A Florida Girl Scout’s project to address the issue of historical neglect in African American cemeteries, especially those honoring fallen soldiers, has earned the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida’s prestigious Silver Award.
Stuart resident and Cadette-level Girl Scout Adriyana Bailey’s project addressed the issue of neglect at cemeteries such as Moore’s Cemetery.
“The Silver Award empowers Girl Scouts to uncover community needs and lead with purpose. Our programs build their confidence, inspire the girls to become advocates and prepare them with life-ready skills,” said CEO of Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida Lisa Johnson. “Adriyana’s project shines a light on an often-overlooked piece of our shared history and ensures that the stories of African American soldiers will continue to be honored for generations to come.”
The Silver Award is the highest recognition attainable by Girl Scout Cadettes in grades six through eight. The award highlights the innovative and impactful projects the young leaders develop to address pressing community needs, according to a release.
Many African American cemeteries have been forgotten due to limited documentation, awareness, and funding, making it difficult for families and communities to properly honor those laid to rest there, the release continued.
To restore dignity and recognition to these burial grounds, Bailey, from Troop 31030, established “Honoring the Forgotten: Presenting the African American Cemeteries.” Moore’s Cemetery, which dates back to 1918, contains more than 250 unmarked graves.
Bailey developed educational materials and outreach efforts to raise awareness about the cultural and historical importance of African American cemeteries and the soldiers interred within them.
To foster a renewed sense of care and community to the site, she organized a rock-painting initiative featuring encouraging words, Bible verses, and American Flag designs. Created by family, friends and Girl Scouts from Martin County, the colorful tributes were placed throughout the cemetery to symbolize remembrance, honor and hope.
The initiative also laid the foundation for sustainability by encouraging local organizations and schools to continue supporting the cemetery through future service projects. Bailey created lasting educational materials and digital records to help preserve the cemetery’s history for generations to come.
Bailey was one of 74 young female leaders in the region to earn the Silver Award during the recent 7th Annual Silver Award Showcase presented by the Gina Rose Montalto Foundation with additional sponsorship support from Amazon and HCA Florida Healthcare.
“Our Silver Award recipients remind us that meaningful change begins with those who care enough to take action,” added Johnson. “These remarkable young leaders are honoring the past while shaping a brighter future. We couldn’t be prouder of their compassion, creativity and commitment to making a difference.”
Collectively, the 2025 Silver Award Class contributed more than 4,100 service hours through 35 projects that addressed issues including care for aging populations, mental health awareness, food insecurity, environmental sustainability and honoring veterans.
Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvetscom.