VOLUME TWENTY ONE | SPRING 2022 | AMERICANHERITAGEGIRLS.ORG
HERITAGEHEADLINES Worthy of His Calling: Shepherding Girls to Discern & Discover Their Purpose HIGH IMPACT INSIGHT Area Teams: A Key Building Block to AHG’s Model
BADGE STORIES Girls Across the Country Discover New Passions and Learn Valuable Life Skills AHG IN THE NEWS The AHG Ministry Advocates for Biblical Worldview in National Media
MEET OUR COVER GIRL – LIANA – (She’s celebrating 12 years as an American Heritage Girl!)
AHG3254 AHG Heritage Headlines Spring 2022
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Dear Friends, Welcome to this edition of AHG’s Heritage Headlines. Along with its regularly featured columns of news and updates, this volume contains articles underscoring the importance of today’s Christian adopting a Biblical Worldview. The American Heritage Girls’ Program and Ministry is centered around Christ and thus, a Biblical worldview. What is a worldview? It is the set of assumptions and beliefs through which one sees the world. If you believe in the Bible, its teachings should affect the way that you view the world. A Christian will therefore, think differently than non-Christians, and this will affect every area of our lives. A recent study sponsored by the Family Research Council and cited in their report “Perceptions about Biblical Worldview and Its Application” found that only 6% of Americans and 9% of Christian Americans actually have a Biblical worldview. Consider this: Two thirds of Americans identify as Christians, and the study found that 51% claim to have a Biblical worldview. But here’s the clincher. When those supposed Bible believers were asked specific questions, the researchers found that of those Christians who thought they had a Biblical worldview, only 9% answered all the questions correctly. Clearly the study brought to light the need for education around the eternal truths contained in the Bible so applicable in today’s world. Some items to note from the study include: 26% believe the personal accumulation of money and other forms of wealth have been entrusted to them by God to manage for His purposes. [Only] 29% believe that the best indicator of success in life is consistent obedience to God. [Only] 33% believe that human beings are born with a sinful nature and can only be saved from the consequences of sin by Jesus Christ. [Only] 47% believe that when they die they will go to Heaven only because they have confessed their sins and have accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior. [Only] 48% believe that it is very important for their religious faith to influence every dimension of life. [Only] 49% say that their most likely source of moral guidance in any given situation would be the Bible. [A whopping] 49% accept reincarnation as a possibility after they die. American Heritage Girls is in a unique position to come alongside parents and the Church to underscore a Biblical worldview and the need for it. AHG is dedicated to building women of integrity–women anchored in Christ. AHG is an arrow in the quiver each girl needs to navigate today’s world. Our program and ministry will continue to root itself in His timeless truths. May you be blessed by His enduring love,
Read more on page 14 about this mother/daughter trio from NE3130 who took to the mountains for some connective, restorative time in nature as a family (earning some badges in the process!).
Patti Garibay AHG Founder & Executive Director
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TABLE OF
CONTENTS
SPRING ISSUE APRIL 2022
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AHG News Sharing the AHG Program with audiences across the country on Fox News, The Christian Post, The Stream, American Family News, and more.
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Service Stories American Heritage Girls are fulfilling God’s call to be His hands and feet. Read about Troop service projects and their impact on local communities across the country.
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COVER STORY
WORTHY OF HIS CALLING
Girl Stories Troop activities, special events, girl leadership, and more! AHG gives girls the safe and Spirit-filled space to grow in their identity and abilities.
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Badge Stories AHG Badges give girls the opportunity to develop applicable life skills, grow in faith, and discover new passions.
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Charter Organization Spotlight The secret to a thriving AHG Troop is a strong, supportive Charter Organization. Christ Church, Presbyterian in Evans, Georgia is just that for the girls and volunteers of GA2345.
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Alumnae Spotlight Meet Elyse Hawkins, former Girl Member of OK2810, faithful Christian, and student at Hillsdale College.
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Stars & Stripes Award Recipient Highlight Meet Jenna Boewe, Stars & Stripes Award Recipient #832 from IN0208.
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OCC Shoebox Challenge: Alabama Troop sends Christ’s love around the globe.
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High Impact Insight Area Teams: A Key Building Block to AHG’s Model
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AHG, Inc. Updates Exciting updates, changes, and news from the AHG, Inc. Office in Cincinnati, OH and Staff across the country.
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As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace. –1 Peter 4:10, ESV
AHG Wild Pines T-Shirt
AHG Wild Palms T-Shirt
ABOUT THE COVER MEET OUR AHG COVER GIRL
BEHIND THE COVER Did you know that AHG publications, social media photos, and video content feature the smiling faces of real-live American Heritage Girls? Even AHGstore merchandise is worn not by models, but by girls, parents, and volunteers registered in the program! With tens of thousands of members all across the country (not to mention the Trailblazer families in 15 countries
abroad!), AHG relies on the generous submissions of Troop photographs to tell the story of the ministry. From amateur individual snapshots to fully-curated professional galleries, all 1MB+ photos of registered, media-released Girl and Adult Members are welcomed. Members are invited to share their Troop photographs and stories at https://ahg.pub/photosubmission. ON THE COVER: Liana, a Patriot from OH3124, has been an American Heritage Girl since 2010. Liana recently earned the Stars & Stripes Award and celebrated with a ceremony featuring a special speaker— AHG Founder & Executive Director, Patti Garibay! Join AHG in congratulating Liana on this exciting achievement! Photo courtesy of: Sarah Edison, AHG Marketing Specialist.
Looking to share this issue with friends, family, or someone you think might love the AHG Program? Share the digital version FREE by visiting issuu.com/americanheritagegirls. Want an extra print copy for your daughter’s memory box or to give to a potential local Charter Organization? Order today from the AHGstore by visiting americanheritagegirls.org/store! Don’t miss a single issue all year, sign-up for the Heritage Headlines subscription service!
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te a D e th e v a S
SATURDAY
SEPTEMBER 17 2022
Join AHG Troops across the country and celebrate AHG’s birthday through a united effort in serving persons impacted by disabilities.
