Destinations: Hawaii, England, Ireland, and Wales Guest Blog Post

Last year, Girl Scout Evelyn “Evie” Mathie attended two Girl Scout Destinations—one to Oahu, Hawaii, and one to England, Ireland, and Wales. She was a recipient of D-Pass funding granted to Girl Scouts from our council.

Destination: Oahu, Hawaii

My Girl Scout Destination was Hawaii in June of 2023. The Hawaiian people and culture were a source of inspiration to me as I learned how they placed great value on the Earth and land around them. This Pacific Exploration program allowed me to see this amazing, beautiful area from a different point of view.

Nature on this island offers a multitude of plants and vegetation that went unwasted. While on a tour in Kualoa Ranch, we learned how a fruit picked from a tree was used by the ancient Hawaiians. The oil from the fruit helps heal bites and scars, the flesh of the fruit when ingested acts as a natural laxative, and the flower eaten from the tree would act as a counter-laxative. There were many other plants that had many uses, too.

Having an opportunity to surf in the massive Pacific Ocean was an eye-opening experience. I always had respect for water but I also feared water, deep water. I was not exactly excited about learning to surf. The instructor taught us the basics of board safety and water safety. So I got in the water fearing the worst. As I got farther away from the shore, I suddenly felt at peace. I felt safe on the board and was confident that the ocean was going to help me. I enjoyed my time in the water and my worries and fears washed away quite quickly.

The recent impact of the fires and other natural disasters have scarred the natural beauty of this island paradise. It is devastating knowing about this knowing how much the native Hawaiians care about their land. Our visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center fascinated and moved me. I am hoping they get the support they need in order to rebuild and regrow their tropical island.

I truly believe that I have learned the valuable connections the natives have with nature. I feel now that I want to do my part to promote caring for our Earth and not waste resources foolishly. I truly am grateful for the opportunity to be able to take part in this Destination.

Destination: England, Ireland, and Wales

My Girl Scout Destination to England, Ireland, and Wales in the summer of 2023 inspired and changed me in so many ways. My last year was a challenging one. After the COVID pandemic, and given some personal experiences from 2021-22, I was questioning the good in the world. We started our amazing journey in the Killarney Region (the Kerry Bog Village Museum with an amazing sheepdog demonstration, visited Blarney Castle, prior to going to Dublin with Georgian squares, O’Connell Street, St. Stephen’s Green, Phoenix Park, and most significant to me, St. Patrick’s Cathedral). These countries were full of rich histories and cultures. The people were
lovely and really cared about what they do, and how they do it.

I was in awe witnessing the history of these three beautiful countries. We left Dublin by ferry to Holyhead. We traveled to Coventry, visited a Welsh castle, and went onto the Birmingham region/Stratford-upon-Avon/London. I love history and old architecture, and it was so wonderful to see the vast amount of historic buildings and landmarks that still exist today! I had the opportunity to visit Anne Hathaway’s cottage (the house Shakespeare’s wife grew up in). I also visited Shakespeare’s birthplace, where two actors performed Romeo and Juliet. I was chosen to participate in this performance, and it felt exhilarating! One of our final stops in Dublin that struck me was Trinity College in Dublin, for not only its history, but its architecture.

I felt the architecture in England, Ireland, and Wales was astounding. Many of the buildings had a lot of detail and were made of stone. One of the most impactful buildings for me was St. Patrick’s Cathedral. When I was in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, I had a feeling that I have never had before. I had never been there before, but it felt like I had. I felt my Nana’s presence there. She passed away when I was in the second grade. Now, about to go into ninth grade, I wrote her a message on a tree they had there in St. Patrick’s. I bought two dove pins—one for me, and one for my mom, to mark this feeling I had. I had last visited my Nana in the hospital step-down unit to celebrate my PapPap’s birthday in 2017. I fast forward to entering ninth grade, and we visited Trinity College.

The cultures in England, Ireland, and Wales had similarities that intrigued me. For example, they drive on the opposite side of the road (from the United States). I really enjoyed listening to the accents of the citizens we visited. Especially in Ireland, my experience exemplified to me how genuinely kind and wonderful the people were.

