Troop Mentor Network | Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania

Darlene Brown toggle arrow

Name: Darlene Brown

Service Unit: SU4641-Indiana

County: Indiana

Total Girl Scout Years: 29

Volunteer Years: 22

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: troop leader, service unit team, program team, co-service unit manager, co-day camp director, outdoor training facilitator, Program Aide training facilitator, archery instructor, troop cookie manager, assist with service unit cookie manager, recruitment, camp activities team member, day camp volunteer

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior, Ambassador, Younger Multi-Level, Older Multi-Level, All-Ages Multi-Level, Indie Girl Scouting

Girl Scout Pillar Experience: Life Skills, Outdoors

Specialties: camping, cookie program, additional money earning/fundraising, outdoor skills, flag ceremonies, community service/Take Action projects, badges, event planning, ceremonies/traditions, archery, First Aid/CPR/AED, hiking, knife skills, knot tying, Leave No Trace, crafts

Awards: Volunteer of Excellence, Appreciation Pin, Honor Pin

Certifications: Outdoor Training Facilitator, Program Aide Training Facilitator, Archery Facilitator, First Aid/CPR/AED trained, Mental Health First Aid, Cooking for Crowds

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I started in Girl Scouts when I was in the second grade and went on until I was in the eighth grade. As a girl, I attended day camp one year at Camp Cherry Hill in Indiana County. I went camping with my troop at different times over those years, attended various events, sold fall product and cookies, and enjoyed it. As an adult, when my daughter went to kindergarten in September 2005, we talked about joining Girl Scouts. I told her I would help out the leader. Well, little did I know, I ended up being the leader. I have continued on with my daughter over the years until she graduated high school in 2018. She has earned her Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards as well. We have gone on many camping trips and attended lots of events. I took all the training I could possibly take over the years. We started attending the Blue Spruce Day Camp here in Indiana County in 2006. I have volunteered every year since and now I'm a co-director for our day camp. We have many memories of things that have happened over the years. We have done a little traveling over the years. We did go on the 100th-anniversary bus trip to Washington D.C. when they had them sing. As a leader, I offered opportunities to my girls for events we had locally whether they all could attend or not. We worked on so many patches and badges over the years. If we went somewhere, if I could find a patch for that activity, I got the patches for the girls. As the girls grew, I grew too. There have been many times they kept me on my toes and there were times I had to try to be a step ahead of them.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
Girl Scouting means a lot to me. As a girl, I have learned different things and have gone to different places with my troop and friends. The memories of the camping trips, the one year I went to Camp Cherry Hill for a week of day camp, and I got the attend the Indiana Mall show for the 75th anniversary of Girl Scouting. As an adult, I got to celebrate the 100th and the 110th anniversaries of Girl Scouting. There are lots of values within Girl Scouting and the different skills the girls can learn. The friendships I have made over the years, and the experiences, are things I will carry with me for years to come. Learning some of this as a girl and into an adult volunteer, I can now share it with my daughter, her friends, and other girls who join.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
Make it fun. The more fun the girls have at troop meetings, trips, and events, the more they want to come back. Sometimes you may have everything planned out for the whole event or meeting—be ready to make changes or go with the flow. The girls are all different. As a leader, be ready to step outside of the box and learn some new skills to help keep all the girls interested in Girl Scouts. Sometimes as a leader, you do have to get a little crazy. Wear a crazy outfit and bring a stuffed animal to camp to sleep with and things like that—if it helps a girl break out of her shell, so be it. Don't be upset if things don’t go as planned. I have had many times when I had to adjust and roll with the punches.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
Relax, have fun, and learn with the girls. Don't be afraid to ask for help. No leader is perfect, we all have made mistakes over the years. The important thing is to be there for the girls at the meetings, trips, and events. If the girls are interested in something you are not comfortable with, like if you are not an outdoors type of person and they want to go camping, it is ok to ask for help from other leaders and troops. You can always work with another troop either in your service unit or outside of your service unit to go on that camping trip or field trip. I have been asked over the years with my different pieces of training if I could help chaperone different trips if someone was not trained for overnight trips, camping trips, and things like that. Now, since my daughter is in graduate school, I no longer have a girl in Girl Scouting. I have stayed on because I have made so many friends over the years. I enjoy helping out.

