Gold Award Girl Scouts Change the World: Introducing the Class of 2024-2025 Gold Award Girl Scouts

Gold Award Girl Scouts are rock stars, role models, and real-life heroes. How do they do it? By using everything they’ve learned as a Girl Scout to solve a problem in their community or make a lasting change in their world. In the process, they earn the most prestigious award in Girl Scouting, they change their lives and the world around them.

To earn the Gold Award, a Girl Scout identifies an issue in their community, drafts a plan to address a root cause, and leads a team of volunteers to implement it. When the project is complete, the Gold Award Girl Scout and their team have made a sustainable impact on the world that continues to last beyond their involvement.

It’s a huge accomplishment that also impacts the Gold Award Girl Scout as a person. How they see the world—and how the world sees them—is forever changed. It’s also a credential that will be with them for the rest of their life; having the Girl Scout Gold Award on a high school transcript or resumé can make a Girl Scout stand out when it comes to college admissions, scholarship applications, internships, and job interviews.

Congratulations to the Class of 2024-2025 Gold Award Girl Scouts!

Caira Adair, Fort Collins  

Autism Awareness Workshop

Caira’s project aims to raise awareness about autism by sharing her personal experiences as an autistic individual with a service dog and highlighting the everyday challenges faced by people with disabilities. Through educational workshops for Girl Scouts and volunteers, she encouraged participants to consider how common activities can be overwhelming for autistic individuals, fostering greater empathy, understanding, and inclusion. The project challenges ableism within Girl Scouts and promotes a more patient and supportive community. 

Caira graduated high school last spring and is taking a year off while she looks into career opportunities where she can work with animals.  

Marianne Albright, Colorado Springs 

Teaching Outdoor Skills to Girls

"My Gold Award project was about teaching outdoor skills, such as tent set-up, knot tying, first aid, and environmentalism, to girls in the Salvation Army Red Shield Troops program. I wasn't taught outdoor skills when I was younger and now I don't go outside, so I wanted to teach these young girls the proper skills so they could feel more confident in going outside in the future. I learned a lot about myself through my project, especially working with kids and how to lead a project. Working on this project was really rewarding for me. Being a Girl Scout to me means community and sisterhood because the relationships I formed with the girls I taught, the women and my fellow troop members who helped me, and my family made me realize how important other people are to Girl Scouts."

With this project, Marianne addressed the issue of young girls not feeling confident in outdoor settings. By partnering with the Salvation Army’s Red Shield program, the program teaches essential wilderness survival skills such as tent building, knot tying, basic first aid, and food safety, while also fostering communication and teamwork through interactive activities. To ensure lasting impact, the Salvation Army integrated the program into its curriculum, allowing future participants to continue building confidence and appreciation for the outdoors.

Marianne has been a Girl Scout for 12 years and will graduate high school this spring. She hopes to pursue a major in biochemistry or forensic science, with plans to pursue a career in forensic investigation, either in a crime scene lab or as an autopsy technician working with a morgue.

Isabella Benson, Boulder 

Women in Science Art Installation "My project focused on female scientists and their contributions to their fields. I chose this project because women have been historically underrepresented for their important contributions, and I wanted to highlight them through my art."

Her Gold Award project aimed to address the lack of representation of female scientists. Isabella tackled this issue by creating an art installation at her school, featuring a QR code that links to a comprehensive website for further education. This installation ensures ongoing awareness, as the school will continue to display and rotate it, guiding more people to the website and expanding their understanding of women's contributions to science.

Isabella has been a Girl Scout for seven years and graduates high school this spring.  She will  attend the University of Oregon this fall and is interested in pursuing a career in science and technology.

Emma Casini, Lafayette 

Academic Growth at Sanchez Elementary

"Being a Girl Scout means that I get to help my community in ways that others aren't able to. My Gold Award project was centered around equitable education. I worked with a local, low-income elementary school and ran an after-school literacy tutoring program that specifically targeted students who often didn't have educational support at home. I organized the program at the elementary school and coordinated volunteers from my school who would work as reading buddies with the kids. It was amazing seeing the difference the program had on the kids, and I am excited to continue running this year."

Emma’s project tackled the gap in academic support at an underserved elementary school by creating a literacy-focused mentorship program that paired local high school students with younger learners. Through regular reading sessions, the older students inspired a love of reading and learning in the children. The program is sustained through strong partnerships with the high school honors societies, ensuring the program will continue to make an impact for years to come. 

After participating in Girl Scouts for 11 years, Emma plans to attend college next fall with a major in Greek and Roman antiquity, as well as international relations. Once she graduates from university, she hopes to earn her PhD and work in academia as a professor.

