During a camping trip two summers ago, Argyle Girl Scouts were first asked the question, “how could they use money earned during the cookie sale to make a difference in their community?” What could they do to make a difference for kids in their community, that would also make them proud to say they were a part of the project when they’re older?

After discussing this, the girl scouts agreed that the bathrooms, specifically the bathroom doors, were a big problem at Argyle Legion Park. The doors were so heavy, many kids were unable to open them and even became trapped in the bathroom at times! The girl scouts decided to take action, and make the bathroom more accessible for the kids who visit the park. They didn’t stop at the doors though, and decided to improve the building overall. The girl scouts added a fresh coat of paint, plants around the building, a new water fountain, and a diaper changing station in the men’s bathroom (“because men change diapers too!”).

To make this all possible, the girl scouts applied for a grant from the Argyle Community Fund and were awarded $1150 in addition to the $300 they had already raised. In total, girls from 6 different troops participated in the project, planting and painting over the course of last summer. Now, the Argyle Legion Park has a new bathroom, and the Argyle Girl Scouts have made an impact that will be recognized for generations to come. Way to go, Argyle Girl Scouts!

How can your troop make a lasting impact in your community? Leave your ideas in the comments below!