When deciding what type of project to take on for her Girl Scout Silver Award, Caden knew that she wanted to use the art of crochet to help positively impact her community. Caden was shown the basics of how to crochet by her grandma. She then continued to learn watching dozens of YouTube videos on how to crochet amigurumi stuffed animals.

Caden quickly realized she wanted to help make children more comfortable in traumatic situations. She created “The Snuggle Squad” to help children get through emergencies by providing crocheted stuffed animals to first responders to give to kids in crisis situations. 

Caden recently donated her creations to the Zebulon Police Department, and has been networking through family and community contacts to find additional first responders who may be in need of a Snuggle Squad donation. She’s also been busy teaching other Girl Scout troops how to crochet to widen her network of crocheters, as well as recruit adult crocheters who can help make more animals to donate to the community.

“We could not be more proud of Caden and all that she has accomplished,” said her mom. “The ripple effect of Caden’s little idea of the Snuggle Squad is not only helping supply first responders with stuffed animals, but also building a community and teaching others to love a nearly lost art.” It’s also brought her family closer together, choosing stitching over screen time. 

Caden has a passion for helping others, and works tirelessly to make time to serve her community. She makes the most of every day by filling her time with activities and organizations that she deeply cares about.

She was nominated by her proud mom, and Kids Wish Network was thrilled to reward this Hero of the Month for her dedication in helping others and inspiring leadership. Caden received a special gift package including a generous retail gift card. “She was so surprised and overwhelmed when she opened the package,” said her mom. “She was definitely not expecting such generosity for doing something that she loves doing! She is so excited to buy more yarn and materials to make more stuffed crochet animals to deliver to first responders with her gift card.” She spent her entire spring break crocheting, and she is almost ready to deliver another donation to the Wake Forest Police Department.