Our Girl Scouts, friends, and family participated in a tour through the historic Pullman District. This was just one of the many activities scheduled for our Social Inclusion Week.
Tour Guide and Chicago Historian Dilla of Mahogany Tours explained that Pullman was one of the first industrialized communities in the United States, featuring a campus that included a manufacturing plant for Pullman train cars and housing for its workers.
Before the rise of the aircraft industry, rail was the preferred and primary mode of cross-country transportation. Pullman Cars, also known as sleeping cars, offered far more comfort than sitting in a regular seat, much like today’s airplane sleep pods. Manufacturing of Pullman Cars ceased in 1982.
Although the Girl Scouts explored the area by bus, there are several exhibits visitors can access in a 5-block radius, including the Administration Clock Tower building and the Pullman Exhibit Hall. The National A. Phillip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum is currently closed and under construction. Walking throughout the community, one can also notice the architectural differences between the homes of the “bosses” and the general workers (who, by the way, all came to work dressed in suits).
Two interesting moments stood out on the tour. One of the Girl Scouts asked how individuals with walking disabilities would have navigated the streets and multi-level family homes in the past. Dilla explained, gently but honestly, that unless a family member was willing or able to carry them up and down the stairs, those individuals were often confined to one floor or sent away to live in places that were not very pleasant. Today, many homeowners have installed elevators (typically at the back of the building) and, thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act, the streets are more accessible.
Dilla also shared the story of A. Phillip Randolph, who in 1925 organized the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (later known as Pullman Porters), the first successful African American-led labor union. The Porters also played a key role in the Great Migration by distributing the Chicago Defender and other black-owned newspapers along their routes. It was also commonly known that if someone needed to leave town quickly, and they knew a porter, they could sometimes be smuggled onto the train and safely dropped off at a stop along the way.
Kathy, the daughter of a Pullman Porter, shared a special memory. While traveling back to Southern Illinois University (Carbondale) and boarding The Illini at the Homewood station (yes, trains back then had names), her father saw a fellow porter on the train. Because this train’s final destination was New Orleans, it came equipped with a dining car and several sleeping cars. As part of the Loyal Order of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, he told his colleague, “That’s my youngest daughter on her way back to school, so you watch out for her.” Needless to say, she didn’t sit in coach that day. The porter escorted her to the front of the train, where she sat in a comfortable roomette for the duration of the trip. An unforgettable experience, and one still on her bucket list to relive.
The tradition of tipping in the service industry also has roots in the history of the Pullman Porters. Because they weren’t paid much, porters relied heavily on tips for shining shoes, turning down beds, and providing exceptional service. Many celebrities traveled by rail at the time, and stories were often shared among porters. Her father used to say that while some big names in particular were very generous tippers, others were not.
It was an inspiring and educational day, and we’re proud to offer experiences like this that connect our Girl Scouts and their families to the powerful stories woven into Chicago’s history.
Special thanks to Kathy C. for sharing this story and her reflections with us.
Written by GCNWI Council Historian, Veronica Pradelski
What better way to keep on enjoying your Girl Scout fun this summer, than to spend some time at our council-led camps.
Spending time outdoors with other Girl Scouts your age this summer is a great reason to attend camp. You’ll learn new skills and make new friends, especially during the warm summer season, when troops are usually not meeting.
You will have time for traditional activities, like exploring nature, making crafts, playing games and learning songs. You will also learn outdoor skills, like learning to cook over a fire, meal planning and budgeting for the food you will need for your meal.
All camp programs have different themes, you get to decide which one is right for you! With all the various activities at camp, you can sometimes earn a badge or complete some requirements for a badge that you are interested in earning.
Our council holds summer camps at three different locations. Camp Greene Wood is a day camp, and both Camp Butternut Springs and Camp Juniper Knoll are overnight camps. Some service units may hold a day camp in their area, run by devoted leaders who put together the planned programs for their camp.
As I am writing this article, it brings back memories of my time in the summer at Girl Scout camp, in the 1960s, in Chicago. The day started with an opening ceremony, and then you would go with your unit to work on what activities were planned for the day. We would plan our meals, write out a shopping list, and whoever was on cooking duty that day would go to the grocery store and purchase the items needed for our lunch meal.
We’d hike, make crafts, sing songs, and learn how to budget for our meals. It was a fun time, and I made new friends.
