Holmdel Girl Scout Awarded For Crafting Reusable Tributes To Vets

HOLMDEL, NJ - 31 Monmouth and Ocean County Girl Scouts were recently named recipients of the Girl Scout Silver Award, which serves as the highest award presented by the organization for scouts in sixth through eighth grade.

Tackling complex issues such as cyberbullying, cancer care support and environmental sustainability, the winners were honored at a drive-thru ceremony last month at the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore Program Activity Center in Farmingdale.

Catherine Petretti of Holmdel was recently awarded for her efforts in creating reusable wreaths for Veterans Day and Memorial Day ceremonies.

The eighth grader drew inspiration for the project after noticing floral wreaths being presented and thrown away at a previous Veterans Day ceremony. For her initiative, Petretti crafted five reusable floral wreaths that made their debut at this years’ Veterans Day Ceremony on Nov. 11.

Mayor Greg Buontempo thanked her in his speech and Petretti was recognized in the township’s monthly newsletter.

To win the prestigious award, Girl Scouts must fulfill several requirements including taking on a community project that makes a lasting impact. Throughout the process, scouts aim to develop organization and leadership skills that benefit their community.

“Especially this year, we are truly proud of the impact that our Silver Award Girl Scouts have made in their communities,” said Eileen M. Higgins, CEO of the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore. “Collectively, they devoted over 1,500 hours toward making their communities a better place to live.”