32 AUGUST 2022 By Mallory Gleich Two local nonprofits received a bit of freshening up and lots of donations – thanks to Arcadia Girl Scout Troops 4388 and 2930. This work was so inspiring that both troops earned their bronze and silver awards, the highest honor for Juniors (fifth-grade) and Cadettes (eighth-grade). Scout mom Laura Mitchell explained that to receive this award, both groups had to choose an issue, create an action plan, spend at least 20 hours (50 for Cadettes) planning and carrying out the project and turn in a final “Take Action” report. The project must be sustainable for the future. “The fifth-grade troop brainstormed a bunch of problems in the community and took a vote,” Mitchell said. “They chose to help to feed hungry people in the community.” They reached out to Feeding Students USA owner Joni Navarro Sucato and organized a non-perishable food collection at Hopi, collecting over 500 items. The girls made signs and gave popsicles to the class that brought in the most items. After, they spent several hours organizing shelves and cleaning the pantry. They also painted pots and planted some fresh herbs to decorate the front of the Feeding Students building. “I had a great time with my friends, helping to collect food and organize the pantry, and create a pretty garden. Afterward, I also felt fulfilled at the work we had done. It feels nice to help the community,” Troop 4388 member Holly Mitchell said. No vote was needed for Troop 2930 – they knew right away that they wanted to help animals in the community. “They are all big animal lovers and want to encourage people to adopt pets to reduce animal euthanasia,” Mitchell said. “For the past six years, troop member Kelly has asked Service projects provide a lasting impression on the community for donations for her birthdays to give to Home Fur Good, so the girls reached out to see if they had any projects we could do. Their volunteer coordinator, Jayne Truran, was so receptive and helpful.” The troop organized a donation drive of pet supplies and created a dog vs. cat fundraiser to raise money for their project where younger Girl Scouts would drop coins in either the dog or cat jar. They also spent time cutting out and painting original dog and cat artwork to decorate and brighten the outside of the shelter. Troop 2930 took their project a step further and participated in a “Day of Service” for local troops by creating a slideshow to teach younger members how to be responsible pet owners. They also helped paint rocks to decorate the outdoor area, made braided dog toys, and wrote thank you cards for families adopting a pet. Once they freshened up the outside, the troop spent time organizing the trash and recycling area, installing artwork, and cleaning the front entrance. Finally, the girls created almost 50 goodie boxes for adopted dogs or cats with treats, toys, and a thank you note. “Home Fur Good is more cheerful and will give a better impression to adopters. The younger girls are now educated on the matter and can make decisions appropriately based on the information we shared at the presentation,” Kelly said. After the troops completed their service projects, they were treated to a celebration at PVUMC Church. Each troop showed a short slideshow of their project, and each member received an award pin. The fifth-grade troop has already started planning to work toward their Silver Award as sixth-graders. The eighth-grade – now freshman – troop will begin working toward their Gold Award, an individual honor that takes at least 80 hours to earn. PHOTO: LAURA MITCHELL Fifth-grade Troop 4388: Isabella Villanueva, Presley Bonnett, Holly Mitchell, Aria Denitto, Avery Morrison, Mayson Stehl, Madi Telgenhoff, Brooke Radonich, Jiselle Seaford, Riley Flaherty, Gracie King, Zoey Nielsen, Mollie Rudin and Aubrey Snell. Religious Instruction • Strong Academics • Cutting Edge Technology • Service Learning Leadership Programs • PE and Interscholastic Sports • Instrumental and Vocal Music “Arts Attack” Program • School Nurse • Bus Transportation Available Goodbye summer, it’s time to get back to school! 3901 East Indian School Road • 602-957-7010 • www.clsphx.org CHRIST LUTHERAN SCHOOL Christian Values. Quality Education. Preschool through Grade 8