So, it’s not too late to plan your own summer camp adventure. Click here to view all summer camp offerings and find a program that interests you and make it a summer to remember.
Did you catch us on FOX cooking up Campfire French Toast?! Camp Greene Wood’s Summer Camp Director, Sprout, crushed it showing how Girl Scouts build confidence and resilience through outdoor cooking at camp!
We’re so close to reaching our goal of giving 3,000 campers an unforgettable, screen-free summer! If you’ve been thinking about signing up, now’s the perfect time.
✨ Use promo code CAMPGOODDAY at checkout to get $50 off a council-led summer camp session. ✨
During the third week of April each year, we celebrate National Volunteer Week, so it seems appropriate to highlight one of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana’s exceptional volunteers at this time. If you don’t already know her, I would like to introduce you to Nancy Hackett, someone who has given so much of her life in service to the Girl Scouts.
Nancy became a Girl Scout when in 1945 she joined as a Brownie in Pennsylvania’s legacy Tricounty Council, her mother served as her troop leader. She moved up to be an Intermediate Girl Scout, earned her Curved Bar, the highest award at the time. Nancy then bridged to Senior Girl Scouts, and remained a girl member until her high school graduation. After graduation, Nancy started her journey as an adult volunteer by helping with a troop for the Tricounty Council. When she went off to college, Nancy continued to work with troops in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. From 1962 to 1980, Nancy lived and worked in Baltimore where she volunteered for legacy Baltimore Council. When she moved to Illinois in 1980, Nancy became part of legacy Trailways Council. As a volunteer for Trailways, Nancy did something out of the ordinary – she started a Girl Scout museum in her home.
Being somewhat of a collector from her early years in Girl Scouts, Nancy began saving Girl Scout calendars, cookie boxes, and the American Girl magazine when she was just a girl. She especially liked the American Girl because of the interesting covers. Then she went to Roundup in 1956 where she collected numerous SWAPS from her sister Girl Scouts from across the country. Subsequently in 1965, she was able to attend Roundup as an adult volunteer, and once again she accumulated a wide variety of SWAPS. Nancy really enjoyed her Girl Scout collection, so over the years, she kept adding to it. She found herself going to antique shops and malls to purchase any Girl Scout items she could find.
With her collection continuing to grow, Nancy became really serious about her hobby. She decided to become a Girl Scout Historian. She took several historians’ trainings at Macy Center in New York and also attended workshops that were offered during the various conventions. At one of the sessions, the trainer was Mary Degenhardt, a co-author of the Girl Scout Collector’s Guide, the quintessential handbook for all Girl Scout memorabilia collectors. Nancy was thoroughly impressed by Degenhardt’s expertise and presentation.
The Edith Macy Center in Westchester County,New York, where trainings for Council Historiansare often held.
With her sizeable collection and expansive knowledge of all things Girl Scout, Nancy decided to do something very unique. She let Trailways Council know that she wanted to open her home to troops who wanted to experience Girl Scout history through the memorabilia she had amassed. So in the late 1980’s, her Girl Scout museum became a place for girls to explore the rich history of Girl Scouts. The council promoted the museum in newsletters, and since Nancy was also a trainer, she would share information about the museum at trainings. Because of these efforts, Nancy welcomed anywhere from thirty to forty troops to her home during each school year. They would come after school, in the evenings, and on Saturdays. When the girls arrived, Nancy would be wearing a replica of the first uniform which she had made for herself. She had a long table permanently set up in her living room where the girls could gather around to view and examine Girl Scout memorabilia as Nancy talked to them about the various items. While some girls were at the table, others would go to the bedroom where Nancy had her collection displayed. The girls could look at all the cases filled with patches, pins, handbooks, camping gear, mugs, dolls, and so much more. Nancy especially enjoyed hearing all the “ohs” and “aahs” as the girls entered the room. She would then start showing the girls uniforms from various eras. It was always quite exciting when one of the leaders or chaperones would say, “That’s the uniform I wore as a girl!” Much to their delight, the girls were also allowed to try on the uniforms.
A wall in the museum room displayingvarious insignia and a picture of JulietteGordon Low.Shelf in the museum room withassorted dolls displayed.
