Hays High’s Sarah Farrell earned a Girl Scout Gold Award for her efforts in collecting used athletic shoes for Nike’s Reuse-a-Shoe program; the sneakers are recycled to make playground surfaces around the world. (Courtesy photo)
STAFF REPORT
How can old sneakers help a Girl Scout earn a Gold Award? It’s easy when the shoes are recycled and turned into playground surfaces around the world.
Sarah Farrell, a Hays High School student, coordinated a “Shoes for the Sole” campaign intended to teach younger students about healthy eating, being active and environmental stewardship.
Sarah’s project offered a week-long Health and Fitness Pledge to students at Elm Grove Elementary. Sarah then gave the kids self-created comic books reinforcing the pledge goals.
Fueled by a popsicle party incentive, Elm Grove students turned in more than 420 pairs of used athletic shoes during a week-long drive through Nike’s Reuse-a-Shoe program.
The winning class also received an American flag previously flown over the U.S. Capitol, provided by Congressman Lloyd Doggett.
