Colorado Student’s Clothing Drive to India Wins Top Girl Scout Award

Written on 04/30/2025


Aurora, CO— In a heartwarming initiative, Aurora high schooler Kanshita Dam has earned the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award by launching "Global Garments for Good," a project that collects and ships gently used ethnic clothing to underserved communities in India. Her efforts not only promote sustainability but also provide much-needed attire to individuals striving to overcome poverty.

 

Key Facts:

  • Kanshita Dam collaborated with local temples and cultural organizations to collect gently used garments, reducing waste and supporting individuals in India.

 

  • The project, "Global Garments for Good," has already sent three shipments within six months, establishing a sustainable system for ongoing clothing drives.

 

  • Dam's initiative is among 35 Gold Award projects recognized in Colorado this year, addressing various social issues and highlighting youth leadership.

 

Dam's project began with a simple yet impactful idea: repurpose gently used ethnic clothing to serve those in need. By partnering with a Hindu temple in Denver and the Milonee Association, she established a network that facilitated the collection and distribution of garments. These organizations have committed to continuing the clothing drives, ensuring the project's sustainability.

 

The initiative has not only provided clothing to individuals in India but also fostered a sense of community and purpose among volunteers in Colorado. Dam's leadership and dedication have inspired others to contribute, creating a ripple effect of goodwill and cultural connection.

 

The broader implications of Dam's project are significant. By addressing clothing waste and promoting reuse, she contributes to environmental sustainability. Simultaneously, the project supports economic and social development in Indian communities, demonstrating the power of grassroots initiatives in effecting global change.

 

"By collecting gently used garments to reduce waste and support individuals working to rise out of poverty, the project built strong partnerships with local temples and cultural organizations," a statement from Girl Scouts Colorado said.

 

Dam's "Global Garments for Good" exemplifies how individual initiative can lead to meaningful, sustainable change. Her project not only addresses immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for ongoing support and cultural exchange between communities in Colorado and India. As the initiative continues, it stands as a testament to the impact of youth-led service and the enduring value of compassion and collaboration.

 

Do You Know?

The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest achievement in Girl Scouting, recognizing projects that demonstrate extraordinary leadership and sustainable impact. Only about 5.4% of eligible Girl Scouts earn this prestigious award.

 

Key Terms:

  • Girl Scout Gold Award: The highest honor in Girl Scouting, awarded to Senior and Ambassador Girl Scouts who demonstrate leadership through sustainable community service projects.

  • Global Garments for Good: Kanshita Dam's initiative focused on collecting and distributing gently used ethnic clothing to underserved communities in India.

  • Milonee Association: A cultural organization that partnered with Dam to facilitate the clothing drives and ensure the project's sustainability.