Tag: Pinnacle Award

Meet the 2024 Pinnacle Awardees!

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.









Meet the 2023 Class of Pinnacle Awardees!

The Pinnacle Award, a Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana specific award, honors Ambassador Girl Scouts who have demonstrated leadership in Girl Scouting and their communities! We are excited to recognize and celebrate ten outstanding Girl Scouts and young alums as Pinnacle Awardees this year! Continue scrolling to learn more about each awardee and their involvement in Girl Scouts in their own words.

Ainsley G., Lansing, IL 
Ainsley earned the Pinnacle Award by earning her Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards, providing leadership in a service unit and in capacities outside of Girl Scouting.  

What is the value of Girl Scouting in your life? “Girl Scouts has been a valuable part of my life since I was a Daisy. I genuinely believe in the things that Girl Scouts value and spend every day doing my best to embody the Girl Scout Law. I have spent most of my life as a Girl Scout and hope to continue as one even once I have bridged to an adult alum. I have also made so many friends through Girl Scouting that I hope to carry with me through the rest of my life, holding on tightly to the sisterhood that Girl Scouts has aided me in creating. I will always do my best to make the world a better place and be a sister to every Girl Scout.” 
 

What is your favorite thing you have done as a Girl Scout? “My favorite thing that I have done as a Girl Scout is my Gold Award, A Lifetime of Literature. In the post-pandemic world, I noticed how centered on technology education had become and how this change was affecting students negatively, especially the younger grades. To change this, I worked with the kindergarten classes at my alma mater elementary school to help foster a love of reading like the one that I had at their age, as well as assist in dismantling the growing frustration with education that they were experiencing at such a young age. I visited each of the five kindergarten classes multiple times throughout the school year, reading a new book and completing a new craft with them each time. I also handmade 100 reading buddies to distribute to them as an incentive to continue to read. In addition, I built and installed a book box at a local church to make free books more readily available in the community.” 

What keeps you going? What drives you to make a difference in the world? “Staying involved in my community is what drives me to make a difference in the world. As a very involved member of my town, I see problems first-hand that need addressing. Together with my sister Girl Scouts, I work to solve these problems and hopefully prevent future issues from occurring. The gratification I get from knowing that I have made at least one person’s life easier is reason enough to keep me going.” 
 

Ainsley is currently finishing high school and applying to colleges, planning to major in elementary education. Ainsley plans to stay involved in Girl Scouting as an adult, working with troops and maybe leading a troop one day, too. 

Annabel H., Chicago, IL 
Annabel earned the Pinnacle Award by earning her Silver Award, serving as a volunteer-in-training (VIT), being a district delegate and national delegate, providing leadership in a girl-led interest group and in a service unit, and in capacities outside Girl Scouting.

What is the value of Girl Scouting in your life? “Being in Girl Scouts has really allowed me to connect with such an inclusive and supportive community. I want others to be able to share in it because if you need help, your sister Girl Scouts are always willing. I think Girl Scouts has taught me to always care for others and do my best to help those who need it.”  
 
What changes need to happen in society, and how can Girl Scouts affect these changes? “I think society needs to be more kind, understanding, and inclusive. These are key traits that Girl Scouts teaches you, and understanding and supporting others’ perspectives and lives gives you so much more insight into the world.” 
 

What do you wish others knew about Girl Scouts? “I wish others knew that Girl Scouts has so many things that older girls can do. Not only do you get access to this wonderful community full of people who want to help you, you learn how to be a leader, can connect with people from all over the world, explore different fields and career paths, and more.” 
 

What is your favorite thing you have done as a Girl Scout? “I love going to help set up tents at Girl Scout camps with my troop. It is a lot of work, but it’s very fun to help put up and take down these huge tents with a team. I’ve also loved being a national delegate because I got to meet so many people at the National Council Session.”  
 
Annabel is finishing high school and applying to college, hoping to major in chemistry. She hopes to continue in Girl Scouts, helping local troops, mentoring, and encouraging other Girl Scouts. 

