Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan is pleased to honor Abigail with the most prestigious award in the world for girls: the Girl Scout Gold Award. Abigail is among 13 young women who have made a difference in each of their respective communities through sustainable, community change projects. The time and continuous effort these girls have dedicated towards their projects prove they’re true leaders, innovators, and exceptional examples for all girls to look up to.

The Gold Award is Girl Scout’s highest honor and girls are required to spend at least 80 hours investigating the problem, creating a plan, and implementing it. It is presented to Girl Scouts who address a community issue or problem they’re passionate about. Abigail chose to support the LGBTQ+ community for her project.

Abigail took action to provide a safe space for the LGBTQ+ members in her community. Working with local businesses, government agencies, and several volunteers, she planned Ortonville’s first-ever pride festival under her nonprofit, Abigail’s Pride. Her decision to make Abigail’s Pride an official non-profit organization means that she, her co-director, and many other long-term volunteers can continue to plan festivals and expand education around the LGBTQ+ community for years to come. The inaugural event on June 4, 2022, was a smashing success with nearly 2,500 attendees, more than 20 vendors, and a parade, all to celebrate inclusion and diversity in Abigail’s small town.

“I discovered my passion for helping others!”