HOUSTON, Texas (June 3, 2024) – Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council (GSSJC) announced the remarkable achievements of Gold Award recipients who promoted mental health awareness within their communities.
New research by the Girl Scouts of USA reveals that most girls ages 5 to 13 experience loneliness—and the feelings increase with age and, in turn, confidence decreases. But there’s encouraging news: the data also points to the power of friendship in boosting girls’ confidence to try new things.
Jannah Bryant, Arnaz Irani, Rachel Kee, and Kaitlyn Raj each worked to combat feelings of loneliness by addressing the critical issue of mental health among teens. Through their innovative Gold Award projects, these young women made a tangible impact in their communities.
“We are immensely proud of these young women and their unwavering commitment to promoting mental health awareness,” said Mary Vitek, GSSJC chief executive officer. “Their projects exemplify the Girl Scout values of leadership, service, and making the world a better place.”
Jannah Bryant, along with her dedicated team of volunteers, took proactive steps to educate her community about teen mental health. Through engaging workshops and the creation of self-care calendars, Jannah has empowered over 100 teens and their families with valuable resources and support.
Arnaz Irani identified the need for stress-relief avenues for teens and responded with creativity and compassion. By setting up art stations in classrooms and producing insightful stop-motion animation films, Arnaz has provided invaluable outlets for relaxation and self-expression.
Rachel Kee spearheaded an awareness week at her school, shedding light on various aspects of mental well-being and fostering open conversations within the student body. Her efforts have not only benefited her immediate community but have also garnered attention from educational authorities and policymakers.
Kaitlyn Raj recognized the disparity in access to mental health resources and bridged the gap. Through comprehensive courses and practical workshops, Kaitlyn has equipped disadvantaged regions with the tools and knowledge needed to prioritize holistic well-being.
In addition to these girls’ outstanding projects, Girl Scouts is working to diminish the stigma surrounding mental health. The Girl Scouts’ Mental Wellness Patch Program helps girls learn about self-care, build healthy habits, safely explore their feelings, and seek support and resources in a safe and intimate setting. The program provides tips and free activities to assist girls on their mental wellness journey.
Mental Wellness Program:
- Ready. Strong. Patch Program: Available to girls in grades K–12, this patch program empowers girls to build their resilience and confront their challenges with confidence.
- Mental Wellness Patch Program: Tailored for girls ages 9 to 17, this initiative provides practical tools to identify and address feelings while encouraging help-seeking behavior.
- Mental Wellness 101: Designed for troop leaders and adult volunteers, this training program equips participants with the knowledge and tools to promote mental wellness within the Girl Scout community.
For more information on the Girl Scouts mental wellness initiatives or how to begin a Gold Award project, please visit www.gssjc.org.
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