What did you do for your Gold Award project?
For my project, I aimed to make senior citizens more connected with their communities through learning about technology in a safe, easy, fun, and cost-efficient manner. I created a website, Facebook page, and many print resources that were used for the education of seniors. Additionally, I presented to large and individual groups of seniors about creating and using Facebook and email. The website with all my materials and more is available at: https://sites.google.com/site/operationdigitaldivide/
How did you measure the impact your Gold Award project made on your target audience?
I initially began with a group of around 15 seniors, and due to my first group presentation many reported in surveys I had given them that their comfort and knowledge of technology increased to the point that many felt more secure and safe with their own Facebook pages and emails. Those who didn’t, I helped out individually to create Facebook pages and emails.
How is your project sustainable? How will your project continue to impact after your involvement?
My project is sustained through a working website and Facebook page containing all my project materials as well as a binder which is placed at the Palisades location and Union Printers Home, where my mom used to work and where I originally got the idea for my project. Additionally, Jennifer Richardson, who is located at the Palisades location, recently informed me of new renovations where a technology center will be available to residents and where she will help residents out with the help of my binder.
What is your project’s global and/or national connection?
Because of the Facebook page and website attached to my project, senior centers around the country and globe can access my materials and use them to educate other senior citizens. I also have the manual I have made up there, so other senior centers can use it. You can find the website here: https://sites.google.com/site/operationdigitaldivide/
What did you learn about yourself?
I learned much more about perseverance and sticking with a project through it’s completion, even when I encounter struggles and have other things going on. I also learned how much I love interacting with people and being able to communicate and teach them.
How will earning your Gold Award impact you in the future?
Through my Gold Award, I discovered my own personal talent and passion for teaching others. That has since become the new direction I would like to take with my life, and my project really was the catalyst of all that.
Why do you feel the Gold Award was an important part of your Girl Scout experience?
My Gold Award really took all the skills I’ve developed through Girl Scouting and put them to the test. Every leadership, communication, and problem solving skill I’ve gained through scouting was used in the process of completing my project and generally was a good summation of the work I’ve put into Girl Scouts.
**IMPORTANT NOTE: This blog represents only a small fraction of the hard work, dedication and requirements that go into earning a Girl Scout Gold Award. It is simply a brief summary, which is meant to inspire Girl Scouts to Go Gold in the future. For more information on earning your Gold Award, please email highestawards@gscolorado.org