Port Charlotte Girl Scout's Gold Award Project Combats Bullying with Kindness

Hannah Dickinson, a Port Charlotte resident, has been honored with the Girl Scout Gold Award for her project 'Kindness Counts,' which addresses the pervasive issue of bullying in schools by transforming negative environments into sources of positivity and support. The project focused on school bathrooms, areas often marred by hurtful graffiti, by replacing derogatory messages with vibrant murals that promote kindness and self-worth. Dickinson's initiative also introduced a 'positivity wall' for students to share uplifting messages, fostering a culture of compassion and mutual respect.

The significance of Dickinson's work is underscored by alarming statistics from the State of the Florida Girl report, which reveals that 52% of Florida high school girls experience prolonged sadness or hopelessness, with a 60% increase in suicidal thoughts over the past decade. Furthermore, one in eight girls avoids school due to safety concerns, highlighting the urgent need for interventions like Dickinson's. By collaborating with school staff and the district's strategic planning committee, her project has the potential to influence a broader audience, extending its impact beyond a single school.

Lisa Johnson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida, praised the Gold Award recipients for their innovative and compassionate approaches to tackling contemporary challenges. Dickinson was among 27 young women recognized at the 2025 Annual Gold Award Ceremony, supported by sponsors such as Amazon and Publix Super Market Charities. Her project exemplifies the Girl Scouts' mission to empower girls to become leaders who inspire positive change in their communities.