A New Way to Meet Seniors' Needs

Today's featured Gold Girl Scout is Ella Fischer who created a program to rent medical equipment to senior citizens. Congratulations, Ella, on earning your Gold Award!

My name is Ella Fischer. I am from Troop 1473 out of the Pecan Trail Service Unit. For my Gold Award project, I worked with Drive a Senior to create Ollie’s Closet. Ollie's Closet loans medical equipment to senior citizens who do not have access to medical equipment due to various financial situations. In the process I helped write a grant to pay for the building and purchase software for an inventory and asset control program.  

First, I moved, cleaned, inventoried, barcoded, and entered all of the equipment into a barcoding system. Next, I added a loft and braces to hang walkers and crutches and started moving all of the equipment inside. Lastly, I trained personnel at the Drive a Senior office on how the system works.  This all will allow the organization to better serve their 500 clients and to help them keep track of what is needed in their loan closet for the future.

 My journey towards earning my Gold Award is one that I will never forget. Through Girl Scouts, many new doors have opened for me and even more now that I have earned my Gold Award. The adventures and experiences that I have been able to be a part of, as well as all the things I've learned, all became possible by being in Girl Scouts and striving for Gold. I have also met many inspiring and interesting individuals along the way. There are always challenges involved in accomplishing great things, but the feeling I have now that I've earned my Gold Award is very rewarding. My encouragement towards others to pursue earning their Gold Award is tremendous based on the amazing experience I had and the feeling of happiness I gained from helping others. 

Transformation Tuesday: Made With Code

Guest post from Sarah Y., Gold Girl Scout and intern at GSCTX. Her intern challenge? To get GSCTX girls interested, involved and inspired with computer coding. You can follow her internship at her blog, Journeys to the Summit 

Its Transformation Tuesday!

It was actually a couple days ago that my mom and I were talking about how you can tell just how old a piece of technology is just by its thickness.A computer, a phone, TV's,  movies (VHS vs. DVD), music (cassettes vs. CD's).

                                                                      

And along with these advances in... size, came the advancement in how they work. I see this advancement every second and fourth Friday of every month when I work with my Made w/Code girls. Coding and programming have come a long way and I am so glad that I get to help the next generation get ready to make the next big advancement!

I would love to talk to your troop, youth group, club, and/or school about the Made w/Code project. If you're at all interested, please contact me at sarah@discovergreenyel.org

Ready to code? Start now!

Until then, Happy coding!

Yours in coding,

Sarah Y.

Let's Celebrate National Women's History Month with Candid Convos!

Let’s Celebrate National Women’s History Month with Candid Convos!

Guest Post from GSUSA Blog: blog.girlscouts.org 

                                                                             

At Girl Scouts, we’re all about girl power. That’s why, every day, all over the world, we work hard to advocate for girls and women and to elevate dialogue not only about their amazing accomplishments and unique journeys, but also about the challenges they face.

This year, the theme of the National Women’s History Project, part of National Women’s History Month, is “Weaving the Stories of Women’s Lives.” To mark the occasion, we encourage you to find opportunities to weave women’s stories—both as individuals and as part of a larger group—into the fabric of our nation’s history. This is the perfect time to have critical conversations in your own circles—with your family, friends, and neighbors—and to create a space for expression and ideas to really flourish.

Don’t stress! It doesn’t have to be anything formal. Invite a couple of friends over, set out some snacks, and get to talkin.’ Remember: big change often begins with something as simple as a conversation, in an environment that fosters authentic, open dialogue about important issues. So it’s okay to start small.

And it doesn’t all have to be so serious, either. Take this opportunity to also celebrate one another and to rejoice in the richness of women’s history and the strength that lives within all of those present at your gathering. Maybe each person can speak about a woman in history who has inspired her, changed her, or otherwise made a difference in her life.