Calla S., Chicago, IL 
Calla earned the Pinnacle by earning her Bronze and Silver Awards, serving as a counselor in training (CIT), traveling with Girl Scouts, and providing leadership to a service unit and in a capacity outside of Girl Scouting.  

What is the value of Girl Scouting in your life? “Girl Scouting brought me closer to other girls my age, gave me a love for the environment, and taught me skills I can apply in every aspect of my life. Two of my favorite things I have done as a Girl Scout are plan and take a trip to London with other Girl Scouts and participate in the counselor-in-training program at Butternut Springs.” 
 

What do you wish others knew about Girl Scouts? “I wish others knew that there’s more to Girl Scouting than just the stereotype of little girls selling you cookies. It also teaches you so much, and you will become so much closer with the people you do it with. I learned so much from it, and I hope other girls get to do the same.” 
 
What changes need to happen in society, and how can Girl Scouts affect these changes? “I believe we need to have more respect for others, ourselves, and the planet. Girl Scouts helped me expand my views on all these things, which, in turn, made me gain more respect for them.”  

What keeps you going? What drives you to make a difference in the world? “I’m driven by a desire to make the world a better place for myself and others through compassion, a wise use of resources, and respect for others.”  

 
Calla is headed off to college to study environmental engineering.  
 

Dorothy L., Munster, IN 
Dorothy earned the Pinnacle by earning her Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards, serving as a volunteer-in-training (VIT) and girl rep to the board, traveling with Girl Scouts, and providing leadership to a service unit and in a capacity outside of Girl Scouting.  

What is the value of Girl Scouting in your life? “Girl Scouting has been a major part of my life. As I enter my thirteenth year as an Ambassador Girl Scout, I have been able to reflect upon all my experiences. I found my best friends in kindergarten when I joined Girl Scouts. I have learned so many new things and life lessons. Girl Scouts gives me a place to be myself. I think my experience as a Girl Scout has been priceless. I have earned my Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards. No value can be placed on my journey these past 12, going on 13 years.” 
 
What do you wish others knew about Girl Scouts? “I think Girl Scouts is all about the leadership that you have. My mom and one of my best friend’s mom are our leaders. They put in lots of time to make sure we have an amazing time at whatever we choose to do. I wish others would know or have my same experience. I hope they don’t give up in tough times and stick Girl Scouting out. I’m one of ten high school seniors in my troop. I get questioned all the time about my troop. They are mostly amazed at the large number of older girls that we have been able to retain. I think leaders need to think outside of the box. Girl Scouts can have fun in high school, too.” 
 
What keeps you going? What drives you to make a difference in the world? “I grew up volunteering and doing community service at a young age. It’s now programmed in me. I keep going by helping others, volunteering where I’m needed, and on many occasions, introducing friends to the joy of volunteering. I like to see the results of my hard work. Nothing is better than a little Girl Scout looking up to me or the joy of seeing people smile when you help them. I believe you should help when you can in the world. One day, you may need to ask those same people for help.”  

 
What changes need to happen in society, and how can Girl Scouts affect these changes? “One of the biggest things we need to do is upgrade our education system. We are so laser-focused on test results that we miss out on teaching our youth about the importance of humanity and the world around us. In my community, we can use our voices to help make these changes through voting and speaking out. Girl Scouts is a big platform that can be used to help demonstrate how being a well-rounded person in society and helping in your community can help make these changes.” 

 
Dorothy is in her senior year of high school and is applying to colleges to study sports journalism. She has a fun final year of being an Ambassador planned with her Girl Scout sisters and looks forward to getting involved as an adult Girl Scout at the nearest council to her college!

Lia R., Chicago, IL 
Lia earned her Pinnacle Award by earning her Bronze and Silver Awards, serving as a volunteer-in-training (VIT), and providing leadership to a girl-led interest group and service unit, and in a capacity outside of Girl Scouts.

