Simply Sun-sational Scholarship Winner - Kristen Gilman, Escondido, CA
I became active in community service at a young age as a Girl Scout. In the thirteen years from a Daisy to a Senior Scout I have seen the positive effect that one person can make. I strive to shine a bit of hope and kindness. Girl Scouts have opened up numerous community service opportunities. 
Over the years I have been fortunate to receive recognition for my service. Some of these include Girl Scout Silver and Gold Awards, Girl Scout Leadership Award, 2 Helping Hand awards (100 hours each), Certificate of Leadership from Escondido Compact, and a Certificate of Appreciation from Escondido Children's Library.
I enjoy reading and have tried to foster that joy in other children. I lead a children's reading program called "Blooming with Books." I also worked with Escondido Library at Dia De Los Nino's Reading Program and tutored children's computer use. If I can bring the love of books to a child I bring a bit of sunshine that will last a lifetime.
Over the years I have also helped Elizabeth Hospice. I participated in mass mailing events, worked in their thrift shop, and making fundraiser ornaments. I even had a chance to model for their promotional materials. They are an amazingly caring organization. Working with Hospice I can shine a little light on people at a very dark time.
The single most important project that I have participated in was my Girl Scout Gold Award. The main focus of my project was to create a bereavement camp where families can heal as a unit. Camp Comfort was created to help grieving families. The project was original because nothing of this nature had ever been done. I felt there was a need in the community this camp could meet.
Due to this project, numerous families were able to make much needed emotional and personal healing through Camp Comfort. This camp benefited families by helping them to use each other as a support system. The Elizabeth Hospice is enthused about this camp. They are excited to make this an annual event so it will continue to help grieving families.
I learned to never underestimate the impact of your efforts. Your service may seem small to you but to the recipient it may mean more than you realize. I sewed many quilts for a project called Golden Quilts. These handmade quilts were donated to women's shelters. The women not only appreciated the quilts but were very touched that someone took the time and cared about them during their struggle.
My community service projects have taught me to balance patience and persistence. Also that large project can be accomplished in small steps. I truly believe in the rippling effect of community service. My work helps to meet an immediate need in the community but also has a continuing effect through the relationships I have made and the things I have learned. If you shine the light of kindness on others that light also brightens your own life.
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