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We can’t celebrate Volunteer Month (and Girl Scout Leader’s Day) without thanking all our volunteers, especially this week’s volunteer spotlight: Starr Hochbaum. And to all our amazing volunteers who provide invaluable support to our Girl Scouts and our community. Your leadership inspires us every day—thank you! 

A Starr in Her Own Right

Starr Hochbaum, just one of our dedicated volunteers, has been involved with Girl Scouts for 22 years, serving 12 years as a Service Unit (SU) Manager. Starr began her Girl Scout journey as a Leader for her daughters’ troop when her daughter was in fourth grade and she has continued her commitment to Girl Scouts ever since. 

When asked why she volunteers for Girl Scouts, Starr says “Girl Scouts is a great program that truly makes a difference in a girl’s life, even if they are only in for a year or two; or all twelve years. Watching the girls grow with the program, learn and discover, seeing that spark in their eyes when they are introduced to something new, always melts my heart.” 

“Being here as the SU Manager allows the leaders to keep their focus on their troops, and I have been so blessed to have met so many wonderful people through these years. “ 

Her favorite memory as a Girl Scout volunteer has been visiting Washington D.C. for the 90 Year Sing-along. “That was such an incredible event to be part of.  Just seeing a carpet of Girl Scouts covering the Monument lawn. It was truly amazing!” 

Starr told us, “Girl Scouts is so much beyond just the badges, vests, and cookies!  It’s an amazing group of volunteers (moms, dads, and grandparents even) who want to make the world a better place. Such a great foundation for our girls’ lives!” 

Starr always makes time to talk with and acknowledge her Girl Scouts and volunteers. She truly highlights Girl Led leadership at her Service Unit meetings, letting girls take the lead and share their Take Action Projects, and award information with leaders and volunteers.  

All of us at Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana say a big thank you, Starr! We appreciate you, your dedication, work, and wonderful contributions!  

Happy Volunteer Appreciation Month!

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From troop leaders to cookie captains, you are the heart of Girl Scouts, and in this past year, you’ve kept our pulse strong.

This year we’re commemorating National Volunteer Month by sending a shout-out to all of our amazing council volunteers! Thank you for lending your energy and talent and for believing in the power of the girl. Thank you for giving girls the space to test their ideas and express their feelings about our ever-changing world.

Visit our website for ideas on how to celebrate the volunteers in your life.

Join us for Becoming Me with former First Lady Michelle Obama

Girl Scouts is launching a new “Becoming Me” program series in collaboration with former First Lady Michelle Obama and Penguin Random House!

Inspired by themes from Mrs. Obama’s Becoming: Adapted for Young Readers, Girl Scouts’ new Becoming Me program aims to help girls become their best selves. Check out our blog to learn more!