What is the value of Girl Scouting in your life? “I have been in Girl Scouts since I was a first-year Daisy, and I have made many relationships and learned many life skills from the activities I have done. Being in Girl Scouts for so long has allowed me to learn how to be a leader and given me opportunities to be in leadership positions within my troop and in bigger group settings. These opportunities also helped me become a leader at my school and in other activities outside of Girl Scouts.” 
 
What do you wish others knew about Girl Scouts? “There is something for everyone in Girl Scouts, and there are many more activities offered than what most people know of, such as camping and learning survival skills.” 
 
What is your favorite thing you have done as a Girl Scout? “One of my favorite things I have done as a Girl Scout is participate in “Work Camp Weekend” at Camp Juniper Knoll, where we set up and take down the tents for the summer campers.” 
 
What changes need to happen in society, and how can Girl Scouts affect these changes? “One big change that I think needs to happen in Chicago is for the government to work harder toward helping people who are experiencing homelessness, as well as adding accessibility to housing, as one of the biggest causes of homelessness is lack of housing. Girl Scouts can help affect these changes by helping with food pantries and volunteering at shelters to show that people care about what happens to people experiencing homelessness and to destigmatize helping people experiencing homelessness.” 

Lia is a senior in high school and is planning to go to college and major in art, education, or psychology. She plans to stay involved in Girl Scouts after graduating and continuing to help with the troop she is a part of.

Madi P., Flossmoor, IL 
 
Madi earned her Pinnacle Award by earning her Bronze and Silver Awards, serving as a counselor-in-training (CIT) and district delegate, traveling with Girl Scouts, and providing leadership to a service unit.  

What is the value of Girl Scouting in your life? “Girl Scouting has helped me to be more social and outgoing.” 

What is your favorite thing you have done as a Girl Scout? One of my favorite things I have done as a Girl Scout is going camping.” 
 
What do you wish others knew about Girl Scouts? “I wish others knew that Girl Scouts don’t just work on projects and that you are able to explore with your troop.” 
 
What keeps you going? What drives you to make a difference in the world? “I try to make unpleasant things for me, a little bit more pleasant for others.” 
 
Madi just graduated high school and is now in college. She has continued to stay involved by working at Camp Palos and volunteering with younger troops in her community.  

Megan R., Chicago, IL 
Megan earned her Pinnacle Award by earning her Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards, serving as a program aid, counselor-in-training (CIT), and girl rep to the board, attending Camp CEO, traveling with Girl Scouts, and providing leadership to a girl-led interest group and in capacities outside of Girl Scouts. 

What is the value of Girl Scouting in your life? “I have learned so many great lessons from Girl Scouts including, confidence, business skills, and creativity.”  
 
What is your favorite thing you have done as a Girl Scout? “My favorite thing I have done as a Girl Scout is travel! I had many travel opportunities through Girl Scouts, including choosing your own adventure trips, Colorado, and London. I enjoyed planning and participating in these trips.” 

 What do you wish others knew about Girl Scouts? “A lot of girls quit Girl Scouts early on, but I think the experiences that Girl Scouts offers get better and better as you get older.” 
 
What keeps you going? What drives you to make a difference in the world? “I have a sense of purpose in helping people and being able to see an impact.” 
 
Megan has started college and is still exploring what she wants to study, but she plans to major in psychology and environmental studies.

Kate L., Glen Ellyn, IL 
Kate earned her Pinnacle Award by earning her Bronze and Gold Awards, serving as a national delegate, providing leadership in a service unit and capacities outside of Girl Scouting. 

Keelin K., Hammond, IN 
Keelin earned the pinnacle by earning her Silver and Gold Awards, providing leadership in a service unit and a capacity outside of Girl Scouting.

Sydney K., Lake Forest, IL 
Sydney earned her Pinnacle Award by earning her Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards, serving as a girl rep to the board, attending Camp CEO, and serving in leadership capacities outside of Girl Scouting. 
 