Simran Chahal, Denver 

Seeds of Knowledge

"My Gold Award project, 'Seeds of Knowledge,' partnered with Bonverts Hydroponics to repurpose wasted nutrient water into sustainable farming to create an outdoor garden for community education. I chose this project to support a local business, provide fresh produce in a food desert, and develop my leadership, planning, and execution skills. For me, being a Girl Scout means taking bold steps to inspire lasting change and positively impact my community."

For her Gold Award project, Simran partnered with Bonverts Farm to help create an outdoor educational space where students can learn about sustainable farming. To support this mission, the project included building two large hybrid hydroponic planters, which allow the farm to grow more crops. In addition to expanding the farm’s growing capacity, a promotional campaign was launched to raise awareness and attract more visitors to the farm and its cause. The project not only enhanced the farm’s educational reach but also ensured continued community engagement and support.

Simran has been a Girl Scout for nine years and will graduate from high school this spring. She plans to pursue a career in medicine, focusing on advancing treatment and patient care.  She looks forward to joining a program that plays a role in oncology and is excited to see where this path takes her.

Hayden Crist, Littleton 

C.A.M.P.H.I.R.

"I chose to do my project CAMPHIR (Camper, Awareness, Medical, Personal, History, Information, Resources) because whilst attending camps, staff sometimes did not know how to react. Completing my project impacted me because it allowed me to network, educate, and build upon my time management and leadership skills. Being a Girl Scout to me means having compassion, perseverance, and creativity."

With this project, Hayden enriched the training program among overnight camp staff by creating a comprehensive health fair and training program at Girl Scouts of Colorado camp, Tomahawk Ranch. Partnering with medical professionals, nonprofit organizations, and hospital representatives, the project provided staff with valuable resources and hands-on opportunities to learn about the medical conditions they are most likely to encounter with campers. Designed to follow the camp’s main first aid training, the event allowed staff to engage directly with experts and ask questions in a supportive environment. This initiative will continue annually, equipping future staff with the knowledge and confidence to care for every camper.

Hayden has been a Girl Scout for 14 years. She graduates from high school this spring and will be attending Colorado School of Mines majoring in molecular biology and minoring in biochemistry. She hopes to pursue a career in biotechnology. 

Kanshita Dam, Aurora

Global Garments for Good

"For my Gold Award project, I started an initiative called Global Garments for Good, which creates a sustainable donation system for Indian ethnic wear from Colorado to rural and underprivileged communities in India. I chose this project because I noticed that, as an Indian community, we have an abundance of ethnic wear with nowhere to donate it in Colorado. I realized that millions of people in India could benefit from these pieces of clothing, so I made that connection between India and Colorado. This project taught me that anybody can give back to their community, whether it be local or global, and every impact, no matter how small, matters. Girl Scouts has given me the opportunity to explore the issues I care about and has enabled me to make a difference."

This Gold Award project established a sustainable system for donating ethnic clothing from the United States to communities in need in India. By collecting gently used garments to reduce waste and support individuals working to rise out of poverty, the project built strong partnerships with local temples and cultural organizations. A temple in Denver and the Milonee Association are committed to hosting regular donation drives, ensuring the program continues beyond the creator’s involvement. With three shipments sent in just six months and a dedicated volunteer team in place, this initiative is set to make a lasting impact through ongoing clothing drives and international support.

Kanshita has been a Girl Scout for 10 years and will graduate from high school this spring. She will be attending the University of Southern California this fall to study biophysics on a pre-med track.

Anna Enssle, Longmont

Drama Camp for All Abilities

Anna’s project addressed a lack of inclusive opportunities for children with differing abilities to participate in theater. By creating a specialized workshop, her program gives kids the chance to build confidence, express themselves, and perform short plays for their families and friends. A detailed curriculum was developed to guide future workshops and was shared with elementary school administrators across the district. With support from school principals and a growing interest in the program, this project is set to create lasting opportunities for inclusive artistic expression.

After 11 years in Girl Scouts, Anna graduated from high school last spring. She currently attends St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, pursuing a political science degree and continues to be involved in the arts.

Lindsey Ferrel, Castle Pines 

Music Mentors

"While volunteering with local elementary school orchestras, I noticed that many students lost interest in their instruments over the summer, due to a lack of contact with their teachers. For my Gold Award, I recorded basic music videos to help make music education more accessible to students who could not afford an in-person teacher. I have learned valuable lessons throughout this process, such as working with others, and many qualities about myself that I would not have otherwise found. This will forever be a project I am proud of, and I will remember the impact that this has had on me since."