Coming to AHGresource June 2022! educational resources from Joni & Friends service project ideas videos and activities for Troop meetings and more!
“Jesus calls us to make disciples of all the nations and that includes ALL of God’s children. May your NDS be the best ever as you seek to serve and understand those who are differently-abled.” Patti Garibay
AHG Founder & Executive Director
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AHGNEWS RECENT MEDIA SPOTS FOR AHG, INC. AHG was all over the airwaves this quarter! Check out the many interviews AHG Founder and Executive Director Patti Garibay participated in with news outlets all over the country:
The New American “Girl Scouts Competitor on ‘Trans’ Agenda: God ‘Created Men and Women Differently’” thenewamerican.com/girl-scouts-competitor-on-trans-agenda-god-createdmen-and-women-differently
The Joe Messina Show “Raising Godly Girls in a World of Cancel Culture” therealside.com/show/raising-godly-girls-in-a-world-of-cancel-culture
The Bill Bunkley Show December 20, 2021 episode, start listening at 30:00 letstalkfaith.com/radioshow/1940
American Family News “A Christmas Invitation” afn.net/opinion/guest-commentary/2021/12/22/a-christmas-invitation
The Christian Post “A New Year’s Relationship Resolution” christianpost.com/voices/a-new-years-relationship-resolution.html
Whether it’s faith, service, or fun, communities across the nation are witnessing contributions of local AHG Troops. Heritage Headlines, AHG’s quarterly magazine, seeks to spread those good news stories while encouraging other Troops to follow in their footsteps. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Patti Garibay
CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER
Rachael Culpepper
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
Michelle Beckham-Corbin
Relationship Insights Radio and Podcast with Carrie Abbott “Raising Strong Girls” carrieabbott.com/Radio/ArticleID/2140/Raising-Strong-Girls
FoxNews.com “March for Life 2022: Advocates pray for a ‘culture of life restored’ in America” foxnews.com/lifestyle/march-for-life-2022-advocates-pray-culture-lifeamerica
The Buff Show Episode 106: Checking All of the Boxes, start listening at 44:44
CONTENT MARKETING MANAGER
Erin Marco
CONTENT MARKETING SPECIALIST
Natalie Ambrose
GRAPHIC DESIGN SPECIALIST
Becky Lipps
COVER PHOTO BY
Sarah Edison
thebuffshow.buzzsprout.com/1434544/9964643-checking-all-of-the-boxes
American Family Radio: Airing the Addisons American Heritage Girls: Wil and Meeke Interview Patti Garibay, Founder And President afr.net/podcasts/airing-the-addisons/2022/february/american-heritage-girlswil-and-meeke-interview-patti-garibay-founder-and-president
Direct all Letters to the Editor, address changes, or other correspondence to: American Heritage Girls, Inc. 35 Tri-County Parkway Cincinnati, OH 45246 513-771-2025 news@ahgonline.org americanheritagegirls.org
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AHGONLINE
SOCIAL CHANNELS
CELEBRATING AHG TROOPS ACROSS THE WEB
Check out our social media channels for the latest AHG updates and happenings.
GET FEATURED Share your Troop photos with the hashtag #ahgfun on Instagram for a chance to be shared in Heritage Headlines.
THE JUMP www.thejump.com/ ahgcommunity
PINTEREST www.pinterest.com/ americanheritagegirls @classiccitystyle
COMMENTS & CONVERSATION
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ AmericanHeritageGirls
Outdoor adventure knows no bounds! Troop NY4813’s Pioneers and Patriots braved the low temperatures and pitched their tents in the snow (for the very first time!). While on their Winter camping trip, the girls got a chance to hone their outdoor skills and earn AHG Badges by making flint, steel and magnesium fire starters and assembling ovens out of cardboard boxes, which they used to make grilled cheese sandwiches and bake cookies!
@clatimer5687
Unit Leader Justine summed up the trip perfectly: “Cold weather activities can be lots of fun when you are well prepared!” We couldn’t agree more! “So cool! Can I find out how to make the cardboard oven/stove on Pinterest or YouTube? I’d love to do that with [my son].” –Karen Cooper “You gals are amazing! At least at winter camp we had cabins and wood burning stoves.” –Christopher Gjersvik “Would love to learn the leaders and girls takeaways and “if we had to do it over” thoughts and experiences!” –Meg Kusturin “It was adventure to be sure!! I actually think the snow made for a more comfortable base than directly on the ground.” –Meghan Holt
@ahgfun
“What was the temperature there? I have camped as low as -13 degrees; BRRRR” –Robert Bob Maeurer Sr. “Great job! You are braver than me Justine!” –Kerri Flannery Bennett
TWITTER @ahgnews
@michelle.asbrock
“Our girls are pretty tough! And also awesome!” –Inga Edwards
LINKEDIN www.linkedin.com/ company/ American-Heritage-Girls
“Preparedness is key!” –Michelle Rhoda
YOUTUBE @vavavaverb
www.youtube.com/ AHGchannel AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 9
SERVICESTORIES WHAT IT MEANS TO BE AN ACTIVE CITIZEN OF THE UNITED STATES
SUPER BOWL OFFERS TROOP CHANCE TO SERVE THOSE IN NEED The Troop-Charter Organization relationship is one that AHG loves and protects. That is why we delight in seeing Troops serve Charter Organizations every chance they get! Troop VA0428 takes advantage of the Super Bowl yearly in a way that might surprise you. They host a food drive aptly named “SOUPERbowl”. The teams competing in the Super Bowl represent two bins for donations. AHG families and parishioners “cheer” for their chosen team (this year the Bengals and the Rams) by placing their donations in one of the two bins. While the actual Super Bowl saw the Rams come out champions, the SOUPERbowl crowned the Bengals the Champ of Chow with their bin yielding the most donations. The bins overflowed with canned food, fresh vegetables and fruits, chicken, and other necessities. We are giving two high-fives to this Troop for their ingenuity and joyful spirit on this service project! 10 | AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS
TENNESSEE TROOP’S MULTI-LEVEL DONATION EFFORTS BENEFIT HURRICANE VICTIMS In the East Coast and the Gulf States, hurricane season can be devastating with storms rolling through uprooting homes, businesses, infrastructure, and lives. The Pioneers, Explorers, and Tenderhearts in TN2011 sought to make a difference for hurricane victims by gathering materials and donating first aid supplies, survival food, and cases of bottled water. In times like these, AHG girls like Clara, Lena, and Violet learn that a bottle of water given to a stranger in need is much more than just an object—it reaches across miles and sends the practical love of Christ at a key time for those victims!