Other Organizations: I am a member of Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. I also plan youth group activities and Sunday School activities for my church (it's a small church). I have been on the church council for the past five years. I have been involved in PTA as my three kids went through elementary school.

Anything else?
My daughter earned her Gold Award in 2018. She has earned her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education with special ed from IUP, started working as a substitute, and now started graduate school to get her master's degree. My oldest son (middle child) earned his Eagle Award in 2020 (during COVID-19). He is currently attending Penn State Altoona for an Engineering Degree. He has a year or year and a half to finish his bachelor's degree. My youngest son will be ready to start the process for his Eagle Award soon. He is 16 and working on finishing the last couple of merit badges he needs to take the next step. He has three more years left in high school. I am currently working full-time and take college classes part-time.

Denise Cerilli-Martz toggle arrow

Name: Denise Cerilli-Martz

Service Unit: SU2664-Central Westmoreland

County: Westmoreland

Total Girl Scout Years: 18

Volunteer Years: 15

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: troop leader, Silver Award Review Committee & Facilitator, Gold Award Committee & Facilitator, Leader Honor Guard Unit & Facilitator, National Delegate, Board Development Committee, Bronze Award Facilitator

Age-Level Experience: All-Ages Multi-Level

Girl Scout Pillars: Life Skills, Entrepreneurship

Specialties: Bronze Awards, Silver Awards, Gold Awards, flag ceremonies, community service/Take Action projects

Adult Awards: Volunteer of Excellence, Honor Pin, Thanks Badge I

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I was only in Girl Scouts for a few years as a girl. Then my granddaughter started as a Daisy, and my daughter became a co-leader of her troop, and I saw a need for a Nana in the multi-level troop. All the girls welcomed me and made me feel a part of this great organization for young women.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
It's an opportunity for me to mentor all ages and personalities of young ladies. It's also been a wonderful learning experience for me. I have also had the pleasure of meeting, working with, and learning from some wonderful adult leaders.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
Be willing to use any resources available. Be willing to share your knowledge with others when asked. Be willing to learn new things from others. Always conduct yourself professionally and honorably in a friendly manner.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
Just ask! If you are unsure or just don't know . . . just ask!

Anything else?
Shortly after joining the Gold Award Committee, I was asked to arrange the opening flag ceremony for the Gold Award Court of Awards. Since then, I have assembled a unit of 10 girls ranging from Daisies to Ambassadors. We are asked to participate in many Girl Scout events as well as community events and parades. I cannot describe how honored and proud I am of this Honor Guard unit and every girl in it. It warms my heart to see the passion and respect the girls have for the privilege of being a part of this group of young ladies.

Christy Ehrlich toggle arrow

Name: Christy Ehrlich

Service Unit: SU5808-Baldwin Whitehall

County: Allegheny

Total Girl Scout Years: 13

Volunteer Years: 13

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: troop leader (multiple troops), Baldwin Whitehall service unit fall product manager, troop mentor, Greater Pittsburgh service unit finance manager

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette

Specialties: cookie program, additional money earning/fundraising, badges, new troop start-up

Awards: Volunteer of Excellence

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I was never a Girl Scout as a child and always was envious of my best friend who was. She was very passionate about it and taught me the songs, games, lessons, and even cookie-selling tips. I always was excited to hear of her camp adventures. As an adult, I got to spark the same passion in my kids and [Girl] Scouts. It is just as much fun for me as it is for my girls. I love making these memories with my own girls and I have made some of MY best friends through Girl Scouts. I have given my daughters so many firsts throughout the years and have gotten my own firsts along the way.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
Girl Scouting doesn’t end when we leave a meeting. I am always looking for great opportunities to partner with other members of the community to bring amazing experiences to the kids.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
If the girls leave the meeting having fun and want to come back the next week, you were successful. It’s not always about following the steps listed on a piece of paper, sometimes you have to let loose and let the girls guide the meeting.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
Have fun with the girls. Get on the floor with them when you tell a story. Have those dance parties. Be silly.

Lead by example.

Also, ask for help. Ask parents for help. Ask your co-leaders for help. Ask the community for help. The Girl Scout community is huge and there are people who are eager to lend a hand.

Other Organizations: I am on the Board for the Baldwin Library.

Kristen Eliason toggle arrow

Name: Kristen Eliason

Service Unit: SU3616-Millcreek

County: Erie

Total Girl Scout Years: 13

Volunteer Years: 13

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: troop leader, council delegate, service unit manager

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior, Ambassador, Younger Multi-Level, Older Multi-Level, All-Ages Multi-Level, Indie Girl Scouting

Girl Scout Pillars: Life Skills, Outdoors, Entrepreneurship

Specialties: camping, travel, Gifts and Goodies program, cookie program, Girl Scout finances, additional money earning/fundraising, outdoor skills, flag ceremonies, community service/Take Action projects, badges, event planning, ceremonies/traditions, Leadership in Action

Certifications: First Aid/AED/CPR Certified, Go Travel Certified, Outdoor Skills Certified, and Ministry Safe Certified

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
(I) have successfully navigated co-leading three troops (currently just the travel troop), one of which is a travel troop. (I) have experienced everything from camping in covered wagons during the height of bug season to traveling to the Girl Scout Birthplace, two of the World Centers, and eight different countries. If something weird or wild has happened, it has happened to one of my troops.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
Seeing the girls gain in skill and confidence during meetings and travel is inspiration to continue leading even when the frustrating days happen.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
If the girls want to do it, we work as a group to get it done.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
It feels overwhelming in the beginning, but you will figure it out. Ask for help. That is what the more experienced leaders are here for.

Other Organizations: American Legion Auxiliary and American Heritage Girls

Anything else?
I am currently working towards Certified Lay Ministry, sit on several committees, and am a worship leader at my church.

Sharon Enslen toggle arrow

Name: Sharon Enslen

Service Unit: SU2630-Glacier's End

County: Butler

Total Girl Scout Years: 38

Volunteer Years: 33

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: Gold & Silver Award Committee, travel troop leader, Adult Award Committee, National Council Delegate, traditional troop leader, service unit manager, cookie manager, fall product manager, Council Delegate

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior, Ambassador, Younger Multi-Level, Older Multi-Level, All-Ages Multi-Level, Indie Girl Scouting

Girl Scout Pillars: STEM, Life Skills, Entrepreneurship

Specialties: travel, Girl Scout finances, additional money earning/fundraising, Bronze Awards, Silver Awards, Gold Awards, community service/Take Action projects, event planning

Adult Awards: Volunteer of Excellence, Appreciation Pin, Honor Pin, Thanks Badge I, Thanks Badge II, GSWPA Volunteer of the Year

Certifications: First Aid/CPR/AED

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I was involved in Girl Scouts as a girl for five years. I loved all the friends I made and the experiences I had. As an adult, I got involved when my daughter's Brownie troop needed a leader. I led her troop all the way through until they earned their Gold Awards and graduated high school. The memories we made together and the skills they learned will last a lifetime. Watching the girls grow and become successful adults who care and contribute to their communities was truly amazing. After my troop graduated, I chose to stay in Girl Scouts and work with the older girls on their awards. I also became a co-leader of a travel troop and have taken girls to Europe, Costa Rica, Panama, and the Galapagos Islands.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
Girl Scouts gives me the opportunity to help girls grow and develop into women with courage, confidence, and character. Helping a girl earn her Bronze, Silver, or Gold Award is amazing. Watching them grow and see that they can do it as they work to achieve their award is so rewarding. When I take girls on trips, I watch them develop confidence as they interact with people in different countries and cultures. They learn to take the lead, develop a plan, and follow through. Girl Scouts gives girls the opportunity to explore and try new things.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
My Girl Scout leadership philosophy is the sky is the limit (and beyond). If you dream it, you can make it happen when we lead and live by the Girl Scout Law and Promise. Letting the girls take the lead and explore the world they live in develops amazing young women who will become amazing leaders.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
I have a wonderful Girl Scout family that is always there to help and support each other. Remember that amazing family is there to support and help you also, just reach out. Girl Scouts love to share their knowledge with other Girl Scouts. No question is too little. And don't give up when it seems like it is just too much—reach out and ask for help. The support you give the girls you lead will stay with them for a lifetime, and years down the road when they tell you what they remember and what they learned at Girl Scouts, you will know it was all worth the work you put in.

Charlene Filsaime toggle arrow

Name: Charlene Filsaime

Service Unit: SU5507-Penn Wood Hills

County: Allegheny

Total Girl Scout Years: 15

Volunteer Years: 14

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: troop leader, service unit manager, service unit cookie manager, service unit fall product manager, Service Unit Delegate

Age-Level Experience: All-Ages Multi-Level

Girl Scout Pillars: STEM, Life Skills, Entrepreneurship

Specialties: travel, Gifts & Goodies program, cookie program, Girl Scout finances, additional money earning/fundraising, event planning, First Aid/CPR

Certifications: Project Management Professional

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
Girl Scouts has been an important part of my life, and I stepped into leadership because I believe in creating supportive, empowering spaces for girls and volunteers. I began as a troop leader and later took on additional service unit roles to help meet growing needs. I’m committed to teamwork, community, and ensuring girls and leaders feel supported while living out the Girl Scout mission.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
Girl Scouting means empowerment, community, and opportunity. It’s about helping girls build confidence, discover their strengths, and learn how to lead with courage and compassion. It also represents connection—bringing families and volunteers together to support girls as they grow into capable, confident individuals who know their voices matter.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
My Girl Scout leadership philosophy is centered on empowerment, collaboration, and service. I believe in meeting girls where they are, encouraging them to use their voices, and helping them build confidence through hands-on experiences. Strong leadership means listening, supporting volunteers, sharing responsibility, and working together so both girls and adults feel valued, capable, and inspired while living the Girl Scout mission.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
My advice to new troop leaders is to remember that you don’t have to do everything perfectly—just show up consistently and with care. Focus on building relationships first, lean on your service unit and fellow leaders for support, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Keep the experience girl-led, flexible, and fun, and give yourself grace as you learn along the way.

Other Organizations: I am involved in other community-based and advocacy organizations focused on supporting families, individuals with disabilities, and community empowerment. My involvement outside of Girl Scouts helps strengthen my leadership, collaboration, and advocacy skills, which I bring back into my work with girls and volunteers.

Anything else?
I am passionate about service, advocacy, and building strong communities. I value collaboration, open communication, and creating spaces where people feel supported and heard. These values guide how I show up as a leader and volunteer, both within Girl Scouts and in the broader community.

Rebeccah Hoffman toggle arrow

Name: Rebeccah Hoffman

Service Unit: SU5406-Pine Richland

County: Allegheny

Total Girl Scout Years: 13

Volunteer Years: 11

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: troop leader, new leader coach, troop fall product & cookie coordinator, service unit all-camp coordinator

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior

Girl Scout Pillar Experience: STEM, Life Skills, Outdoors

Specialties: camping, Gifts & Goodies program, cookie program, Bronze Award, outdoor skills, badges, ceremonies/traditions, First Aid/CPR/AED

Awards: Appreciation Pin, Service Unit President’s Award

Certifications: Outdoor Training

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I really enjoy Girl Scouts! Not only have my daughters made great friends, I have made wonderful adult connections through my time volunteering. I love the experiences and adventures we share as Girl Scouts and can’t say enough about the fun things and important life skills we gain.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
Girl Scouting to me is a network of women (and some stellar dads!) who freely give their time to help girls grow into well-rounded adults with hearts filled with memories.

It’s about meeting girls where they are and delving into their interests—and nudging them outside their comfort zone.

It’s the experience of watching girls grow up and learn to navigate interpersonal challenges—and witnessing the pride they feel when they reach their goals.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
I think I’m there to help the girls learn how to reach their goals. When they are younger, it’s offering choices and having them vote and decide as a group. As they get older, I see my role as listening to them and helping implement their plans. There’s a lot to be gained from negotiation and compromise within the troop. Finally, I think part of the challenge for leaders is finding ways to keep older girls interested and engaged.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?

My advice is to divide and conquer with your co-leader(s)! Lean into your interests and talents. Be willing to try new things. There is no recipe for a troop—it’s more about being excited about the activities you do than doing certain things. Things won’t always go the way you plan them—model how to be adaptable. Let people help you, whether you ask or they offer.