Lindsey focused on breaking down barriers to music education by creating an accessible, online course for students who lack access to private instruction. Aimed primarily at elementary orchestra students, the course teaches essential music theory and early skills. To reach a wider audience, Lindsey also translated her videos into Spanish, making the content inclusive and multilingual. Hosted on YouTube for long-term accessibility, the project is designed to grow with support from high school music clubs like Pulse and Tri-M, ensuring continued impact.

After 13 years in Girl Scouts, Lindsey will graduate high school this spring. She plans to attend Brigham Young University  majoring in biochemistry, with minors in music, Spanish, and chemistry. With her education, she hopes to become an anesthesiologist. 

Jerilyn Fischer, Allenspark 

Putting Waste in the Right Place

"My Gold Award project is about sustainable solutions for Estes Park; reducing the litter in our town to protect our environment and wildlife. I chose this project because I care about environmental issues and I want to expand my knowledge on how to solve them. My Gold Award project made me become a better leader and also gave me the opportunity to work alongside my community that shares the same eagerness I have to solve these issues. Being a Girl Scout is not just about badges but about building character, a variety of skills, independence, resilience, and respect for yourself."

Jerilyn’s project aimed to reduce litter in Estes Park by promoting community-wide environmental awareness and sustainable practices. Recognizing the impact of tourism on local waste, the project launched regular clean-ups and an educational campaign focused on recycling and respecting wildlife. The initiative sparked lasting change, with the Estes Park High School Environmental Club continuing the work and inspiring other students to lead eco-friendly projects. As a result, zero-waste efforts and community clean-ups have become an ongoing commitment throughout the town.

Jerilyn has been involved in Girl Scouts in one way or another for almost her entire life. After graduating from high school this spring, she plans to study psychology and neuroscience at an in-state college to become a neuropsychologist. 

Elizabeth Fullerton, Carbondale 

The Importance of Safe Driving for Youth

"My Gold Award project focused on raising awareness and improving safe driving for youth. The goal was to help teen drivers drive legally with a driver's license, sober, and to follow the rules of the road because motor vehicles are the leading cause of death for youth."

This Gold Award project focused on raising awareness about the importance of safe driving among youth. Aimed at educating young drivers about the serious consequences of unsafe driving, the project included the creation of a powerful mural that serves as a constant reminder of the dangers on the road. In addition, the campaign involved presentations at schools and community groups, providing vital information on the risks and responsibilities of driving. Through these efforts, the project is helping foster a culture of safe driving among the next generation.

Elizabeth has been a Girl Scout for 13 years and will graduate high school this spring. She plans to attend university this fall to study business, with the goal of eventually attending law school.

Mikayla Geeve, Westminster 

The Benefits of Therapeutic Riding

"My Gold Award project aims to educate Girl Scouts about the benefits of therapeutic riding, what they do to help facilities continue to provide services, and what is required if a career in this field is something they are interested in. Throughout the process of completing my Gold Award project, I gained more knowledge and further expanded my love for the therapeutic riding field. To me, being a Girl Scout means making a positive impact on the world!"

Mikayla aimed to raise awareness about the benefits of therapeutic riding and its importance in supporting individuals with disabilities. By creating a program for Girl Scouts, the project educated participants on the value of therapeutic riding, how they can support local facilities, and what’s involved in pursuing a career in this field. The program also introduced girls to the horses used in therapeutic riding and helped them develop sensitivity to the needs of disabled individuals. Through this initiative, the community gained exposure to a valuable, yet underrecognized, service, while also offering a new opportunity for meaningful community service.

After 12 years in Girl Scouts, Mikayla will graduate high school this spring. She plans to attend Front Range Community College for two years, then transfer to Colorado State University for a degree in human resources. After school, she plans to pursue a career in human resources.  

Emma Hack, Steamboat Springs

Endangered Plant Rehabilitation

Emma focused on planting and preserving native plants in her community to combat the threat of extinction and the impacts of climate change. By planting native species in local botanical gardens, the project not only enriched the local environment but also helped people reconnect with the outdoors. She also created and published a cookbook online to help inspire the public to appreciate and protect the beauty and importance of native plant preservation. Through these efforts, the project ignited a deeper connection with nature and encouraged lasting environmental stewardship.

Lauren Hacke, Golden

The Young Persons Guide to Saving the Oceans

"I wrote and published a book called The Young Person's Guide to Saving the Ocean to address the lack of awareness about environmental ocean issues and how to take action to address them. By giving youth the knowledge and tools to take action for the ocean, my goal is that they learn how to make their lifestyles more sustainable and create environmental action projects. Completing this Gold Award project has taught me so much about everything from publishing to graphic design to leadership, and I am grateful that this project has been part of my Girl Scout experience."