In conclusion, the Girl Scout Destination to England, Ireland, and Wales made me reflect on the culture in which I live. I don’t sense the same pride in historical buildings and history consistently in the area I live. My sense is that American culture could learn from the cultures of places I visited. I will need to learn about what efforts are made at my local, regional, state, and federal level to protect historical sites.

Are you ready for the ultimate adventure of a Girl Scout Destination? Learn more and apply today!

Destinations: Orange County, Boundary Waters, and Southern California

Girl Scout Destinations are the ultimate adventure for individual Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scouts. Push past your comfort zone by applying for a trip on your own, and make friends from all over the country as you travel with new Girl Scout friends. There’s a unique, life-changing experience for everyone.

Don’t just take it from us though—hear firsthand how Girl Scout Destinations have impacted Girl Scouts from western Pennsylvania.

Destination: Color Me Orange County – Girl Scout Margaret Pivetz

“Attending this Destination has allowed me to expand my appreciation for how much work goes into making the magic of Disney possible. The engineering behind the rides and the effort that goes into designing every part of the park is incredible and expansive. This Destination has allowed me to explore careers and potential futures that I would not have known about otherwise. It has also allowed me to make connections that span across the country—something that would not have been possible without these incredible opportunities.

I was able to participate in a bridging ceremony for graduating Girl Scouts both from Orange County and from my Destination group. The opportunity to experience Girl Scout traditions from other parts of the country and bond with my fellow [Girl] Scouts was one of the most amazing experiences. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to enjoy and learn from all of the amazing people I got to meet throughout this Destination.”

Destination: Boundary Waters – Girl Scout Nadia Grady

“From swimming in waterfalls to sinking up to our chests in mud during portages, I will never forget the past two weeks I spent exploring the wilderness with my new friends. I wish that everyone could have the feeling of accomplishment yet bittersweetness of leaving this trip. 

Honestly, I could spend the rest of my life with the people that I met canoeing. We would tell each other riddles and stupid jokes, stay up late to make friendship bracelets for each other, roast s’mores, photograph frogs, try to make brownies, collect wild blueberries, jump into any body of water nearby, swim to islands to explore, catch crayfish, laugh and cry together, and support each other through anything and everything.

Our guides created an amazing atmosphere for all of us to laugh and play in. I had a smile plastered on my face for almost the entire trip and hopefully these photos bring it through!”

Destination: Taste of Southern California – Girl Scout Vaida Ponish

“When I was on my Destination trip in California, I was inspired in many ways by each friend I met. One thing that made me want to change the way I go about my normal day was just smiling at everyone. You could just look at someone, smile, and then they would smile too. One of the girls I met always had the biggest smile and it made me realize that I felt good after seeing her smile, so if I smile maybe someone else will too!

I think that I would also like to try and compliment people more. Every day one of our leaders on the trip would give us a compliment like, ‘Your outfit is very stylish today.’ The compliments were always unique, and they always seemed genuine when they told you, which always made me feel good. Overall, the trip made me want to be kinder and a better friend.”

Are you ready for the ultimate adventure of a Girl Scout Destination? Learn more and apply today!

Volunteer Spotlight: Sandra Coffee

“I love Girl Scouts! It is a place where girls from every walk of life can come together and be themselves. It was my passion growing up and continues to grow stronger.”

As a Girl Scout from grades K-12 in Portage through the former Talus Rock Council, Sandra Coffee has earned both her Girl Scout Silver and Gold Awards, is a lifetime member of Girl Scouts, and has been a volunteer for a combined total of seven years—this year being her eighth. She started as a camp counselor and first aider at Camp Conshatawba, helped a Cadette troop in college, and then took a break while relocating and growing her family. In addition to being a troop leader, she is also a service unit manager and cookie chair for her service unit in Westmoreland County.

