A Girl Scout's Stewardship Transforms Apartments into Homes

We're spotlighting a middle school-aged volunteer who orchestrated and hosted an entire supply drive for LifeWorks clients. Katie Grumet is a Girl Scout working toward earning a Silver Award, the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette can earn. The recognition demonstrates her leadership skill and dedication to sustainably supporting her community.

From a young age, Katie has held a passion for helping youth experiencing homelessness, many of whom are just a few years older than her. As a result, she took an interest in supporting LifeWorks, specifically youth who move into their first apartments.

Katie launched a grassroots movement to raise awareness around LifeWorks and garner support throughout the community. She spent over 50 hours hustling for donations and shopping around Austin for home goods clients would need for their first apartment. To help organize the collection process, Katie created these First Place, First Kit fliers to educate the public on items that were needed, and other ways to donate.

In addition to collecting donations, Katie also held two bake sales to raise money to help buy items for the move-in kits. Then she assembled move-in kits with items that includes everything from new towels, toiletry supplies, and shower curtains. These move-in kits are more than supplies; they ensure that every apartment feels like home.

Katie presented her donations to Candace a former girl scout herself and now a dedicated LifeWorks housing program staff member. We thank Katie for her dedication and time in this vast undertaking and cannot wait to see what she plans to do next!