Ashlyn Browning, a dedicated Girl Scout from Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church (LOPC), has made a remarkable impact at Lakeside Apartments through her volunteer work and leadership. Ashlyn launched her Girl Scout Gold Award project—the highest honor a Senior or Ambassador Girl Scout can achieve—in September to spectacular results. Her project focuses on revitalizing the Lakeside library and fostering a love of reading among local kids.
Over the course of three months, Ashlyn helped tidy the library space by adding some decor and reorganizing books by author and reading level. Building on this foundation, she created the “Reading Rocks” program, which runs every Thursday in three five-week sessions throughout the school year. Each session includes an icebreaker activity to build community, as well as a healthy snack, reading and discussion, and a craft activity.
Her commitment to the community extends beyond her Gold Award project; Ashlyn has been a beloved presence at Lakeside Apartments for the past four years, participating in events like LOPC- supported KidFest, and consistently inspiring the children. You can clearly see the special bond she has created with the kids each week as they eagerly greet her with hugs and excitement.
As Ashlyn prepares for her senior year and college ahead, her leadership and passion for literacy continue to shine brightly, embodying the spirit of the Girl Scout Gold Award by making a lasting, positive difference in her community. Her work helps Hope Solutions continue our work in supporting youth development and creating community for residents in our permanent supportive housing programs.