When asked what her favorite Girl Scout memory is, she replied, “I have so many! My newest and probably my favorite for life is from our camping trip in February. It was late at night and the fire was starting to die down. The girls were laying on their mats giggling for what seemed like hours. Nobody said anything, it was just a group of girls enjoying their weekend together.”

Her favorite thing about volunteering with Girl Scouts is watching girls grow and find themselves. If girls have learned anything from her, she hopes it’s to be kind and give with your heart. “There is always somebody out there who needs you,” she said. “Find them and help them in whatever way they need.”

Her advice for new volunteers is to take it slow. “Everyone wants to start doing the big fun things that they see the older girls doing right away or have big, elaborate meetings,” she said. “Ease into it and get to know your girls and what they like to do.”

Something she wishes everyone knew about being a volunteer is that it isn’t always easy.

“You sometimes pour your heart and soul into something that just flops. There will be times where you need to sit down and think about why you are here and what keeps you going and that’s ok.”

Even through the challenges, Sandra says Girl Scouting was her passion growing up and continues to grow stronger through her experience as a volunteer.

Volunteer Spotlight: Janet Kovacs

Name: Janet Kovacs

Service Unit: SU3622-Fairview

County: Erie

Total Girl Scout Years: 11

Volunteer Years: 51

Janet Kovacs has had a Girl Scout membership for 62 years now—first as a Girl Scout for 11 years, and then immediately becoming a Girl Scout volunteer after graduating high school.

“I love to brag about how long I’ve been a Girl Scout,” she said. “I’ve made it well known that I’m a Girl Scout volunteer who wears many hats.”

When asked what her favorite thing about Girl Scouts is, she laughs and says she likes too much of it. She loves teaching girls, planning events, and meeting other Girl Scouts. She and her co-leader, Amy Miehl, have been planning events at least twice a year since the year 2000, including Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania’s Great Getaway Weekend events that began in 2022.

“I feel fortunate to have Girl Scout friends from Pittsburgh up to Buffalo. Most people would think it’s only little old Erie where I’m from, but Girl Scouts is so much bigger than that. You could go anywhere and talk Girl Scouts.”

While Janet recognizes that there are plenty of organizations that need volunteers, she’s proud to say that Girl Scouts is the organization she dedicates her time to.

“I believe in the Girl Scout mission. There are many times in my life where I’m like, ‘yep—that’s the Girl Scout in me!’ Through Girl Scouts, girls learn skills for life and they may not even realize it until they get into their adult years.”

Her advice to other volunteers, especially newer ones, is to use their resources wisely. She encourages volunteers to attend service unit meetings and get acquainted with the other leaders to make connections and ask questions.

Janet not only has 62 incredible years of Girl Scout stories, but she’s got the patches to go with them. She sports her 544 Girl Scout patches on a poncho she made, each section having a special meaning.

“The outside tells a story of my life,” she said. “On the inside, those are the ones that have been given to me. Girls have brought patches back, saying ‘I want you to have this.’” The patches on the hood of the poncho represent things she’s done with her granddaughter.

Janet’s grandson even helped her create a catalog where she can keep track of her patches. They gave each patch a number with a detailed description of what each one represents. The oldest patch Janet has is a Presque Isle beach clean-up patch from 1967, which she received in seventh grade.

Janet doesn’t plan to stop adding Girl Scout patches to her collection anytime soon. In fact, she’s already working on a cape that will go over her poncho. She has one patch sewn on so far.

“I want to be packing my sleeping bag until I’m in my mid-80s, trekking to the tent. I want to be that really old lady packing and going to camp,” she said.

Volunteer Spotlight: Jim Blanarik

Jim Blanarik has been involved with Girl Scouts for 38 years as a troop leader alongside his wife, Kathleen, for Freedom Service Unit 1640-989 in Beaver County.

“When your wife is a leader and needs help, and your daughter and her friends are in the troop, you tend to lend a hand where needed,” he said. “Once the bug hits you, you’re hooked and it’s hard to say no. The values kids learn from [Girl] Scouting and the skills they learn are for life! They are useful skills to help you through life.”

