In honor of Volunteer Appreciation Month, Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania is honoring the people who keep our community thriving, this month and every month.
Kathy Blanarik has been leading with integrity and care for fifty years, and she has no plans on stopping. A longtime volunteer in the Freedom service unit, Kathy has served as a service unit manager and a troop leader, and her impact is felt in volunteers, Girl Scouts, and community members alike.
Throughout her time leading, a lot has changed—new technologies, new ways of going about things, council structure changes—and Kathy has made sure to hold strong in her values and strategies while adapting with the times with ease.
She has made sure that through it all, she is leading by example. Whether it’s representing Girl Scouts respectfully and professionally in public or planning meetings and trips with her troop or service unit, Kathy is always the first to take on the task. Her kindness and compassion are also traits that rub off on everyone around her—Kathy is known to make sure that even the quietest girl in the back of the room is getting what she needs. She recognizes ability and strength in all the girls she leads, guiding them to understand what makes them special.
Kathy’s commitment to leadership has inspired fifty years worth of women to take on challenges of their own, ensuring they feel supported every step of the way. She has also connected with other volunteers, stepping up for them in times of crisis and the good times, too.
At the annual meeting on April 18th, Kathy was honored with the Pearl Award for her volunteer service over the years. Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania appreciates all of her hard work and dedication, so a big thank you to Kathy and all that she has done is most certainly in order.
“From reusing supplies and planning affordable activities to teaching girls how to budget cookie proceeds, she modeled stewardship long before sustainability became a buzzword. Her careful planning ensured opportunities for all girls, not just those with means.”
Donna Goberish, Fellow Volunteer
GSWPA 