Dozens of Girl Scouts of Suffolk County rolled up their sleeves and took to the shoreline at Heckscher State Park in East Islip on September 13, collecting litter, cleaning up the beach and learning how their individual actions can help protect Long Island’s natural environment.
The two-hour beach cleanup brought together Girl Scouts, troop leaders, parents and volunteers of all ages as part of the annual “Girl Scouts Love State Parks!” initiative, a nationwide event organized by Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) to encourage girls to explore, appreciate and protect state parks.
Armed with bags and a commitment to making a difference, the girls combed the shoreline for discarded trash, collected litter and learned about proper waste disposal and recycling practices. The hands-on activity demonstrated how even small actions can make a meaningful difference in preserving local beaches and protecting the environment.
Long Island’s beaches and parks are some
“Long Island’s beaches and parks are some of our community’s greatest natural rea responsibility to help protect them,” said Tammy Severino, President and CEO of Girl Scouts of Suffolk County. “Activities like this teach girls that leadership isn’t just about having ideas. It’s about taking action, working together and making a positive difference in the world around them.”
Beyond removing litter from the shoreline, the cleanup provided an opportunity for girls to develop teamwork, leadership and environmental stewardship skills while gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural spaces in their own communities.
For many participants, the experience also reinforced one of the central principles of Girl Scouting: giving back to their communities through service.
Community service is an important part
“Community service is an important part of the Girl Scout experience, and this event gives girls an opportunity to see the direct impact of their efforts,” said Amanda Adair, Senior Program Coordinator, Outdoor & Older Girl Programming for GSSC. “They can look at the beach when they arrive, see the difference they’ve made when they’re finished and understand that they have the power to create positive change. Those are lessons that stay with them long after the event is over.”
Participating Girl Scouts also earned a special “Girl Scouts Love State Parks” patch in recognition of their efforts.
The annual Girl Scouts Love State Parks initiative encourages Girl Scouts across the country to visit state parks, participate in outdoor activities and engage in conservation projects. The program introduces girls to opportunities for outdoor recreation while reinforcing the importance of protecting natural re
Through activities ranging from camping and hiking
Through activities ranging from camping and hiking to environmental conservation and community service, Girl Scouts of Suffolk County provides girls with opportunities to build confidence, develop practical skills, become leaders and make meaningful contributions to their communities.
“Girl Scouting is about giving girls the confidence and skills to take on challenges and become leaders,” Severino added. “When girls participate in projects like this, they learn that they don’t have to wait until they’re adults to make a difference. They can start right now, right here in their own communities.”
About Girl Scouts of Suffolk County
Girl Scouts of the USA was chartered by the US Congress on March 16, 1950. Girl Scouting builds courage, confidence, and character in girls who make the world a better place. Girl Scouts helps girls develop their full individual potential; relate to others with increasing understanding, skill, and respect; develop values to guide their actions and provide the foundation for sound decision making; and contribute to the improvement of society through their abilities, leadership skills, and cooperation with others. Follow Girl Scouts of Suffolk County on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.
