Cactus Bloom Service Unit 

Troop 2425 (multi-level)

Years as a troop leader: 6

What inspired you to become a troop leader?

I remember seeing how much fun my now co-leader and best friend were having in the organization, but also how much my daughter loved being a Girl Scout. Those moments inspired me to become a troop leader. I love being able to share new ideas with the girls and watch them grow and accomplish their goals. 

What kind of activities do you do with your troop? What is their favorite thing to do?

Our troop likes to experience new things and learn from other community members. One of the many activities we planned , was a field trip to the FBI where the girls had an opportunity to talk to an agent that works in their armory. We also attended Circus School where the girls tried trapeze, tightrope and more. As a troop, we enjoy neighborhood encampments and any activities that involve art or give us the chance to be creative. This summer, we’re preparing to travel to Camp Surf in San Diego!

What kind of service projects have you done with your troop?

Our troop loves giving back to the community, and we try to organize different service projects, some of which include:

• Making dog toys and reading to animals at the Maricopa Animal Safe Haven (MASH) unit

• Preparing care packages for cancer patients

• Sending thank you cards to military personnel overseas

• Collecting donations for Ronald McDonald House

• Creating collection boxes for the City of Peoria to support National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Tell us about a volunteer moment that stands out to you.

This is a tough one because there are many! What stands out to me is watching the girls try something new and problem-solve. Being able to see the girls grow and make big changes in the world has been an amazing privilege.

What advice would you give other troop leaders?

Meetings don’t have to be perfect. Being flexible and finding the best time to have a productive and fun meeting is important. As a troop leader, if you’re ever in need of ideas or you’re unsure about an activity, don’t be afraid to ask for help!

What do you wish someone had told you as a new troop leader?

As a new leader, I wish I had a better understanding of all the training and support that’s available. I really encourage new leaders to get to know their Service Unit Team because they have a wealth of knowledge and resources to assist your troop and take on new challenges. 

What would you like others to know about volunteer opportunities with the Girl Scouts?

Volunteering is a fun and rewarding experience! There are so many ways to support girls regardless of the grade level you serve. You can help with recruitment, our cookie season, and Girl Scout events and activities.  

Does your troop sell cookies? If yes, please tell us in your own words, why it is important to participate in the Cookie Program?

Yes, and even though cookie season does provide troop funds, the amount of confidence and skills learned during cookie season is invaluable. There’s no better feeling than seeing our cookie bosses setting and accomplishing goals every year. I love seeing the creativity shine through as the girls prepare to market and sell cookies. 

What are your troop’s cookie selling tips and tricks?

We believe keeping our booths simple is key to attracting customers. Simple, tasteful displays seem to work best for sales, especially if you have a few ideas/suggestions for each flavor. For example, “s’mores are amazing if you pop them in the microwave for a few seconds” or “lemon-ups are delicious with hot tea or adding a little vanilla ice cream”, etc. Lastly, make sure your girls know each of the cookies to be able to describe their flavor profile or answer questions about them.

What is the most inspiring moment you have experienced as a troop leader?

I was inspired when I saw our older girls earn their Bronze Award and go on to work on their Silver Award. Our girls have such kind hearts and amazing ideas and seeing how they engage with their communities and implement projects to solve a local or global issue is truly amazing.