Troop 11298
The phrase “give back” is often tied to the months of October and November, but for the Girl Scout Troop 11298, located in Hays, it has become so much more.
Over a year ago, the girls were presented with a challenge from their leaders to find meaningful ways to give back to the community, not just once or twice a year, but for twelve consecutive months. Without hesitation, the girls embraced the idea.
Now, more than a year later, Troop 11298 has not only completed that challenge but carried it forward with passion, creativity, and heart. Month after month, these girls have shown that giving back is more than an activity, it’s a way of life. In doing so, they have redefined what true leadership looks like, regardless of age.
While some acts of service may seem small, the troop has learned that impact isn’t measured by size, but by sincerity. A handmade card, a simple visit, or a small donation can bring just as much joy as a large-scale project.
Here are just a few examples of Troop 11298’s recent acts of service:
· September 2024: Handmade pet toys donated to the High Plains Humane Society.
· November 2024: Created over 300 handcrafted Thanksgiving cards for nursing home residents in Hays.
· December 2024: Sent heartfelt Christmas cards to a woman in Iowa whose husband decorated his neighborhood to bring her joy as she lives with dementia.
· January 2025: Donated bed sheets to the Cold Weather Shelter in Hays.
· February 2025: Painted wooden roses for Valentine’s Day gifts for nursing home residents.
· July 2025: Spent an afternoon at Brookdale Nursing Home playing BINGO and sharing smiles.
· September 2025: Donated small stuffed animals to local EMS, offering comfort to children riding in ambulances.
· October 2025: Built handmade birdhouses to help relocate barn swallows nesting around the High Plains Humane Society, giving the birds a safer home.
· November 2025: Created “Hero Kits” and delivered to our Hays Police Department
· December 2025: Secret Santa Elves for Brookdale Nursing Home residents
Life isn’t always easy, and we all face moments of struggle, uncertainty, and challenge. But the girls have learned that even in those times, finding a way to spread kindness can make a world of difference. Through their experiences, the girls have discovered an important truth, that every person, at every stage of life, faces challenges, yet also has something meaningful to offer.
Their journey serves as a reminder that when we give back, we not only strengthen our communities, but we also grow stronger as individuals, more confident, connected, and compassionate.
Today, Troop 11298 is extending this challenge to other organizations within the surrounding communities. No matter your age, whether you’re a kindergartener just beginning your journey or an adult who has already walked many paths, there is something powerful and fulfilling about investing in your community simply for the sake of giving back.
If your organization would like to join Troop 11298’s mission, collaborate on future service projects, or share ideas that can further support the Hays community, the troop welcomes your involvement. Together, we can continue to make a lasting difference, one thoughtful act at a time.
For questions, collaboration opportunities, to share your ideas, or if your organization has any needs we may be able to support, please contact us at [email protected].