Sunny Peaks Service Unit
Troop 3297 (Multi-level troop)
Years as a Troop Leader: 6
What inspired you to become a troop leader?
My journey as a troop leader began when my oldest daughter showed interest in becoming a Girl Scout. To help give her the experience, I stepped up and became a leader. Then, when my youngest daughter joined, her troop needed a leader which I filled. It’s been such a rewarding experience to not only be a troop leader but also be one with my daughters involved.
What kind of activities do you do with your troop? What is their favorite thing to do?
We are in Flagstaff, so we like to take advantage of the nature and local scenery by exploring the outdoors. Additionally, we are currently working on our Bronze and Silver Awards, so the girls are gaining some valuable leadership experience.
What kind of service projects have you done with your troop?
A lot of people don’t know that you can donate Girl Scout Cookies! Last year, my troop donated cookies to Hope Cottage, a local women’s and children shelter. This year my troop packed shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child, an international project that provides children in various communities in need with shoe boxes filled with small toys, hygiene items, and school supplies. It was a moving experience that allowed the girls to give back.
Tell us about a volunteer moment that stands out to you.
I love helping the girls in my troop organize service team events. I get to see the girls take action, work together, and organize an event that will help our community. Two of my favorite events were the mother-daughter tea and the Christmas parade.
What advice would you give other troop leaders?
I would tell other troop leaders to enjoy every moment and to be flexible. Sometimes, meetings will not go as planned and that is totally okay. Just take a deep breath and move forward!
What do you wish someone had told you as a new troop leader?
I wish someone told me not to stress about the little things! This is a rewarding role to be in and the growth you see in the girls over time is the important piece.
What would you like others to know about volunteer opportunities with the Girl Scouts?
I have a blast being a leader and on the service unit team! However, there are other ways to get involved with the organization outside of being a Troop Leader. For example, you can volunteer time in specific programs, you can lead outdoor activities, volunteer at events, and more!
Does your troop sell cookies? If yes, please tell us in your own words, why it is important to participate in the Cookie Program?
Yes, we sell cookies. The cookie program funds what we do as a troop but more importantly, it teaches my girls confidence, ethics and how to be entrepreneurs. They step outside of their comfort zones to talk to members of the community and make sales!
What are your troop's cookie selling tips and tricks?
The cookie program is a time of year when the public eye is on Girl Scouts, so it is important for girls to be professional when selling cookies. Also, we recommend that you wear your vests! People love to come over and ask about patches and pins – it’s a great way to transition into a cookie pitch.
What is the most inspiring moment you have experienced as a troop leader?
It’s a Girl Scout Camp tradition to have a camp name and a camp name is given to you by another Girl Scout. One of my favorite moments was when my troop went to Jamboree and the girls gave me my camp name. It was a special moment that I will keep with me for a long time.
