Gold Award Spotlight: The Ability Garden
Girl Scout Ambassador Morgan of Troop 13 earned the Girl Scout Gold Award by completing a project where she created indoor and outdoor learning features, themed around gardening, for the residents of St. Mary’s Home. St. Mary’s Home, which is located in Norfolk, Virginia, provides a place for children and young adults, newborn through 21 years of age, to live, play, and go to school while also receiving complex, professional, around-the-clock care from medical staff. Morgan wanted to provide a creative and accessible learning experience for the residents of St. Mary’s Home, so she incorporated her love of gardening with a mission of serving others!
She tackled this issue by building, painting and planting four ADA-approved raised garden beds and a sensory play box for mobile residents to explore and learn new skills on the grounds of St. Mary’s Home. She also created an indoor succulent garden, built on a rolling cart, for residents who cannot get outdoors to experience the joys of a garden.
“Gardening typically requires fine motor skills, the ability to get down on the ground and knowledge of plants, herbs, and tools,” Morgan said. “Often, people with special needs are excluded from participating in certain experiences. I wanted to specifically address the issue of gardening and how adapting to the residents’ needs can improve their physical, social, and mental well-being. From being involved in groups and community activities, to an opportunity to learn about healthy foods, gardening is about improving the enjoyment of life.”
Morgan was invited to visit with Senator Mark Warner’s staff in Norfolk to share information on her Gold Award Project and the importance the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. She was joined by GSCCC CEO Tracy Keller who asked for support on legislation that would benefit girls and nonprofits.
Congratulations, Morgan, and thank you for making your community, and the world, a better place!
12/9/2022: Morgan was featured in an article at surfrider.org for her work with the Virginia Beach City Public Schools Environmental Studies Program Surfrider Club!
4/21/2023: Morgan was awarded Scout of the Year by VFW Post 392. This annual scholarship contest is open to Gold Award Girl Scouts.
6/22/2023: Morgan was recognized by the Hampton Roads Workforce Council with a Top 20 Under 20 Award, for being one of Hampton Roads' emerging young leaders in the areas of workforce, entrepreneurship, and community service.
