By Eileen Miller, Program Director

When a girl decides to #GoGold and earn her Girl Scout Gold Award, you can see the spark of change ignite within her. She’s ready to make an impact, big and small, and is dedicated to creating a sustainable project within her community. Since council unification in 2007, Girl Scouts – NC Coastal Pines has presented this prestigious award to nearly 500 girls who have pursued their passions for community service and a commitment to making the world a better place. These Girl Scouts are beyond impressive and we are so proud of all they have accomplished.

If your girl is considering earning her Girl Scout Gold Award, we know the process can seem overwhelming and a little scary. But here’s the good news! With a team of caring and supportive adults cheering her on, the award process doesn’t have to be daunting. In addition to a girl’s family and troop support, our council has a volunteer-driven Girl Scout Gold Award Committee which serves as a resource for girls.

The committee plays an integral role in reviewing, corresponding and supporting girls throughout the proposal and final report process. It is comprised of 12 dedicated volunteers who give their time willingly to help girls be successful, accomplish their goals, and carry out the mission of Girl Scouting.

Listen to what two committee members have to say about their experience:

“I enjoy serving on the Gold Award Committee because it gives me the opportunity to see all the wonderful things our young ladies are doing to serve their fellow man. We hear so many negative things about teenagers and the committee gives me the opportunity to see the positive ways these young ladies are impacting their community. Because of their perseverance they are able to accomplish their goals and bring about positive change.” – Emily Hayne

“As a member of our Council’s Gold Award Committee, I have been very privileged to see how the Girl Scout Gold Award has made a positive impact on the lives of many of our Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors. Just as our mission statement says the Gold Award process builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place on a daily and ongoing basis.” – Lori Winkelstein

So, how does the committee support a #GoGold Girl?

• Each girl is assigned a committee member as her liaison to help guide her through the process and to be a resource as questions arise.
• Requested edits and changes throughout the development of a proposal and a final report are normal and serve to strengthen a submission.
• A proposal and final report are reviewed to provide constructive input and allow for the greatest success.
• Feedback by a committee liaison is provided to propel a girl toward success.

Interested in learning more? Visit the Council’s website for upcoming award workshops. For questions or more information visit the Girl Scout Gold Award page or send an email to Girlawards@nccoastalpines.org.

Did you know 2016 is the 100th birthday of the Girl Scout Gold Award? We’ll be celebrating all year.