As a troop would get ready to leave, Nancy would ask them what they liked the best, and the girls would almost always say, “The drawers!” Nancy had a multi-drawer cabinet with items in each drawer. The girls loved pulling out the drawers to see what was in each of them. Nancy even had one drawer dedicated to the Boy Scouts to keep any brothers happy who had come along with their sisters. When Nancy was at various Girl Scout events, girls would recognize her and refer to her as “the lady with the museum.”
The drawers used to hold variousGirl Scout items.
It should also be noted that Nancy has a substantial collection of World Association items. She was a member of the International Committee for Our Chalet and became interested in collecting items from WAGGGS countries. If she was visiting such places as Switzerland, England, or Australia, she would find the local Girl Guide office and purchase patches, pins, or anything else that caught her eye.
Nancy holding a vintage WAGGS poster that features Brownie pins and badges from around the world.
After the merge of the seven metro councils in 2008, Nancy’s museum was no longer promoted. However, Nancy continues to serve as a GCNWI Council Historian. She is always willing to create displays for local libraries, World Thinking Day celebrations, or service unit events. She and her sister historian Linda Pote also are responsible for the displays in the cases at the Joliet Gathering Place. Currently, the efforts to present the vast history of Girl Scouts are being done at the History Center which is located in the Vernon Hills Gathering Place. However, any of the historians, including Nancy, are always willing to share their expertise with anyone who asks.
Current display at the Joliet Gathering Place created by Nancy Hackett and Linda Pote.Current display at the Joliet Gathering Place created by Nancy Hackett and Linda Pote.
Nancy Hackett is just one example of the many dedicated volunteers whom we salute during National Volunteer Week. Thanks, Nancy, for all that you’ve done for Girl Scouts!
Looking to try something new, earn a patch, or make memories with your Girl Scout squad? You’ve come to the right place! Each month, we’ll update this blog with all the upcoming experiences and opportunities happening across Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana.
Community & Connection Experiences
Kindness Rocks Service Project
Pre-order your kits from October 1 – 25, Open to all Girl Scouts and families
A fun activity to do with your troop or by yourself to spread kindness in your community!
Read at least one book from our reading list, and earn our new reading patch and Fall rocker. The Fall Reading Challenge is open to Girl Scouts from other councils, too!
October 25, Open to all Girl Scouts, at the Joliet and Vernon Hills Gathering Places
Join us for a magical day where Girl Scouts will paint, laugh, and sing along to the music of Wicked 1. Whether you’re inspired by Glinda’s sparkle, Elphaba’s courage, or the bright lights of the Emerald City, your canvas is your stage.
October 19 at Camp Butternut Springs, Open to all Girl Scouts
Join us at camp for an exciting Fall Outdoor Challenge designed specifically for your Girl Scout and family! Earn the fall segment of this four-segment patch program by completing exciting challenges that embrace the spirit of fall.
October 19 at Camp Butternut Springs, Open to Girl Scouts in grades 6-12
Come to Camp Butternut Springs for a day of fun! We will begin by learning about the Get Outdoors Fall Challenge and practice some skills to teach at the afternoon program. You’ll have a chance to get some hands-on leadership experience working with other Girl Scouts and their families.
October 26 at Camp Greene Wood, Open to all Girl Scouts
This month, connect with nature by exercising your wild side! Celebrate National Howl at the Moon Day by taking a night hike prowl. Come with your Girl Scout pack or as a lone wolf.
November 1,7 & 8, for Girl Scouts in grades 4-12 and adults, at Camp Butternut Springs and Camp Greene Wood
During this pumpkin-themed archery clinic, participants will learn the basics of holding and shooting a bow and arrow at fun, pumpkin-inspired, decor. Be an eco advocate and bring your leftover pumpkin(s) to compost at camp for some extra bonus points.
Bring your old pumpkins to compost…and SMASH! Keep the fun going by attending our fun Fall Fest either before or after you smash your pumpkin! Participate in various activities that include making a themed craft, adventuring through the forest, playing games, and enjoying a snack around the campfire’s glow.
Embrace the great outdoors and enjoy the benefits of hiking with your Girl Scout friends. This month we will be hiking at Isle a la Cache. Step into the past and hike island trails surrounded by water, wildlife, and rich 18th-century fur trade history.
November 14 – 16, Open to Girl Scouts in grades 6-12, at Camp Palos
Spend the weekend at Camp Palos with Outdoor Leadership Club! We will have plenty of fun camp activities, outdoor cooking, and teambuilding. Celebrate Camp T-Shirt Day by leading other Girl Scouts in creating their own tie dye shirt.
