Chelmsford Girl Scouts lead the flag ceremony

Every year, Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts holds the Volunteer Recognition Dinner to honor those in the community who have gone above and beyond what it means to be a Girl Scout volunteer. 

These volunteers provide support for each other, leadership opportunities for girls, and strengthen our communities.

Last year, 43 volunteers, three service units and two committees were recognized for their commitment and dedication to Girl Scouting.

Thanks Badge Awardee Sarah Leshay and Bedford Girl Scouts

Read on to learn more about each award and how you can nominate a volunteer who shines bright in your Girl Scout community:

The Honor Pin is given to those who complete similar goals in two or more service units. 

Last year, three volunteers were awarded the Honor Pin, including Diana Wilt of Weymouth. This south shore mom, Troop Volunteer and Service Unit Cookie Sale Manager helped to increase the cookie sale in both her service unit and in surrounding towns. 

Diana even opened a Cookie Cupboard in her home, which allowed other volunteers to save time and travel expenses.

Elizabeth Stevenson, President of the Board of Directors, and Diana Wilt, Honor Pin awardee, and her daughters.

Volunteers who provide outstanding service that benefit the entire council are eligible for the Thanks Badge. One of last year’s three winners, Sarah Leshay, holds the titles of Troop Volunteer, Service Unit Coordinator, Camping Council Facilitator, CPR First Aid Instructor and the Camp Runels Camp Director. Woo!

One of Sarah’s most memorable feats was making sure girls were having fun and staying safe during the very rainy 100th Camporee—all while wearing a bright yellow rain slicker!

Sarah Leshay, Thanks Badge awardee, shows a little rain can’t stop a Girl Scout Camporee!

Entire service units and committees can be awarded the President’s Award, which recognizes the efforts a service unit makes in achieving the council’s goals, particularly in membership. Three years ago, GSUSA expanded the scope of the award to include committees whose work advances council goals.

Last year three service unit teams, Carver, Kingston and Nash-A-Way, and two committees, The Great Escape and the One if by Land, Two if by Sea Destination Committee, were honored for their ongoing commitment to the Girl Scout mission.

The Carver service unit, awardees of the Presidential Award.

The Kingston service unit, awardees of the Presidential Award.

The Great Escape Committee, awardees of the Presidential Award.

Do you know a Girl Scout volunteer who shines as brightly as these women? Nominate them for a 2015 Volunteer Recognition Award! The deadline is this Friday, February 6.

This year’s ceremony is being held on May 5, 2015 at the Marlborough Holiday Inn. We hope to see you and your volunteer there!