There are so many simple, meaningful ways to celebrate National Women’s History Month—so let’s do it! Go out and start that conversation today. This month and every day, let’s continue to reflect on the amazing strides women have made in the world and the work yet to be done to ensure true equality for future generations of girls.

Happy National Women’s History Month!

Killeen Women of Distinction Spotlight - Jennifer Wiginton

Jennifer Wiginton

Jennifer Wiginton was born in Denver, CO, but grew up in Bryan where she attended Bryan High School. She continued her education at Stanford University and Texas A&M University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education, Master of Management and a Certificate in Homeland Security. Jennifer proudly serves as the Disaster Services Specialist at the American Red Cross in Bryan. Committed to helping those in need, she has served as a Red Cross volunteer for five years and is an active member of the Lions Club. She is also a trainer for children’s bilingual education. A clear example of overcoming a disability, Jennifer has utilized her leadership skills by supervising the American Red Cross disaster response for eight counties and lending her time to the Brazos Valley Emergency planning committee. Jennifer is the proud recipient of the American Red Cross 2010 Volunteer of the Year Award. Jennifer is a positive influence who inspires, motivates and helps all those around her.

Killeen Women of Distinction Spotlight - General Laura Richardson

General Laura Richardson

Brigadier General Laura Richardson grew up in a suburb of Denver, CO where she attended Northglenn High School. She earned her civilian pilot’s license at 16 and excelled in the ROTC program at Metropolitan State University in Denver. She now proudly serves as the Brigadier General of the U.S. Army Operational Test Command in Fort Hood. She previously served as the military aide to Vice President Al Gore and as garrison commander of Fort Meyer, Virginia and Fort McNair in Washington, DC. Before taking command of the OTC, she was the Army liaison officer to the United States Senate. BG Richardson’s service as an air assault battalion commander in the 101st Airborne Division landed her on the cover of Time magazine in 2003 that brought the reality of a dual-military couple to life for American readers. Her awards and decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Bronze Star Medal, Army Meritorious Service Medal with three Oak Lead Clusters, seven Air Medals and Joint Service Commendation Medal. For her advancement of the role of women in combat aviation, she was awarded the 2011 Women in Aerospace leadership award.

Killeen Women of Distinction Spotlight - Dr. Rose Cameron

Rose Cameron

Dr. Rose Cameron grew up in Maryland and attended two high schools before she graduated and joined the United States Air Force. She received her bachelor’s degree from Texas Wesleyan College in Fort Worth; a master’s degree from Tarleton State University in Stephenville; and her doctorate from a joint program between Texas A&M University in Commerce and Tarleton State University. Today, Dr. Rose Cameron serves as Superintendent of Schools in the Copperas Cove Independent School District. A former professor and principal, Dr. Rose Cameron is an avid advocate for school, community and military affairs. She proudly serves on several boards including ESC 12 Regional Advisory board, Copperas Cove Education Foundation, National Council of Impacted Schools, Crime Stoppers and Boys &Girls Clubs. She is the proud recipient of the 2009 ESC Region 12 Superintendent of the Year award and the 2011 Mount Hiram Lodge No. 595 Community Builder Award. Her strong faith in God, family and friends are evident in everything she does.

Killeen Women of Distinction Spotlight - Nancy Birdwell

Nancy Birdwell

Nancy Birdwell was born in Abilene, but grew up on a ranch in Albany, TX. After graduating Albany High School, Nancy attended Texas Tech University. Today, she is the Chief Executive Officer for the Scott & White Healthcare Foundation and the Chief Development Officer for Scott & White Healthcare. Nancy previously served as vice president for Development at Alliant International University in San Diego, California; assistant vice president for Institutional Advancement at Texas Tech University and Health Science Center in Lubbock, Texas; and director of Corporate and Foundation Relations for the University of Texas at Austin. Active in many professional fundraising organizations, Nancy served as chair for CASE and the Association of Fundraising Professional, and served as board and faculty member for the UT Thompson Center for Fundraising Management program. Nancy was honored by Who’s Who of Professional and Business Women. Nancy’s dedication to her faith, family and community are apparent in all her endeavors.