TRAILBLAZER EXPLORERS HONOR FALLEN HEROES
The Wreaths Across America organization honors fallen United States soldiers from the Civil War to present-day conflicts. American Heritage Girls across the nation can choose to participate as a way to serve and remember these brave men and women. Victoria and Alexandra of TB2020, an Explorer and Tenderheart respectively, served by laying wreaths at graves in Cold Harbor National Cemetery in Mechanicsville, Virginia. By posturing themselves reverently in this act of service, these young ladies gained a better understanding of the magnitude of sacrifice given by many to protect our God-given liberty.
HAVE A STORY OF SERVICE OR A CREATIVE IDEA YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE? Submit your photos and project details to AHG via https://ahg.pub/photosubmission for a chance to be featured on social media or in a future issue of Heritage Headlines! AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 11
GIRLSTORIES INCREDIBLE TALES OF LEADERSHIP, VOLUNTEERING & FRIENDSHIP
MULTI-TROOP G.R.I.T. WITH GRACE EVENT BRINGS WINTER FUN AND LEADERSHIP SKILLS This winter, 24 Colorado Springs Pioneer and Patriots came together for a G.R.I.T. with Grace leadership event hosted by CO2017. This was the first time for such a Multi-Troop event among six local troops. “Everyone Can Lead” shined as a highlight where the girls made vellum lanterns that expressed what girls thought were characteristics of leaders and influencers. Girls also enjoyed the break-out activity for “Identity in Christ” where they created 12 | AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS
a puzzle piece that represented their uniqueness and identity in Christ. The puzzle, once assembled, created a beautiful masterpiece! Between journal time, lessons, games, singing and crafts, G.R.I.T. with GRACE is definitely making an impression by challenging girls to be rooted and impacting tomorrow.
BADGE WORK TAKES GIRLS FROM PLAINS TO MOUNTAINS Some of the most memorable moments in a young lady’s life happen in God’s gorgeous creation. And just because your Troop is located in the plains of Nebraska doesn’t mean all your badge work has to happen in that ecosystem. Pioneer and Patriot sisters of NE3130 took their Hiking Badge and Camping Badge work on the road to the mountains of Colorado in 2021. Mercy and Constance embarked on a summer trip to the Rocky Mountains with their mom Melody, a PI/PA Unit Leader. Since these two badges go hand-inhand, a mountain trek backdrop just seemed right. From planning their route, to gathering the right gear, and packing necessary supplies Mercy and Constance approached the badge in responsible maturity. The roughly 600mile journey from Omaha, Nebraska to their destination for hiking and camping afforded lifelong memories and quality conversation for the mother/daughter trio.
For more information on how to organize a G.R.I.T. WITH GRACE event for your Troop, check out store.americanheritagegirls. org/pages/grit-with-grace
WINTER CAMPOUT CHALLENGES NY PIONEER WITH FUN AND INGENUITY AHG girls are known for being Resourceful, and this virtue becomes especially necessary in the winter months. Not many Troops will embark on the oftchilly Winter Campout Patch challenge, but for Miriam of TB0001 in Natural Bridge, NY it gave her a chance to practice innovative survival skills and spend the night under the winter sky. She dug a snow fort, which, if you’ve ever tackled this, takes more than a minute! Upon admiring her work, she then stocked it with her sleeping bag and supplies and settled in to spend the night in that same fort earning her the AHG Winter Campout Patch. We see you, Miriam, and we are proud of your Trailblazer spirit! AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 13
BADGESTORIES LEARNING LIFE SKILLS AND BUILDING CONFIDENCE The goal of every AHG Troop is to provide girls with a balanced and forward-focusing Program Level experience. Building on skills they’ve learned during their years in previous Program Levels, girls can
earn badges multiple times by working on them again at various ages. This progressive programming model provides an opportunity for a deeper understanding of valuable life skills. The AHG Program
offers girls 93 different badge programs in six Frontiers of skill—Heritage, Family Living, Arts, Outdoor Skills, Personal WellBeing, and Science & Technology.
CAKE DECORATING BADGE Cake decorating is a fun hobby that utilizes creativity and can be enjoyed any time and for any occasion. Whether it is a practice cake, a character birthday cake for a child, a pretty cake for a special friend, a holiday cake for a party, or a beautiful wedding cake: cakes can be used to honor and encourage others. Create your design and have fun! How do you take your run-of-the-mill Cake Decorating Badge to the next level? Do it with gingerbread and make it a fun competition! Troop leadership made the competition even sweeter with an added bonus (or “cherry on top” in this case): an $85-value first prize from a local business. Troop VA1904 made this Cake Decorating Badge experience extra special for these Explorer and Pioneer Program Level girls, one they’ll likely remember for years to come. The creativity, ingenuity, and even some laws of Physics came into play for Sophia’s design, and she completed every requirement to earn her Cake Decorating Badge while securing first prize in their local Troop competition.
SEWING BADGE Sewing can be as basic as replacing a button, repairing a torn hem, or stitching a hole in a seam. It can be fun and creative as designing home fashions or as challenging as sewing a suit. Master the basics and you will be prepared to tackle bigger and more complicated projects. The sewing skill has long been a part of a girl’s journey to womanhood, and for good reason since the ability to make and mend one’s own clothes serves a wonderfully practical purpose in all our lives! Leona, Hanan, and Halyn of TB2020 (NY) not only set out to complete their sewing badge this winter, but they also achieved an end with generous benefits. The three girls donated a quilt 14 | AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS
they machined together! The collaboration and excellence these young ladies achieved shine in their faces as they displayed the colorful work of art and warmth. We can’t think of a better way to complete a badge in the Family Living Frontier AND give generously from the fruits of their work!