Lauren set out to educate and inspire youth to take action for the health and sustainability of the ocean. To do this, she wrote The Young Person’s Guide to Saving the Ocean, simplifying complex issues and offering practical steps for eco-friendly living, while also debunking common myths. In addition to her book, she also launched a podcast, The Young Person’s Guide to Saving the Environment, where she interviewed young environmental activists to share their inspiring stories and advice. Her creations continue to teach young people how they can actively participate in environmental policy, empowering them to take the lead in making a positive impact.

Lauren participated in Girl Scouts for nine years and graduated from high school last spring. She currently attends the University of California, Los Angeles studying biology.

Sara Hammes, Colorado Springs 

Community Center Book Walk

"My Gold Award project was a book walk around a community center. A total of four books, two on display at a time, my goal was to help bring kids back outside and away from their screens. I have always loved reading, and it was so fulfilling to get to see young kids excited about the book walks and the books I donated to the community center for their free little library. Being a Girl Scout has always been about sharing my passions with others, spending time outdoors, and giving back to my community."

Sara’s project brought the joy of reading and outdoor exploration together by creating two vibrant book walks for children to enjoy at their local community center. She also hosted a very successful opening event where they distributed nearly 300 donated books to the community. In collaboration with the Deerfield Hills Community Center, the project ensures lasting impact, with provisions made for ongoing care and maintenance, ensuring future generations can enjoy this enriching experience.

Sara was a Girl Scout for 11 years and graduated from high school last spring. She currently attends the University of Arizona with a major in Live and Screened Performance and hopes to become a scenic designer or technical director. She hopes to finish college with a double major in live and screened performance and emergency medical services.

Samantha Herstein, Highlands Ranch 

Girl Scouts Travel Fair

"When I was a younger Girl Scout, I always wanted to travel with my troop, but we could never figure out exactly what to do to make that happen. I noticed that Girl Scouts had lots of underutilized resources to help girls travel and after some research, I found out many girls had reported a desire to travel without the knowledge of how to execute it. To solve this, I put together a travel fair to allow girls to have the knowledge and resources to travel. To me, being a Girl Scout is helping out wherever you can and doing everything in your power to change the world for the better."

Sam created an inspiring and impactful travel fair that opened the doors of possibility for Girl Scouts to explore the world. The event allowed girls to discover the vast array of travel opportunities available to them and showed them how easily these dreams could be realized. Through interactive stations, attendees gained firsthand knowledge about travel and the exciting opportunities at their fingertips. The intention of the fair was to spark a lasting interest in global exploration, and it will continue annually through the Global Action Committee, ensuring future generations of Girl Scouts can benefit from this valuable experience.

After 12 years in Girl Scouts, Sam will graduate high school this spring. In the fall, she will attend the University of Colorado Boulder as a political science major. She hopes to eventually attend law school and become a lawyer. 

Darja Jaceva, Castle Rock 

Warehouse Youth Center Renovation & Mural

"I wanted to help create a safe, fun, and welcoming home-like environment for youth in a local youth center, the Warehouse Youth Center, that opened recently. I knew how important it is to have a special environment to make it easier for teens to feel that they can be themselves, it is a local challenge that relates to a national and global issue. I offered my help in creating a welcoming environment in the Warehouse Youth Center. I believe art influences us and how we feel."

Driven by a desire to create a safe and welcoming space for teens, especially those feeling out of place, this project transformed the Warehouse Youth Center into a vibrant, inclusive environment. As an immigrant teen herself, Darja understands the importance of a space where young people can truly be themselves. By leading a team to design and paint three beautiful murals—one in the cafeteria, one in the welcoming hall, and one in the bathroom—the project infused the center with warmth, kindness, and a peaceful atmosphere. The murals now stand as a testament to the power of art in shaping a nurturing and welcoming community.

After participating in Girl Scouts for seven years, Darja graduated high school last spring. She currently attends CU Denver and is working toward a degree in 3D graphics and animation, with hopes of becoming a 2D animator or possibly a VFX artist.

Kyra Jordan, Golden 

STEM – Reinventing the World

"We are taught in school, about many of these lone geniuses in science that shaped our world, and while many of them were, it also instilled a fear of simply being not smart or creative enough for these fields. So for all the girls and boys who didn't have a role model, I created a document, a collection of resources, advice, and inspiration designed to give students the tools to break down the intimidating walls STEM has. By finishing this project it meant giving all the advice my own teachers and role models had back to the community, and hopefully inspiring another generation of scientists and engineers."

