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Girl Scouts of Colorado is celebrating extraordinary volunteers throughout the state in honor of Volunteer Appreciation Month. Linda Gibbs of Cheyenne Wells in the Pikes Peak region is a shining example of the wonderful role Girl Scout volunteers play in the lives of girls and our community.
GSCO asked Linda 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 started out as a volunteer for my daughter’s troop. As the years went on and all three of my girls graduated and moved on, I continued as a volunteer because I enjoy what I do. The girls’ enthusiasm for something new and different makes me happy.
Tell us about your different volunteer roles as a Girl Scout.
I started out as a co-leader. Through the years, I have been a leader for all age groups. I have been a troop leader, group leader, day camp director, camp coordinator with awesome helpers, TCM, SUCM, SUM, and trainer. I may have missed some …or not, but after 30 plus years of Girl Scouts, I just never thought to keep track.
What have you learned as a Girl Scout volunteer?
l have learned how to be a group leader, how to do public speaking without stammering too much, and have learned a bit about organization.
What do you hope girls have learned from you?
I hope the girls have learned to be kind and caring, to give without expecting something in return, respectful, leave any place they use clean or cleaner than when they started, and have fun while doing whatever they are doing. I always hope that they have learned one or two life skills, whether it be cooking, camping, or sewing.
How has your experience as a volunteer helped you become a G.I.R.L. (go-getter, innovator, risk-taker, leader)?
I have learned that people are not always going to do everything for you. If you want something to happen: Go do it. Sometimes what works for one person or group, doesn’t always work for everyone. Change things, make them work for you. Sometimes you just have to try something new and hope it works, if it doesn’t work, you try something different the next time. Taking the lead is how it all starts, it doesn’t mean you have to do it all!
Want to nominate a volunteer for Girl Scouts of Colorado to spotlight? Please email Public Relations Director AnneMarie Harper at annemarie.harper@gscolorado.org.