Gold Award Girl Scout - Katie Adams

Katie Adams of Troop 40146 in Atascadero has recently completed her Gold Award project. Partnering with Twin Cities Community Hospital, Katie transformed an underutilized patio space into a Tranquility Garden for hospital staff and visitors to enjoy. The outdoor retreat was unveiled on Saturday, October 6^th, 2018, coinciding with the Birth and Family Fair event.

Katie has been an active member of Girl Scouts in San Luis Obispo County since elementary school. Earning her Silver Award as a Cadette, she had always aspired to earn Gold once she entered high school. Katie began her project over a year ago and contributed more than 80 hours working with hospital staff and maintenance engineers to create this space. Master Gardener, Nikki Edwards, helped Katie design plans for the patio, select appropriate plants, and establish a water system.

“My project allowed for patients and nursing staff of the OB unit to have access to an outside space that was beautiful and relaxing. The Tranquility Terrace allows for expecting mothers to walk during labor, for long term patients to enjoy outdoors, and for young children a safe space to play that does not interfere with the hospital or staff. It is a project that I am proud of and know that will provide joy to many patients in years to come,” says Katie.   

Open only to girls in grades 9-12, the Gold Award is the highest award a Girl Scout can earn. This Award acknowledges achievements in leadership development, with community based actions having a sustainable element and incorporating personal growth. Utilizing skills from the four national program pillars (STEM, outdoor, life skills, and entrepreneurship), Gold Award Girl Scouts are able to take action and leaving a lasting impact within their communities. If you are interested in learning more about the Gold Award, you can find all the details here!

In regards to her project’s impact, Katie says, “I have developed my community problem solving skills by working with the different departments in the hospital such as the engineering team and nursing staff. I now know I can complete a large project and see it through to the end. I am confident in my ability to stay focused and persevere in order to meet my goals.”