Other Organizations: Boy Scout Committee volunteer, former Cub Scout den leader, PTO volunteer

Diane Kisner toggle arrow

Name: Diane Kisner

Service Unit: SU4605-Bedford

County: Bedford

Total Girl Scout Years: 20

Volunteer Years: 19

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: troop leader, service unit manager

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior, Ambassador, Younger Multi-Level, Older Multi-Level, All-Ages Multi-Level

Girl Scout Pillars: STEM, Life Skills, Outdoors

Specialties: camping, travel, community service/Take Action projects, badges, event planning, archery

Awards: Volunteer of Excellence, Appreciation Pin

Certifications: Archery/Hatchet, First Aid/CPR/AED, Outdoor Training

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I was only a Girl Scout as a girl one year. However, Girl Scouts has been a big part of my life for the past 16 years. I started as a Daisy troop leader for my oldest daughter when she was in kindergarten. I led her troop from Daisy through Ambassador. I also led my younger daughter's troop from Daisy to Cadette. Now, I'm a leader in the travel troop she is part of. I've been the Bedford County service unit manager for several years. I'm also a member of the Trefoil Alumni.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
Girl Scouts has been a tremendous blessing to me. I have greatly enjoyed watching so many young ladies grow through the building of friendships, learning new things, having new experiences, and serving their communities. I have had the opportunity to meet lots of wonderful people and have made so many friends through Girl Scouts. I have done so many new things with my daughters through Girl Scouts that I may not have had the opportunity to do otherwise. This experience has had such a positive impact on my life that I want everyone to have their own special Girl Scout experience.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
I believe that all girls have their own interests, skills, and abilities that are unique to them. I believe that those things should be encouraged. Troops should strive to involve everyone's interests and use everyone's talents. Girls should be encouraged to try all kinds of things. That's how they will find the things that they love and excel at.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
I would say enjoy the girls, seek out help, attend your service unit meetings, and involve your community.

Anything else?
I have a bachelor of science and a master of science in biology. I'm a project manager for an environmental laboratory.

Janet Kovacs toggle arrow

Name: Janet Kovacs

Service Unit: SU3622-Fairview

County: Erie

Total Girl Scout Years: 64

Volunteer Years: 53

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: co-leader, co-chair for Great Getaway adult camp weekend, planner for service units, service unit volunteer for Fairview, PA & camping buddy, adult outdoor trainer, service unit & national delegates, Camp Creepy volunteer, camp committee at Camp Hawthorne Ridge, committee member for adult weekend in Buffalo, NY, past service unit finance manager

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior, Ambassador, Younger Multi-Level, Older Multi-Level, All-Ages Multi-Level

Girl Scout Pillars: Life Skills, Outdoors

Specialties: camping, Girl Scout finances, flag ceremonies, event planning, ceremonies/traditions, songs and games

Certifications and Special Trainings: trainer for adult outdoors, retired registered nurse

Adult Awards: Volunteer of Excellence, Honor Pin, Thanks Badge I, Thanks Badge II, President's Award

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I am a First Class [Girl] Scout (now Gold Award). I joined Girl Scouts in second grade and never quit. I am a lifetime member. I volunteer council-wide. I am known as half of the Janet & Amy Girl Scout team. I am most proud of my years as a [Girl] Scout and my patch poncho—550 patches. I'm in the process of making an under poncho because I have more patches to sew on.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
[Girl] Scouting means meeting so many people, the friends I have made, the activities, the camping, so many things I have learned, the support [Girl] Scouts gives you. I can go anywhere for [Girl] Scouts and can carry a conversation, even make new friends.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
I think I would say sharing any of my [Girl] Scouting knowledge with anyone so they may learn. Hopefully some of the girls remember learning, and when they see you years later, they remember you as a bonus—then you know you did something right.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
Set your goals, but also involve the girls' input as girl-led. Sometimes this might mean giving the girls options A or B. Make sure the parents know what is expected. Don't be afraid to "set the bar high." The girls will be better for it.

Anything else?
I want to be in my middle 80's, still carrying my duffel bag and sleeping bag, going to camp.

