A Race to Help Others
June 25, 2023
Earlier this summer, dozens of Girl Scouts from several troops all across the state gathered in Maine’s biggest city to participate in one of GSME’s most exciting activities of the year, the Amazing Race: Portland! The race is a travel-based scavenger hunt, which allows girls to practice problem-solving, navigation, teamwork, and of course have some fun along the way.
Knowing that it isn’t every day they get to explore the city of Portland on foot, Troop 351 decided to take their race one extra step further.
“Two of our Girl Scouts who participated in the Amazing Race last year remembered walking past several homeless people, and decided they wanted to do something for them this time,” says Troop 351 Leader Tracy Frost.
And do something they did. Six girls from the troop put together “Help Bags” filled with everyday necessities such as toothbrushes, tooth paste, hand sanitizer, Band-Aids, socks, snacks, candy, and more to distribute to those in need throughout the day.
Starting their race on Peaks Island, the girls began the day adventuring immediately.
“They decided to start at Peaks Island and when we got there, we explored the shores and marine ecosystem, […] they loved taking the ferry. Most of the girls had never been on a boat before so it was really exciting,” says Tracy.
After island hopping for a few hours, the troop headed to Portland’s Arts District located in the West End to look around at the colorful displays and endless galleries. During their time in the area, the girls were able to give out all but one of their six “Help Bags,” to homeless folks.
“All who received a bag from the girls were extremely appreciative, it was great seeing the girls not be afraid of helping others,” says Tracy.
Although there were many reasons that Tracy felt proud of Troop 351 throughout the Amazing Race, one of her favorite parts was watching her girls develop confidence and encourage one another consistently during the entire experience.