Kyra’s project aimed to make STEM more accessible to teenagers by developing a curriculum and creating a website filled with resources and inspiring content. To spread the word, art posters were distributed to multiple schools, encouraging students to explore the various opportunities within science. The project’s impact will continue far beyond Kyra’s involvement, as the website and posters will serve as ongoing resources for future students. By equipping students with valuable skills, the project ensures they are prepared for success in college and their careers, leaving a legacy of inspiration and education.

Kyra was a Girl Scout for nine years and graduated high school last spring. She currently attends the Colorado School of Mines pursuing a major in quantitative bioscience and engineering. She is interested in pursuing a career in research applying engineering principles to solve biological challenges and has plans to pursue a PhD in those fields and study abroad.

Maggie Kelts, Broomfield 

Raising Awareness of the Deaf Community

"I wanted to do a project that would help the deaf community. As an ASL student throughout high school, I spent a good deal of my time translating for the deaf community when my fellow Girl Scouts and myself were selling Girl Scout cookies. This project helped me learn all the different steps of writing and creating a movie. It also helped me to understand that perseverance is one of my best qualities."

Maggie set out to raise awareness of the deaf community and ASL-only speakers by creating an educational experience for Girl Scouts. Through her presentation and video, participants learned basic ASL signs they could immediately use, especially while selling Girl Scout Cookies. The program ensures that future generations of Girl Scouts will continue to learn and embrace ASL, fostering greater inclusivity and understanding in their community. This project empowers Girl Scouts to connect with a broader audience and promote communication without barriers.

Maggie participated in Girl Scouts for 13 years and graduated high school last spring. She currently attends the University of Northern Colorado and plans to major in art and a minor in American Sign Language (ASL). 

Thea Kuczynski, Boulder 

Frameshift 

"Frameshift was born out of a need for a mutual support system of teens with Inflammatory Bowel Disease, an autoimmune disease that is consistently regarded as one of the most stigmatized and lonely conditions. My experience as a Crohn's patient showed me this firsthand, and the 'Crohnnection Crew' was created. I hosted a support group bi-monthly, which not only provided a space for others, but also for myself. By creating the community I needed, I found the strength in myself to become a changemaker in the greater context of a worldwide problem."

Inspired by her own journey, Thea created Frameshift, a supportive community for teens with Crohn’s disease.  Frameshift hosts bi-monthly online support groups and runs a comprehensive online campaign to raise awareness about invisible illnesses and disabilities, with a special focus on Crohn’s, offering both education and patient outreach. Thea actively participated in the Take Steps Walk in Denver and partnered with Better Together Support Groups to expand her impact. Frameshift has now been officially adopted by Better Together as part of their nonprofit, ensuring lasting support for teens facing similar challenges.

Thea was a Girl Scout for six years and spent two years as part of the Older Girl Advisory Board. She graduates from high school this spring and will be attending University of Colorado, Boulder, to study molecular and developmental biology on the pre-med track. She hopes to emphasize genetics in her studies to one day become a gastroenterologist and autoimmune researcher to change the outcome for patients like her from the inside.

Anna Longenecker, Longmont 

Outreach for the P-Teach Program

"I've wanted to be a teacher since kindergarten, and my passion only grew when I joined a teaching 'jumpstart' program as a freshman in high school. This program has been incredibly valuable, but most importantly, it has provided me with meaningful connections and opportunities. Since the program is still relatively new, the class sizes are small, and many students are unaware of its benefits. Wanting to change that, I took the initiative to visit 8th-grade classrooms to share how this program has shaped my journey and how it could do the same for them."

This project addressed the low participation in the education profession by creating an outreach initiative for the P-Teach program, which offers high school students college credit and classes on child development and teaching. After her presentations and sharing her personal experiences on a student panel, Anna raised awareness of the program's value. Teachers, counselors, and principals who attended were able to spread the word to other schools and districts, helping to increase future participation. The P-Teach program will continue to use Anna’s outreach strategies for years to come.

After participating in Girl Scouts for 10 years, Anna will graduate from high school this spring. In the fall, she will attend Grand Canyon University in Phoenix to study secondary education with an emphasis in math.

Sarah Longenecker, Longmont 

Farm to Family Boxes

"I love cooking, gardening, and especially eating so I centered my project around food. In the past few years there has been a rise in services that provide you with an exact proportion of food with recipes included to make cooking easier and healthier, but definitely not cheaper. I wanted all people to be able to get access to healthy food but not have to worry about the affordability of it, so I created boxes with fresh food from local farms and included recipes to make it as easy as possible to enjoy eating healthy for no cost. Now we're planning on doing this program twice a year, supporting up to 40 families!"