A retired teacher after 39 years in the field, Jim has taught subjects such as woodworking, metalworking, welding, machine work, drafting, and home improvement. “I guess you could say working with kids is my passion,” he said.

Without a doubt, Jim says working with Girl Scouts and knowing he is shaping them to be their best is his favorite thing about being a Girl Scout volunteer.

“You have to put your heart and soul into it. Every girl deserves a leader who is a mother figure (or a father figure). You have to be that safe person they can trust. Every girl should be your daughter!”

Jim’s advice to new volunteers is to jump in with both feet.

“Don’t be afraid if you don’t know everything. Most of the time the girls won’t know you don’t as long as they are having fun,” he said. “Ask the older leaders—they are the best resource out there. Stick with the program. Follow your girl from Daisies through Ambassadors and go for the Gold!”

Jim also runs the archery ranges for day camps. Among his favorite Girl Scout memories are girls hugging him after getting a bullseye on the archery range, creek stomping at Camp Elliot, and taking his troop to Kennywood.

“My favorite was camping at [Camp] Elliot and this particular group loved hiking and ghost stories. So we took a night hike to the chimney down near the creek. I had placed an old whisker backpack against the fireplace and had a small fire going. On the way down I told them about Joni Elliot who used to live in the house that burnt down leaving the chimney. She came home from school one day and no one was home, so she left her backpack in the house next to the chimney and went looking for her parents. She never returned, and when her parents came home, the house had burned down. They couldn’t find Joni anywhere and legend had it that they moved and now on days when there are campouts, you can hear Joni singing Girl Scout songs at the chimney. Needless to say, when they saw the fire and backpack they screamed but we made new friends and laughed all the way back to the lodge.”

If there’s one thing Jim hopes Girl Scouts have learned from him, it’s respect—treat your friends with respect, respect nature, respect our natural resources, and respect yourself.

Volunteer Spotlight: Linda Smith

Name: Linda Smith

Service Unit: SU5902-Deer Lakes Allegheny Valley

County: Allegheny

Total Girl Scout Years: 42

Volunteer Years: 36

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: service unit manager, troop leader, service unit coach, service unit recruiter, service unit cookie volunteer (helps with booth sales)

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Indie Girl Scouting

Specialties: cookie program, flag ceremonies, day camp

Certifications: First Aid/CPR/AED, Mental Health First Aid

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I enjoy working with new leaders. I love flowers and arranging them as well as plants. I love to coordinate events within Girl Scouting. I am dependable and always willing to lend a hand. I love dogs and my favorite seasons are spring and fall.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
I believe that helping the leaders and training them is important; it keeps me in with the community of Deer Lakes. I don’t have a troop per se—I am known in my community by the girls and the general public. Helping the leaders means a lot to me—I try to help them relieve the burden, being there for the leader and the girls as well as the parents.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
I try to lead with honesty and openness and if there’s a way to make things easier for the leaders and the girls in the troop, I’m all for it!

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
Find a mentor and work with them—they will guide you along the way. Even if you have been involved in the past, team up with a buddy and have them attend your meetings, show you the way around, and teach you those Girl Scout traditions—it’s important to keep those traditions alive.

Other Organizations: Church member

Anything else?
In the summer months, I enjoy camping. My husband and I have a camp. I am very family-oriented and love spending time with my family. I have a coonhound, Hannah. I have two daughters who are married and two grandsons that keep me busy!

Volunteer Spotlight: Jennifer Ridilla

Name: Jennifer Ridilla

Service Unit: SU3601-H.I.S

County: Erie

Total Girl Scout Years: 8

Volunteer Years: 5

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: troop leader, troop co-leader, service unit treasurer, service unit cookie manager

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Younger Multi-Level

Girl Scout Pillars: Life Skills, Outdoors, Entrepreneurship

Specialties: camping, MagNut program, cookie program, Girl Scout finances, badges, event planning, First Aid/CPR/AED

Adult Awards: Volunteer of Excellence

Certifications: I have taken training as a leader and mentor through work. Currently, I am a mentor where I work and assist in trainings.

