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		<title>Celebrating Changemakers: Meet Sheryl M. Robinson</title>
		<link>https://makingfriends.com/celebrating-changemakers-meet-sheryl-robinson/</link>
					<comments>https://makingfriends.com/celebrating-changemakers-meet-sheryl-robinson/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Terri Bose]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:03:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[HIGHER LEVEL AWARDS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[OLDER GIRL LEADERS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://makingfriends.com/?p=371210</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Today, the spotlight shines on an amazing individual in the community: Sheryl M. Robinson. As a podcaster, mentor, author, and speaker, Sheryl stands out as a remarkable role model and...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://makingfriends.com/celebrating-changemakers-meet-sheryl-robinson/">Celebrating Changemakers: Meet Sheryl M. Robinson</a> appeared first on <a href="https://makingfriends.com">MakingFriends</a>.</p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Today, the spotlight shines on an amazing individual in the community: Sheryl M. Robinson. As a podcaster, mentor, author, and speaker, Sheryl stands out as a remarkable role model and a powerhouse dedicated to helping teens and young adults discover their unique gifts, talents, and abilities, paving their way toward realizing their dreams.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">With over 30 years as a proud member of Girl Scouts, Sheryl has woven the values of scouting into her life in profound ways. Her educational background—a Master of Arts in Servant Leadership from Viterbo University and a Bachelor’s in Accounting from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale—further fuels her commitment to serving and uplifting others.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Inspiring the Next Generation</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Recognizing that the journey to the Gold Award begins with the Bronze and Silver Awards, Sheryl identified a gap in resources for younger Girl Scouts. In response, she created a <strong><a href="https://bookshop.org/shop/sherylmrobinson">middle-grade book series</a></strong> aimed at sharing inspiring stories of leadership, courage, and community change. These stories serve as a source of motivation for the youngest members, encouraging them to dream big and take action.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">There are seven books in the series, themed by the work these Gold Award Girl Scouts did &#8211; Earth Guardians, STEM, Creative Voice, Health, Inclusion, Advocacy, Community Connector. Each book shares 11 stories and offers guidance on how your Girl Scout can use the same processes for their projects. </p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-learn-about-sheryl-robinson-gold-award-coach" style="margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)">Learn About Sheryl Robinson<br><em><strong>Gold Award Coach</strong></em></h2>


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<p class="has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph">$12.00</p>


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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-passion-for-the-gold-award">A Passion for the Gold Award</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Sheryl’s passion particularly shines through in her support for teens pursuing the Girl Scout Gold Award. Understanding the significance of this award, she launched <strong>Hearts of Gold</strong>, a <strong><a href="https://heartsofgoldpodcast.com/">YouTube series and podcast</a></strong> that features inspiring Gold Award Girl Scouts from around the globe. Through these platforms, Sheryl highlights the incredible projects these young women undertake, offering mentorship and guidance as they navigate their journeys. Her dedication to elevating and supporting the Girl Scout Highest Awards has not gone unnoticed. Sheryl has been honored with the <strong>GSUSA Thanks II Award</strong>, the organization’s highest recognition for service. This accolade reflects her commitment to the community and her tireless efforts to empower young Girl Scouts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transformative-impact">Transformative Impact</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Sheryl firmly believes that the Girl Scout Highest Awards not only contribute to making the world a better place but also transform the girls who earn them. Through these experiences, girls become lifelong changemakers, confident problem-solvers, and compassionate leaders. Each award journey teaches invaluable lessons and fosters personal growth that can last a lifetime. As everyone continues their own journeys within Girl Scouts, they can draw inspiration from Sheryl’s commitment to service and her belief in the transformative power of leadership. Her story encourages all to embrace their unique gifts, support one another, and strive to make a difference in their communities. Thank you, Sheryl, for your unwavering dedication to empowering young women and shaping the leaders of tomorrow! The contributions she makes to the Girl Scout community create a lasting impact every day. Let’s keep the momentum going, Girl Scouts! Who knows? The next Gold Award project might just be inspired by one of the Gold Award Girl Scouts showcased in Sheryl’s shining stories! 💚</p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and insights from the Girl Scout community. Remember, every step taken on these journeys makes a difference!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-do-you-have-a-gold-award-project-you-would-like-to-share">Do you have a Gold Award Project you Would Like to Share?</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Please share your ideas below.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p>



