Gold Award Spotlight: Emma Fulford
Meet Emma Fulford, a 2025 Gold Award Girl Scout from Troop 826 in Gulf Breeze, Florida! Emma turned her passion for soccer into a powerful project of equity and access. Through her Gold Award project, Leveling the Field, Emma set out to break down a common barrier many children face in youth sports: financial constraints.
Emma noticed that many young athletes were discouraged from joining soccer teams simply because they couldn’t afford the necessary equipment. Determined to make a difference, she launched a community-based initiative that collected and redistributed gently used soccer gear to families in need.
“I was able to talk to many parents and players that had old equipment in good condition and were eager to donate it,” Emma shared. “I was able to collect a lot of used soccer equipment, proving that there is an abundance of good-condition equipment that can be given back to the community.”
Emma partnered with local recreational soccer programs to place donation boxes in high-traffic areas, encouraging families to give their old gear a second life. Before each new season, she set up equipment stations at community soccer fields, making cleats, shin guards, balls, and uniforms readily available to players who needed them.
Beyond providing access to equipment, Emma’s project raised awareness about the hidden costs of youth sports and the importance of inclusion. Her thoughtful approach not only helped kids get on the field, but also helped shift the conversation around equity in athletics.
Thanks to Emma’s efforts, more children in Gulf Breeze are able to play the sport they love without worrying about how they’ll afford the gear. Her project is a shining example of what it means to lead with purpose and heart.
Congratulations, Emma! Your commitment to community and compassion is truly leveling the field for all.
To learn more about the Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest honor a Girl Scout can earn, visit: gsgateway.org/highest-awards
*To dive deeper into Emma’s project, check out her Gold Award interview at the link below!
