When Nawal Abuhamdeh from St. Louis helped lead her daughter’s Girl Scout troop, she never expected their compassion project would lead to legal threats. But a simple fundraising idea—creating bracelets to support children in Gaza—sparked a controversy that ultimately led her to disband the troop altogether.
Abuhamdeh had been an active troop leader for four years, especially during their annual cookie sales. But this year, as the season approached, her heart wasn’t in it. The unfolding humanitarian crisis in Gaza weighed heavily on her and the girls in her troop.
💔 When the News Hits Home
The conflict in Gaza, described as one of the most devastating in recent memory, has claimed thousands of lives—many of them children. With basic needs like food and clean water becoming scarce, the girls, who come from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, were deeply moved by the news.
“They were grieving. They saw the videos. They wanted to help,” said Abuhamdeh.
So the troop decided to channel their emotions into action: making and selling beaded bracelets to raise money for the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, a humanitarian organization providing aid to kids in the region.
🚫 Compassion Meets Resistance
Despite the fundraiser’s non-political intent, the Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri objected, citing policies around political neutrality. According to the leadership, even well-meaning efforts could be seen as taking sides in a geopolitical conflict.
Abuhamdeh tried to clarify that the girls’ project was purely humanitarian, but the organization didn’t budge. The tension escalated when the troop received legal threats over policy violations.
✂️ Walking Away from the Institution
Feeling unsupported, Abuhamdeh made the difficult decision to disband the troop and part ways with the Girl Scouts. She emphasized that this wasn’t about politics—it was about standing firm in values like empathy, courage, and community service.
“Sometimes, doing the right thing means going against the grain,” she shared.
🌍 What This Story Teaches Us
Abuhamdeh’s story is a powerful reminder that parenting and leadership are not about blind conformity. It’s about nurturing empathy, critical thinking, and resilience in the next generation—even when institutions resist.
At a time when children are more aware than ever of global issues, it’s essential to guide their compassion and teach them how to act meaningfully—even when it’s uncomfortable.
