As a supportive superstar for Troop 77915 out of Riverview, volunteer Jenna Purdu is pursuing a dream she’s nurtured since she was a young girl.
A dream come true
Jenna didn’t have an opportunity to be a Girl Scout when she was growing up.
“I always admired Girl Scouts from a distance and wanted to be a Girl Scout,” she says. Now, Jenna gets to fulfil her wish while spending time with her daughters.
Jenna was inspired to volunteer by watching how the troop leaders were with the troop. “They are so caring. I want to support them in any way possible,” she says.
For Jenna, that doesn’t mean over committing or adding another thing to her to-do list. “It can be as simple as staying at a meeting to help in any way needed,” she says.
Effortless rewards
It’s connecting with troops that it makes volunteering so fulfilling for Jenna and so many other GSSEM volunteers.
“I simply enjoy being a part of a group of girls and women who are inspired to make the world a better place,” Jenna says.
“That can be by learning how to start a campfire and appreciating nature, or on a larger scale working with the troop as they dedicate themselves to service projects,” she said.
Regardless of what she does with her troop, she is happy to help in any way she can.
Favorite effort
Jenna knows she’s unique when she says volunteering for the Cookie Program is one of her favorite memories with Girl Scouts.
“Observing the sheer kindness and generosity of people during cookie season is inspirational,” she says.
“Some people might not think it’s a big deal buying some Girl Scout Cookies, but it really helps young girls learn so many important skills.”
Living memories
Jenna enjoys sharing memories about past troop events and activities. She wants to keep the lessons and experiences fresh in the minds of her daughters and their friends,
“I want to remind the girls the impact Girl Scouting has made in their lives,” she says. “How Girl Scout priorities and conduct will have long reaching influence.”
Jenna is excited to live her childhood dream as she encourages and guides the troop throughout their Girl Scout journey.
Sometimes just starting small as a volunteer can build into something amazing!
Jenna Purdu