Congratulations to our 2023 Pinnacle Awardees! 

The application for the 2024 Class of Pinnacle Awardees will open by January 2024. More information will be available on our website here.  

Meet the Class of 2022 Pinnacle Awardees!  

 The Pinnacle Award, a Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana-specific award, honors Ambassador Girl Scouts who have demonstrated leadership in Girl Scouting and their communities! We were honored to recognize 19 outstanding Girl Scouts and young alums in the Pinnacle Award’s second year.  

Read on to meet some of these Girl Scouts.  

Girl Scout Grace, earned the Pinnacle Award by attending Camp CEO, earning her Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award, providing leadership in a girl-led interest group, and serving in a leadership capacity outside of Girl Scouts.   

What is the value of Girl Scouting in your life?   

 Being in Girl Scouts gives you an instant family; it has pushed me to be a better person, and that is a big part of Girl Scouts. Who doesn’t want to be a better person? Learning so much about all parts of life is another big benefit; there are opportunities, from working on cars to holding a dinner party.  

What do you wish others knew about Girl Scouts?  

It is not just spa parties. There’s an opportunity to do whatever your heart desires in Girl Scouts. Some people like going outdoors (like me), and others like staying indoors. There is something for everyone within Girl Scouts.  

What keeps you going? What drives you to make a difference in the world?   

My passion is indescribable. I don’t have a reason for it; I just have it. I see an issue, and I want to fix it, and that’s what I attempt to do every day. Seeing how people live drives me to learn more and help them if necessary. Support from friends and family also really helps me keep pushing.  

Grace is now a freshman in college and said, “Here, I am still making a difference, just in a unique way. I have started working on founding a zero-waste store on our school’s campus to help students and the environment all at once!”  

Girl Scout Ameenah, earned the Pinnacle Award though serving as a District Delegate and program aide, earning her Bronze and Silver Award, traveling with Girl Scouts and serving in leadership positions within her service unit and community.   

What is the value of Girl Scouting in your life?  

Girl Scouting taught me leadership skills and responsibilities. Girl Scouts has added a great deal to my life in the form of having the ability and opportunity to give back to a program that brought me out of my shell and made me the confident person I am today.  

What do you wish others knew about Girl Scouts?  

Girls Scouts goes beyond elementary school. Those older girls at cookie booths are, in fact, Girl Scouts. That there are so many choices. That Girl Scouts is what you make it. You can do as little or as much as you want; your Girl Scout experience is entirely up to you. There are so many opportunities and options within Girl Scouts that there really is something for everyone.  

What keeps you going? What drives you to make a difference in the world?  

I want to make sure future generations don’t have to go through the same issues I had. Essentially to make the world a better place, better than at least how I found it.  

What drove me was a desire to prevent future students from having the same issues I had regarding handwriting and schoolwork in general. As a left-handed student, I was told that I was using the “wrong” hand while writing even in second grade, and there is a noticeable difference in my handwriting on a desk with an arm on the right side, lacking support for people who write with their left hand, and a flat-topped neutral desk. I want to help to ensure that no students’ schoolwork suffers because of what desk they happen to sit in that day. Also, they are taught early on the skills they need to succeed as a left-handed student in this day and age.  

Ameenah is planning to go to college and study engineering and continues to volunteer with a Brownie troop.  

 Girl Scout Erika, earned the Pinnacle Award by traveling with Girl Scouts, earning her Silver and Gold Award, and serving in a leadership position in a girl-led interest group and the community.  

What is the value of Girl Scouting in your life?   

Girl Scouts creates a supportive community for every girl, allowing her to explore her curiosities and passions. In my life, Girl Scouts has led me to make friends and find a supportive, embracing community where I can explore and grow into myself.  

What keeps you going? What drives you to make a difference in the world?  

