Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan is pleased to honor Olivia with the most prestigious award in the world for girls: the Girl Scout Gold Award. Olivia 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. Olivia took action to address improper disposal of expired and unused medications for her project.

Olivia knew it was important for others to know the importance of reducing the amount of unused and expired medications that goes into the trash and water supply because it helps protect citizens, wildlife, and the environment from exposure to dangerous chemicals. After doing some research, Olivia became involved with Resource Recovery and Recycling Authority of Southwest Oakland County (RRRASOC), a recycling center that specializes in handling expired and unused medications. She then began educating the public by distributing flyers that outlined the RRRASAOC’s service and why it’s such an integral part of the community. She also created an educational video about recycling expired medications and had it placed on YouTube, Facebook, and RRRASOC’s website.

“I was able to hone in on my time management and problem-solving skills, continuing to keep my goal in mind, despite the running into dead ends.”