchestra and jazz bands, and plays softball. Outside of school, Eden also serves as a student teacher at Hebrew School, and is a member of her temple’s choir. She also studies piano and plays softball and soccer.
Michele
SEAFORD/WANTAGH ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3542
Michele’s Gold Award was designed to make her community more aware of the importance of recycling. She began with educating first graders through a presentation and brochure that she created. These future environmentalists learned from her how vital it is to care for your environment. To make a more visible impact, she also approached Town of Hempstead officials to receive the go-ahead to implement a recycling program in Wantagh Park. The park now has 19 recycling bins which make it easy for park goers to make the green choice as they dispose of their bottles and cans.
Michele is a junior at Wantagh High School where she participates in track and Sports Nite competition. She also plays PAL travel soccer and CYO basketball, and volunteers for community charity events.
Nicole
SEAFORD/WANTAGH ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3542
Nicole addressed the issue of our environment with her Gold Award project “Dial Green.” Knowing that cell phones are a fact of life, and that these phones are constantly being replaced with newer models, she wanted to give residents of her community information about how these phones could be recycled so that there would be no adverse environmental impact. She collected used cell phones, and distributed information about how to recycle phones properly. As she also spoke to younger children in her educational effort, she gave them reusable lunch bags, so that they would get into the “green” frame of mind at a young age.Nicole is a junior at Wantagh High School, where she is involved with varsity swimming, softball, Key Club, and band council. She also participates in volleyball and softball on the St. Frances CYO league, and volunteers as a teacher’s aide at the St. Frances vacation bible school.
Jamie
SEAFORD/WANTAGH ASSOCIATION
TROOP 3581
As a dedicated hobbyist, Jamie wanted to share the enjoyment of creating jewelry with younger children in her town. Since the local elementary school had no jewelry club for their students, Jamie started her own, and ran a series of workshops for these students. While they enjoyed making various pieces during the workshops, Jamie hoped to start them on a hobby that they could enjoy for life.
Jamie is a junior at Wantagh High School, and participates in cross country, spring track and winter track. She is also a member of the National Honor Society and the Foreign Language Honor Society, and plays on a travel soccer team.
VALLEY STREAM ASSOCIATION:
Kristen
VALLEY STREAM ASSOCIATION
TROOP 2053
Kristen’s Gold Award project “Race for Environmental Awareness” was designed to spread awareness of environmental issues to local families in a fun setting. Through her “Recycle Run” event, she brought the community together and educated them about the importance of caring for the environment. To spread her message even further, she visited local schools, where she distributed recycling-themed CD’s and activity books to their students.
Kristen is a senior at Valley Stream South High School, were she is captain of the varsity cross country, varsity winter track and varsity spring track teams. She is president of the environmental club, vice-president of the Math Honor Society and is editor-in-chief of the school newspaper. She is also secretary of the Science Honor Society and a member of Music Honor Society, National Honor Society, Art Honor Society, and Language Honor Society. Outside of school, Kristen volunteers for many community groups and plans to volunteer for a week this summer with her Girl Scout Troop as they work for Habitat for Humanity. Kristen will attend Harvard University in the fall.
WARM ASSOCIATION:
Aine
WARM ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1877
Knowing that organ donation saves lives, Aine wanted to raise awareness for the need of organ donation. By using a variety of approaches, that included the creation of flyers, distribution of pamphlets, and presentations to various groups in her community, she worked to spread the word about how easy it is to become an organ donor, and how important it is to those waiting for transplants. While she has already signed up many donors, she continues to work towards her goal of recruiting 250 organ donors. Aine is a senior at Our Lady of Mercy Academy in Syosset, where she participates in spring track, yearbook staff, and Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD). She also participates in community service activities at the INN, and to benefit various groups on Long Island and abroad. Aine will be attending Boston College in the fall.
Alexandra
WARM ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1877
Alexandra spread awareness of those issues which affect our everyday lives. Focusing on young children, she started a story time at her local public library. Participants in her program heard stories that addressed topics such as global warming, endangered species, recycling, and traffic safety, all at an age-appropriate level. The children then portrayed what they had learned by creating artworks which were displayed at various locations in town to remind others of these issues. A senior at Holy Trinity High School in Hicksville, Alexandra participates in Student Council, Social Studies Club, Mock Trial, and New York Math League, as well as working on the yearbook staff. She also participates in ACE mentor program, for students interested in careers in Architecture, Construction and Engineering. She plans to attend Manhattan College as a mechanical engineering major.
WEST HEMPSTEAD/FRANKLIN SQUARE ASSOCIATION:
Annemarie
WEST HEMPSTEAD/FRANKLIN SQUARE
ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1268
Uniting teens in the fight against breast cancer was the aim of Annemarie’s Gold Award Project. She started a Think Pink club at her high school to raise awareness and support for this cause. Through her efforts, her school is one of the only Think Pink clubs in New York that is registered with the national Pink Ribbon Club Foundation. The over 100 club members that she has recruited to her chapter have worked on projects such as donating items to the Adelphi Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Center, as well as increasing awareness of early detection and healthy living through educational programs.
An eleventh grader at H. Frank Carey High School in Franklin Square, Annemarie is a member of three varsity sports teams: swimming, lacrosse, and winter track. Aside from being the founder and president of the Think Pink club, she is also a member of the National and Foreign Language Honor Societies. She is also a member of the Girl Scouts of Nassau County Ceremonial Unit and the Media Girls.
Melyssa
WEST HEMPSTEAD/FRANKLIN SQAURE
ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1816
Melyssa wanted to create a place for teenage girls to communicate, meet new people and share a common interest. Her Gold Award project “Phoenix Soccer Team” helped her to do just that. By creating a soccer team for girls in her community, she hoped to create an atmosphere that would foster sportsmanship, physical exercise, and the ability to resist destructive decisions. The girls that joined her team not only gained skills and self-confidence, but they also served as role models to younger girls in the league.
Melyssa is a senior at West Hempstead High School, and is a member of the swim, soccer, and track teams, marching band, and Tri-M Music Honor Society. She also participates in Key Club, Mathletes, Science Olympiad, yearbook staff, Friends of Rachel Club, Model Congress, and school plays.
Chrissy
WEST HEMPSTEAD/FRANKLIN SQUARE
ASSOCIATION
TROOP 1270
Chrissy developed a program called “Kids Helping Kids” that concentrated on giving English as a Second Language (ESL) students more opportunities in the classroom. She saw that in order to make ESL students feel more comfortable speaking English instead of less comfortable, the right course of action was not to single them out, but to include them in the group. That’s why she created a packet full of game ideas and fun educational activities in which the entire class could engage. By incorporating ESL students more fully into the classroom, everyone benefits. Chrissy is graduating from H. Frank Carey High School where she is active on the volleyball and softball teams, school yearbook, French Club, Irish Club, and the school newspaper. She plans to attend Stonehill College in the fall.