November 15 – 16, Open to Girl Scouts in grades 4-12, at Camp Palos
Whether your camp shirt is brand new or lovingly broken in, this overnight is all about celebrating the traditions, skills, and friendships that make Girl Scout camp unforgettable. Make sure to bring your favorite camp/Girl Scout tee to wear and a plain white one to tie-dye—this weekend is going to be tee-rific! You’ll also get the chance to help our camp directors brainstorm designs for our summer 2026 summer camp t-shirt and patch!
Lead with Confidence – Exploring the WAGGGS Leadership Model
October 18, Open to all Girl Scouts in grades 4-8, at the Lincoln Belmont
Get ready for an exciting adventure as we learn about the WAGGGS (World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts) Leadership Model! This session is all about exploring leadership as a shared journey, where each of you has the power to create positive change in your life and the world around you.
October 23, Open to all Girl Scouts in grades 6-8 and families, Virtual
Want to tackle an issue important to you and your community while engaging in one of the oldest Girl Scout traditions? You’re ready to take the first step on your Highest Awards path! Join us for our Silver Award Workshop where leaders and Girl Scouts can learn all about what the Highest Awards can do for you.
November 8, Open to all Girl Scouts in grades K-5, at the Schererville Gathering Place
Come join the fun as we imagine, create and explore in this hands-on adventure! Girl Scouts will learn to plan for a trip, design a city, create a map and build a sculpture!
Hey cookie lovers—this is your final chance to grab your favorite Girl Scout Cookies at a booth and support local Girl Scouts from Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana!
If you’re heading through the Chicago Loop, don’t miss the opportunity to stock up—especially on Girl Scout S’mores, which are retiring after this season.
Check out the graphic below to see which buildings are hosting cookie booths. Stop by, snack happy, and support the next generation of go-getters!
Can’t make it to the Loop? You’re in luck! Girl Scouts can still sell cookies for direct shipping until May 31. Ask your local Girl Scout how you can place your order. Don’t know a Girl Scout? No worries! Click the button below to buy cookies for direct shipping.
Girl Scout camp is more than just campfires and crafts (though we love those too!). It’s a place where a camper who once said “I wasn’t interested in going outside” can suddenly discover “I want to stay here—I want to go camping, I want to stay outside!”
Whether it’s learning to cook over a fire, conquering the climbing wall, or simply feeling the breeze on their face, camp helps young people build confidence, independence, and mental resilience—skills that last far beyond the summer.
This summer, let your camper discover what they’re capable of at Camp Butternut Springs.
✨ Be sure to register your camper for the grade they will be entering in fall 2025. 🏕️ Save 5% on each program when you register for three or more council-led summer camp programs in one purchase. 💜 Need support? Camperships (financial assistance) and a payment plan are available to make camp accessible for all families.
Check out our skill-building programs below and click on each session to learn more and register your camper today. Hurry, spots are filling fast!
As we wrap up March and reflect on Girl Scouts’ Birthday, it’s the perfect time to learn a little more about Juliette Gordon Low and embrace the founding Girl Scout principles she introduced 113 years ago.
Wondering how you can learn more about Juliette Gordon Low in an exciting and interactive way? It’s easy with the program kits the council historian team has put together! You can check out a program kit by visiting your local gathering place for your troop’s next fun learning activity.
The most popular tote is filled with Girl Scout uniforms. These pieces, collected from throughout the years, can be worn for a troop fashion show, to march in a parade, or to participate in a special ceremony. A book with pictures of the uniforms is included so you can properly put all the parts together. The uniforms come in a variety of sizes and eras. Which uniform is the girls’ favorite?
The Historic Book tote includes five handbooks from 1947, 1963 (2), and 1986 (2), for Girl Scouts, Brownies, and Juniors. In 1963, girls were divided into four levels: Brownie, Junior, Cadette, and Senior. Check out some of the badge work and life skills introduced in these books! While you cannot earn the badges, you can use these books as a reference for troop activities. Also included are two songbooks, two game books, and a 1955 book entitled Exploring the Hand-Arts, which is filled with fun, low-cost projects.
