Briarcliff Girl Scout Senior Troop 2058, composed of 9th graders who have been active girl scouts since kindergarten, has a lot to be thankful for this season. Five of the nine troop members earned their Silver Awards which is the second highest award in scouting.
At right, L to R: Jackie Contento, Teresa Marinaccio, Devon Bombassei, Jenna Whalen and Rekha Crawford.
This prestigious award is achieved by completing a community service project that requires at least 50 hours of work. Each scout must identify a need and take action, and must use their leadership skills to be successful. The project must also be sustainable and have a global impact.
Devon Bombassei and her project, “The Cottage School Tile Mosaic” recognizes the school’s mission to provide children from troubled or disadvantaged homes with a safe, structured and caring environment in which to learn and to heal. The purpose of Devon’s 4 ft by 4 ft tile mosaic is to brighten and enhance a frequently used gathering space at the school. The colorful mosaic incorporates the school’s eagle mascot and vibrantly expresses the spirit and hope of the students.
Jackie Contento focused on the needs of the homeless women at the Samaritan House Shelter in White Plains with her project, “Staying Warm and Starting Fresh.” This scout made, delivered and shared dinners, desserts, brown bag lunches and snacks with the residents. She also collected and donated warm clothing, winter wear accessories, personal hygiene items and bed and bath items. Jackie’s numerous visits offered hope and motivation for the women to transition back into society.
Teresa Marinaccio’s project, “Paws for a Cause,” centered on collecting a multitude of animal care supplies needed by the SPCA. She also spread awareness regarding animal abuse through presentations to various students and adults and convinced many to sign her petition to help change the way people behave towards animals.
Jenna Whalen and Rekha Crawford’s project, “Gifts of Love” focused on supplying adolescent patients at the Maria Ferari Children’s Hospital with activity kits geared towards keeping these children happy while healing at the hospital. The generosity of the community broadened the project and resulted in supplying even the younger patients with many gifts of love. These two scouts presented their work to various community organizations and social groups and built a network of concerned youth to continue their fine work for ill children.
In today’s busy and economically stressed society, it is special to see girls make a difference. These five girl scouts have positively impacted many lives and have been recognized by the Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson. More importantly, they have taken a genuine interest in helping others and the satisfaction achieved is their best reward.