Amy Miehl

Name: Amy Miehl

Service Unit: SU3622-Fairview

County: Erie

Total Girl Scout Years: 43

Volunteer Years: 32

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: Gold Award Committee, Adult Award Committee, Day Camp Co-Director (GEA Day Camp), Adult Facilitator for Outdoor Skills, Program Aide/Camp Aide trainer, Songs and Games, Archery/Low Ropes Certifications, former service unit manager, former troop leader

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior, Ambassador, Younger Multi-Level, Older Multi-Level, All-Ages Multi-Level, Indie Girl Scouting

Girl Scout Pillars: STEM, Life Skills, Outdoors

Specialties: camping, Bronze Awards, Silver Awards, Gold Awards, outdoor skills, flag ceremonies, community service/Take Action projects, event planning, ceremonies/traditions, songs and games, archery, first aid/CPR, Leadership In Action

Certifications and Special Trainings: I'm an elementary teacher in my other life, currently teaching middle school science. I have been part of the director team at GEA (Greater Erie Area) Day Camp [at Camp] Hawthorne Ridge since its inception in 2013 (and a longtime volunteer at day camp before that)! I've served as a national delegate for our council in 2014, 2020, 2023, and 2026. I'm also the co-founder and co-chair for the Great Getaway Weekend, an adults-only camp weekend held in the spring at Camp Hawthorne Ridge, going into its sixth year.

Adult Awards: Appreciation Pin, Honor Pin, Thanks Badge I, Thanks Badge II, President's Award

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I am passionate about Girl Scouts. It's one place for girls where they have a chance to really be themselves and shine. Girl Scouts has afforded me opportunities I may not have had otherwise, and I know it has done the same for countless others. I have been a Girl Scout since I was 7 years old, and never stopped! You've got to have a support system to keep going. I'm lucky enough to have been working with my friend Janet for over 30 years. (We started working together when I was still in high school!) My family is also a great support when we camp—my brother and sister-in-law cook for our camp weekends, my mom helps with program, and my husband and my dad are ready to help with whatever is needed. (They're all lifetime members, by the way!) It's truly a family affair! I first worked with a Girl Scout troop while I was in high school. My troop had disbanded, so I worked with a junior troop as a "Senior aide." The leader had a big heart and not much experience in Girl Scouting, so we worked together to make memorable experiences for those girls. When I went to college, I joined Campus Girl Scouts (at IUP) and worked on several programs with girls, including the annual Junior Jamboree and other programs held at Camp Conshatawba and in Indiana. When I graduated and returned to my hometown, I went back to the church where I had been a Girl Scout and said I'd like to help with a troop. I was handed a troop of 14 Junior Girl Scouts. Five of them graduated high school with me as their leader. One became a Gold Award Girl Scout. Since then, I have worked more at the service unit level, as service unit manager, and as an event planner for camp. I've also been "extra hands" at service unit events where needed. I've trained both girls and adults in Outdoor Skills for many years, and do frequent Songs/Games workshops for both girls and adults. Camp is my happy place, and planning and carrying out service unit camp weekends and adult weekends is probably my favorite thing about Girl Scouting.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
Girl Scouting is one of the best things to happen to me. It has helped to shape me into the person I am today, and continues to guide me along my path. It's a place where I feel comfortable in my own skin, and feel welcomed by others just as I am. I sincerely hope that others feel the same way about this sisterhood.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
Always put the girls first, but be sure to take care of yourselves and your volunteers. You can't pour from an empty cup. You can't do it all yourself—you need a buddy to share ideas with, who complements your strengths and has some of the skills you're not so strong at. Make things girl-led as much as possible. Attend the service unit meetings, and do activities with your service unit as well as your troop—many hands make light work! Give all girls a chance to shine. Dream big—but keep progression in mind. If they do it all as Juniors, what do they have to look forward to as Seniors? Lead with love (and the safety checkpoints)!

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
You are enough. No one is expecting Pinterest-level perfection. Show up for your girls, and give what you can. Don't try to do it all yourself. Find a buddy who can complement your strengths and support in areas where you don't feel as strong. Use your resources wisely. Plan for more than you think you'll need, and don't panic if you don't get to all of it. Always have a Plan B (and sometimes C, D, and E!) Council and other volunteers are here to listen and help. Ask for support when you need it. Participate in service unit activities—it's a great way to meet people! Attend the Leadership Summit in the fall and the Great Getaway Weekend in the spring, if at all possible. Both are great for making connections! Most importantly, HAVE FUN.

