There were lots of friendly greetings and bright smiles as more than 100 volunteers and their families gathered at the annual GSSEM Volunteer National Awards appreciation dinner, capping off a month of kudos and mixers for the amazing volunteers and supporters of Girl Scouts.
“The Volunteer National Awards Banquet is one of my greatest joys every year because it showcases the strength of the Girl Scout Movement,” says Liz Bogner, GSSEM’s Manager of Volunteer Experience.
“Girl Scout volunteers and special friends of Girl Scouts are caring and resourceful people and deserve to be celebrated for the incredible work they do every day,” she said.
Number of Awards
This year, GSSEM proudly presented:
44 Volunteer of Excellence awards—recognizes volunteers who have contributed outstanding service while partnering directly with girls.
11 Appreciation Pins—bestowed to those going above and beyond expectations for the position held and made an impact within our Council.
8 Honor Pins—given to those who helped GSSEM reach and exceed mission-delivery goals.
7 Thanks Badges I and II—commemorate outstanding service performed benefiting total council or the entire Girl Scout organization.
52 Friend of Girl Scouting awards—honors community and business partners who support Girl Scouting in Southeastern Michigan.
11 Girl Scout Adult Religious Honors—recognizes volunteers who help girls explore Girl Scouts through the lens of their faith.
Volunteering’s Impact
“Our volunteers not only support our day-to-day operations but also inspire and motivate our staff,” said Monica Woodson, GSSEM CEO. “We appreciate your passion and enthusiasm, and want you know none of this would be possible without each of you.”
“Volunteers are the heartbeat of the Girl Scout organization,” said Lauren Hatto, GSSEM’s 2024 Young Woman of Distinction, during her welcoming speech at the event. “With the guidance, time, and effort of every volunteer in this organization, girls like me can develop beliefs, values, and ideas that shape them into the changemakers of tomorrow.”
Volunteers bring our mission to life, and for that, Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan is truly grateful.
You can read about the significant contributions and impact our volunteers make at www.gssem.org/vna2025. Interested in becoming a GSSEM volunteer? Visit www.gssem.org/volunteer to learn more!
