Ashley Bittner, a senior at Smithtown High School West and member of Girl Scout Troop 270, was recently inspired by the severe flooding that impacted the Smithtown Public Library on August 19. So Ashley decided to do something about it, and started a project titled, "GOLDen Threads of Connection."
“When I witnessed the devastation of the Smithtown Library by the storm, I felt a profound sense of urgency to take action. It wasn’t just about preserving the books and the building; it was about safeguarding a place where people can connect, learn, and find support.”
Recognizing the library’s essential role in the community, Ashley focused her efforts on disaster preparedness, community education, and long-term resilience. She created and led workshops on storm readiness, designed outreach materials to promote awareness, and fundraised for new resources to support the library’s recovery. Her efforts culminated in a series of custom plaques now displayed at the library, which honor the importance of preparedness and community unity.
Ashley is working towards the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award—the highest honor in Girl Scouts.
