May 5, 2005

Girl Scout Troop 701 goes for the gold and helps troubled teens in the process

By Julie Davis Berry
Executive Editor

Most teenage girls spend their Saturdays at the mall or at the movies or simply instant messaging their friends.

But for a group of 11 Almaden teens, last Saturday was a chance to further their Girl Scout careers—and help troubled teens in the process. Troop 701, led by troop leader Jennifer Moyen, worked for seven hours helping to convert an old church in east San Jose into a school for troubled teens under the auspices of the group Rebuilding Together (formerly known as Christmas in April).

The Girl Scout who organized the event for her troop is 15-year-old Lauren Traina. As Senior Girl Scouts, the troop comprised of 15-17-year-olds are working toward achieving the highest level of girl scouting, the Gold Award, which is equivalent to the Boy Scout’s Eagle status. To achieve this, the girls must attain leadership hours. Lauren chose Rebuilding Together as a recipient of her leadership skills.

“This is our second year working with Rebuilding Together,” explained the Presentation High School student. “I like the organization because we get to do something that is directly benefiting someone else. We painted the inside of the church for about seven hours.”

Founded in 1991, Rebuilding Together Silicon Valley transforms homes by repairing or rebuilding homes and community facilities for low-income homeowners, particularly the elderly, the disabled and families with children. By 2003, according to Rebuilding Together Silicon Valley’s Web site (www.rebuildingtogether-sv.org), the organization had rehabilitated more than 235 homes and facilities, enabling residents to live in warmth, safety and independence.

Lauren’s dad Joel Traina was particularly impressed with the Girl Scout’s efforts. “I think it is very refreshing to find a group of girls at their age who are willing to give up a Saturday to help their community.”