Troop Time is Family Time

Spending time with her daughters was the number one reason Melissa Zimmerman of Novi is a volunteer with Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan.

Extended Family

She spent many hours helping with her oldest daughter’s Troop 77234 but never in any official capacity. Melissa decided to up her game when her younger daughter joined, becoming troop leader for Troop 76549 in 2018 after stints as troop treasurer and product program manager.

“I volunteer so that my daughters and other girls are able to participate in Girl Scouts,” she said. “I know how difficult it is to keep a troop functioning without volunteers.”

Camping Out

Camping is one of her more favorite activities to do with her troop. “It lets me get to know the girls in my unit even better while camping,” said Melissa. “The girls and I plan and experience many outdoor activities such as camp cooking and learning about outdoor survival. We have a great time together.”

This year her Troop wants to sell as many cookies as possible so they can go to Girl Scout days at Zehnder’s Splash Village, take in an archery activity and, of course, go camping!

Big Rewards

While being a troop leader has its challenges, the rewards are more than worth it, Melissa said. 

“Having the opportunity to help girls with these cool experiences and to learn and grow myself at the same time is the best.”

It is rewarding to watch the girls grow and learn new skills together which they will keep throughout their lives.

Melissa Zimmerman