Thanks to Girl Scout volunteers

More than 100 years ago, Juliette Gordon Low began a movement designed to empower girls to become leaders in their communities. Girl Scouts began in 1912 with a group of 18 young women in Savannah, Ga. Today, Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland proudly supports a membership of approximately 17,000 girls in kindergarten through 12th grade.

We know that 90 percent of the Girl Scout program happens locally and is provided by volunteers who graciously give their time and energy to serve as mentors, role models and leaders for our girls. I want to take a moment to thank all of our volunteers for all they do in helping us fulfill our mission of building girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place.

Our volunteers, whether they give a month, a year or a decade, put in countless hours to provide leadership development opportunities that offer girls a lifetime of skills. It is because of their commitment, generosity and heart that girls in our council continue to learn new skills, challenge themselves and grow safely and productively.

On April 22 each year, we celebrate Girl Scout Leader's Day -- a day in honor of the volunteers who give their time as girls' mentors, supporters and advocates. We are grateful that they continue to prioritize Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland as an organization worthy of their time and talent.

Sincerely,

ANNE SOOTS, CEO, Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland, Springfield, Mo.