Killeen Women of Distinction Spotlight - Heather Beck

Heather Beck

Heather Beck was born in Tucson, AZ, but grew up in Waco where she attended Midway High School. She continued her education at McLennan Community College, University of North Texas and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Baylor University. Today, Heather serves as a Development Officer for the Providence Health Network. Lending her fundraising expertise to the Providence Foundations and the Providence Forum Affinity Group, Heather has played a vital role in the increase of net revenue and event attendance for both organizations. Heather’s board appointments include Campfire Girls, Hewitt Chamber of Commerce, and The Arc. She currently serves on the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Waco, The Business Awards Planning and Young Professionals committees. Heather is the president of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and The Central Texas Chapter Board of Directors. She is a 2010 Waco Leadership graduate. Heather believes selflessness, hard work, self-reliance and education are the most important factors in being a well-rounded person.

San Angelo Workplace for Women Spotlight - West Texas Rehab Center

West Texas Rehab Center

Established in 1977, West Texas Rehab Center – San Angelo opened their doors to serve 137 patients during the course of the year. Thirty-five years later, they proudly serve more than 500 patients daily. Their philosophy is to provide high quality services and programs to all patients regardless of financial status, which is similar to that of the Girl Scouts who aim to serve every girl, everywhere. Several of their staff including doctors, directors and members of the board of directors are female who have all contributed to the growing success of the business. The Rehab Center sees the value in the work they do in patient care and constantly remind each other that “great things happen here.”

San Angelo Women of Distinction Spotlight - Peggy Rosser

Peggy Hodges Rosser

Peggy Hodges Rosser was born and raised in Midland. She graduated from Robert E. Lee High School and attended West Texas A&M, earning her Bachelor of Science. Peggy continued her education at Angelo State University where she earned her Master of Arts in Communication Systems Management. She is currently the Business Development Specialist and Rural Business Advisor at Angelo State University’s Small Business Development Center.

Peggy is a dedicated volunteer who thrives on helping her community. Her skills, activity, results and successes are a reflection of her role as a leader. Peggy served as president of the Concho Valley Citizens against Violence and Region 15 Association of Texas Professional Educators. She also served as a committee member for the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce. Currently, she serves as panel10 chair for the United Way of the Concho Valley.

Peggy is a 2006 Leadership San Angelo graduate and proud recipient of the 1999-2000 Austin Elementary Teacher of the Year award. In all her roles – teacher, business owner, community advocate and family woman - Peggy exemplifies all the ideals of a great citizen.

San Angelo Women of Distinction Spotlight - Marilyn Mohler

Marilyn Mohler

Marilyn Mohler was born in San Angelo, and after a brief period in Baltimore, Maryland, her family returned to the Concho Valley when she was 12 years old. She graduated from Lakeview High School and promptly enrolled at Angelo State University.

After an intriguing public relations and advertising class, Marilyn decided to open her very own firm, Marilyn Mohler and Associates, Inc., Advertising and Public Relations. A successful businesswoman for nine years, Marilyn continued her professional career and worked as an advertising manager for M.L. Leddy & Sons; an account executive for KCTV and as a property manager for a local residential and commercial broker.

Amid her retirement, she continues to stay active in her community. Marilyn’s volunteer efforts are just one aspect of her outstanding achievements. She was an active member for the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce and received the notable award of Outstanding Ambassador an impressive three times during her 15-year tenure. Between 1972 and 1983, Marilyn served on many boards including the Better Business Bureau, Community Action Council, San Angelo Coliseum, Auditorium and Convention Center, and San Angelo Advertising Federation. Her most recent achievement was to chair the committee for the placement of Elmer Kelton’s statue at Stephen’s Public Library. Marilyn’s love for her family and her community are evident in everything she does.

