Our Promise, June 2021

To ensure all girls can discover the joy of outdoor exploration and develop 21st-century skills, Keri Westland, Girl Scout volunteer, life-long Mariner and Gold Award Girl Scout, made a generous $500,000 endowment gift to support Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri’s Mariner Program in perpetuity. The Mariner Program has been a part of Girl Scouts’ bold history since 1934. Developed as a special interest program for Girl Scouts in seventh through twelfth grade, the Mariner Program offers adventures on, in and near the water.

Keri Westland (middle), Girl Scout volunteer and life-long Mariner, with her Girl Scout sisters.

While on the water, Mariners gain a unique perspective that encourages them to think

critically about the world around them and consider how they can best address significant problems they are passionate about solving. Ultimately,

Mariners take the helm and sail full speed ahead while actualizing their potential as leaders.

Bonnie Barczykowski, Girl Scouts CEO, says the organization is deeply honored. “Keri’s generosity will make an impact on the lives of girls today and for generations to come. With support from community members—like Keri — Girl Scouting continues to evolve to meet girls’ changing needs and develop their full leadership potential.” Endowment giving is a thoughtful way to ensure your support benefits girls for years to come. Endowment opportunities are available at a variety of levels for most Girl Scout programs. For more information, please contact Janine Lawler, Chief Development Officer at jlawler@girlscoutsem.org

Penny Pennington, Edward Jones Managing Partner and Bonnie Barczykowski, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri CEO, are joined by eastern Missouri Girl Scouts for a ribbon cutting ceremony at the new Outdoor Adventure Course, located at Camp Tuckaho.