Spring 2020 Lead & Learn

SPRING 2020

District 14 Troop Leader, Troop Organizer, Neighborhood Manager

Heather Pickens-Hollis

What inspired you to become a Girl Scout volunteer?

Heather: I wanted to make sure my girls had the experience that they were looking for, so I decided to become a part of it. My girls knew exactly what they wanted out of Girl Scouting from watching their older sibling and not everybody’s willing to step up and take on that position. I just fell in love with Girl Scouts and I continue to volunteer in different roles.

How has Girl Scouts grown your personal network?

Heather: I have come into contact with so many strong, independent and organized women who have taught me how to run my troop, how to run my neighborhood, and how to get what I want out of the Girl Scout program to ensure my girls have an amazing experience. Some of my closest friends are my fellow leaders. Right now, we live and breathe Girl Scouts in our house, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. It is a fantastic opportunity for not only the girls, but for me as well to meet lots of new, interesting people.

District 15 Troop Leader, Neighborhood Manager, National Council Delegate

Melinda Orskog

What inspired you to become a Girl Scout volunteer?

Melinda: My Gold Award Girl Scout daughter inspired me to be a volunteer. It took two years before we were able to connect with a Girl Scout troop in our area and at the time the troop needed a third adult leader in order to cover events. The following year the troop was in danger of dissolving and I stepped forward as leader.

As a volunteer, how has Girl Scouts helped you expand your leadership skills and self-confidence?

Melinda: Girl Scouts has expanded my skills through training opportunities, particularly fire building. However, the biggest area of growth for me personally has been in pushing my boundaries as I encourage girls in their experiences. I am terrified of heights, but when my troop voted to try ziplining, I quietly showed my own trepidation and put on a brave front to coach the girls.

girlscoutsem.org 9