Ford Philanthropy Teams Up with Arizona Girl Scouts
The Ford Philanthropy’s Operation Better World Phoenix committee teamed up with Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council (GSACPC) on a partnership that resulted in additional STEM programming for girls in grades K-12 as well as teen driver safety education via the Ford Driving Skills for Life program.
A $10,000 grant helped to support STEM experiences, including a number of new badge activities offered to Girl Scouts at all grade levels.
“STEM education aligns with Ford’s mission to recruit and hire the most talented men and women in the engineering fields,” said Brad Jones, Ford Regional Manager in Phoenix. “We’re also excited to introduce older driving-age Girl Scouts to our annual Ford Driving Skills for Life training and teach them advanced driving skills that might save their life one day.”
In November 2019, a group of 25 Senior and Ambassador level Girl Scouts completed the half-day Ford Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) training and received a special patch featuring a Ford Mustang. Additionally, the Ford DSFL team attended the Council’s annual signature fundraising event, Badge Bash, to share information on Ford DSFL and put attendees through some of the basic concepts taught at Ford DSFL, including wearing impairment goggles that simulate drunk or drugged driving.
“At Girl Scouts, we know that STEM is a crucial component of building leadership skills in girls,” said Jessica Lyon, Director of Development at GSACPC. “Through our partnership with the Ford Philanthropy, we’re extending the reach of our programming to girls who will use their new skills to make their communities and their world a better place.”
