Brynlie Peery
Linn-Mar Senior Brynlie Peery is making a meaningful impact in her community by creating music kits for children. As part of her Girl Scout Gold Award, Peery spent four years planning, fundraising, and designing 14 kits now available at the Hiawatha Public Library. The kits, aimed at children ages 1 and up, offer a hands-on learning experience through instruments and storybooks.
The project began when Peery raised $500 through Girl Scout cookie sales to fund the kits. She initially contacted the Marion Public Library but was turned away. Undeterred, Peery reached out to the Hiawatha Library, which eagerly partnered with her. Over the next two years, Peery gained approval, purchased materials, and carefully crafted the kits for younger and older children.
“When I walked into the library to present the kits, Alicia Mangin and her supervisor were speechless,” Peery recalled. “It felt so rewarding to see their appreciation.” The kits include musical instruments, storybooks, and instructional guides, and were introduced at a special public presentation.
The response has been overwhelmingly positive. After just one week, over half of the kits were already checked out. “It was incredible to see the kids’ excitement as they played with the kits for the first time,” Peery said.
Peery’s drive to serve others comes from her experiences volunteering with her parents through Girl Scouts. “My mom taught me to spread kindness and give back to my community,” Peery shared. Her family’s support has been instrumental in her success.
In addition to her Gold Award project, Peery is active in extracurriculars at Linn-Mar, including Show Choir, Chamber Singers, National Honor Society, and Student Council. She also interned at St. Luke’s Hospital and plans to attend the University of Iowa to pursue a nursing degree.
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