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<p>The post <a href="https://makingfriends.com/celebrating-changemakers-meet-sheryl-robinson/">Celebrating Changemakers: Meet Sheryl M. Robinson</a> appeared first on <a href="https://makingfriends.com">MakingFriends</a>.</p>
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		<title>Gold Award Project: &#8220;Beyond the Screen&#8221;</title>
		<link>https://makingfriends.com/gold-award-project-beyond-the-screen/</link>
					<comments>https://makingfriends.com/gold-award-project-beyond-the-screen/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Terri Bose]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:48:41 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[HIGHER LEVEL AWARDS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[OLDER GIRL LEADERS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://makingfriends.com/?p=371153</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Aashni Katari, a dedicated young advocate, has recently wrapped up her impressive Gold Award project. This initiative is designed to shed light on the often-overlooked harmful effects of social media...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://makingfriends.com/gold-award-project-beyond-the-screen/">Gold Award Project: &#8220;Beyond the Screen&#8221;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://makingfriends.com">MakingFriends</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized" style="margin-right:0;margin-left:0"><img decoding="async" width="600" height="600" src="https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-gold-award-social-media-600x600.png" alt="Gold Award Recipient Ashanti Dalta" class="wp-image-371154" style="width:558px;height:auto" srcset="https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-gold-award-social-media-600x600.png 600w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-gold-award-social-media-200x200.png 200w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-gold-award-social-media-150x150.png 150w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-gold-award-social-media-768x768.png 768w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-gold-award-social-media-1536x1536.png 1536w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-gold-award-social-media-2048x2048.png 2048w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-gold-award-social-media-250x250.png 250w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-gold-award-social-media-100x100.png 100w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></figure>



<div class="wp-block-group"><div class="wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Aashni Katari, a dedicated young advocate, has recently wrapped up her impressive Gold Award project. This initiative is designed to shed light on the often-overlooked harmful effects of social media on young children, particularly those who are just beginning to navigate the digital landscape.</p>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex">
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-screen-time-amp-social-media-effects-on-children">Screen Time &amp; Social Media Effects on Children</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In today&#8217;s digital world, social media is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it connects us and offers a plethora of information at our fingertips; on the other, it poses significant risks, particularly for young children who are just beginning to navigate this vast online landscape. Understanding this dichotomy is crucial, and that’s where Aashni, a passionate young advocate, steps in with her remarkable Gold Award project titled &#8220;Beyond the Screen.&#8221;</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Aashni’s Vision: Addressing the Hidden Dangers of Social Media</h4>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">&#8220;Beyond the Screen&#8221; aims to shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked harmful effects of social media on youth. </p>
</div>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-learn-about-sheryl-robinson-gold-award-coach" style="margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)">Learn About Sheryl Robinson<br><em><strong>Gold Award Coach</strong></em></h2>


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<h2 style="line-height:1.4;margin-bottom:0.75rem;margin-top:0" class="has-text-align-center wp-block-post-title has-medium-font-size"><a data-wp-on--click="woocommerce/product-collection::actions.viewProduct" href="https://makingfriends.com/product/senior-gs-ways-badge-download/" target="_self" >Senior GS Ways Badge Download</a></h2>


<p class="has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph">$12.00</p>


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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This groundbreaking initiative was born out of Aashni&#8217;s concern for the mental and emotional well-being of children who might be susceptible to the negative influences of online platforms. By focusing on critical issues such as cyberbullying, peer pressure, and self-esteem, Aashni seeks to provide young readers with practical tools and insights to navigate these challenges effectively. </p>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide"/>



<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:29% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-the-Screen-6-book-series/dp/B0GSMZ3621?ref=dbs_m_mng_rwt_0000_share"><img decoding="async" width="600" height="512" src="https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ashantis-books-600x512.png" alt="Beyond the screen by Aashanti " class="wp-image-371156 size-full" srcset="https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ashantis-books-600x512.png 600w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ashantis-books-200x171.png 200w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ashantis-books-768x655.png 768w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ashantis-books-250x213.png 250w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ashantis-books.png 1466w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong><em>In today’s digital world, kids are growing up surrounded by social media, screens, and online connections. While these tools can be fun and exciting, they can also bring challenges that young people are still learning to navigate. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-the-Screen-6-book-series/dp/B0GSMZ3621?ref=dbs_m_mng_rwt_0000_share">Beyond the Screen</a>&nbsp;is a fiction series designed for readers ages&nbsp;9–13, exploring the real-life effects of social media through relatable stories of friendship, school life, and growing up in a connected world.</em></strong></p>
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<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide"/>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The project features a compelling series of books, each tackling a unique aspect of the social media experience that youth encounter today. Through engaging stories and relatable characters, the series captivates young minds while imparting essential life lessons designed to empower them in their digital journeys. Aashni believes that by educating children about these issues in a relatable manner, they will feel more confident in confronting the challenges that social media may present.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Free Access to Valuable Resources</h4>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">One of the most exciting aspects of the &#8220;Beyond the Screen&#8221; project is Aashni&#8217;s commitment to accessibility. Understanding that many families and educators may be seeking resourceful materials to aid in discussions about social media, Aashni has made the series available for free on Kindle for a limited time. This decision ensures that the valuable lessons within the books can reach as many young readers as possible, regardless of their backgrounds. Aashni’s initiative reflects a deep empathy for the younger generation and a desire to empower them with knowledge. She encourages readers—be it children, parents, or educators—to explore the books and share them with others who may benefit from these insights. The ability to spark conversations around these critical issues is at the heart of her project.</p>
</div></div>
</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-do-you-have-a-gold-award-project-you-would-like-to-share">Do you have a Gold Award Project you Would Like to Share?</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Please share your ideas below.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p>



