Building a stronger community can sometimes happen with one sign. Girl Scout Cadette Kaylani of Williamsburg Troop 1123 learned that people were missing events and feeling disconnected because there wasn’t a clear way to share neighborhood information. Instead of letting that communication gap grow, she took action by creating a neighborhood informational sign where everyone could stay in the know, which earned her the Girl Scout Silver Award.
Kaylani designed and built a bulletin board-style sign and installed it right at the front of the neighborhood, making it easy for residents to share upcoming events, announcements, and community news. With help from local community members who donated materials and offered guidance, she dug, cemented, built, painted, and brought the project to life from start to finish.
Neighbors now have a shared space to exchange information, feel included, and stay engaged. The sign even highlights the neighborhood Facebook page, encouraging multiple ways to stay connected.
Along the way, Kaylani discovered new strengths in herself, from mastering tools to tackling tough physical work.
“My project was done by buying the materials, then I built the sign. Next, I put it into the ground by digging holes and filling them with cement. Finally, I had a presentation of my sign. Neighbors are all excited to use the new sign to share information around the neighborhood. While completing the project, I learned that I am good at building projects. I also learned that I am strong enough to dig 5-foot holes.”
Her Girl Scout Silver Award project is a lasting reminder that leadership sometimes starts in our own backyards. Way to go, Kaylani!