2026 Reflections Program

CAROLE HOELSCHER Carole was inspired by her personal connection to the fire service through family members and by her understanding of how overwhelming emergency situations can be for autistic and other neurodivergent teens and adults. She recognized that loud sirens, flashing lights, unfamiliar surroundings, and stressful moments can heighten fear, anxiety, and sensory overload, creating additional challenges during emergencies. To address the need and earn the Gold Award, Carole created seven complete sensory kits for the Wentzville Fire Protection District, enough for each primary fire truck and one reserve vehicle. She also supplied each station with replacement tools and resources for continued use. The kits included sensory items designed to help individuals regulate emotions, stay calm, and feel more secure during stressful encounters. In addition, Carole developed communication cards for individuals who may be unable to speak verbally during emergencies, helping first responders better understand needs and respond effectively. She also provided resource guides so departments could easily reorder tools as needed. After presenting her work to the Wright City Fire Protection District, the department immediately ordered supplies for its own sensory kits. Carole then assembled four additional kits for Wright City and organized re-supply materials for their stations. VIRGINIA JENKINS Virginia completed her Gold Award project by restoring the historic Monk’s Bath at Camp Fiddlecreek, a Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri Camp property. Built in the early 1900s, the Monk’s Bath was originally used by Benedictine monks who occupied the property as a retreat until 1956, when it was acquired by the Girl Scout Council. The bath, once heated by a furnace that remains visible behind the structure today, had fallen into disrepair over time. Virginia led a complete restoration of the Monk’s Bath—uncovering and cleaning the original bricks and stones, mortaring loose pieces back into place, and installing a new sign to recognize the site’s historical importance. She collaborated with the Franklin County Historical Society and Museum to ensure her restoration methods were safe and appropriate for the century-old structure. Beyond the physical restoration, Virginia also ensured the project’s long term sustainability by partnering with a local Girl Scout troop that will maintain the site in the future. As she worked, she shared the story and cultural significance of the Monk’s Bath with others, helping preserve not only a structure but an important piece of local history.

District 14, Troop 4032 Benedicite Education 8 years in Girl Scouts Milestones Silver Award Girl Scout Graduating Girl Scout

District 13, Troop 4263 Pacific High School 11 years in Girl Scouts Milestones Bronze Award Girl Scout 2025 Graduate Girl Scout