Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan is pleased to honor Grace with the most prestigious award in the world for girls: the Girl Scout Gold Award. Grace 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. Grace chose to bring together teens in her community for her project.

Grace led renovation efforts at the Hazel Park Library to improve its teen area, making it more inviting and engaging. The library staff had been wanting to improve the teen area, so Grace sought out both their and other teens’ input, replacing the flooring and furniture and putting up sound absorption tiles on the walls. She also began a monthly open mic program held in the renovated space. Between the renovations and program, the teen area has provided library patrons with a safe space to learn, socialize, and express themselves. It has and will continue to bring together people of all ages in and around Hazel Park.

“This project helped me connect with others and gain the confidence to make a difference. I learned that I have what it takes to persevere.”