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I have many experiences both within Girl Scouts and out that I can use to assist you with your activities and questions. I have camping training, first aid training, experience with Magnut and cookie sales, and have put together events with other non-profit groups. I look forward to helping new leaders find their own leadership styles and be successful in getting their troops going and motivated.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
Girl Scouting is a great way to see the girls grow as they learn not only about skills and activities they like but also how to grow as young women and become leaders.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
You need to be flexible. Each troop is different in the girls’ needs, wants, and desires. You also need to be ready to change each year as the dynamics of your troop may change.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
Ask a lot of questions. If the person you ask doesn’t know the answer, we can get it or help you find it.

Other Organizations: I am on the Board of Directors and Treasurer of Grahamville Cemetery and volunteer for my daughter’s PTA.

Stop Cancer: Attention to Prevention

“My Gold Award project, ‘Stop Cancer: Attention to Prevention’ proves that you are never too young to make a difference.” – Gold Award Girl Scout Madelyn Sheffel

Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania would like to congratulate Madelyn Sheffel, Gold Award Girl Scout of Mercer County Troop 36642, who was selected as the winner of the Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) Gold Award Scholarship for our council! The GSUSA Gold Award Scholarship recognizes one outstanding Gold Award Girl Scout per council whose project demonstrates measurable and sustainable impact while addressing an issue of national and/or global significance with a $5,000 academic scholarship.

Gold Award Girl Scout Madelyn Sheffel, a graduate of Lincoln Park Performing Arts Charter School, earned her Gold Award for her project “Stop Cancer: Attention to Prevention Education Program.” As a daughter of two cancer survivors, Madelyn wanted to educate her community on cancer prevention.

“Challenged by both parents’ near-simultaneous cancer battles, my cancer journey allowed me to learn about cancer firsthand, giving me an in-depth look at cancer’s destruction,” Madelyn said. “This experience ignited my desire to be a global agent for future change. My Gold Award project has given a quiet girl a voice to make a difference.”

The American Cancer Society estimates that 50% of all cancers could be preventable. Utilizing information and contacts from the American Cancer Society and Allegheny Health Network, Madelyn developed a program focused on educating the public about lifestyle modifications that can be made today to help decrease the risk of cancer tomorrow.

She constructed a traveling pop-up education center which included information about her 12-part program and Prevention Pledge. Her education center was taken to several Relay for Life and community events to spread the word about cancer treatment and research information. Each visitor was asked to complete a survey and a pledge to implement lifestyle modifications, allowing her to measure the impact of her project.

“Throughout my Gold Award journey, I’ve been privileged to hear countless cancer narratives, each one leaving an indelible mark on my soul,” she said. “These experiences have transformed me into a more empathetic and attentive listener, allowing me to connect with others on a deeper level. They’ve helped me to hone my communication skills, enabling me to articulate complex ideas and advocate for causes close to my heart.”

Through collaborations with other organizations, Madelyn’s outreach has extended beyond Relay for Life to schools, hospitals, and additional cancer organizations.

“My Gold Award project had such a significant impact that we are fundraising to create additional program centers and literature for distribution at events and schools,” she said. “In simple terms: more centers mean more potential for impact.”

Madelyn’s project has been presented to nearly 10,000 people and her social media campaign has gone global, reaching as far as Australia and Japan. She’s had the opportunity to speak on stages across the state and was even featured on a national podcast called “Sisters in Sustainability” to speak about how Girl Scouting has prepared her for her future.

“Although it started as my Girl Scout Gold Award idea, ‘Stop Cancer: Attention to Prevention’ is now an award-winning program that has grown beyond my initial dream,” she said. “Each step has been a lesson in resilience, compassion, and the unwavering determination to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients.”

In addition to earning her Girl Scout Gold Award, Madelyn was also named Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania’s 2023 Honorable Mention Girl Scout of Distinction, and she was crowned Miss Midstate’s Teen 2023, stating that her Gold Award became her platform for the Miss Midstate Scholarship Organization.

“I love being able to use the voice I developed in [Girl] Scouting to raise awareness for cancer across the state!” Madelyn said.