Other Organizations: I'm a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, a professional organization for Key Women Educators. I've held positions at the local and state level. I also serve on a committee in GSWN as the secretary for an adult camping weekend known as the Great Escape Weekend.

Anything else?
Feel free to ask any questions—I'm always willing to answer!

Linda Smith toggle arrow

Name: Linda Smith

Service Unit: SU5902-Deer Lakes Allegheny Valley

County: Allegheny

Total Girl Scout Years: 44

Volunteer Years: 38

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: service unit manager, troop leader, service unit coach, service unit recruiter, service unit cookie volunteer (helps with booth sales)

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Indie Girl Scouting

Specialties: cookie program, flag ceremonies, day camp

Certifications: First Aid/CPR/AED, Mental Health First Aid

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I enjoy working with new leaders. I love flowers and arranging them as well as plants. I love to coordinate events within Girl Scouting. I am dependable and always willing to lend a hand. I love dogs, and my favorite seasons are spring and fall.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
I believe that helping the leaders and training them is important; it keeps me in with the community of Deer Lakes. I don't have a troop per se—I am known in my community by the girls and the general public. Helping the leaders means a lot to me—I try to help them to relieve the burden, being there for the leader and the girls as well as the parents.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
I try to lead with honesty and openness and if there’s a way to make things easier for the leaders and the girls in the troop, I’m all for it!

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
Find a mentor and work with them—they will guide you along the way. Even if you have been involved in the past, team up with a buddy—have them attend your meetings, show you the way around, and teach you those Girl Scout traditions—it's important to keep those traditions alive.

Other Organizations: Church member

Anything else?
In the summer months, I enjoy camping—My husband and I have a camp. I am very family-oriented and love spending time with my family. I have a coonhound, Hannah. I have two daughters who are married and two grandsons that keep me busy!

Laura Symes toggle arrow

Name: Laura Symes

Service Unit: SU3622-Fairview

County: Erie

Total Girl Scout Years: 30

Volunteer Years: 25

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: troop leader, troop cookie manager, troop fall product manager, service unit manager, service unit cookie manager, and service unit fall product manager

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior, Ambassador, Indie Girl Scouting

Girl Scout Pillars: STEM, Life Skills, Outdoors

Specialties: camping, outdoor skills, flag ceremonies, community service/Take Action projects, badges, event planning, ceremonies/traditions, songs and games, archery, First Aid/CPR, day camp

Certifications: Let's Go Camping Trainer, Archery, Hatchets, Slingshots, Low Ropes, CPR/First Aid

Adult Awards: Honor Pin

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
Hey Girl Scouts! I have a varied amount of experience in a bunch of different things, and I know who to ask when I don't know. I've spent the last couple of decades doing day camp, initially through council and now with GEA Day Camp in Erie County. I've also inherited a few troops along the way and have learned so much from the girls and my co-leaders. I'm happy to help you with service unit organization and events, camping and meeting ideas, easy craft ideas that even I can do, and can help with paperwork!

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
The best part of [Girl] Scouting is [GIRL] SCOUTS of all ages. I've learned so much from every girl and adult volunteer along the way and have made so many lasting friendships.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
Girls (and adults) lead the way! Listening to their ideas and helping them put them into action is my goal and a very satisfying role to take on.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
Ask your girls what they like to do—they will have plenty of ideas!

Barbara Thaw toggle arrow

Name: Barbara Thaw

Service Unit: SU5602-GlenOaks

County: Allegheny

Total Girl Scout Years: 33

Volunteer Years: 32

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: service unit manager, finance manager, day camp director, community fall product manager, troop leader

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette

Girl Scout Pillar Experience: STEM, Life Skills

Specialties: flag ceremonies, badges, event planning, songs and games, ceremonies/traditions

Certifications: First Aid/CPR/AED

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I became a Girl Scout leader when my daughter was in kindergarten. (Today, she is 34.) From there, I was tasked with service unit leadership positions (of which I hold several) which brought me into contact with other engaging and inspirational volunteers.

