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Emily Chavez Empowers Mental Health Advocacy with Gold Award Project, "How to Be a Superhero"
Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey proudly recognizes Emily Chavez, a Gold Award Girl Scout, for her impactful mental health advocacy project, “How to Be a Superhero.”
Emily’s project is a comprehensive guide designed to help individuals better understand mental health and become stronger allies and advocates. Through an e-book, website, social media page, and a large outreach event, Emily has provided an accessible, research-backed resource to support both those experiencing mental health challenges and those who want to help.
Her inspiration came from her hometown youth group, where leadership roles led her to explore mental health more deeply. Through her research, Emily recognized how many people, even those with good intentions, struggle to know how to support loved ones facing mental health hardships. Determined to close this gap, she created step-by-step guides, coping mechanisms, and conversation tools to empower individuals to make a real difference.
“To me, being a Girl Scout means doing something for the world that is bigger than you,” Emily shared. “Years ago, I never imagined I would be able to pull off something as big and as beautiful as How to Be a Superhero. However, with lessons in planning, team communication, time management, and community outreach, I can go into college with big ambitions and no fear. Just because something seems bigger than you, that does not make it unattainable.”
Emily’s project will continue to impact her community through her website ( How to Be a Superhero), Instagram page ( @howtobeasuperher0), and pamphlets distributed in local schools and organizations.
The Gold Award is the highest achievement in Girl Scouting, recognizing Girl Scouts who demonstrate extraordinary leadership, tackle important community issues, and create sustainable change. Emily’s work in mental health education and advocacy exemplifies the power of courage, confidence, and character in action.
Join us in celebrating Emily and all Gold Award Girl Scouts who are making a difference!
Learn more about the Gold Award and how Girl Scouts are changing the world by clicking here.
March 14, 2025