Juliette Low’s story is told through the Kim’s Game kit. Kim’s Game is a memory game made up of 18 items that reveal some lesser-known facts about Juliette’s life and the beginnings of the Girl Scout movement. Simple instructions are included, along with an explanation of each of the 18 items. What new facts about Juliette did you learn through this game?
Another fun activity is assembling the WAGGGS (World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts) Flag. Juliette based her U.S. Girl Scout program on the English Girl Guide and Boy Scout programs started by the Baden-Powells. A world traveler, Juliette understood the value of learning from and sharing with our neighbors around the globe. Play an action game that teaches about the World Fund, and learn the significance of each part of the World Flag. There’s a paper copy to color, or a felt board version to assemble during a ceremony. Why not present the WAGGGS pin to the girls when they complete the flag? Ready to make some special SWAPS (Special Whatchamacallits Affectionately Pinned Somewhere)? Instructions are included for making a friendship knot.
And finally, celebrate a special occasion with a Tea Party! Juliette was a Southern belle who enjoyed the pleasures of afternoon tea. This kit includes a binder with suggested activities and games, plus a service for ten to set your table. Please note: the Chicago Gathering Place does not currently have this tote due to its size and weight. However, we can send you a list of included materials upon request.
If you are unable to pick up a kit at a gathering place, PDFs of the games and stories in the kits can be found in the historian section of the council’s website linked here.
We hope you’ll find these kits helpful—and share the info with other leaders! Please let us know if any pieces are missing or if you have suggestions for additional kits. We’d also love to receive photos of your troop using the kits. Be sure to include your troop number and the occasion when you send them. Our email address is: historian@girlscoutsgcnwi.org.
The Pinnacle Award is a prestigious honor unique to Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana (GCNWI), celebrating Ambassador Girl Scouts who have shown exceptional leadership throughout their Girl Scouting journey—both within the movement and in their communities. In 2024, we proudly recognized eight outstanding Girl Scouts and young alums as Pinnacle Awardees! Keep scrolling to hear their stories and learn about their incredible contributions to Girl Scouts in their own words.
Madalyn C., Carol Stream, IL
“Girl Scouting has meant everything to me. In the 12 years I’ve been a Girl Scout, I have become more confident, developed a strong character, recognized the importance of community, and been able to influence real, positive change in the world. I’ve always had ambition and big dreams, but Girl Scouts gave me the skills to make those dreams a reality.”
Madalyn earned the Pinnacle Award by earning their Silver and Bronze Award, serving as a Program Aide, District Delegate, National Delegate, providing leadership to a girl-led GCNWI interest group and serving in leadership capacities outside of Girl Scouting.
“Serving as a National Delegate for GCNWI at the 2023 National Council Session (NCS) in Orlando. The experience I had in Orlando reminded me of the beauty of what’s at the heart of Girl Scouts: community. I got to meet Girl Scouts my age across the country and learn about their unique backgrounds and experiences, which meant a lot to me because I got to meet others that have a similar passion for Scouting to me. Debating at NCS challenged me to see different points of view, understand the movement in a larger sense, and take a stand for my values. Being a National Delegate inspired me to start my Gold Award and see a future in Girl Scouting beyond graduation.
Ever since I was a Daisy, I pictured myself going for the Highest Awards, taking big trips with my troop, and being able to look back at my long journey with pride. I was able to go to Disney World with my troop a few years ago, I have earned my Bronze, Silver, and am working towards my Gold Award, and am honestly surprised with all that I have learned over the years. So to all other Girl Scouts questioning their future in Scouting, I would say that it only gets better as you get older. There are so many more opportunities and ways to make a difference as you get older and Girl Scouts provides an amazing community of strong women that you can grow with.
After I graduate high school in the spring, I will be off to college! I’m not sure where that will be just yet, but I want to major in international relations. I hope to be able to study abroad wherever I go and then serve in the Peace Corps after undergrad to prepare for a career in diplomacy. I plan on becoming a Lifetime Girl Scout once I graduate and perhaps even lead my own troop later on in life so that I can pass the baton to the next generation of young Girl Scouts. I will definitely still be around and helping out with Girl Scouts for a long time.”
Mikenna D., Elmwood Park, IL
Mikenna earned the Pinnacle Award by earning their Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards, providing leadership to a Service Unit and serving in Leadership capacities outside of Girl Scouting.
Anjeli F., Chicago, IL
Anjeli earned the Pinnacle Award by earning their Bronze and Silver Award, serving as a Girl Representative to the Board, providing leadership in a girl-led GCNWI club and searing in leadership capacities outside of Girl Scouting.