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<p>The post <a href="https://makingfriends.com/gold-award-project-beyond-the-screen/">Gold Award Project: &#8220;Beyond the Screen&#8221;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://makingfriends.com">MakingFriends</a>.</p>
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		<title>Soaring to New Heights: Inspiring Gold Award Project on Native Birds</title>
		<link>https://makingfriends.com/soaring-to-new-heights-inspiring-gold-award-project-on-native-birds/</link>
					<comments>https://makingfriends.com/soaring-to-new-heights-inspiring-gold-award-project-on-native-birds/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Terri Bose]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 16:49:09 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[HIGHER LEVEL AWARDS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[OLDER GIRL LEADERS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://makingfriends.com/?p=371117</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>We are thrilled to spotlight a remarkable Gold Award recipient, Ryleigh Thomas, who completed her Gold Award in 2023 during her Junior year of High School with an extraordinary project...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://makingfriends.com/soaring-to-new-heights-inspiring-gold-award-project-on-native-birds/">Soaring to New Heights: Inspiring Gold Award Project on Native Birds</a> appeared first on <a href="https://makingfriends.com">MakingFriends</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized" style="margin-right:0;margin-left:0"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="600" height="600" src="https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-RYLEIGH-1-600x600.png" alt="RYLEIGH THOMAS GOLD AWARD" class="wp-image-371123" style="width:558px;height:auto" srcset="https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-RYLEIGH-1-600x600.png 600w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-RYLEIGH-1-200x200.png 200w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-RYLEIGH-1-150x150.png 150w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-RYLEIGH-1-768x768.png 768w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-RYLEIGH-1-1536x1536.png 1536w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-RYLEIGH-1-2048x2048.png 2048w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-RYLEIGH-1-250x250.png 250w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blog-RYLEIGH-1-100x100.png 100w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></figure>



<div class="wp-block-group"><div class="wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We are thrilled to spotlight a remarkable Gold Award recipient, Ryleigh Thomas, who completed her Gold Award in 2023 during her Junior year of High School with an extraordinary project that aims to educate park visitors about native bird species!</p>
</div></div>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-empowering-park-visitors-to-connect-with-nature-through-bird-education"><strong>Empowering Park Visitors to Connect with Nature Through Bird Education</strong></h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Ryleigh&#8217;s vision took flight as she transformed a bird-viewing wall into a permanent educational display in partnership with the Joe Turner Nature Center at Lake Houston Wilderness Park in New Caney, Texas. Having worked at this nature center from 9th to 12th grade as a Jr. Naturalist, Ryleigh led various classes and nature hikes, where she developed a deep appreciation for the environment and its inhabitants. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Ryleigh noticed that the bird viewing wall had always been just a bare, brown structure. Recognizing the potential for enhancement, she envisioned a more vibrant, engaging display that would attract greater interest in the bird-watching class by showcasing information on the diverse native birds found in the park. </p>
</div>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-learn-about-sheryl-robinson-gold-award-coach" style="margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)">Learn About Sheryl Robinson<br><em><strong>Gold Award Coach</strong></em></h2>


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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This interactive project provides accessible information for individuals of all ages, helping them learn about the various bird species of the Piney Woods and the human activities that influence these bird populations. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Visitors to the Lake Houston Wilderness Park in New Caney are in for a treat! Ryleigh&#8217;s display is a must-see and serves as a fantastic resource for anyone keen on understanding and appreciating the feathered residents of our area. </p>



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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="600" height="277" src="https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ryleighs-family-600x277.jpg" alt="Ryleigh's Family" class="wp-image-371124 size-full" srcset="https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ryleighs-family-600x277.jpg 600w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ryleighs-family-200x92.jpg 200w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ryleighs-family-768x355.jpg 768w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ryleighs-family-250x115.jpg 250w, https://makingfriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ryleighs-family.jpg 864w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>Ryleigh Thomas proudly stands with her family, where the spirit of adventure and achievement runs strong—her four brothers have earned the prestigious title of Eagle Scout, inspiring her own passion for nature and education.</em></p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In addition to her impressive project, we want to celebrate Ryleigh’s outstanding achievement as the first girl in her troop to receive all three Highest Awards. Congratulations, Ryleigh, on a job well done! Your dedication and passion for wildlife education truly exemplify the spirit of Girl Scouts. We encourage everyone to visit the park and experience Ryleigh&#8217;s incredible work firsthand! Ryleigh Thomas&#8217;s project not only highlights various native birds but also includes vital information about the human activities that impact their populations. This initiative fosters a greater appreciation for our local wildlife and makes learning about nature accessible to all.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Ryleigh is currently a sophomore at Prairie View A&amp;M University, majoring in Agriculture with a concentration in Natural Resource Management, continuing in her passion for nature and the environment.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-do-you-have-a-gold-award-project-you-would-like-to-share">Do you have a Gold Award Project you Would Like to Share?</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Please share your ideas below.</p>



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<p>The post <a href="https://makingfriends.com/soaring-to-new-heights-inspiring-gold-award-project-on-native-birds/">Soaring to New Heights: Inspiring Gold Award Project on Native Birds</a> appeared first on <a href="https://makingfriends.com">MakingFriends</a>.</p>
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