SHOOTING SPORTS BADGE Americans have a constitutional right to possess firearms for protection, for hunting, and for target practice. The Founding Fathers of the United States wrote these words in the Second Amendment of the Bill of Rights to the United States Constitution: “A well-regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.” Millions of people participate in competitive and recreational shooting sports using BB guns, shotguns, rifles, or pistols. The requirements of this badge will teach you firearm safety, how firearms work, how to shoot at targets, and how to set up competitions. Badge work gives girls the opportunity to learn and practice skills that far exceed the norms of everyday life. When Troop TX1860 of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bryan, TX set out to complete the Shooting Sports Badge, they did it in true Texas style—at a Shooting Range! Natalia and her Troop friends learned the responsibility that comes with gun safety training, but also the sense of achievement after refining the marksmanship skills that come with practice. Under expert guidance and mindful safety training, the Shooting Sports Badge can offer older girls both fun and practical skills. Whether for hunting, home defense, or sport, Natalia now commands confidence in her skills through her work on this badge.
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CHARTER ORGANIZATIONSPOTLIGHT
CHRIST CHURCH, PRESBYTERIAN GA2345 EVANS, GEORGIA
This issue, AHG is excited to shine a light on Christ Church, Presbyterian in Evans, GA, home to GA2345. Charter Representative Diane Norkus and Troop Coordinator Laura Doss reflect on six years of chartering an AHG Troop at their church and the significant impact AHG has had on their faith community.
ARGUABLY THE MOST IMPACTFUL FORCE IN THE WELL-BEING OF AN AHG TROOP IS THE CHARTER ORGANIZATION. Every Troop is owned by a Charter Organization, which is typically a church, school, or similarly-aligned Christian organization. Without the support of their Charter Organization, an AHG Troop would not
rkus
Diane No
exist. When the Charter Organization and Charter Representative are involved beyond simply providing meeting space, the AHG Ministry can have an incredible impact on the outreach of the organization.
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Charter Organizations serve a crucial role in the AHG Ministry, as they own and operate AHG Troops. Though volunteers implement the AHG Program, the Charter Organization is able to customize their AHG Troop to best accomplish their ministry goals.
WHY DID YOUR CHURCH DECIDE TO CHARTER AN AHG TROOP?
HOW ELSE HAS AHG AFFECTED YOUR ORGANIZATION’S MINISTRY EFFORTS?
Our church decided to charter an AHG Troop at the request of a few moms in the church. We had sons who were in the church’s Trail Life USA troop and we wanted something similar for our girls. We found out about AHG, took the information to the leadership of Christ Church, Presbyterian, and they were fully supportive!
Christ Church, Presbyterian has incorporated us into their missions conference and has supported us as an outreach ministry. They have graciously allowed us to use the campus freely for meetings, service projects, fundraisers, and outreach. They have been nothing but encouraging in our quest to “build women of integrity through service to God, family, community, and country.”
HOW MANY YEARS HAS YOUR CHURCH HAD AN AHG TROOP? This is our Troop’s sixth year at Christ Church, Presbyterian.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER POTENTIAL CHARTER ORGANIZATIONS LOOKING TO CHARTER AN AHG TROOP?
HOW HAVE YOU SEEN GROWTH IN YOUR YOUTH/ FAMILY/WOMEN’S MINISTRY PROGRAMMING SINCE CHARTERING AN AHG TROOP?
My advice to potential charter organizations is to be involved, interested, and supportive (both verbally and financially). Keep an open line of communication and check in regularly to make sure the needs of the Troop are being met. On the flip side, I would encourage the Troop to keep in regular contact with the Charter Representative and church staff. Maintaining good relationships is key to a healthy Troop. Lastly, regularly expressing gratitude to the Charter Organization is helpful and appropriate.
Since chartering our Troop, Christ Church, Presbyterian has grown in membership through several families who joined the Troop. These members have subsequently gotten involved in our youth, family, and women’s ministries. They have integrated into the life of the church and have been active in youth group, youth leadership, fellowship, hospitality, and in other capacities.
For more information on the chartering process, visit americanheritagegirls.org/start-a-troop/charter-organizations AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 17
WORTHY OF HIS CALLING:
To the world, the word “vocation” refers simply to an occupation,
Shepherding Girls to Discern & Discover Their Purpose
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but to Christians, vocation is so much more than work—
it is the purpose and calling God placed on our hearts from the moment He created us.
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In fact, the very word vocation comes from the Latin word vocatio, meaning “calling”. But beyond a calling to a specific task, duty, or role, discovering a vocation means finding the fullness of the person God created us to be; it is the truest form of self-discovery. Each beloved child of God has a vocation as unique as the body, intellect, and personality with which they were bestowed. By developing a strong identity in Christ, adopting a Biblical worldview, and growing in knowledge, today’s American Heritage Girls are being equipped to discern His calling and discover their God-given purpose. Discerning vs. Deciding “What do you want to be when you grow up?”
