(ABC 6 News) – A Rochester Girl Scout was honored for receiving the Gold Medal, the organization’s highest award, and also received special recognition from the Minnesota Senate.

Nineteen-year-old Anushka Kollengode has been a Girl Scout for eight years and says the experience has helped her grow and step out of her comfort zone.

“Going to camps, meeting friends and stuff,” she said, “it was just a way of pursuing my passions that I really enjoyed.”

Kollengode has accomplished quite a lot during her time in the Scouts, but the project that earned her this award stands out the most.

She has created a website with tips to help people do their part, no matter how small, to protect the environment, a cause that is particularly close to her heart.

“It affects us as people,” said Kollengode, “and it also affects the future and how we imagine our future.”

It was also the project that caught the attention of State Senator Carla Nelson and prompted her to recognize Kollengode’s work with a special Senate resolution.

“I believe our country desperately needs strong young women who are committed to the values ​​of Girl Scouts,” Nelson said. “And I believe we need to reward and encourage that.”

The resolution presented by Senator Nelson will be entered into the Senate Journal for future reference.

Less than 6% of Girl Scouts receive the Gold Medal each year, and even fewer can claim such a significant award.