Paige R., Mount Prospect, IL
“Girl Scouting provided me a place to meet so many new people, create unforgettable memories, and have lots of new experience I would’ve never had otherwise!”
Paige earned the Pinnacle Award by earning their Bronze and Silver Award, serving as a Counselor in Training (CIT), providing leadership to the service unit and serving in leadership capacities outside of Girl Scouting.
“A leadership experience that made a lasting impact on me was being the section leader for the second violins in Prospect High School’s Symphony Orchestra. I learned how to effectively make music with others and how I could help my classmates be the best musicians we could be! It challenged me because a lot of people were looking up to me for directions, and I was unsure of myself a lot. Overall, it was an experience that helped shape my leadership journey.
My favorite thing I’ve done as a Girl Scout is attend Camp Juniper Knoll for resident camp! Across multiple summers, I attended many different week-long programs at JK, and it gave me the opportunity to spend time with older scouts and do fun activities that always kept me busy!
I love being able to help shape experiences for younger girls! I was a CIT at Camp Greene Wood for three years, and I was an archery assistant for different archery events for Service Unit 404! I loved being able to teach new things to younger girls and help them have experiences they wouldn’t have had otherwise!
I’m attending College with a Communication major and Philosophy minor in mind! I’ll be at the fall camporee for Service Unit 404 to help out, and I’m super excited!”
Jamyriah S., Chicago, IL
“The value of Girl Scouting in my life has been the development of my character and leadership skills. As a little Daisy and Brownie, I didn’t realize how much my sisterhood meant to me as I was just exploring the world making new friends. However, as I bridged into becoming a Junior Aide, I began to understand the importance of giving back to my community. I learned to become an agent of change within the communities I was a part of. As I articulated into a Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador, being able to step up when needed as well as advocate for my sisters who were shy to speak up, I learned the importance of being a leader and sister to every Girl Scout. Overall, Girl Scouts has helped to mold me into the young leader that I am today. I value my leaders for all the wisdom and motivation they have shared along the way, my big sisters for always inspiring me to be great no matter what, and my little sisters for allowing me to lead them and show them a pathway to success. We “Girls” have the power to change the world and I’m glad that I can be an example of that!”
Jamyriah earned the Pinnacle Award by earning their Bronze, Silver and Gold Award, serving as a Volunteer in Training and in leadership capacities outside of Girl Scouting.
“One leadership experience that made an everlasting impact on me was the project I completed to receive my Gold Award. My Gold Award Project “Welcoming City” was an opportunity to welcome asylum seekers into my neighborhood by providing them with survival kits that contained everyday essentials so they could stay clean and healthy. However, an obstacle I didn’t consider as I planned to distribute the bags was not being able to speak the migrant’s native language. I didn’t realize how challenging it was going to be to speak with families outside of my native language. Even though I was grateful that I was able to use Google Translate to help me communicate with the families, I found this experience to be very eye-opening. Seeing how receptive and appreciative they have let me know the importance of belonging to a welcoming community. I live by the Girl Scout promise, and being considerate and caring can go further than anyone could ever imagine. With us all coming from different walks of life, I think it’s important that we have an empathetic spirit in order for us to be more understanding of one another. I’ve also learned to welcome other people’s perspectives which are different from my own and for that I am grateful.
One of my favorite experiences as a Girl Scout was my first year as a Cadette and I learned the importance of setting a cookie goal and how to run my own cookie store. That year, I was determined to get on our cookie cruise after learning from my other sisters how fun it was. Needless to say, I was excited to meet so many new Girl Scouts and one thing that stood out to me that year was how fun it was to not only meet new sisters but how fun it was to “swap” out little tokens along the way. Every year thereafter, I looked forward to not only setting cookie goals with each year raising the bar, but also being able to make swaps with my fellow troop sisters so that they can share in that excitement with me. I don’t know if I was more excited about making the swaps to give to one another, meeting other sisters from other troops, or receiving the swaps but I do know this experience was something meaningful to me because we all took our time making something so special for others. I made memories with my sisters in my troop while also sharing with others.