It’s the age-old question young kids love to answer, and high-school students loathe. In early youth, discovering our life’s purpose is a world of possibility, often resulting in answers like a fire-fighting teacher or a ballerina-astronaut. In adolescence, this question can feel more like a cage, one huge confining decision that will impact the rest of your life. But imagine if our girls, often plagued by fear or anxiety around the future, could revel in the majesty of God’s plan for them? Every girl could rest in knowing that God has given her a purpose and He is leading her to it—she need only follow. That is the difference between discernment and deciding. Our faith in Jesus means we get to live in a place of blessed assurance that we are called to something worthwhile. Through our work, our relationships, our daily lives, we can spread the Gospel and make a Kingdom impact. Discerning a vocation is recognizing that each one of us has the ability to minister to others in unique and equally necessary ways. Our girls, fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of their Creator, have each been given spiritual giftings, physical and
intellectual talents, and a deeplyrooted purpose. By combining the development of a Biblical worldview, teaching new life skills, and instilling hearts for service, American Heritage Girls disciples girls to recognize their identity in Christ so that they can confidently enter what can be a difficult season of discernment. Or as AHG Founder Patti Garibay puts it, “AHG gives each girl the space to learn who she is and Whose she is in Christ.” You can support your girl through her season of discernment by encouraging her identity and value in Christ. Start by praying that her vocation will be revealed, encourage service to others, and create a community of Godly men and women who live out their calling— an American Heritage Girls Troop is just the place for this important, spiritually life-giving, nurturing work! Overcoming Easy Ideals and Striving for the Godly In the age of information, answers to all of life’s questions and solutions to our problems seem to be a click away. Better yet, the answer or solution you’re looking for, the one that feels comfortable, easy, and perfectly-aligned, is there if you look hard enough. We are plagued
...AND REMAIN PRAYERFUL THAT THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD WOULD MAKE KNOWN THE RIGHT PATH! 20 | AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS
with the pleasure of convenience. Not convinced? One need only scroll through social media to see this instant gratification summed up in one video trend, “can we skip to the good part?”. Here our girls see frizzy hair or homes in disarray disappear with the wave of a hand— no time, no effort, no struggle, no failure. That illusion spills over into reality. Experience enough instant gratification online and our girls come to expect they “skip to the good part” in every scenario, including a right fit in their career But when it comes to discerning the calling God has placed on your life, there is no video splicing, only trusting the process. Discernment, or “discovery”, comes only through intentional, thoughtful, and focused time spent with the Lord. Without the firm foundation of an identity in Christ, a confidence in prayer, and a trust in the authority of the Word, true discernment isn’t just difficult, it’s impossible. This foundation takes time to build, and ultimately impacts how we view the world. When a girl’s identity and her worldview lens is rooted in faith, the Gospel message doesn’t stay neatly tucked in her Bible only to be taken off the shelf each Sunday, it impacts every facet of her life! A Biblical worldview shapes the way she understands herself, her purpose in the world, and how she can influence an unholy world for Christ using the God-given gifts bestowed upon her at the moment of her creation.
Confusion, questioning, and doubt— they are all taking center stage in the daily cultural happenings of society. But with a Biblical worldview comes a steady, unwavering, and unchanging understanding of truth. God’s Word is a firm foundation, He is the Rock of ages, the Holy Spirit helps us recognize what is good and what is evil. Scripture provides us with relevant answers to today’s questions. This grounding in truth becomes a refuge from the uncertainty and anxiety of today’s culture where our decisions define us and our emotions control us. This call to live out the Gospel and connect every facet of daily life back to our Creator isn’t an easy one, but it’s a Godly one. His Word, Our Command When your daughter has a big question, where does she turn? If all goes right, in times of unknowing she turns to you, her parent. As she ages, it’s common to stray from the parent and turn to the friend. But ultimately there is one place, one respite for our girls that we desire first and foremost—and that is the arms of the Father. Girls today are inundated with the voices of others and opinions on what is right and true. Parents, teachers, coaches, influencers, they all speak loudly into the minds of girls who are looking to discover their identity. But there’s one voice that can be difficult to comprehend amid the noise of the others—God’s. It’s
unlikely that your girl hears a loud booming voice that she knows belongs to her Creator. She probably, like a lot of us, hears that still, small voice in the back of her mind. It can be hard to decide, especially in difficult circumstances, if it’s God speaking truth or the enemy seeking to manipulate. With your Troop, contrast the ways the Lord and the enemy speak in Scripture. Notice the differences, for example: where God brings hope and the enemy sows suspicion. The more she reads, the more she can strengthen her spirit of discernment and answer the call of Colossians 1:10, NJKV “that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.” Girls can develop their discernment skills, even from a young age. This AHG Program year, encourage the girls in your Troop, especially Pioneers and Patriots, to devote their hearts and minds to discovering God’s calling. As believers, we are each called to live the charge of Matthew 28:19-20, to make disciples of all nations. How we’re led to do that, through career, relationship, and mission, is a specially-formed way, a vocational calling as unique as our individual physical selves! Celebrate individual talents, explore new life skills and interests through badge work, discover new ways of serving others, and remain prayerful that the Spirit of the Lord would make known the right path!
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ALUMNASPOTLIGHT Since 1995, the Mission of American Heritage Girls has been to build women of integrity. While the AHG Program targets those in girlhood, the sincerity and faith-filled spirit that is nurtured and grown through AHG continues as girls develop and mature into women.