Madelyn was also recently recognized at the VFW State Convention as the Pennsylvania VFW Scout of the Year. She earned not only national recognition but a $1,000 scholarship.

Congratulations, Madelyn, on all of your remarkable achievements and for serving as a role model to Girl Scouts everywhere!

2024 Adult Award Recipients

The Adult Award Review Committee has the distinct privilege of reviewing nominations for the exceptional volunteers who serve as the backbone of our organization each year. The committee meticulously assesses each recommendation, and the board approves the nominations for the Adult Awards, including the President’s Award, Appreciation Pin, Honor Pin, and Thanks Badge. Congratulations to our 2024 Adult Award recipients!

President’s Award Recipients

The President’s Award recognizes the efforts of a service delivery team or committee whose exemplary service in support of delivering the Girl Scout Leadership Experience surpassed team goals and resulted in significant, measurable impact toward reaching the council’s overall goals. 

Camp Redwing 100th Anniversary Committee (Brandi Cramer, Caitlin Jo Painter, Caitlin Moury, Celina Karnes, Jessica Kiefer, Kelly Ubinger, Kim Metheny, and Mary Schneider)

The Camp Redwing 100th Anniversary Committee successfully planned a celebration for alums, current Girl Scouts, families, and staff as part of Camp Redwing’s 100th birthday. They surpassed goals by researching the camp’s history, creating and placing informative signs across the camp, and organizing various events over the weekend. Their efforts contributed to meeting council goals of membership growth and retention, fund development, and increased community visibility by engaging multiple stakeholders and fostering the Girl Scout experience. 

West Montour Camporee Leadership Team (Megan Myers, Sarah Shaffer, Erika Caley, Christine Jordan, and Caroline Lascek)

The West Montour Camporee Leadership Team is an example to follow by incorporating girl-led leadership opportunities for older girls. They interview and accept older girls into the leadership program, guiding them in planning the Camporee. This speaks to their commitment to providing a leadership progression for their girls. The team surpasses goals by teaching attendance, conflict resolution, and planning skills, contributing to membership growth and retention as girls stay in Girl Scouts to participate in the program.

Service Unit 4605-Bedford Leadership Team (Diane Kisner, Sara Kovach, Michele Alsleben, Lauren McVicker, and Brittany Dicken)

The Service Unit 4605 Bedford Leadership Team worked to maintain the service unit’s independence and to grow Girl Scout membership in Bedford County. To increase visibility and recruit new members, they organized various activities, including parades, light displays, and community events. The team has shown resilience and dedication to the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, mentoring girls and leaders and fostering a thriving service unit.

Service Unit 2647-Morning Star Leadership Team (Tabatha Mill, Laura Obyc, Kim Trost, Karen Resendes, and Jamie Marcott)

The Morning Star Service Unit camp staff impacts every Girl Scout and adult volunteer attending their summer camps. They aim to offer authentic camp experiences, girl-led activities, and skill-building opportunities, exceeding these goals by providing unique and diverse programs each year. With a focus on retention, their efforts retain older Girl Scouts through engaging mini-camp experiences and a 100% girl-led day camp. The team’s dedication to providing memorable experiences contributes to membership growth and community visibility, as evidenced by the widespread wearing of camp shirts. Their commitment to the Girl Scout Leadership Experience ensures that participants develop valuable skills and become future leaders. 

Thanks Badge Recipients

The Thanks Badge honors an individual whose ongoing commitment, leadership, and service have had an exceptional, measurable impact on meeting the mission-delivery goals and priorities of the entire council or the entire Girl Scout Movement. To receive this award, volunteers reach beyond their local Girl Scout communities to serve as pillars in Girl Scouting. Their presence and impact can be felt throughout the council. 