Sarah wanted to support families who struggle to access fresh food during long school breaks. By connecting local families with local produce, the initiative provides free food boxes to families, eliminating the time and cost barriers for families in need. With a generous donation from the Mesa Seed Foundation, the boxes included fresh produce along with recipes and food preservation tips. Distributed before school breaks, the boxes help ease families' worries about food during school closures. The project will continue annually, in partnership with Mesa Seed Foundation and the St. Vrain Valley School District, to provide fresh food and resources to those in need.

Sarah has been a Girl Scout for 10 years and is currently a sophomore in high school. Once she graduates from high school, she plans to study nutrition and food science.

Theo Martin, Monument 

Legislating for Third Spaces

"I chose my Gold Award project after realizing how big of a disconnect there was between adults, admin, and the government and teens in regards to the teen mental health crisis. I worked with several levels of government, as well as wrote a bill in order to help address this multifaceted issue. Girl Scouts has been such a big part of my life for so long, I'm so proud to have finally completed what Daisy me only dreamed of."

This project advocated creating more "third spaces,” public areas where students can gather outside of school, work, or home—to support mental health. By writing a bill to make these spaces free for students, the initiative encourages connections and positive brain development. Theo educated Girl Scouts and government leaders on the importance of mental health and civic involvement. Through discussions with Gov. Jared Polis and speaking at the Colorado State Capitol, the project helped continue to drive and protect third spaces and make them more accessible to our Colorado communities. 

Theo participated in Girl Scouts for 12 years and graduated high school last spring. They currently attend Queen's University of Belfast, Northern Ireland studying archeology and history, with hopes of pursuing a career as a museum curator. 

Nora McCloy, Longmont

Dream It, Do It!

Nora’s Gold Award project championed lifelong learning and intergenerational connection by offering engaging workshops led by enthusiastic high school volunteers for senior citizens . Her program aims to shift the mindset that learning is only for the young, encouraging seniors to rediscover joy in curiosity and creativity. Through shared experiences, from educational sessions to holiday concerts featuring student performers, the program builds relationships and strengthens community bonds. The enthusiastic participation from seniors and students is a powerful testament to the value of connection across generations. 

After her time as a Girl Scout, Nora graduated high school last spring. She currently attends the University of Iowa pursuing a degree in English and creative writing, with a double minor in Spanish, translation, and global society.

Kahliya Mobley-Young, Denver 

Harm Reduction in High School

Kahliya created a powerful educational initiative for her Gold Award that equips students with life-saving knowledge about Narcan administration, while creating a safe, judgment-free space for anonymous questions and honest conversation. Her program tackled the stigma surrounding overdose response head-on, transforming fear and uncertainty into empowerment and preparedness. By prioritizing healthcare education and centering student voices, she championed both harm reduction and prevention. Her work is a bold step toward building a more compassionate, informed, and resilient community.

Tanja Oostenrijk, Colorado Springs 

Tune Into Knowledge: The School Music Library Initiative

"I've always loved the band community at my school and beyond, so I wanted to use my passion to improve music education during my Gold Award. While organizing my high school's sheet music library, I developed strong communication and planning skills, along with greater self-confidence. Similarly, Girl Scouts has shown me the value of being part of a supportive community, one where people work together to learn, grow, and become the best versions of themselves."

Tanja took on the massive challenge of transforming a disorganized band music library into a streamlined, efficient system for her Gold Award project. With more than 1,000 pieces of music to sort, she led the creation of a new, organized system and a fully searchable digital database, making it easier than ever to find and utilize the band’s resources. Her meticulous work saves time, cuts unnecessary costs to the music program, and allows directors to focus on making music. Her detailed program elevated the quality of instruction and the overall experience for students and directors alike.

After being in Girl Scouts for 11 years, Tanja graduated from high school last spring. She attends Colorado School of Mines pursuing a degree in biochemistry. She hopes to one day pursue a career in policy or research. 

Raelynn Pickup, Thornton 

Project Accessibility

"Project Accessibility aimed to address period poverty, a neglected public health issue where many low-income women across the globe do not have access to menstrual products, sanitation, hygiene facilities, and education, within Colorado. I established drives within my school and community during the month of November, where people donated feminine hygiene products to Holy Family High School. From there, the Faith and Action volunteers and I collected these products and delivered them to women's shelters in Denver, such as Marisol Health, the Refuge, and Samaritan House. When talking to a low-income woman living in Denver, she described her experience with period poverty as this: 'I had to pick between food and tampons, and I picked the tampons.' This infuriated and inspired me to take action. Women shouldn't have to choose between food or feminine products; they should have the accessibility to these necessities. Having access to these products, I later realized, was a privilege I was taking for granted. I was determined to make this privilege a necessity. Completing this project meant the world to me. Seeing the joy and thankfulness on these women's faces showed me how much I was making a difference in their lives; this project brought to light the idea that I can be a force of good in the world. Being a Girl Scout is more than selling cookies; it is about making a difference through our voices and our actions. It is about community. It is about seeing problems in our communities and fighting to create a better future. Girl Scouts is about being a force of good that creates change."

