Volunteers are the heart of Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains. They dedicate countless hours to supporting the growth, development, and success of girls across the region, constantly proving that there truly is a place for everyone in Girl Scouting.
“Naturally, we are a volunteer-driven organization,” says Nekisha Henry, Chief Mission Delivery Officer at GSTOP. “There are far more volunteers than staff, and our movement would not exist without their dedication. They give their time out of love, passion, and a desire to strengthen their communities while shaping the future of our girls.”
Volunteering Takes Many Forms
Volunteers bring the Girl Scouts’ mission to life in a variety of ways. Current opportunities include:
Troop leadership – leading and supporting a troop of girls from diverse backgrounds.
Programmatic support – sharing expertise in areas such as STEM, arts, outdoor skills, or life skills to enrich the Girl Scout experience.
Event assistance – helping at holiday events, camp experiences, and Cookie University, where volunteers prepare for the annual cookie season.
Community service projects – organizing drives and initiatives like Thanksgiving baskets or coat collections to serve local families in need.
“Volunteering doesn’t have to look one way,” Henry emphasizes. “Our volunteers put in hours and hours of time, almost like a second job, out of love and passion for the betterment of their communities and our girls’ futures. They are the foundation of the work we do.”
GSTOP actively welcomes volunteers from all walks of life, including parents, professionals, retirees, or anyone with a desire to make an impact.
Personal Impact and Community Connection
Volunteering with Girl Scouts offers a dual impact of combining the growth of girls while deepening community connections.
“From my own perspective as both a staff member and a parent, volunteering allows me to contribute meaningfully,” Henry shares. “Even before I joined the organization, I had a long career in athletics, but volunteering with Girl Scouts always felt like a calling. I use my professional experience to mentor girls, support parents, and guide our volunteers. Every hour spent makes a meaningful impact on both the girls and the wider community.”
Leaders like Ralene Hall, who co-leads troops supporting girls with diverse needs, emphasize the importance of personalized engagement. “I am blessed to work with girls with disabilities in my troops. Volunteers and older Girl Scouts help on a one-on-one basis, allowing each girl to fully participate. Trust and support are key, it’s amazing to see how everyone comes together.”
Next Steps for GSTOP
As GSTOP continues to grow, volunteer recruitment remains a top priority. The organization aims to reimagine volunteerism, making it more flexible and accessible to meet the needs of today’s busy adults. Initiatives include increased training, development opportunities, and retreats for volunteers to connect and share experiences.
With the holiday season approaching, volunteers are needed more than ever to help with seasonal activities.
“We have Cookie University to prep for cookie season, holiday events, and camp experiences where girls can ride horses, go on hayrides, create crafts, and earn badges,” Henry notes. “Troops also host service projects like coat collections or Thanksgiving baskets to support families in need.”
Get Involved
Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains offers numerous ways for adults to engage, including leading a troop, mentoring in STEM, and supporting local initiatives. Volunteers play a pivotal role in shaping confident, community-minded girls.
If you’ve ever considered volunteering, now is the time to act. GSTOP welcomes you to join their growing network of volunteers and experience the joy and impact of Girl Scouting.
For more information on volunteer opportunities or to get involved, visit www.gs-top.org