Lake Havasu City
Troop 1941, Daisy and Brownie
Years as a Troop Leader: 1
What inspired you to become
a Troop Leader?
I was inspired to become a Troop Leader when my daughter's initial troop was without a leader. The girls were her good friends, so, together, we created a troop, and it has been growing ever since!
What kind of activities do you do with your troop? What is their favorite thing to do?
My troop loves to do crafts, go on field trips, and attend special events. Most recently, we began working on our outdoor journeys and expanding into more complicated arts.
What kind of service projects have you done with your troop?
We have not done any service projects yet, but we plan to this upcoming spring. The girls will be deciding what they would like to focus on, perhaps starting something after the 2021 cookie program!
Tell us about a volunteer moment that stands out to you.
A standout moment I have is one of our recent virtual Zoom meetings! My co-leader and I created a stencil and placed them on t-shirts. The girls met up virtually and painted their shirts at the same time. It helped us feel more connected during quarantine and allowed us to bond even though it was online. Now they have a super-cool Girl Scout-inspired shirt they made on their own! Another favorite activity was when the girls planted flowers in boxes that my dad built for us, it was sweet, and they had a blast!
What advice would you give other Troop Leaders?
The advice I would give to other Troop Leaders would be to ask questions. Every other leader I have contacted has been more than willing to help when I ask. No question seemed stupid, and Girl Scout leaders welcome you and want to help you succeed.
What do you wish someone had told you as a new Troop Leader?
I wish someone would have told me just how much work goes into the cookie program "LOL." It is so rewarding and worth every effort, so the harder you work, the more you and the girls get out of the program. And no matter how much of a lift it is, we always look forward to it and have so much fun.
What would you like others to know about volunteer opportunities with the Girl Scouts?
We love our adult volunteers and appreciate every and any amount someone is willing to give. Volunteers help us Troop Leaders manage meetings and outings and make the girls’ experience much more positive and enriching. If you're a parent, see where you can lend a hand, we'll always accept your help.
Does your troop sell cookies? Why is it important to participate in the GS Cookie Program?
Yes, we do! We see how the GS Cookie Program teaches girls the importance of hard work. They learn the value of money and what things cost, like paying for their badges, uniforms, registration, and program activities. They also learn how to manage money, how to count back change, and what it takes to be an entrepreneur!
What are your troop's cookie-selling tips and tricks?
We only have one season under our belt, so we're still learning too! One tip, however, is don't sign-up for more booths than your girls can commit to. Also, focus on making it a Girl Scouts activity and not taking your additional kids with you so that you can manage everything well.
What is the most inspiring moment you have experienced as a Troop Leader?
Something that always inspires me is when parents thank me for the activities we do. It makes me feel fulfilled, like I have done my job and that they truly appreciate me. It's humbling. <3
