Girl Scout Alumna Visits Council

Yesterday former Girl Scout Wanda Rowena Smith, 88, visited the Kodosky Program Center. Wanda presented GSCTX with a very special gift, her 1931 Girl Scout uniform. Adorned with vintage patches and an infectious sense of pride, GSCTX staffers and CEO Etta Moore gathered to admire this piece of Girl Scout history. As I heard Wanda tell her story, I couldn’t help but observe her devotion and passion for the organization she credits rewarded her with experiences she will never forget. GSCTX is eternally grateful to Wanda for her kind donation and for sharing her inspiring story with us. Please read Wanda’s letter below.

Dear Girl Scout friends:

As I begin to enumerate and describe the many benefits and thrills Girl Scouting has given me, I know that I shall forget some; though I realize the ever-present influence of this character-building organization. Girl Scouts has, by its many branches, stimulated an interest in me for almost every field of work; though I do not like to call it work, for Girl Scout sisters and I have learned to enjoy work since we are doing something for others. Our overnight, day hikes and camp life have afforded opportunities to work and call it play. The greatest benefit I have received from Girl Scouting is the provision of many lively, educational and healthful activities to help divert my soul, mind and body from unwholesome ones. It has served as a marker along the road of life and helped lead me straighter. How I do wish that more girls would become and remain true Girl Scouts and give themselves an opportunity to know the world better. I honestly believe that when I joined Girl Scouts at the age of nine, I was becoming a member of the most enlightening and helpful organizations.

Sincerely,

Wanda Rowena Smith

Volunteerism Opens Doors for Girl Scout

This past Saturday marked the 20th anniversary of the Girl Scout event Race on the River and the 5th anniversary of participating in the race for Girl Scout Chynna. What brings her back each year to help out and compete in this annual race? According to her, Girl Scout events such as this one allow her to gain courage, confidence and character in her life endeavors. Through Scouting, Chynna has taken an active role in her community by volunteering with local troops, programs and events. The satisfaction of lending a helping hand is not the only benefit she receives from her involvement. Her role in Scouts has brought many scholarship opportunities her way and a chance to attend school in Australia in 2012. Chynna also adds that when it comes to meeting new people, Girl Scouts is a great way to make long-lasting friends. GSCTX is thrilled at Chynna’s accomplishments and how her time in Girl Scouting allowed her to flourish into a successful individual.

For more information on Race on the River and to view 2010 photos, please visit gsctx.org and flickr.com/GSCTX.

Your Date with the Future

After 98 years, Girl Scouts remains the premier leadership organization for girls. Posted by GSUSA, this video is an example of how far we've come and yet, stayed the same. Volunteers are still one of the main reasons Girl Scouts of Central Texas continues to reach over 21,000 girls. Here's to another 98 years of building girls of courage, confidence and character!