The feeling of satisfaction keeps me going, knowing I did all I could and tried my hardest. This idea is very helpful because it also applies to successes and failures. The idea that I can do anything I set my mind to gives me the drive to do difficult things and keeps me going.  

What types of changes do you think need to happen in society and your community? How do you see Girl Scouts affecting these changes?   

I think our society needs to change to be more compassionate to other people. I can see Girl Scouts affecting these changes because Girl Scouts is “a sister to every Girl Scout,” meaning Girl Scouts already upholds these values and can influence and progress society to do the same.  

 Erika is looking forward to what’s next, which includes college!  

 

Girl Scout Olivia, earned the Pinnacle Award by earning her Bronze Award, serving as a CIT (counselor-in-training), District Delegate, traveling with Girl Scouts, and serving in a leadership capacity within her service unit and community.   

What is the value of Girl Scouting in your life?  

Girl Scouts has given me a lot of opportunities throughout my life that I wouldn’t have had otherwise. From traveling abroad (even though it was canceled due to COVID) to camping outdoors and even connecting with scouts across the country, the experiences I’ve had with Girl Scouts has forever shaped my life to where I am now.  

What do you wish others knew about Girl Scouts?  

I wish people knew that Girl Scouts is for every age and we’re doing more than just selling cookies. We have been able to provide a welcoming and accepting space for everyone, and I think we should be recognized for that.  

What types of changes do you think need to happen in society and your community? How do you see Girl Scouts affecting these changes?  

I think communities need to start accepting that the population is very diverse, and we should all be celebrated for it. I think Girl Scouts has done a good job at providing inclusivity and representation for younger girls, especially when they may not be in a diverse area. Additionally, as a suggestion, I would love to see Girl Scouts advocate more for community service outside of earning awards; service shouldn’t be something required, rather it should be something that they learn is important for everyone.  

Olivia is currently a freshman majoring in biology and minoring in East Asian language and culture. She keeps in touch with her old troop and enjoys sharing her Girl Scout experiences with her peers!  

Girl Scout Shaela, earned the Pinnacle Award by earning her Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award, serving as a program aide, CIT (counselor-in-training), and serving in a leadership capacity within her service unit and community.   

What is the value of Girl Scouting in your life?  

Girl Scouting is something that I truly value and treasure close to my heart. It has been such a constant part of my life for the longest time that I honestly couldn’t imagine life without it. It has helped me to communicate effectively, form life-long friendships, network with others, lead when needed, and it has improved my confidence as a person. I have grown so much due to Girl Scouts, and that development is something I will not take for granted. Through all the meetings, camps, projects, trips, journeys, and events I have participated in, I have learned how to be strong, determined, compassionate, courageous, caring, helpful, and so much more. I have learned not only how to “make the world a better place” but how to follow each step of the Girl Scout Law and Promise. The values included in those words are values that I hold true in my personal life, and because of this, Girl Scouts is a program that means the world to me. The lessons and skills I have been taught through the program are priceless, as has my time being a loyal member.  

What do you wish others knew about Girl Scouts?  

I wish others knew about the incredible experiences Girl Scouts can offer! Girl Scouts gives young women amazing opportunities to explore their communities, the natural world, leadership experiences, service engagements, and so much more! They infuse young women with confidence, kindness, strength, resilience, and charity. It is truly an organization that empowers young women to take on the world and reach their full potential.  

What keeps you going? What drives you to make a difference in the world?  

As someone who has been active in volunteer service for many years, my drive to continue to make a difference is something that is housed deep inside my empathy and compassion toward others. I have always had a very strong connection with people, and I am often able to tell how others are feeling and place myself in their shoes without any difficulty or hesitation. I can see the stress and painful emotions that can follow others like a dark shadow, and that motivates me to take action. I wish more than anything to provide aide that can assist in making that shadow leave my community and the world, as well as to establish peace and understanding for all. Getting rid of these negative emotions and actions that exist today is how humanity can achieve true unity. That goal of having acceptance, aid, equity, and love in the world is what keeps me going.   

