“Discover Riverside” Program to Assist Scouts in Learning About Hometown

Program is open to Boy Scouts and youth in general

RIVERSIDE, Calif. – Scouts can learn about Riverside while documenting their knowledge of the history, arts and culture, and events in their city through a new “Discover Riverside” program.

The program, which also is available to young people who are not involved in scouting, is a great way to explore Riverside, get involved with activities around the city, attend educational and cultural events, and volunteer.

“Riverside has a lot to offer our young people, but, more importantly, our young people have a lot to offer to Riverside,” Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson said. “I encourage parents who want to help their children learn more about our city to embrace Discover Riverside.”

The program is the brainchild of Megan Sorokowski, a former Girl Scout who is now studying nursing at Azusa Pacific University. She completed the project while a high school senior at Woodcrest Christian to earn the Gold Award, the highest achievement as a Girl Scout. The Gold Award is granted to Seniors and Ambassadors who confront issues that inspire a lasting change with their communities.

“This project was a passion project created and inspired out of my love for the city I grew up in and the opportunities to experience it that I got through my time in Girl Scouts,” Sorokowski said. “I believe that every child should have the opportunity to experience their home from every aspect and truly understand what makes it such a special place. My desire is that children will learn to embrace Riverside for all that it has to offer.”

Activities are split into various categories – such as historic, outdoors, educational, art and culture – and each category is designed help young people become more informed about and involved in their city. Young people who complete the program will earn a Discover Riverside Badge.

For example, some of the activities in the historic category include visiting and learning about local landmarks, such as Heritage House, March Field Air Museum, the California Citrus State Historic Park, and the Riverside National Cemetery. Outdoor activities include walking Mt. Rubidoux, participating in the Mission Inn Run or visiting the UCR Botanic Gardens.

11 & YOUNGER APPLICATION 12 & UP APPLICATION

Contact:

Phil Pitchford

Public Information Officer

951-826-5975

ppitchford@riversideca.gov