MEET ELYSE HAWKINS Christ-following leader, Political Journalism student, and AHG Alumna. Elyse joined AHG Troop OK2810 at Sunnybrook Chrtis ian Church in Stia lw ter, Oklahoma in 2017. Elyse and her younger tsi er e w re part of the original group when it a w s ts arted in their town. As local home-educators, Elyses’ a f mily knew e w l the a v lue of dee v loping a v rious layers of o c munity around their kids and giving opportunities o f r Godly adults to pour into their kids’ e liv s, and AHG oered that in partnership with Trail Lie f o f r her brothers. As it turns out, these natural Chrtis ian a f mily e w ekly gatherings through AHG and Trail Lie f troop meetings gave spae c o f r the long-lats ing mentorship o c nnections Elyse ts il enjoys with her o f rmer leaders. American Heritage Girls oers young o w men, especialy in the Pioneer and a P triot lee v ls, a tdis inct opportunity to simultaneously learn and grow while trying out their leadership skil. Elyse ine v ts ed in the Emergency Preparedness Badge opportunity as a a w y to gain e lif skil that she o w uld use imediately with a project that chalenged her to create an emergency car kit. As a young dre iv r, this project opened her eyes to situations that o w uld nd an unprepared o w man e f arful, but helped her to e f el equiped o f r on-the-road emergency situations. Elyse currently attends Hilsdale College in Michigan, a f r from her home. Today, the Emergency Car Kit project ts il serves her e w l with the 14-hour road trips home to see her a f mily on breaks from clases.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
– Philippians 4:13, NKJV
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FASTFACTS: Hometown: Stillwater, OK High School Alma Mater: Homeschooled Siblings: 5, Elyse is the eldest Favorite Book: The Scarlet Pimpernel by Emmuska Orczy Favorite Travel Destination: Chicago, IL Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 4:13 Favorite Social Media Platform: Instagram Favorite Food: Indian Food Favorite Flavor of Ice Cream: Sherbet Favorite Sport: Softball Favorite Color: Purple and Green Favorite AHG Badge: Emergency Preparedness Badge
Elyse’s family is known for having a pioneer spirit as they founded Highlands Latin School, a part-time home education co-op group. Both Elyse’s parents are highly credentialed educators with a robust library of classical resources and reference texts. The Geology Badge wove the perfect foundation for Elyse to dig into that library and research until her heart was content! She learned more than she ever thought possible about earthquakes and the bustling activity happening under the surface of our planet. This challenged her to grow as a writer and researcher, skills she uses in her Political Journalism major studies. Elyse made this choice out of concern for accurate, balanced reporting in the field and to afford her a flexible career choice to serve her future husband and family as a Godly mom. Whether directly learning through her projects and badge work or apprenticing as a leader for the Pathfinders, Elyse became a trusted Girl Leader in her Troop. Volunteer leaders allowed her to lead the young ones in songs and stretches while they prepared hands-on activities, which, if you have ever volunteered with young girls, was a huge help to the adult leaders! The giggles and zany questions from the tiny girls kept Elyse on her toes for sure. As the eldest of her family, this felt natural to her and Elyse’s special gift of patient gentleness shined from week to week. She describes the multi-faceted learning-growing-leading season as “an opportunity to see what an influence Godly women have on those around them, especially young girls. I was blessed with the opportunity to watch and learn from them.” As she looks back fondly on her time in AHG, Elyse acknowledges in gratitude that “during my time in AHG, I was insanely busy. Taking a full college load while finishing up high school, volunteering, working. But AHG was something that kept me grounded. It reminded me of what was important. My calm in the midst of the storm of my life at that time.” She laughs in tones that reflect her maturity through experience. These days, Elyse is fully entrenched in college life at Hillsdale College. She just got engaged to a Christ-following man, Judah, and she is preparing for a wedding. To all the girls in AHG, she wants to offer this encouragement: “It’s very easy to be isolated. To walk through life without meaningful relationships. AHG attracts women and girls who offer the groundwork for deep connections that are essential to life. To be a healthy person all the way around. You get out of it what you put in, and there is so much to get out of it!”
AHG Alumnae often report back on how much the AHG Program has benefitted their lives. These young women are making a remarkable difference in the world around them. AHG is looking to connect with its alumnae and create some exciting opportunities for them to reconnect with old friends and learn how they can share their leadership abilities! Are you an AHG Alumna? Visit americanheritagegirls.org/ alumnae to update your contact information and share what you’ve been up to!
As Elyse approaches stepping into the role of wife, she admires the women that served as her volunteer leaders in AHG. Each of those women naturally modeled for her how to be a Godly friend, a voice of leadership in her circle, how to guide girls in a way that honors the Kingdom of God and how to joyfully serve as a helpmate to their spouse. When asked about the core ways AHG helps young women face the challenges in today’s world, Elyse said, “The world we live in can be a very dark place. AHG girls have the opportunity to be a light and a lampstand to the world. Not only growing in virtue and goodness but more importantly in Christ’s love. We have the opportunity to live out what we’ve learned in AHG, but we have to seize it!” AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 23
STARS & STRIPESAWARD RECIPIENT
STARS & STRIPES AWARD RECIPIENTS AT A GLANCE (2021-2022 Program Year to date)
2021-2022 Program Year Recipients: 91 Benefiting Organizations Served: 91 Creed Word Most Used in Writing: Compassionate Total Service Hours: 22,700 Average Service Hours per Project: 249 What Stars & Stripes Award Recipients Like Most About AHG: Spending time with friends in the outdoors #1 Thing Girls Learned: Perseverance is key Total Number of Stars & Stripes Project Advisors: 22
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JENNA BOEWE IN0208 STARS & STRIPES AWARD RECIPIENT #832 Benefiting Organization:
UTOPIA WILDLIFE REHABILITATORS LOCATION: HOPE, INDIANA Project: Renovated outside viewing areas for eagle enclosure Total Supervisory Hours: 11 Overall Service Hours: 232
FUTURE PLANS: To attend college in the Animal Science field ANY ADVICE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH FUTURE STARS & STRIPES AWARD CANDIDATES? My advice to other candidates would be to select a project that interests them. Not only can they develop great relationships for their future, but also learn more about their passions at the same time. Such projects can be a great learning tool for them and give them a taste of the real world. Skills developed while completing projects can go a long way to boosting one’s confidence for future endeavors.
“Jenna Boewe has been a blessing to Utopia Wildlife. Her project has improved our ability to share our eagles with visitors to our facility and increased accessibility to their enclosure. She is a terrifically hard worker, is well organized, and communicates well. She exemplifies the ideals of American Heritage Girls, and through her efforts, we can share our educational message with more people of all backgrounds.” Kathleen Hershey President Utopia Wildlife Rehabilitators
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ALABAMA & BEYOND:
TROOP SENDS CHRIST’S LOVE AROUND THE GLOBE WHEN AHG PARTNERS WITH ANOTHER MINISTRY, WE KNOW THE LORD MULTIPLIES THE IMPACT OF BOTH ORGANIZATIONS BY LEAPS AND BOUNDS ACCORDING TO HIS WILL.
