At Front Porch Fest on August 30, festival-goers gathered for Jada Hylton’s Build-A-Barrel Workshop, a hands-on program promoting water conservation.
The workshop began with a water filtration experiment and tips on saving water, followed by information about Jada’s own rain barrel project. As part of her Girl Scout Silver Award project, Jada explained how she received a donation from One Family Productions’ Grassroots Grant program, purchased supplies from Patrick Building Supply, and worked with her dad to install the system on Main Street in Stuart at the Patrick County Visitor’s Center.
The highlight came when attendees received free spigot kits to convert their own trash cans into rain barrels. A “Test Your Water Sense” quiz added a fun touch, with sticker prizes for correct answers. Families also took home activity packets, including coloring pages, a water-use calculator, and a pledge to conserve water.
Jada expressed gratitude to those who supported her project: Olivia Booth, Cadette & Senior Leader for Troop 1302; Cathy Natoli, Patrick County Girl Scout Service Unit Manager; Scott Moore, property owner; One Family Productions for inviting her to speak at the festival; and Eric & Shannon Cassell for donating cinderblocks.
The workshop blended education and creativity, leaving participants inspired to conserve water in their own backyards. Community members interested in applying for a Grassroots Grant from One Family Productions can visit www.onefamilyproductions.org.
