2019 Report to the Community

North Rural

“ We’ve been going through the Girl Scout handbook and I’ve seen the girls open up and think about how they’re impacting others. Krista works hard to ensure their bi-weekly meetings are opportunities for escape. During the holiday season, Krista organized several activities for them, including a trip to the Missouri Humane Society. They had the chance to socialize with the furry residents and learn how they can make a difference by collecting and donating blankets, towels and food. “A couple of my Girl Scouts come from families who struggle financially,” Krista said. “Participating in the Troop Start-Up was the best way to bring them in because, without it, they wouldn’t have been able to be a Girl Scout. It’s wonderful Girl Scouts could provide them this opportunity.”

While every Girl Scout troop is unique, there are expenses they incur when starting out. These can include membership dues, activity supplies and field trips.

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or some of Krista Saben’s six-year-old Girl Scouts, the cost of uniforms, badges, insignias and program expenses could have been a barrier, preventing them from participating in the best leadership development program for girls in the world. In 2019, the Riedel Foundation generously supported the pilot year of a Troop Start-Up program in Hannibal, Missouri. The concept of the program is a simple one: Troop Start-Up provides all the supplies needed to form a new Daisy troop, including uniforms, activity supplies, workbooks, petals and membership fees. In return, the troops take part in one community service project and participate in the Girl Scout Cookie Program © which helps offset the costs of their second year. As a Girl Scout alum, Krista knew first-hand the impact this organization can have on young women and wanted to provide her daughter, Aria, similar adventures, and life-long memories. So, when Aria joined Girl Scouts last fall, Krista decided to take on a leadership role—juggling three kids, school, and a job left her little time to bond with her daughter. Krista knew though this decision would not be as easy for some parents and caregivers as the associated costs were a deterrent.

- Krista Saben, Girl Scout Troop Leader

“ The girls also participated in both Fall Product and the Girl Scout Cookie Program. During each enterprising endeavor, Krista said they learned something new. “They did well during cookie season,” she said. “We practiced, we said if someone comes through the door, tell them ‘hi’ wish them a good morning.’ The girls were great little entrepreneurs.” After a year of exploration, fun and sisterhood, Krista says her girls are already planning on returning for a second year of Girl Scouts.

10 2019 Report to the Community