It’s never too early to start making a difference. To be kind, patient, and to lend a helping hand where others may not—it’s a beautiful thing. And these young girls do it every single day, in both big and small ways.
I recently had the privilege of spending time with Girl Scout Troop 10050, a perfect experience during Girl Scout Week. Troop 10050 is the oldest troop in southern Missouri, originally founded by Maggie Clifford years ago and now led by two dedicated community members. Ten incredible young girls from our community have joined this troop, not just to learn, but to serve—proving that kindness and generosity know no age limits.
Each girl I met was a shining example of selflessness, already making a tangible impact in their community. In Girl Scouts, members earn awards as they progress: the Bronze Award, the Silver Award, and the highest honor—the Gold Award.
Last year, three scouts—Jenna (9 years in Scouts), Sofie (6 years), and Mei (4 years)—achieved the Bronze Award after installing a community food pantry outside their Girl Scout hut. This pantry provides essential hygiene products, food, and water to those in need, embodying the spirit of giving.
I also met four other scouts of various ages, all contributing in meaningful ways. Laynie, the youngest, has been a Scout for three years. Ruby has been in scouts for 5 years. Kara has been a member for 12 years and is working toward her Gold Award, along with Avery, who has been in the Scouts for 10 years. Their projects reflect their passion for service and their commitment to bettering their community.
Kindness in Action
Their enthusiasm was contagious as they shared all the amazing things they get to do—both to prepare themselves for life and to help others. They sell cookies to fund educational trips, learn about history and careers, take self-defense classes, and most importantly, use their funds for community service projects.
Just this past year, Troop 10050 has:
– Rang the bell for the Salvation Army during Christmas to raise money for those in need.
– Used troop funds to buy Christmas presents and Thanksgiving meals for struggling families.
– Collected hygiene products and food for the Chaos Closet, benefiting foster children.
– Organized a pajama and supply drive for the homeless, ensuring warmth through winter.
– Created a Christmas parade float to spread positivity and affirmations.
– Built birdhouses—because even nature sometimes needs a helping hand.
Their dedication doesn’t stop at donations. They actively engage in learning—taking CPR, first aid, and babysitting courses, as well as self-defense training to be prepared in every way possible.
Exploring the World While Learning
These girls don’t just give back—they grow through once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Their troop has:
– Visited the Joplin Airport to learn about aviation.
– Met government officials to understand how laws and policies are made.
– Gone on countless camping trips to learn about nature, survival, and safety.
– Stayed overnight at the Titanic Museum, diving deep into history.
– Sold over 6,000 boxes of cookies to fund a trip to Savannah, Georgia—the birthplace of Girl Scouts—where they explored historical sites and museums.
One troop parent, who works at the local college, even organizes special learning days for them at the university, ensuring they gain real-world skills that will last a lifetime.
True Heroes Wear Vests, Not Capes
The most touching part of my visit was hearing their pure and simple reasons for being Scouts. Laynie, the youngest member I met, summed it up best:
❝ We get to help people! ❞
That’s it. That’s what it’s all about.
Where many children may not think about these things, these girls spend their time hoping to help others. They take pride in making even the smallest impact, knowing that a simple kind word or thoughtful act can brighten someone’s day.
They are true heroes, not in capes, but in Girl Scout vests—proof that kindness, dedication, and generosity start young and last a lifetime.
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On March 12, 1912, Juliette Gordon Low founded the Girl Scouts with a vision: to make the world a better place. Today, with over 2 million Girl Scouts across 145 countries, it is the largest leadership organization for girls in the world.
Girl Scouts empower young girls to grow courageous and strong through:
– Community service
– Skill-building experiences
– Cultural learning
– Environmental stewardship
They develop leadership, confidence, and a heart for service—qualities the world desperately needs more of.
So, in honor of the Girl Scouts’ birthday, I want to personally thank Troop 10050. You are some of the best people I have met, and on behalf of the entire community:
Thank you, and keep shining!
The Girl Scout Law:
“I will do my best to be honest and fair, friendly and helpful, considerate and caring, courageous and strong, and responsible for what I say and do, and to respect myself and others, respect authority, use resources wisely, make the world a better place, and be a sister to every Girl Scout.”