I am attending college in the fall majoring in Social Work and minoring in business/marketing. I plan to become a school social worker or counselor because I like helping with younger children. My ultimate career goal is to become a licensed clinical social worker and open my own practice. Although I have bridged into adult scouting, I will forever be a lifelong member. I plan to continue to serve whenever I can in my community as well as one day leading a troop of my own.”
Hailey S., Elk Grove Village, IL
Hailey earned the Pinnacle Award by earning their Bronze and Silver Award, serving as a Program Aide, Traveling, Providing leadership to a service unit and serving in leadership roles outside of Girl Scouting.
Madelyn W., Vernon Hills, IL
“Girl Scouts has given me the opportunity to experience things that I never would have gotten the chance to. It has let me become more involved in my community, and has helped be grow, introducing me to new skills and providing a platform to make friends.”
Madelyn earned the Pinnacle Award by earning their Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards, Providing leadership in a girl-led GCNWI interest group, leadership to a service unit and in leadership capacities outside of Girl Scouting.
“My Gold Award has made a lasting impact on me. It taught me perseverance, and helped me gain confidence in my ability to complete major individual projects, as well as developed my communication skills and executive functioning. I renovated an elementary school’s raised garden beds, and built five new movable raised garden beds for another school. I grew my communication skills in a professional setting as I corresponded with local businesses to find the funds and materials needed to support my project, and organized help from the community to get the project up and running. Looking back after completion, the satisfaction I got from having made it through so many obstacles and having completed such a significant project was very profound, and the project boosted my belief in my ability to complete future endeavors of similar and even greater scale.
My favorite thing I’ve done as a Girl Scout is probably camping at Camp River Trails. I’ve been with my troop a few times, but one time was especially notable; when my troop was younger, and we were there with a troop of older Girl Scouts. They set up and led fun games and activities, and hung out with us younger Girl Scouts as we explored the camp. Getting both the classic summer camp experience with the older kids leading activities that they were just as invested in as we were, and being in a cozy, close-knit environment, not only made long lasting memories, but it also served to show the importance of the community that Girl Scouts can help create.
Being on the flip side of the program has made me realize just how important the older Girl Scouts have been to my own Girl Scout experience. I strongly believe in “pay it forward”, and to be able to turn around and be an inspiration to the younger girls is important to me. I would encourage other Girl Scouts to stay involved by connecting through the things that inspire them. You never know when your enthusiasm for something could inspire someone else who’s just starting to figure out their place in the world.
I’m going to go on to college once I graduate, and I’m looking to study Biological Engineering, with a focus in genetics and cellular and molecular biology, as well as a minor in German language and culture.
Thank you to all the older Girl Scouts who came back to help lead us through our journeys!”
Jasmine Z., Hoffman Estates, IL
“Girl Scout activities prepared me for life. It taught me many things and gave me many opportunities I wouldn’t have had elsewhere. I have learned to use power tools, worked on my public speaking, learned more about planning and managing projects, learned how to manage money, worked on my leadership skills and practiced my customer service skills. All of these have been a huge help in my work, school and personal life.”
Jasmine earned the Pinnacle Award by earning their Silver and Bronze Award, serving as a Program Aide, Volunteer in Training, District Delegate, traveling, providing leadership to a service unit and serving in a leadership capacity outside of Girl Scouting.
“The leadership experience that made a lasting impact on me was leading a younger girl Daisy troop. This experience taught me how to plan and execute activities for younger girls. It was very educational learning to think on the fly and be flexible when it comes to kids as what you may think will take 20 minutes may only take five. It was a challenge sometimes when the activities I planned didn’t work out as well as I expected but often, I was able to pivot and still give the girls memorable experiences.
My favorite thing I have done as a Girl Scout has been when I went to Costa Rica on a Girl Scout Destinations trip. I went on a trip called Sea Turtles, Service, and Scuba. On my trip I got my scuba certification which was one of my many goals I wanted to complete before I finished high school. Along with that I was able to make great friends and memories on that trip.
I stayed in Girl Scouts because I saw the amount of opportunities it could give me as I got older. I am very thankful that I did as by staying in Girl Scouts I was able to create a fairy story walk at Spring Valley for my Silver Award and am able to rally for less single use plastic consumption with my Gold Award that I am currently working on. Staying in Girl Scouts has also allowed me to volunteer leading a Daisy troop which has been fun. I have not only created memorable experiences for the girls and me but I was able to complete my school required volunteer hours doing something I enjoyed and giving back to the organization that has given me so many opportunities. I would tell other girls that they should stay in Girl Scouts because it helps you find great opportunities to learn more about a variety of things and yourself which is helpful when you are trying to find your place in the world outside of school.
