Girls from Troop #4527 work on one of three projects to earn the Jr. Bronze Award, the highest award given to Jr. Girl Scouts.

Proud parents and relatives gathered at Swigert International School as Girl Scout Troop #4527 celebrated earning the Jr. Bronze Award, the highest honor awarded to Jr. Girl Scouts. Wearing vests adorned with colorful achievement badges, each girl spoke about what she learned and the positive community impact made by her work on one of the award projects.

The Troop selected three projects and individual scouts chose the one they were most passionate about. A pet care project had girls volunteering at the Denver Animal Shelter, mentoring younger Brownie Scouts and learning how best to care for a variety of animals. A Math & Science Carnival was a popular project with seven of the scouts participating alongside fellow Swigert students. A third project placed a “Buddy Bench” on the Swigert playground. The bench helps students make friends by sending a quiet signal that a student occupant would like an invitation to play. One of the girls noted that it is a “much nicer way to find a friend than having to ask.”

The girls said they learned the importance of teamwork and contribution. Many said they enjoyed the opportunity to help mentor younger girls and help them learn. Troop leaders emphasized that awards mean new responsibilities for the girls in their communities and at home.