December Our Promise Newsletter

Supporter Spotlight Giving Circle members demonstrate a passion for leadership development in young women by supporting Girl Scouts with an annual contribution.

Girl Scout Giving Circles recognize stakeholders who significantly impact girls’ lives across eastern Missouri. Their support provides ongoing skill building programming for girls that teaches them the 21st-century skills needed to become the leaders of tomorrow. Christine Chadwick and Laurna Godwin, members of Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri’s Giving Circles, support Girl Scouts’ continual evolution to meet the changing needs of today’s girls, helping them grow into active and engaged members of their communities. Christine, a member of the Golden Trefoil Society, first became involved with Girl Scouts in 1991 when she joined the Board of Directors and then served as Board Chair from 1996-1998. She has stayed active with GSEM as a member of the President’s Advisory commitee and the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign committee. Christine provides her time, talent and treasure to ensure every girl in eastern Missouri has the opportunity to be a Girl Scout. Removing financial barriers, providing leadership development, and a committment to diversity and inclusion are reasons why Christine continues to give.

“I know firsthand that fiscal responsibility is at the core of everything that we do,” said Christine. “I love that our mission and values drive the exciting and diverse range of programming and activities offered for over 30,000 eastern Missouri Girl Scouts annually.” Laurna, an Emerald Partner in Leadership, is a Girl Scout alum and former GSEM Board Chair from 2006 2010. During Laurna’s chairmanship, GSEM moved into its current service center at 2300 Ball Drive and merged with the former Becky Thatcher Council. Laurna strongly supports and advocates for young women and believes Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is a premiere girl leadership development organization. In addition to Laurna’s annual giving, she also served as a member of the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign committee and supports GSEM with a Gold Award scholarship in her mother’s memory, so Girl Scouts of all backgrounds have equal and equitable access to Girl Scout programming. “Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is led by dedicated staff and supported by volunteers who help ensure that girls become young women of courage, confidence, and character—three important traits needed to make our world a better place,” said Laurna. “When I think of Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri, it gives me hope for the future.”

Christine Chadwick on a recent Girl Scout-style adventure in Sequoia National Park.

Laurna Godwin (right) receiving the Thanks Badge from the late Gaye Rieschel.