Being a leader and working with the [Girl] Scouts allowed me to explore and expand MY horizons. Being a service unit manager and day camp director, I have met and befriended numerous adults whose friendships continue to grow strong. As a troop leader (twice I have taken girls from Daisies to Ambassadors), I have strong bonds with so many young women.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
I have two children who were involved in numerous activities. As an active parent, I chaperoned band camp, was a soccer booster, and sold flowers at high school musicals. The difference between all of these other activities and Girl Scouting is the ability to LEAD. In all other areas, I (and the kids) had to follow the direction given by the teacher/coach/director. With scouting, we are able to explore what interests us. We are not bound by others but are able to "govern" ourselves. This freedom allows the scouts to form their own ideas and inspires them to try something that might have been out of reach elsewhere. Watching AND participating in this process is magical.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
When the [Girl] Scouts are small, their demands and ideas are small. It allows the adult volunteers and the [Girl] Scouts to grow together. Adults get comfortable with badge work, they become experienced in organizing field trips, and biting off small chunks of camping/outdoor activities is manageable, even for the most timid. As the [Girl] Scouts age and the leadership becomes less intimidated by being a LEADER, there are so many options available to you/the troop that you can access. My philosophy is taking things step-by-step, relying on fellow leaders (or council) for advice and guidance; this will allow anyone to have a successful program.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
All leaders have one main task; keep the kids safe!! From there, you move forward. Yes, there is paperwork and training commitments, but it is an opportunity to spend time with your daughter and her friends. Do not try and re-invent programming, ceremonies, or field trips, but utilize the resources that are available to you. Not every meeting will be a blockbuster and there will be rain when you need to build a fire. It is all okay . . . just have fun.

Other Organizations: I am the secretary for the Union Aid Society board of directors. I have been a weekly volunteer at the Children's Institute since 1977. I am the committee chair for the Relay for Life of Sewickley Valley. I am chair of two "major" committees at my church.

Anything else?
Life is wonderful!! My husband and I travel to see our daughter and her husband (Manhattan) and my son and his girlfriend (Washington, D.C.) as often as possible. We host most holidays and throw numerous parties all year long at our house. I garden, sew, take classes, plan events, and craft; I am NEVER bored.

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Name: Kim Watson

Service Unit: SU2658-Coudersport Austin

County: Potter

Total Girl Scout Years: 27

Volunteer Years: 22

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: service unit manager, finance manager, fall product/cookie manager, troop leader

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior, Ambassador, All-Ages Multi-Level

Specialties: Gifts & Goodies program, cookie program, event planning, songs and games

Certifications: Outdoor Skills/Let’s Go Camping, YMHFA, First Aid/CPR/AED

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I was a Girl Scout from first to third grade. After moving to Pennsylvania from Delaware in 1977, I didn’t return to Girl Scouts until I was a Cadette (grades 7-8), and after that, our troop disbanded. It wasn’t until I was teaching in Tioga County that a friend got me involved as a co-leader for her Junior troop for two years. After that, I was a leader for the Brownie troop at the school in which I taught. When my youngest daughter wanted to start Girl Scouts in 2008 as a Daisy, they were without leaders. That is when I again became a volunteer. I was the leader of her troop and service unit manager until she graduated in 2021 and continued on after that as a troop leader and in other service unit roles as well, including finance and fall product and cookies when needed. I plan on continuing in the same roles next year and continue to encourage/recruit volunteers.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
To me, Girl Scouts is a way for young girls to learn how to become leaders and make a difference in our ever-changing world. For some girls, it is the only positive outlet they have. For some, it may be the only other activity that they do outside of school. The Girl Scout Promise and Law is important and relates to everything else we do. Girl Scouts provides opportunities for girls to do things they might not get to do otherwise.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
My leadership philosophy is to have the girls lead by doing. My motto is you won’t know until you try. I like for my girls to try everything. Also, by the time girls are Juniors, most activities/discussions should be girl-led.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
There is a lot to learn as a new troop leader, and it can seem overwhelming. Remember there are many people out there to use as resources. You cannot do it alone! The more people you can recruit to be leaders/co-leaders, the more you can delegate to others. It’s okay to say no.

Other Organizations: church member and pianist

Anything else?
I have a degree in music education and I graduated from IUP in Indiana, PA in 1990. I taught music until I was furloughed in 2005. Since then, I have adopted/raised three children and worked in two local daycare facilities.