Anna Rogers from Dongola Designated a Gold Award Girl Scout.
Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois congratulates Anna Rodgers from Dongola, Illinois for becoming a Gold Award Girl Scout—a designation she earned by bringing people together to help cope with stressful times in life.
The COVID-19 pandemic was a trying time for all. Anna recognized that many students were struggling with not being able to participate in normal activities. She also noticed that some teachers were struggling with changing their lesson plans and way of teaching. Her project, Connect2Cope, addressed these challenges and let others know they are not alone.
“I have always been interested in researching,” said Anna. She put her research skills to use by interviewing people – mostly teachers – impacted by the pandemic. Anna would edit the videos and post on the Connect2Cope social media pages so people could hear from others and gain skills with how to cope in stressful times.
Anna also recognized the need for adequate food during challenging times. She coordinated and held two food drives to benefit local food pantries. She also organized events for other Girl Scouts. These events provided an opportunity to connect with others and give back to another group hit hard by the pandemic – nursing homes. During one of Anna’s events, participants created holiday cards and crafts that were given to residents of nursing homes to brighten their holiday season.
“I have learned that it is important to get involved in the community,” said Anna, when reflecting on her Gold Award project. “I got to bond with fellow Girl Scouts and show them what they can do to be a leader.”
As they take action to transform their world, Gold Award Girl Scouts gain tangible skills and prove they are the leaders our community and world need. The Gold Award is earned by girls in grades 9–12 who demonstrate extraordinary leadership in developing sustainable solutions to local, national and global challenges. Since the highest award was established in 1916, Girl Scouts have answered the call to drive lasting, impactful change. The Gold Award is the mark of the truly remarkable.
Anna is the daughter of Valerie Palmer. She is a graduate of Anna-Jonesboro Community High School and currently attending Southern Illinois University. Anna is a Trifecta Girl Scout who has earned the Girl Scout Bronze Award, Girl Scout Silver Award, and Girl Scout Gold Award.
March 08, 2023