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD is an international holiday event collecting shoeboxes packed with toys, books, hygiene items, flashlights, and various other items and sending them around the world. Carried by the love of Christ and a tenacious army of compassionate volunteers, in 2021 the results were astounding. 26 | AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS
Since AHG formed a partnership with Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child 14 years ago, the momentum of motivated AHG Troops combined with the well-oiled machine of nationwide OCC box-packing efforts, means that more children in need receive the love of Christ and a joyful gift at Christmas. Taking it a step further two years ago, the partnership issued a challenge to AHG Troops. The goal: each Troop packs at least 25 boxes, but an open ceiling to exceed the goal! The prize: an OCC-sponsored pizza party for the randomly-selected winning Troop! Now, enter Troop AL7867 of Dothan, Alabama, the 2021 Winning Troop of the #AHGOCC25 challenge! Let’s take a deeper look at our #AHGOCC25 MVP Troop... AL7867 truly came into the running as a Rookie Troop since they were less than a year old, chartered in June 2021. The Troop rejoiced with 35 girls at their Joining Ceremony in the fall and now runs 40 Girl Members strong. Talk about a healthy start-up pace! Serving the Midland City, Alabama area, AL7867
calls Harvest Church in Dothan, AL home as their Charter Organization. Their Troop Coordinator, Crystal Sorrells, spearheaded the effort to connect the Troop with the #AHGOCC25 box packing challenge. With the combined efforts of their AHG and Trail Life Troops, they packed an unbelievable 100 shoeboxes to enter the challenge! Making the experience that much more special, about 125 kids and adults across the AHG and Trail Life Troops got to celebrate their successful efforts with an Operation Christmas Child sponsored pizza party this February. The highlight of the celebration featured Dania Andraos, an OCC Full Circle Speaker. Dania is from a country in the Middle East where 98% of the population are not Christian. So the OCC shoebox she received as a child literally carried the Gospel message to her life and a reminder that she is loved. This was actually the first physical gift she had ever received! Her testimony is sure to stick with the Troops for a lifetime. From the smiles on the Troop’s faces, we know they had a terrific time!
During 2021, AHG had 155 Troops and 4,392 girls who participated. A whopping 150 of those Troops exceeded the 25box challenge. The total number of OCC Shoeboxes packed by AHG Troops came in at 11,774 across the nation. See how the Lord is multiplying the AHG-OCC partnership to resonate into eternity and benefit so many children around the world! If your Troop is interested in participating this coming year, now is a great time to start planning! Whether that would be organizing your Troop Board for approval, linking up with other AHG Troops or Trail Life Troops to maximize your efforts, connecting directly with an Operation Christmas Child speaker, or starting to collect supplies, you could be on the road to success by partnering with #AHGOCCShine in 2022!
For more information visit samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/american-heritage-girls-operation-christmas-child
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NEWTROOPS See more every Tuesday at Facebook.com/AmericanHeritageGirls AL0412
St. Michael the Archangel / Auburn
NY1041
AR1102
Victory Missionary Baptist Church / Gentry
Circleville Evangelical Presbyterian Church / Circleville
OR1373
St. Birgitta’s Catholic Church / Portland
LA7777
Toledo Bend Bible Baptist / Anacoco
OR1531
St. Joseph Catholic Church / Salem
MI2501
Westminster Church of Port Huron / Port Huron
TX6210
Sola Christia Fellowship / Floydada
MO0234
First Baptist Church Doniphan / Doniphan
VA0077
Trinity Community Church / Christiansburg
NC3120
Mount Vernon Baptist / Boone
VA1012
Salem Baptist Church / Milford
NM0710
Village Church / Angel Fire
VA1782
NV7777
Green Valley Baptist Church / Henderson
Second Branch Baptist Church / Chesterfield
NY0530
St. John Bosco Schools / East Rochester
WA4313
Resonate Church / Janesville
#NewTroopTuesday
18,000 GIRLS
WAITING TO PUT ON AN AHG UNIFORM ARE
End the nationwide AHG TROOP SHORTAGE. Take the first step in MEETING THE NEED in your community,
Visit americanheritagegirls.org/Start-a-Troop
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HIGHIMPACT INSIGHT AREA TEAMS: A KEY BUILDING BLOCK TO AHG’S MODEL AHG is excited for what the Lord is doing in developing Area Teams. Area Teams are teams of volunteers that God has called to encourage and catalyze effective Troops throughout an Area. Area Teams are developed with local volunteers who partner with AHG at a deeper level and are selected, trained, and supported by a dedicated Regional Manager.
Area Teams begin through intentional prayer and seeking the Lord’s direction. An early step in Area Team development is the initiation of a prayer team of local volunteers who regularly meet to pray for the Troops, volunteers, girls, and the growth of the Area Team. Area Team volunteers are carefully recruited and selected for the role in which they serve. The team will often start small with the selection of a few members and grow to become fully established. Regardless of the size of the team, Area Teams are effective in building community and providing support within the Area.
Clockwise right to left: Susan Stripeak, Beth Wright, Alana Melton, AT Volunteers
Some benefits of an Area Team include: • Girl and volunteer leadership training • Face to face support through Hometown Mentors on key Troop topics • Networking with Troops and volunteers within the community • Dedicated prayer team in the area praying for girls and volunteers • Growth of the AHG Ministry It is AHG’s prayer that every Troop would be supported by an Area Team who can provide local support, encouragement, and exciting opportunities for Troops. CURRENTLY AHG HAS AREA TEAMS IN:
and Stars & Stripes Award projects) and events. As an Area, we have been able to establish a yearly themed PI/PA campout and a summer camp that has been increasingly successful over the last few years. Alana Melton, North Atlanta Area Coordinator: Since we began as an Area Team, one of our main goals was to bring Troops together. North Atlanta is a large area and very spread out. There was a need and a strong desire for connection. By our team organizing events, adult leader trainings, and meetups we have made great strides in creating a network in which Troops are working together to achieve goals for their girls and Troops.
