Avery Lacon's Gold Award Project Enhances Food Allergy Awareness and Safety in North Plainfield
Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey proudly celebrates Avery Lacon for her impactful Gold Award project, which has significantly improved food allergy awareness and safety in North Plainfield. Avery's project involved creating a comprehensive website listing local restaurants and the allergens present in their menus, along with educational resources on how to handle food allergy emergencies.
Avery's dedication to this project stems from her personal experience with severe food allergies. Allergic to all nine major food allergens and more, she understands the fear of trying new foods, particularly those from different cultures. North Plainfield, known for its cultural diversity, inspired Avery to create a resource that allows residents with food allergies to safely explore various cuisines.
The project included the development of a user-friendly website that provides detailed allergen information for local restaurants. Avery also designed informative flyers, posted in these restaurants, to educate customers on how to respond to food allergy emergencies. Furthermore, she conducted an educational lecture and demonstration on administering epinephrine for high school students.
"Being a Girl Scout means selflessness and taking initiative," Avery shared. "I was very shy growing up, but through Girl Scouts, I learned to be considerate, courageous, responsible, and determined. These values helped me overcome my fears and complete my project."
To ensure the sustainability of her project, Avery has collaborated with the North Plainfield High/Middle School Girls Who Code Club, which will maintain the website. Additionally, her lecture will be incorporated into future health classes, and the informational flyers will remain displayed in participating restaurants. Inspired by Avery’s efforts, other students have started a medical club to further educate the community on emergency response.
Avery’s project not only provides a vital resource for those with food allergies but also fosters a safer and more inclusive community.
Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey congratulates Avery Lacon on her outstanding achievement and her commitment to improving food allergy safety in her community.
June 14, 2024