San Angelo Women of Distinction Spotlight - Sandra Gray

Sandra Gray

Sandra Gray was born and raised in San Angelo. She graduated from Lakeview High School and attended college at Angelo State University, earning her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Education degrees. Sandra is a former public school teacher and administrator for the San Angelo Independent School District and currently serves as co-owner of Gray´s Transmission Inc.

A well-known public speaker in her community, Sandra conducts Black History presentations during the month of February and engages in numerous public speaking opportunities throughout the course of the year. Her passion for public speaking gives her the opportunity to educate others of her rich African-American heritage and inspires her community to make a difference.

Sandra is a faithful member of Solid Rock Church where she leads the Greeter´s Ministry. She has served on many boards including United Way, MHMR, Boys and Girls Club, Chamber of Commerce, Concho Valley Home for Girls, ASU Alumni, National Prayer Breakfast of San Angelo and the Eating and Reading Book Club. Sandra is an inspiration to all those who meet her and a joy to those who love her.

San Angelo Women of Distinction Spotlight - Maggie Farrington

Maggie Farrington

Maggie Farrington was born and raised in Menard. During the draft, her family relocated to Oklahoma where she graduated from Miami High School and attended Northeastern Oklahoma A&M University. Maggie currently works as a full-time foster grandparent for The Foster Grandparent Program of the Concho Valley and as a part-time substitute teacher for Eden Elementary.

Maggie’s love of agriculture led to her extensive involvement with the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo. For 23 years, she has dedicated her time to volunteering with several areas of the organization such as serving on the Premium Sale Fund Committee and as superintendant of the Junior Brangus Heifer Show. Maggie also mentors students through the Concho County 4-H program, where she assists them with their projects.

In 2010, Maggie was awarded ‘Most Enthusiastic Volunteer’ by her stock show and rodeo peers. She also celebrated 20 years of service to the organization in 2009. Maggie is known to light up a room with her positive attitude and gives back not for the recognition, but for the pure act of helping others. Maggie is adored by those in her community and has received standing ovations for her work.

Honor Local Women with Nomination

Give thanks this holiday season to extraordinary women in your community! GSCTX is now accepting nominations for Women of Distinction events in Austin, San Angelo, Brownwood and Killeen.

The coveted award honors women who have distinguished themselves as outstanding members of their community and who can serve as role models to all Girl Scouts, girls and adults alike.

"Women of Distinction events allow Girl Scouts to formally recognize women who illustrate the values of Girl Scouting: courage, confidence and character," says Etta Moore, CEO for the Girl Scouts of Central Texas. "Their accomplishments motivate volunteers to remain committed to our girls' futures and inspire girls to set and achieve ambitious goals. Together this is how we build strong communities."

Central Texans are strongly encouraged to nominate women leaders from their community as Women of Distinction. Past honorees have excelled in the areas of business, education, government, communications, health care, sports, volunteer services, multicultural activities and Girl Scouting.

Nomination forms can be completed online at www.gsctx.org. Forms are also available for download online and at our Girl Scouts of Central Texas offices. The nomination deadline for San Angelo and Brownwood is December 31, 2011. The nominate deadline for Austin and Killeen is January 11, 2012.

-Kandace Fierro

View photos from last year's events on our Flickr account!

Give Thanks...

Give thanks to the extraordinary women in your life with a Women of Distinction nomination. Held annually in the areas of Austin, Killeen, San Angelo and Brownwood, Women of Distinction celebrates women who have distinguished themselves as outstanding members of their community through individual excellence and high levels of achievements. GSCTX asks you to consider the role models and mentors in your life and thank them through nominating them as a potential 2011 Woman of Distinction. Let us show these inspiring females that their hard work has not gone unnoticed! Nominate a woman from your area today.

To access the nomination forms and guidelines for Austin, Brownwood, San Angelo and Killeen, please visit our website.