Project Accessibility boldly tackles the issue of period poverty in Colorado by increasing access to feminine hygiene products and breaking down harmful stigmas. As part of her project, Raelynn launched annual donation drives in her community, rallying volunteers from her high school to collect and deliver thousands of essential items to women’s shelters in Denver. She also worked to educate her community through impactful speeches and educational outreach, and raised awareness about menstrual health, accessibility, and the importance of open, stigma-free conversations.

Raelynn has been a Girl Scout for 13 years and will graduate from high school this spring. She plans to attend Saint Mary's College at the University of Notre Dame in the fall of 2025 to study global affairs with a concentration in international business on the pre-law track. She hopes to one day pursue a job at NATO, or as a lawyer or justice. 

Charlotte Quach, Denver 

No-Kill Shelter Education for Kids

"Charlotte is a fourth-generation Girl Scout but the first one in her family to earn the Gold Award. After a year of volunteering as a dog walker for MaxFund Animal Shelter, Charlotte wanted to use her Gold Award to educate children about the important work being done by MaxFund. She created a video for MaxFund to educate children about the No-Kill philosophy. Through her project Charlotte learned how to coordinate multiple groups of people to create a dynamic and professional product."

Her Gold Award project focused on educating kids about the importance of “No Kill” animal shelters. She developed an engaging, age-appropriate curriculum and a creative presentation that included hands-on projects, empowering young people to support shelters even if they’re too young to volunteer directly. Partnering with MaxFund Animal Shelter, Charlotte ensured her impact would last, and her educational video will continue to be shared with youth groups eager to help, creating a legacy of compassion and advocacy for animals.

Charlotte has been a Girl Scout for 12 years and graduates this spring. After graduation, she will attend a four-year university and hopes to study biology with the goal of becoming an orthopedic surgeon.

Madelyn  Redmond, Parker 

Bluebird Nest Box Project: Connecting Kids to Conservation

"I chose my Gold Award project in order to help address the issue of habitat loss and declining Bluebird populations in Colorado while also connecting kids to conservation and getting involved in the outdoors to help with the issue of Nature Deficit Disorder in youth. Completing my Gold Award project has helped me learn team building, leadership, and develop my sense of self. Being a Girl Scout has helped me realize I am capable of so much more than I ever thought and that I have the power to actually make a difference."

Madelyn’s project took on the growing issue of nature deficit disorder by reconnecting youth with the outdoors through a hands-on bluebird nest box initiative at Sanborn Western Camps. By engaging campers of all ages in interactive programs about bluebirds and their habitat, she fostered a deeper appreciation for nature and wildlife. At the same time, she addressed habitat loss by installing nesting boxes to support the local bluebird population. Her project not only inspires environmental stewardship in young people but also makes a lasting impact on Colorado’s native wildlife.

Madelyn was a Girl Scout for 12 years and graduated from high school last spring. She currently attends Grand Canyon University and is pursuing a career in nursing.”

Abigail Reynolds, Castle Rock

Gearing 4 Engineering

"My Gold Award project addressed the gender disparities and stereotyping that have led to less female representation in the engineering field. I created and designed all of the resources and materials necessary for communities anywhere to host Engineering Expos, and they are all posted on my globally viewed website. Creating my project showed me how important it is for young girls to have accessible engineering opportunities. Being a Girl Scout means working hard to reach your goals, and not being stopped by what others may believe."

Abigail’s program, Gearing 4 Engineering, set out to break down gender stereotypes that discourage girls from pursuing careers in engineering. To do this, she created an inclusive, hands-on expo where 3rd–8th grade students tackle real-world engineering challenges and showcase their solutions through creative presentations. By making project submissions anonymous, the program ensures fair evaluation based solely on innovation and effort, fostering a space where all students can thrive. With a commitment from Aspen View Academy to host the expo annually, her project will continue to inspire and empower future generations of young engineers.

Abigail has been a Girl Scout for 11 years and sits on the Older Girl Advisory Board. She is currently a junior in high school and plans to attend college to major in mechanical engineering with a minor in environmental studies. She hopes to ultimately pursue a career that involves creating sustainable solutions and water purification systems to help underprivileged and underserved communities.