I am in my last year at high school and Girl Scouts. Right now I am applying for colleges. I want to study Marine Science or Marine Biology somewhere but first I want to enjoy my last year in school and Girl Scouts. Also, I want to finish my Gold award!”
Congratulations to our 2024 Pinnacle Awardees!
The application for the 2025 Class of Pinnacle Awardees is now open and will close on May 31, 2025. Learn more and apply today on our website.
In 1966, the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) established Sangam, which in Sanskrit means “coming together”. The symbol for Sangam is meant to show the convergence or, “coming together”.
India may seem a long way from our Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana (GCNWI) Council and may seem to be a very different place from where we live, but it has so much to experience. There could be no better place for a Girl Scout from the US to be introduced to India than at Sangam, one of the five World Centers of WAGGGS.
In 2003, my daughter Lillian and I were visiting family in India and took a side trip to Sangam for the day. We were warmly greeted by the staff and shown around. We found a beautiful, peaceful oasis in the middle of a bustling city. It is a place where guests can relax, swim in the pool, walk through a garden, sample home cooked Indian meals,and meet other Girl Scouts and Girl Guides from around the world. It is also a place where girls can learn more about India, by meeting its people and experiencing its culture.
We saw a wall with logos of all Girl Scout and Girl Guide programs from around the world. We found the ones from the US.We also saw the array of flags from around the world, that are used in ceremonies when Girl Scouts or Girl Guides from different countries visit, and during World Thinking Day Programs.
In 2005, Girl Scouts of Chicago offered a Destination Opportunity for Older Girl Scouts to visit Sangam. In all, 20 girls from across the country went. Julie Somogyi, who today is Chief Experience Officer for GCNWI, went on the trip as a staff chaperone. Below are some of her memories:
These opportunities to travel far and wide through Girl Scouts andimmerse into other cultures, learning about their families, art, music,communities, food, and social services is a vital way for us to build respect andexpand our views of the world around us. It was a transformative experience, and Iwill never forget how the program staff at Sangam shared many important lessons with us. They urged us to see and experience their culture through their eyes, not ours, and to understand the values they hold without comparing it to ours. That was an incredible gift of perspective that I will carry with me forever as I seek to experience more of the world.
Rebecca Strocchio, one of the girls who went to Sangam in 2005 wrote the following about her experience:
My favorite memory from my trip to Sangam is learning about Bollywood and the dances they do for the movies. It was so much fun! It’s something I still remember to this day. It gave me an interest in a culture I knew nothing about before the trip.
I’ve had the chance through my career to interact with people from India. Having the opportunity to tell them how much I enjoyed my trip there and how kindly we were received is something that has helped me connect with people since my trip there so many years ago. I have been told countless times by people from India, here in the States, that they hoped I would travel there again, and the people of India would be happy to have me back. The bond I have with India and its culture and people is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I hope I have the opportunity to return one day because it was the greatest cultural experience I have ever had, the opportunity of being part of.
Dionne Hawkins, who still volunteers with GCNWI in special events, went with the group to Sangam as a volunteer chaperone. She remembers how much the group enjoyed going into the town of Pune to shop for sarees. When they returned with their purchases, the Sangam staff taught them how to wrap/wear a sari. The variety of colors and fabrics, is a great snapshot of India.
Dionne is creating Warli art, a type of drawing specific to the state where Pune is located.Another form of artisRangoli, using chalk to make designs on the walkway or at the doorway of a home.
worldcentres.wagggs.org lists programs at Sangam throughout the year, ranging in length from one to ten weeks where you and your group can work on leadership skills, celebrate World Thinking Day, focus on wellness, and/or learn about a culture different from your own.
If GCNWI offers an opportunity to travel to Sangam, I hope you’ll give serious consideration to applying as one of the participants. If the group/troop you are traveling with chooses to, you may be able to extend your stay in India to visit the Taj Mahal in Agra, or the backwaters of Kerala! Belonging to WAGGGS is a worldwide connection for every Girl Scout. It gives you a place to make new friends and keep the old, no matter where in the world you go. So, each year, on February 22, know that Girl Scouts and Girl Guides at Sangam are thinking of you!
