Girl Scouts of Colorado is celebrating extraordinary volunteers throughout the state in honor of Volunteer Appreciation Month. Silvia Santana of Rifle in the Western Colorado region is a shining example of the wonderful role Girl Scout volunteers play in the lives of girls and our community.
GSCO asked Silvia 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?
While attending a kindergarten roundup event, there was a table with some Girl Scout volunteers. I had heard a little about it and having a daughter, I loved the idea of empowering girls. We attended our first meeting, and I thought to myself that I could see myself do that. After the second meeting, I signed up to assist the Daisy leader. I wanted to be part of an organization that provided opportunities for all girls regardless of their background and help in their development to become strong, confident, and independent girls.
Tell us about your different volunteer roles as a Girl Scout.
Well, I started just helping the Daisy leader a little over six years ago. When that troop closed, I started my own Brownie troop. I have served as Daisy leader, Brownie leader, Junior leader, cookie mom, treasurer, planner, you name it. Anything the troop needs, I have stepped up to help.
What have you learned as a Girl Scout volunteer?
We definitely learn to love each girl in our troop. Each one of them has a special part in my heart. I have seen many of them grow and will be bridging to Cadettes this next year. I have leaned that no matter how much time we can volunteer, we can all make a difference in these girls’ lives. I see the sisterhood they have developed and I am very proud of all of them.
What do you hope girls have learned from you?
I like to lead by example, so I hope that each one of them learns to be strong, independent, and confident. I want them to know that they can be anything they put their minds to. They have learned to set goals and create plans to achieve them. They have learned responsibility, how to use their resources, and be kind and caring for others.
How has your experience as a volunteer helped you become a G.I.R.L. (go-getter, innovator, risk-taker, leader)?
I feel I have always been a leader since young age, however I was not a go-getter or risk-taker. Being a volunteer has helped me set goal for my personal growth, just like we set goals with the girls. I took a risk and went back to school a year ago. I knew there would be a possibility I would not be able to handle work, school, home, and volunteering. I was determined not to let that get in the way, and in May I will be graduating. I am glad I can teach the girls that all things are possible.
Want to nominate a volunteer for Girl Scouts of Colorado to spotlight? Please email Public Relations Director AnneMarie Harper at annemarie.harper@gscolorado.org.
The nomination deadline for 2020 Volunteer Recognition Awards is April 30. GSCO invites members statewide to take this opportunity to recognize an outstanding volunteer by nominating them for a Volunteer Recognition Award. Nominators are responsible for ensuring enough endorsements are submitted to support their nomination of a volunteer for an award. Your volunteer support specialist can check nomination and endorsement submissions for you. Learn more.
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