Girl Scouts Gold Award Project

Building Community Through Service: Joy O’Dell’s Girl Scouts Gold Award Project

At Clearinghouse CDFI, we proudly support initiatives that inspire leadership and meaningful community contributions. One recent example is our sponsorship of Joy O’Dell’s Girl Scouts Gold Award project. Through determination, creativity, and collaboration, Joy built a wooden bench for the Ontario Police Department to provide a space of relief for officers and staff.

Empowering Youth Through Leadership

Joy, an Ambassador Girl Scout with Troop 2052, has been a part of the organization since the age of five. The Gold Award—a distinction earned by only 5% of Girl Scouts—represents the culmination of her leadership journey.

“Achieving the Gold Award means being recognized for hard work while giving back to my community,” said Joy. “This project reminded me that small changes can have a big impact.”

Clearinghouse CDFI’s Role in Making an Impact

Clearinghouse CDFI sponsored Joy’s project, ensuring she had the resources to bring her vision to life. Our Chief Operating Officer, Yves Mombeleur, who also serves as Board Treasurer for the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council, provided key support and joined Joy to celebrate the bench’s completion.

The project, which began as a concept to revitalize the police department’s dog kennels, shifted focus to creating a bench for their break area. With guidance from her father and support from sponsors like Clearinghouse CDFI and local donors, Joy worked tirelessly from August to November to complete the project.

A Bench With a Purpose

Joy’s bench now resides at the Ontario Police Department, providing officers and staff with a welcoming space to recharge. The plaque on the bench commemorates its significance as part of her Girl Scouts Gold Award project.

“The bench is more than a piece of furniture—it’s a reminder to prioritize well-being so they can continue serving the community,” Joy said.

Joy O'Dell - Girl Scouts Gold - Bench Inscription

Leadership in Action

Clearinghouse CDFI is committed to fostering leadership and positive change in communities. By supporting projects like Joy’s, we help create opportunities for young leaders to grow and leave lasting impacts. Joy’s project also underscores the importance of partnerships, with Yves Mombeleur and other CCDFI Team members playing a critical roles as mentors and advocates for youth leadership initiatives.

Join Us in Empowering Future Leaders

Clearinghouse CDFI continues to invest in projects that promote leadership, community well-being, and growth. Learn more about Joy’s journey and explore her project website for additional details: Building Benches.

Together, we can lead and inspire. Contact us to find out how we can support your vision for change.