Shaela has bridged to adults and is a college student. She shared, “Girl Scouts still remains a part of my life, however, as I continue to engage in service opportunities on my campus that bring people together for a great cause, just like Girl Scouts. I reflect upon the wonderful times I had in my troop at each service event that I attended, and I am always incredibly grateful for the passion and dedication it taught me. Girl Scouts gave me the powerful value set and drive for service that I still hold dear today. I hope to engage in Girl Scouting after my educational career as well.”  

Girl Scout Emily, earned the Pinnacle Award by earning her Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award, attending Camp CEO, and providing leadership within a service unit.   

What is the value of Girl Scouts in your life?  

Girl Scouting has provided me with countless lifelong friendships and memories that I will cherish forever. Girl Scouts has helped me realize that I can make a difference in the world if I put my mind to it. After I got my Gold Award, I felt like I could now accomplish anything. I now notice so many ideas for community service projects; I just want to help them all.  

 What do you wish others knew about Girl Scouts?  

 I think that it is a common idea that Girl Scouts is just an after-school activity for younger girls where they sell cookies. Yeah, that is a part of it, but I wish others would realize that Girl Scouts has so many amazing opportunities for older girls. Whenever I tell someone I’m a Girl Scout, they seem to say, “Let me know when you’re selling cookies.” I always respond by telling them about my Gold Award project.  

What keeps you going? What drives you to make a difference in the world?  

 Anytime I notice something that I know I can change for the better, I try to do it because there might not be someone else after me to make the change. In my experience, people are hesitant to initiate any change but will engage in efforts once someone is there to lead them. I know that I can at least get an effort started and that people will follow.  

What types of changes do you think need to happen in society and your community? How do you see Girl Scouts affecting these changes?  

 I think people need to be more respectful of different opinions. In my community, people seem to get aggressive toward individuals with opinions different than their own. Girl Scouts has a strong emphasis on being respectful of everyone no matter what, and I think society could implement that idea.  

Girl Scout Kye, earned the Pinnacle Award through service as a program aide, CIT (Counselor-in-training), earning their Silver Award, and providing leadership in their service unit and community.  

 What is the value of Girl Scouts in your life?  

 Girl Scouts means a lot to me. I’ve learned a lot of social, leadership, and outdoor skills from camp and from earning my Gold Award. I use the skills I’ve learned from Girl Scouts every day, and I love teaching those skills to younger Girl Scouts.  

 What do you wish others knew about Girl Scouts?  

 I wish that people understood how many positive life skills kids can learn by being a Girl Scout. For example, kids can learn outdoor and leadership skills by going to camp or a range of different skills, from planning, leading, and developing their highest award projects. I also wish that more people knew about the Gold Award because it is an amazing award and deserves more recognition.  

 What types of changes do you think need to happen in society and your community? How do you see Girl Scouts affecting these changes?  

 I believe that more needs to be done to help the environment. Girl Scouts can help with these changes in multiple ways. I believe that camp is one of these ways because it connects kids to the environment. This connection can result in positive change since more people will have a personal connection to the earth. Highest award projects are another one of these ways, because many Girl Scouts choose topics that benefit the environment. Lastly, Girl Scouts also teaches leadership skills, which can help create change throughout their lifetime.  

Kye is currently studying music education, works at Girl Scout camp, and is a lifetime member.   

Girl Scout Sofi, earned the Pinnacle Award by earning her Silver Award, attending Camp CEO, serving as a National Delegate Alternate, and serving in a leadership capacity within her service unit and community.   

What is the value of Girl Scouts in your life?  

Girl Scouts has played a big role in my life, and I hold all that I’ve gained and the adventures I’ve had because of it very close to my heart. I’ve learned a lot, like social skills, sales skills, outdoor skills, and even historical information. I use so many things from Girl Scouts in other parts of my life all the time, and it’s given me a leg up in some situations. I’ve made so many friends, met all kinds of different people, and built lasting connections that I’m so grateful for. Girl Scouts has also provided me with so many opportunities to help others, making me very happy.  