DC METRO
NORTH ATLANTA
Beth Wright, North Atlanta Event Coordinator:
DETROIT
CHICAGOLAND
TWIN CITIES
LOS ANGELES – Orange County
Our Area Team began amid the pandemic when so many people felt isolated and alone. By focusing on building up the AHG adult volunteers in our Area, we have seen a direct, positive impact on those adult volunteers which, in turn, has an impact on the girls in our Area Troops. The encouragement, resources, ideas, and events shared have proven a catalyst for true health in this AHG Area.
ST. LOUIS
And several more in development! If you are passionate about supporting Troops and working as a team to grow the AHG Ministry visit AHGresource to learn how to become involved! Here’s what our dynamic Area Team Members are saying… Susan Stripeik, St. Louis Hometown Mentor: As a Hometown Mentor I have been able to pair new Troops up with established Troops to take away their sense of isolation, forge relationships with members of multiple Troops, bring the leadership of multiple Troops together to learn from each other, and quickly share information throughout my Troops about service opportunities (this is especially helpful with Level Award
I have noticed throughout my volunteer service in AHG that, in pursuing the mission of building up our girls into women of integrity, God is also working in my life to build me into the woman He has called me to be. I am grateful for the ways He is using my position as Area Event Coordinator to teach me how to rely on Him more. Rachael Korns, Detroit Event Cordinator: Area Teams has impacted the Detroit Area in a big way. We have been able to provide more Multi-Troop Events allowing Troops to come together and collaborate. AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 29
AHGUPDATES HAPPENINGS AT THE AHG, INC. OFFICE
HI OL’A
HOWDY
The entire Rye family is connected to the AHG Ministry! Back row left to right: Rob, President of the National Board of Trustees, Sarah, AHG Alumna, Elizabeth, Adult Member. Front row left to right: Abigail and Hannah, Girl Members in MT2300.
HELLO GREETINGS
WELCOME
HI
GLAD YOU’RE HERE
HELLO NEW STAFF SPOTLIGHT The AHG, Inc. Staff is growing! New Staff members come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, but all are called to share their talents with the AHG Ministry. It is AHG’s distinct honor to welcome two dedicated women to serve as the newest members of the AHG Staff.
PLEASE WELCOME
A NOTE ON CALLING from Rob Rye, President of the AHG Board of Trustees: “What is my calling?” This uniquely Christian question baffles the world. To me, my calling comes out of abiding in Christ. True calling flows out of His children like water pouring out of an artesian well. It grows out of us like fruit from a tree. To pursue our calling is to pursue joy; to become more and more fully the one God made us to be. I am a teacher. But does that word capture my calling? I was a faculty member for nine years at a major university in Los Angeles. Now, my wife, Elizabeth, and I help parents teach homeschooled students in Northwest Montana. The first was a profession, the second a calling. What is the difference?
Alisa Bingham, Troop Coach Manager
I love to help others understand reality as God has made it. I light up when I lead others from confusion to comprehension. That is my fruit. That is the beginning of my understanding my calling. To get from this beginning to the end required I learn discernment. I became a college professor because everyone who knew me thought I should teach at the highest level. I earned a good salary and did a good job. However, I was required to do and say things that were contrary to God’s ways, and when I refused others did so in my name. To keep that job, the price ultimately was to surrender my calling and accept a mere profession. I knew that was not what God had for me.
Kari Holloway, Event Specialist
In a calling Christ frees us from mere people-pleasing performance to fully live out who we were made to be. Here in Montana, working with other homeschooling parents who love the Lord, I am free to teach His will and His ways. We have had to persevere through many challenges that were not present for a professor. Yet, here, I am free to help my students understand in whatever way will serve them best. When that light bulb comes on, I know that I am right where I belong bearing the fruit I was made to bear. None of our students have yet gone off to high-paying jobs in the big city. Rather, they are pursuing their own callings, seeking the life God has for them and finding joy in the journey with Him. What kind of tree are you? What fruit will you bear? How do you discern that? Ask Him and keep asking until you hear.
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STAFFSCOOP KRISTI TATRO,
DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC RELATIONSHIPS
But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded. –2 Chronicles 15:7, NIV
How long have you been working at AHG? 7 years What do you do in your position? First, I am responsible for building strong relationships with ministries, businesses, like-minded organizations, authors, speakers, fundraising vendors, preferred high adventure providers, and subject matter experts to achieve short and long term goals that offer mutual benefits. Sometimes this means inviting a ministry or subject matter expert to contribute to a program initiative or to speak at an AHG event. Fostering these relationships also results in amazing sponsorship for many things AHG does. Lastly, I also oversee our donor stewardship program. Our team strives to retain donors and create long-lasting strategies for keeping donors engaged. What’s your favorite part of working at AHG? Oh no, I can only pick one! I get the honor of speaking to amazing ministries and organizations all over the nation. I love figuring out ways for our ministry and others to partner. What is your favorite Bible verse? 2 Chronicles 15:7, NIV “But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.” What is your favorite part about visiting or being involved in a Troop? I love seeing girls spending time with their friends. Nothing is more rewarding than watching them get excited about spending time with one another and learning from the AHG Program.
AHGFAMILY LAUNCHES for Troops and Families
For years, AHG has collected suggestions, hopes, and helpful insight from thousands of members on how a data management system could best serve their Troop. AHGfamily is the fruit of this labor! AHGfamily.org is now the go-to place for all Troop data management, rosters, resources, trainings, communications, and more. AHGfamily is for Troop leaders, volunteers, and even girls and families! AHGfamily went through rigorous testing by developers, staff, and volunteers to ensure simplicity and security were top priorities. Upon logging into AHGfamily, users will notice some helpful new features, including integrated training modules, an easy-to-search resource library, advancement tracking functionality, and more. The significant investment made in the development of AHGfamily will serve Troops and families in a revolutionary, all-encompassing way for years to come! AHG Staff and volunteers will continue to work alongside developers to implement new functionalities that meet the needs of AHGfamily users.
Members and parents can log in to AHGfamily at AHGfamily.org
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