Red Sneaker Day Spotlight: Makena Bactat

Red Sneaker Days provides a “day” when everyone wears their red sneakers/shoes (or anything red) and participates together to raise awareness for the dangers of food allergies. The goal is not only to increase education and awareness to the communities of those suffering with food allergies, but just as importantly, to educate those who are not directly affected by them.

Makena was honored for her Gold Award Girl Scout project, that of which she partnered with Red Sneakers for Oakley to help complete, at a recent Los Angeles Angels baseball game! Makena wanted to address the need for education about food allergies. Through her Gold Award project, Food Allergy Awareness, she focused on Physical Health: Nutrition, and educated four classes of fourth graders at Don Juan Avila Elementary School about the severity of food allergies. She spread awareness to the students, as they learned how to help their peers. Makena designed and taught a lesson plan focused on the topic of food allergies. Children all over the globe are bullied by their peers who don't understand the severity of food allergies. Makena has a severe peanut allergy and chose this project since she is passionate about spreading awareness in her area and at the elementary school she attended. Makena was able to teach 120 students in Aliso Viejo. Her project will continue to be beneficial as her non-profit sponsor continues to teach the incoming student about this topic.

Makena says: “I was able to learn about the roles of our educators and put myself in their shoes. I learned new strengths and skills, which helped me overcome challenges and develop a new work ethic. This project has developed into a larger picture, as I will continue to spread awareness and advocate for safety within different communities. Overall, this project taught me about myself and how I can contribute to efforts I am passionate about.”