 What do you wish others knew about Girl Scouts?  

Not every experience is the same. It varies from troop to troop, service unit to service unit, and girl to girl. It’s significantly what you make of it, but also finding the best fit and focus for you. I know some people think everything is uniform troop to troop and that discourages them from giving Girl Scouts a try when of course, there’s variation, and that’s needed because no two people are the same or have the same interests.  

 What keeps you going? What drives you to make a difference in the world?  

 The biggest thing that continually pushes me to make efforts to create change is seeing the impact of those efforts in other people. I love seeing other people happy and getting to know I contributed to it. I also don’t like feeling unable to do anything, it makes seeing or hearing about negative situations even worse, so I really appreciate having channels to take action to try to address issues.  

Sofi is currently in college and a lifetime member. “I’m currently serving as a National Delegate Alternate and staying connected with my troop.”  

Girl Scout Julia, earned the Pinnacle Award by serving as a girl rep to the Board of Directions, serving as a District Delegate, earning her Bronze and Silver Award, and serving in leadership capacities in her community.   

What is the value of Girl Scouts in your life?  

Girl Scouting has taught me the values of community and volunteer work. Girl Scouting has empowered me to use my voice for positive change in the world.  

What keeps you going? What drives you to make a difference in the world?  

I hope to impact the world around me through my voice and leadership to enact positive change. Even if an issue seems small, it can create a ripple effect.  

What types of changes do you think need to happen in society and your community? How do you see Girl Scouts affecting these changes?  

Girl Scouts positively impacts girls by empowering them to stand up for what they believe is just and fair and gives them the tools to do so, whether environmental issues or social justice. Girl Scouts in my community are willing to put their voices forward to solve a problem.  

Julia plans to study music performance and hopes to stay involved in Girl Scouts as a lifetime member.  

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We also want to congratulate:  

-Girl Scout Magnolia, earned the Pinnacle Award by serving as a CIT (counselor-in-training), earning their Bronze and Silver Award, serving in leadership roles within her service unit and community.    

-Girl Scout Eva, earned the Pinnacle Award by earning her Bronze and Silver Award, serving as a CIT (counselor-in-training), serving in a leadership capacity in her service unit and community.   

– Girl Scout Megan, earned the Pinnacle Award by earning her Bronze and Silver Award, serving as a CIT (counselor-in-training), and serving in leadership capacities within her service unit and community.   

-Girl Scout Nooriyah, earned the Pinnacle Award by earning her Bronze and Silver Award, serving as a girl rep to the Board of Directors, District Delegate, traveling with Girl Scouts, and serving in a leadership capacity outside of Girl Scouts.   

-Girl Scout Hannah, earned the Pinnacle Award by earning her Silver and Gold Award, providing leadership to her service unit and community.   

-Girl Scout Levi, earned the Pinnacle Award by serving as a program aide, CIT (counselor-in-training), attending Camp CEO, earning their Bronze and Silver Award, traveling with Girl Scouts, and serving in leadership capacities in their community.  

-Girl Scout Alyssa, earned the Pinnacle Award by serving as a program aide, earning her Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award, and serving in a leadership capacity in their community.   

-Girl Scout Katherine, earned the Pinnacle Award by traveling with Girl Scouts, earning her Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award, and serving in a leadership capacity in her community. 

-Girl Scout Neha, earned the Pinnacle Award by traveling with Girl Scouts, earning her Bronze and Silver Award, serving as a program aide, and serving in a leadership capacity in her service unit and community.   

-Girl Scout Elizabeth, earned the Pinnacle Award by earning her Bronze and Silver Award, serving as a CIT (counselor-in-training), and providing leadership to her service unit and community.   

The application is now open for the 2023 Pinnacle Award class!  

Details and application can be found on our website.