Behind every Girl Scout is a passionate volunteer cheering her on. By dedicating their time and energy, volunteers help Girl Scouts create new memories, learn new skills and make new friends that will last a lifetime.
Louise Crumpacker of Chesterton, Indiana, a member of Service Unit 318, was recently recognized for 70 years of service to Girl Scouting.
Originally from New York, Crumpacker was raised north of Yonkers. She attended a school where her Girl Scout leader was the school secretary and the principal was the Boy Scout leader. She considers herself to be very competitive person and saw Girl Scouting as "something to do." Over the years, she's been a water safety instructor and an outdoor trainer who enjoyed teaching outdoor cooking and canoeing.
"Every volunteer helps create exceptional experiences that Girl Scouts will never forget," said Nancy Wright, CEO of Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana (GSGCNWI). "Whether it's leading a troop every week, helping girls explore nature at camp, or facilitating a LEGO robotics workshop, our adult volunteers serve as positive role models every day."
Each spring, GSGCNWI honors these volunteers with a special recognition ceremony. During the event, volunteers receive honors from Girl Scouts of the USA and the local council for their individual years of service helping to build girls of courage, confidence and character.
Through their dedication volunteers help girls tap into their full potential. These volunteers maintain the legacy that is Girl Scouting, and they help develop leaders who will shape the future.
Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana welcomes adults 18 years of age and older, female and male, who are willing to volunteer their time to help mentor girls. Volunteer opportunities exist for event facilitators, troop leaders and more. Free orientation and training sessions are available. To get started, visit www.girlscoutsgcnwi.org or call 1-855-ILOVEGS (456-8347).