Fall 2025 SOAR Magazine

2 What inspired you to become involved with Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri? Carolyn: Obviously, my mom. She has been a huge supporter of Girl Scouts all our lives and continues to recognize the value the organization brings to many girls’ lives. As a family of strong women, we know the importance of giving girls opportunities to find their strengths and passions. That’s what my mom insisted for myself and my sister—find what you love and do it with excellence. Jo Ann: I was a Brownie and then a Girl Scout growing up, and when the girls were young, I wanted them to be part of it, so they were Brownies as well. It was a great opportunity to open up their world and help them become the best they could be. What parallels do you see between the teamwork and leadership in sports and the values Girl Scouts instills in girls? Carolyn: When I talk to our players around at practice or after matches, I can see which leaders stand out. It’s the players who lift others up and show by example. They understand that while they have a role to play, it’s the team that is the most important part of every game. I think Girl Scouts does an amazing job of emphasizing the need to work smart, be the first one to jump in and help, and to look to each other’s strengths to work together. Jo Ann: Try your best. Teamwork in sports means giving your all every game and supporting your teammates. I appreciate that Girl Scouts challenges girls to do their best and work together, across so many interests and skills. These are important life skills to develop, on and off the field. 3

4 What do you believe are the most important skills or values that Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri helps young women develop? Carolyn: Just as my mom encouraged us to try to find our own path, I know the Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri supports young girls to not only discover what interests them, but to push themselves to see what they can accomplish. Jo Ann: I’m excited about Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri because these girls can be anything they want to be, and they get so many opportunities to try different skills and interests and learn about our community and themselves. Girls need support and encouragement, and Girl Scouts helps girls not only support themselves but also each other. 5 What words you share with someone to motivate them to support the purpose and mission of Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri? Carolyn: Girl Scouts have been a part of my life as long as I can remember and have helped shape the women in our family to be the leaders we are today. I hope we as a community continue to support the organization and our girls for generations to come. Jo Ann: People should support the Girl Scouts because there are not many organizations that focus on girls and girls’ needs, especially helping them to be capable, confident young women in such a holistic way. Girl Scouts I have known are now leaders at organizations all around the St. Louis region—you can see the impact from young girls on up. I am grateful they continue to evolve to help young girls and women in new and different ways. I encourage others to consider and continue supporting the Girl Scouts.

Kickin’ It with St. Louis CITY SC Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri teamed up with St. Louis CITY SC in July to host Kickstart, an exciting introduction to the world of soccer! From footwork to fun, these future MVPs got a crash course in Soccer 101. Then, on Aug. 24, more than 500 Girl Scouts took over Energizer Park to support St. Louis CITY 2 on their race to the MLS NEXT Pro Cup! Girl Scouts cheered on the team from the stands, as balldashers on the field, and on the mic as Girl Scout Cadette, Sophia, announced the players from the announcer booth.

Thank you to St. Louis CITY SC for opening the field to the next generation!