GSWPA Annual Report 2017-18 | Page 10

sources, e R , s e t a c o v d A , s, Experts Hand-raiser Teachers Our volunteers have H.E.A.R.T. Every volunteer brings their unique life experiences, passion for Girl Scouts, and determination to make a positive difference in girls’ lives. With a strong commitment to our Promise and Law, it’s no surprise that our volunteers are recognized for their accomplishments within our council and beyond. Pittsburgh troop leader receives city-wide recognition Pittsburgh City Council proclaimed Thursday, December 28, 2017, as Elaine Effort Day in the city of Pittsburgh. This proclamation came in recognition of Effort’s 38-year career at KQV-AM (1410), Pittsburgh’s oldest, all-news radio station that went off the air at the end of 2017. Not only has Effort been extremely involved in city matters and events throughout the years, she is a lifetime member of Girl Scouts of the USA. Her time in Girl Scouting began 26 years ago, and she is currently a leader of Troop 52493 in the Pittsburgh East service unit. According to Aftyn Giles, a current troop leader with Effort and previously a member of one of Effort’s troops, Effort’s professional skills impact the girls in her troop by teaching them to ask the right questions, dig deeper, dream bigger, think critically, and make good connections. All of us who were in Elaine’s troop can boast that we are college graduates and in productive careers that center around many of the values that she and Girl Scouts taught. She’s a pillar of the community and has helped open doors for us that would have otherwise been closed.” —Aftyn Giles, troop leader Volunteers receive the Thanks Badge I The Thanks Badge I, a national award from Girl Scouts of the USA, is an honor given to a Girl Scout volunteer whose service continues to impact the entire council or the Girl Scout Movement in extraordinary ways. Mae Lynn Edwards, of Butler, received this award for her work on trainings for girls and volunteers on the Silver and Gold Awards, and assistance in the planning and implementation of the Gold Award Ceremonies. Her creativity and insight have strengthened programs and helped to retain membership. Those who know her see her as an exemplary Girl Scout, understanding and loving, and a sister to every Girl Scout. 10 Amy Miehl’s nomination spoke highly of her contributions to the entire council through her skills and expertise. She serves as a member of the Gold Award Committee and as a GSWPA trainer. She is a dedicated volunteer located in the Erie area whose efforts have increased membership, demonstrated inclusive behavior, helped retain volunteers, and developed innovative program opportunities. Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania 2017-2018 Annual Report Dottie Neal, of Indiana, was recognized for proactively including girls and leaders from other service areas in her service unit’s programs, many of whom attend time after time because of the quality and value they receive. She provides invaluable service as a trainer for GSWPA in the areas of New Leader and Outdoor Skills, and has served as a mentor for new volunteers in the role of service unit manager.