Volunteer troop leader Bonnie Backing has always been a fixer.

Seeing the benefits Girl Scouting after her first daughter joined a troop as a Brownie,  Bonnie wanted to make sure her second daughter had the opportunity to have such wonderful experiences.

Problem was, there was no troop for her to join.

So, together with the mom of her daughter’s good friend, she decided to start a troop.

Problem solved.

Doing something right

Bonnie and her co-leader of Troy Troop 78162, know their troop enjoy their experience because the girls keep showing up to the meetings and events that they plan.

“I love seeing the variety of experiences that the girls get to have that they wouldn’t have done if they weren’t in Girl Scouts,” she says.

To give is to receive

One of Bonnie’s favorite parts of being a troop leader is giving the girls the badges and patches they earned.

“Their joy, excitement, and desire to participate makes me happy,” she says.

For the future

With the success of her first-year troop leadership experience, Bonnie is looking forward to the future with her troop.

Her hopes and goals include supporting the girls grow in confidence, character and leadership in their second year.

“I hope the girls will stay safe, have a really good time and make wonderful memories,” she says.

“Your troop and leadership do not have to look like anyone else’s. There is space for you to give what you’re able to give, and it is a wonderful gift that you can give to the girls and families.”

Bonnie Backing, co-leader of Troop 78162