Service Unit: SU5406-Pine Richland
County: Allegheny
Total Girl Scout Years: 11
Volunteer Years: 9
Current and Former Volunteer Positions: troop leader, new leader coach, troop MagNut & cookie coordinator, service unit all-camp coordinator
Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette
Girl Scout Pillar Experience: STEM, Life Skills, Outdoors
Specialties: camping, MagNut program, cookie program, Bronze Award, outdoor skills, badges, ceremonies/traditions, First Aid/CPR/AED
Awards: Appreciation Pin, Service Unit President’s Award
Certifications: Outdoor Training
What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I really enjoy Girl Scouts! Not only have my daughters made great friends, but I have also made wonderful adult connections through my time volunteering. I love the experiences and adventures we share as Girl Scouts and can’t say enough about the fun things and important life skills we gain.
What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
Girl Scouting to me is a network of women (and some stellar dads!) who freely give their time to help girls grow into well-rounded adults with hearts filled with memories.
It’s about meeting girls where they are and delving into their interests—and nudging them outside their comfort zone.
It’s the experience of watching girls grow up and learn to navigate interpersonal challenges and witnessing the pride they feel when they reach their goals.
What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
I think I’m there to help the girls learn how to reach their goals. When they are younger, it’s offering choices and having them vote and decide as a group. As they get older, I see my role as listening to them and helping implement their plans. There’s a lot to be gained from negotiation and compromise within the troop. Finally, I think part of the challenge for leaders is finding ways to keep older girls interested and engaged.
What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
My advice is to divide and conquer with your co-leader(s)! Lean into your interests and talents. Be willing to try new things. There is no recipe for a troop—it’s more about being excited about the activities you do than doing certain things. Things won’t always go the way you plan them—model how to be adaptable. Let people help you whether you ask or they offer.
Other Organizations: Boy Scout Committee volunteer, former Cub Scout den leader, PTO volunteer
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