Girl Scouts of Colorado is celebrating extraordinary volunteers throughout the state in honor of Volunteer Appreciation Month. Kristi Martinez of Pueblo in the Pueblo and Southeastern CO region is a shining example of the wonderful role Girl Scout volunteers play in the lives of girls and our community.
GSCO asked Kristi to answer a few quick questions about her volunteer experience. We hope you find her as inspiring as we did.
Why did you become a Girl Scout volunteer?
I chose to become a volunteer when my daughter started kindergarten. My mother was my Girl Scout troop leader for many years when I was a child, and it was so fun and rewarding for both of us, I wanted that same experience with my own daughter.
Tell us about your different volunteer roles as a Girl Scout.
I’ve been part of the troop leadership team for my Girl Scout troop for five years. This year, I also took on the service unit cookie manager role for the first time, which was so fun!
What have you learned as a Girl Scout volunteer?
I’ve learned so much about facilitating fun and memorable experiences for girls of all ages during my time as a Girl Scout volunteer. I continue to learn so much about collaboration, communication, and what it takes to be a role model for girls.
What do you hope girls have learned from you?
It is my greatest hope that girls have learned the value of volunteerism and sisterhood from me. Every hug, conversation, and experience I have with my amazing troop of girls brings me so much joy and I hope they know this!
How has your experience as a volunteer helped you become a G.I.R.L. (go-getter, innovator, risk-taker, leader)?
My experience as a volunteer has absolutely helped me become a G.I.R.L.! Volunteering with Girl Scouts constantly reminds me of my personal dreams and reinforces me to go after what I want. I’d love to start my own nonprofit someday to address issues within my community, and Girl Scout volunteering, through its programming and activities has helped me realize that I can absolutely reach that dream.
Want to nominate a volunteer for Girl Scouts of Colorado to spotlight? Please email Public Relations Director AnneMarie Harper at annemarie.harper@gscolorado.org.