Photo: Islip Girl Scouts (Credit – Town of Islip)
In a heartening display of community spirit and empowerment, the Girl Scouts of Islip Junior Troop 230, recently met with Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter (R-West Islip) as part of a book they are writing for their prestigious Bronze Award. Their project, featuring women who serve in roles traditionally held by men, will showcase the remarkable achievements of local women but also serve as a beacon of inspiration for the younger generation.
The Bronze Award is the highest award available to junior scouts who have completed their Junior Journey. To receive the award Troop members must demonstrate their leadership skills by working together to plan, implement, and execute their chosen project which aims to address a community matter.
One of the troop’s standout initiatives was to highlight prominent female figures in Islip, ranging the Town Supervisor to a Supreme Court Justice and show their leadership roles within the community. Through these interviews, the girls gained valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by women in various fields, fostering a deeper understanding of gender equality and empowerment.
The troop, comprised of dedicated young girls that are in fourth and fifth grade at Hauppauge’s Bretton Woods Elementary School, embarked on this mission to shine a spotlight on these influential women within their own community. Under the guidance of troop leaders and mentors, the girls undertook extensive research, conducted interviews, and decided to include Supervisor Angie Carpenter in their book documenting her milestone achievement of becoming the first woman supervisor in Islip Town history.
In response to this honor by the Troop, Supervisor Carpenter stated “It’s a privilege to have been considered for the book Troop 230 is preparing for their Bronze Award project. Their decision to dedicate the project to highlighting women’s achievements in our community is truly inspiring.”
Among the influential women highlighted by the troop in addition to Supervisor Carpenter is Supreme Court Justice Alison J. Napolitano, a dedicated judge and steward of the law. Both stories resonated deeply with the girls, inspiring them to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in their community.
The culmination of the troop’s efforts will be the book, which will be displayed at all three of Hauppauge’s elementary school libraries. Reflecting on their journey, the girls should feel immense pride in their accomplishments. Projects like this emphasize the importance of empowering young girls to become future leaders.
The impact of Troop 230’s Bronze Award project extends far beyond the borders of Islip, serving as a shining example of youth-led initiatives that celebrate diversity, inclusion, and empowerment. As these young Girl Scouts continue their journey of leadership and service, they carry with them the invaluable lessons learned from the influential women who have shaped their community and inspired future generations.