Lois Kuttesch

For more than 20 years, Lois Kuttich has served in various roles within the Girl Scouts organization, including roles on the board, board development committee, service unit, and troop. She has contributed significantly to strategic planning, financial health, and property analysis of the council. Her dedication has strengthened the council and benefited girls across all 27 counties. Lois exemplifies sisterhood by actively recruiting and training board members, ensuring proper orientation, and representing Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania at national events. Despite not receiving previous awards, her longstanding commitment and leadership have made a significant impact on the entire Girl Scout movement. ​

Dot Brooks

It is our honor and privilege to nominate Dot Brookes for the Thanks Badge. Dot has contributed to the Girl Scout movement as she served in various roles such as board treasurer, board member at large, and troop leader. Her leadership as chair of the board of directors has positively impacted all 27 counties within Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania. Dot’s exemplary service spans over 20 years, during which she led strategic planning efforts, enhanced financial stability, and provided guidance during challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Dot demonstrated sisterhood by actively recruiting and training board members, ensuring proper orientation, and representing Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania at national events, further strengthening the Girl Scout community. Our hearts are heavy with sadness and gratitude at the loss of such an important member of our Girl Scout family. We welcomed her family to receive her Thanks Badge.

Honor Pin Recipients

The Honor Pin recognizes an individual’s exemplary service in support of delivering the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, which has had a measurable impact on two or more geographic areas of service, allowing the council to reach and surpass its mission-delivery goals.

To receive this award, volunteers must go outside their own service unit and support others. Sometimes, this is accomplished by mentoring Gold Award candidates. Other times, it’s by offering much-needed training to volunteers. 

Jennifer Bell

Jennifer Bell (Jenny) has been nominated for her exceptional dedication to providing outdoor Girl Scout experiences for all. She facilitated archery at two Top-Notch Troop events, demonstrating flexibility by adjusting her work schedule to accommodate the time of the event, providing 315 Girl Scouts from 18 service units across different geographic areas with memorable experiences. Multiple girls said, “This was the best day ever.” Holding certifications in low ropes, hatchet throwing, and slingshots, Jenny exemplifies sisterhood by sharing her skills and frequently volunteering to facilitate activities for Girl Scout troops, regardless of their location within the council.

Crystal Simpson

Crystal Simpson’s volunteer work benefits Girl Scouts from multiple troops and areas. The talents and skills she possesses as a professionally trained chef have been instrumental in organizing and executing events not only within her service unit but across the council. Crystal’s long-time support has alleviated pressure on leaders and facilitated growth in membership and retention. Her commitment to cooking, teaching, and organizing at camp sets a shining example for all Girl Scouts, embodying the principles of kindness, patience, and resourcefulness.

Calvin Simpson

Calvin Simpson, a volunteer in Service Unit 3622 Fairview, contributes significantly to the Girl Scout community through his dedication and support. Calvin actively participates in various activities, including, setting up camps, assisting with troop projects like constructing mazes, and volunteering at council-wide events like Camp Creepy and the Great Getaway. His commitment to Girl Scouting reflects the values of kindness, dedication, and patience, making him a role model for all Girl Scouts.

Gabriel Miehl

Gabriel Miehl’s volunteerism in Fairview Service Unit 3622 embodies true dedication and support for the Girl Scout movement. He actively participates in service unit camps and council-wide events, including the Great Getaway and Camp Creepy. Additionally, Gabriel’s commitment to Troop 30836, where he’s provided invaluable guidance and memorable experiences (including multiple trips), is exemplary. His leadership, kindness, and patience reflect the Girl Scout Law and Promise, making him a cherished “sister” to every Girl Scout.

Kevin Simpson

Kevin Simpson’s significant contributions span many years and multiple service units. As a dedicated volunteer and professional chef, Kevin’s support enables numerous camping opportunities at Camp Hawthorne Ridge for girls across different troops. His involvement alleviates pressure on experienced leaders, fostering membership growth and retention. Kevin’s creativity and humor, exemplified through entertaining activities like the Owl Hunt, leave a lasting impact on the girls, reinforcing the spirit of gratitude and camaraderie within the Girl Scouting community.