Aleaha Schauppner, Thornton 

The Magic of Music

"For my Gold Award project, 'The Magic of Music,' I introduced music into young students' lives through teaching newcomer students how to play musical instruments and guiding incoming sixth grade students in selecting a musical instrument for the upcoming year. I chose this project because music has been my passion since I was six years old, inspired by my grandma, who taught me piano, and growing up surrounded by music. Completing my Gold Award has taught me to become more confident in myself and my work. Being in Girl Scouts has significantly impacted my life, making me the leader I am today, teaching me the values of dedication, service, and the importance of helping my community."

The Magic of Music program hopes to ignite a love for music in young students by creating meaningful, hands-on opportunities to explore the world of instruments and performance. Through her program, Aleaha organized two impactful events, one for newcomer middle schoolers during a summer camp, and another called The Magic of Music, where high school and middle school musicians introduced 5th graders to the instruments they could learn the following year. With enthusiastic support from Mountain Range's band director and plans to expand the event district-wide, her project promises to continue inspiring future musicians. 

Aleaha has been a Girl Scout for 13 years and will graduate from high school this spring. In the fall, she will attend Colorado State University, majoring in ecosystem sciences and sustainability. She hopes to better our world and make a positive impact, and to travel as much as possible.

Brianne Suarez, Monument 

Family Promise Playroom & Donation Pipeline

For her Gold Award project, Brianne created a vibrant, welcoming playroom at Family Promise women’s clinic and shelter to support children and teens who have limited access to activities during their time there. She recognized that families in transition bring only the essentials, leaving behind toys, crafts, and comforts that make a child feel at home. To meet this need, she not only created a fun, engaging space but also established a sustainable donation pipeline to keep it stocked with games, craft supplies, and more. Her project brings lasting comfort, dignity, and joy to families when they need it most.

Lauren Wong, Highlands Ranch 

Saving Lives: Helmet Safety Education

"I love animals and wanted to properly educate the community around me about the safety of their pets. Working on the Gold Award project has certainly taught me a lot, such as organization, communication, perseverance, and flexibility. Not only that, my project made it clear to me that I wanted to pursue veterinary medicine as a future career. Girl Scouts has taught me so much by building a strong community around me, preparing me for the future, and providing me with amazing opportunities for me to grow."

Lauren tackled the growing issue of pediatric bike safety and head injury prevention, by launching a powerful awareness campaign that included creating an educational pamphlet, writing a children’s book on helmet safety, and participating in Denver Health helmet events. Partnering with the Denver Health Trauma Program and Electric Wheels, she donated helmets to children in need and ensured her materials will continue to educate families for years to come. Her project promotes safety, empowers young riders, and creates a lasting impact in her community.

Lauren has been a Girl Scout for 12 years and will graduate from high school this spring. This fall, she will attend Colorado State University with a major in biomedical sciences. She hopes to pursue a career as a pediatric doctor.

Madison Wong, Highlands Ranch 

The Right Fit: Dog Collar Safety Education

"I love children, and since there has been a rise in the popularity of electric vehicles, I wanted to educate children and families in the surrounding communities on helmet safety. Working on my Gold Award Project has taught me various skills like communication, organization, flexibility, leadership, and perseverance. This project has grown my love for helping children and has confirmed my future career. Girl Scouts has prepared me so much for my future and has given me amazing opportunities in a strong community."

For her Gold Award project, Madison addressed the often-overlooked issue of improper dog collar use and the injuries it can cause. She created an educational pamphlet, available in both English and Spanish, detailing collar safety, proper fitting, and the benefits of Martingale collars. She distributed these materials to local shelters, donated Martingale collars, and provided training to staff and visitors to promote safer, more humane handling of dogs. Her project empowers dog owners with knowledge and helps protect countless pets from preventable harm.

Madison has been a Girl Scout for 12 years and will graduate from high school this spring. This fall, she will attend Colorado State University to major in biomedical sciences. She plans to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.

Julia Zettlemoyer, Colorado Springs 

Monument Dog Park

"My Girl Scout go-to work project was to create a dog park in an ADA-compliant playground. The dog park is providing a safe place for dogs to play throughout the day. I decided that I wanted this to be my Gold Award project to make attending the park inclusive for all family members. This project has impacted me by teaching me new skills and taking skills that I've learned throughout my life and putting them action within the real world."

Julia created the first dog park in the town of Monument for her Gold Award project, providing a safe, designated space for dogs to play and relax. To do this, she designed and built a fully fenced-in area complete with agility equipment to encourage active, healthy play. By partnering with the local park director, who committed to maintaining the space, she ensured the park will continue to benefit the community for years to come. Her project promotes animal well-being and strengthens the bond between dogs and their owners.

After being a Girl Scout for 13 years, Julia will graduate from high school this spring. She will attend Colorado School of Mines for mechanical engineering in the fall of 2025. She hopes to potentially work within manufacturing or government agencies.