Growing Possibilities - Alyia's Gold Award Project
Alyia sought to transform an overgrown and unused outdoor education area at a local childcare center and make it an inspiring space for the children to not only learn, but also have fun. Alyia saw a space that currently did not have the staff or the funds to reach it's full potential and Alyia wanted to change that.
When speaking about her goals for this project, Alyia explained, "Being inside and on your electronics all the time takes away from being able to go out and experience other cultures. It also helps with having an open mind and trying different things. I want to accomplish creating an educational, creative, and usable space for Davis Daycare students and staff."
Alyia brainstormed and reimagined exactly what the space could be. After much research, planning, and brainstorming, she presented her plans to the childcare center and secured approval to proceed with her project.
Alyia did various money earning activities and secured donations of supplies and materials through local groups and family and friends to get all the supplies needed for her outdoor garden space.
After securing approval, Alyia created plans to redesign the flowerbeds and planters (with labels in multiple languages), create an alphabet stepping stone area, build a fairy garden, and make various educational boards and components about animals, plants, and literacy.
Alyia assembled a team of volunteers and led these volunteers through the physical labor required to bring her vision to life. Together they pulled weeds, planted new flowers and plants, and assembled the other various pieces.
Alyia consistently was a leader throughout her project. She taught and showed the volunteers how to do certain tasks, worked alongside them on the garden every step of the way, and made sure everyone stayed on schedule and adjusted the schedule accordingly to ensure a successful end project.
With the finished product, children at the childcare center can now practice their fine motor and language skills and learn about plant and animal identification, all while having fun and enjoying the outdoors. Due to Alyia's project, for years to come this space will be ready for children to play, learn, and have fun.
Alyia plans to turn her project over to a younger Girl Scout troop and have them check in with the daycare center and director for the forseeable future to make sure everything is staying safe and fun in the outdoor area.
Alyia recently attended a Gold Award Celebration in Madison, Wisconsin with Govenor Tony Evers where she met with him, told him about her project, and received praise for her hardwork. Alyia was invited to a Brewers game to receive recognition for her incredible Girl Scout accomplishments and even was featured on the big screen!
Our Gold Award Girl Scouts work so hard to be the change they want to see in the world, and we love it when they are able to get the recognition and appreciation they deserve. Alyia changed the lives of many daycare children this year and for years to come, and that deserves some celebration.