Linda Simpson

Linda Simpson’s significance extends to multiple service units within the council. Her extensive knowledge and dedication have enriched service unit camps, where she imparts valuable skills and fosters pride and confidence among Girl Scouts and leaders. Linda’s contributions have led to increased leader and volunteer retention, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. Through her example of kindness, resourcefulness, and mentorship, Linda embodies the Girl Scout Law and Promise, serving as a supportive sister to every Girl Scout in the broader council community.

Theresa Smith

Theresa Smith, a dedicated member of the Gold Award Committee and the North Allegheny East Service Unit, impacts leaders and girls across the council area. She mentors girls in achieving the Gold Award, fostering community-minded projects that build courage, confidence, and character. Additionally, Theresa’s involvement in the service unit, particularly at the annual Day Camp, provides girls of all ages with exciting adventures and opportunities for growth. As a true sister to every Girl Scout, Theresa consistently goes above and beyond, offering assistance, sharing her skills and knowledge, and embodying the spirit of sisterhood within the organization.

Victoria Kennedy

Victoria Kennedy, a Gold Award recipient herself, serves on the Gold Award Committee, mentoring girls throughout the council to achieve this prestigious honor. With her firsthand experience, she imparts wisdom and guidance to aspiring Gold Award recipients across the council. Victoria’s exemplary service spans the entire council, providing insight, compassion, and support to girls who have successfully earned the Gold Award. Her contributions to refining the rubric system have further enhanced the evaluation process. As a sister to every Girl Scout, Victoria shares her expertise, dedication, and youthful perspective, embodying the spirit of giving back to the organization that has shaped her life.

Appreciation Pin Recipients

The Appreciation Pin recognizes an individual’s exemplary service in support of delivering the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. This service, which has had a measurable impact on one geographic area of service, helps reach and surpass the mission-delivery goals of the area.

Michele Alsleben
Tabatha Mill
Jennifer Fox
Monica Martini
Sharon Talarico
Cammie Stralko

Congratulations to all of our 2024 Adult Award recipients!

Volunteer Spotlight: Michelle Kramer

Name: Michelle Kramer

Service Unit: SU5107-Bethel South

County: Allegheny

Total Girl Scout Years: 14

Volunteer Years: 13

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: troop leader, service unit manager, camp coordinator, and troop coach

Age-Level Experience: Cadette, Senior, Ambassador

Girl Scout Pillar Experience: STEM, Life Skills, Outdoors, Entrepreneurship

Specialties: event planning, GSUSA Destinations

Certifications: archery, First Aid/CPR/AED, PA Certified Teacher (7-12 English, Communications, Business/Information/Technology, and K-12 Library)

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
When my daughter’s Daisy troop grew into needing a third approved adult, I volunteered. From there, I took on some roles within our service unit and have been inspired and moved by the impact that Girl Scouting has in creating [Girl] Scouts of character, confidence, and courage.   

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
When my older daughter expressed an interest in Girl Scouting as a kindergartener, I took her to the recruitment meeting. Seeing the older girls representing the Girl Scout movement with such grace and poise, I hoped that my daughter would develop some of that composure and maturity. Now, twelve years later, I lead two troops in which my two daughters have developed skills and areas of interest, experienced adventure, and built meaningful friendships. And, each fall at the recruitment meeting, at our service unit’s day camp, and at our Camporee events, it’s now my daughters who are leading and guiding the little [Girl] Scouts on the same path. 

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
Everybody is welcome. Bring what you can. Take what you need.

I frequently say “Girl Scouting runs on volunteers.” So, finding and protecting those volunteers who are willing to offer their skills to forward the Girl Scout movement is my primary philosophy.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
Get a team. The whole idea of “many hands making light work” is true in two ways. With more people to pitch in, there is less for each person to do. But also, for me, the work is more joyful and fun when you’re in it with others. 

So, get a team. As you’re building your troop, encourage parents to register and submit their clearances so that they can run a meeting, drive to events, come camping (remember men can be Girl Scouts, too!), offer a fun patch activity during a regular meeting, or present a step in a badge or maybe a whole badge in a Journey.

If you see yourself as the supporter of the adults of the team and focus on communicating clearly the goals and schedule, you’ll win friends for life.