Heritage Headlines Magazine Spring 2023

The D.C. Metro Area Team recently hosted a leadership training for AHG volunteers called “Refresh”. Volunteers came away recharged and ready to minister to their girls.

One attendee shared:

“I loved being reassured that the AHG Mission and Vision is to keep God at the center of everything that we do as a Troop. At times focus can be easily dimmed in a Troop’s journey. So refreshment trainings are needed to help bring that focus back to the life of the Troop.”

Dear Friends,

America’s spiritual future is at risk.

Recent studies conducted by Pew Research Center have concluded that in 2020, 64% of Americans, including children, were Christian. People who are religiously unaffiliated, sometimes called religious “nones,” accounted for 30% of the US population. Other religions accounted for 6%.

If this rate continues, it is projected that by the year 2070, Christians will shrink to just above one-third (35%) while “nones” would rise to between 34 and 52% of the population.

What is happening to our country founded on Judeo-Christian values? Mission creep. Undoubtedly, our country has strayed from the mission of the founding fathers and authors of our foundational documents. Some of its modern leaders even edit the Declaration of Independence, by leaving the word “life” out of the well-known statement: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.

Others edit or ignore the official motto of the United States, adopted by the U.S. Congress in 1956, In God We Trust. Prayer has become almost obsolete in the public forum, and recently, legislative prayer has been the subject of litigation across the United States despite its institution in 1789. Although it remains as an opening to the U.S. Congress, it too is at risk as the nation continues to stray from its founding principles.

It is easy to throw up one’s arms and cry defeat. But that is not the calling of the Christian. Although the remnant of Christianity in our country may be dwindling, the power of the Holy Spirit in His people is not. Together we can raise up that remnant with the aid of God’s omniscient power, to touch future generations. American Heritage Girls provides that opportunity.

Tens of thousands of dedicated volunteer mentors have invested in the hearts and minds of hundreds of thousands of girls and their families over the last 27 years. The hope of each of these mentors is for girls and their families to know who they are and Whose they are. To understand that joy comes from seeking and standing in the will of God. To realize there is a Godly order despite a confusing culture. That truth does exist. That right and wrong are clearly defined in the Holy Scripture and that the Lord has graciously provided us a navigation tool to weather the storms of life through His precious gift of the Bible. Do not despair, friends. The Lord is true to His promises. He is the God of Abraham, Joseph, Moses, you, and me. He parted the Red Sea, healed the sick, rose from the dead, and provides eternal life. And He continues to perform miracles every minute of every day. He is hope. He is sovereign. He alone can heal this land, and we are called to be part of the healing.

Thank you for being part of the work of healing our land. Thank you for being part of the Ministry of American Heritage Girls.

Blessings,

Patti Garibay Founder & Executive Director American Heritage Girls, Inc.

8 AHG News

Sharing the AHG Program with audiences across the country on Fox News, Moody Radio, American Family Radio, CBN News, Townhall, and more.

10 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.

12 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.

14 Badge Stories

AHG Badges give girls the opportunity to develop applicable life skills, grow in faith, and discover new passions.

16 Charter Organization Spotlight

The secret to a thriving AHG Troop is a strong, supportive Charter Organization. Christian Association of Parent Educators of New Mexico (CAPE) in White Rock, New Mexico is just that for the girls and volunteers of NM1412.

22 Stars & Stripes Award Recipient Highlight

Meet Faith Lajuwomi, Stars & Stripes Award Recipient #1011 from TX1221.

24 Alumnae Spotlight

Meet Grace Gausmann former Girl Member of OH3124, student, Hosanna Revival team member, YoungLife volunteer, and woman of integrity.

29 High Impact Insight

Nedda Aldrich, LA-OC Area Team Event Coordinator, shares valuable insight on the role AHG Troops play in bringing girls and communities the gospel message.

30 AHG, Inc. Updates

Exciting updates, changes, and news from the AHG, Inc. Office in Cincinnati, OH and Staff across the country.

COVER STORY GOSPELSPREADING GOALS: The Kingdom

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

—Matthew 28:19-20, NIV

Impact of the AHG Ministry

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-life 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 8 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.

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 hard 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

ON THE COVER:

Meet Lillian, this Heritage Headlines issue cover girl! Lillian is a second-year Explorer from Atlanta-area Troop GA0315, chartered through Yellow River Baptist Church. After just two years in AHG, Lillian has experienced a well-balanced programmatic experience. She’s earned nine badges, including Women of Faith, Fire Safety & Fire Building, and Crafts, earned her Explorer-Level B.Y. Faith Award, and is currently working toward her Ida Scudder Level Award.

“Lillian has been part of AHG for two years now, she loves the group of girls that are in her Troop. Every time she comes home from her AHG meeting she is full of joy and excitement. AHG is helping her to grow in her faith and become the woman God wants her to be. The service projects are helping her have a heart for serving others, and the character lessons she is learning are molding her to have a spiritfilled life. We are so thankful for AHG, they are investing in the next generation of strong Christian women.”

— Norma, Lillian’s mom

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 Carl Jackson Podcast

“Honoring Veterans with American Heritage Girls”

omny.fm/shows/the-carl-jackson-podcast/honoring-veterans-with-americanheritage-girls

American Family News

“10 Ways to Practice Gratitude with Your Family this Thanksgiving”

afn.net/opinion/guest-commentary/2022/11/24/10-ways-to-practice-gratitudewith-your-family-this-thanksgiving

Townhall

“Making Room for the King”

townhall.com/columnists/pattigaribay/2022/12/11/making-room-for-theking-n2616846

Moody Radio

Dawn and Steve in the Morning

youtu.be/YQIuQkEc46A

CBN News

Faith, Service, Fun: Faith-Based Scouting Group for Girls

Teaches All Life ‘Valued in the Eyes of God’

cbn.com/cbnnews/us/2023/january/faith-service-fun-faith-based-scoutinggroup-for-girls-teaches-all-life-valued-in-the-eyes-of-god

American Family Radio

At The Core, start listening at 18:00 afr.net/podcasts/at-the-core/?id=75323

Ainsley Earhardt

“Girls’ Scouting Organization ‘American Heritage Girls’ Celebrates Sanctity of Life Month”

ainsleye.com/news/girls-scouting-organization-american-heritage-girlscelebrates-sanctity-of-life-month

Fox News

“Faith and respect for life instilled in youth: American Heritage Girls provides alternative to Girl Scouts” foxnews.com/lifestyle/faith-respect-life-instilled-youth-american-heritage-girlsprovides-alternative-girl-scouts

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

CONTENT MARKETING MANAGER

Erin Marco

CONTENT MARKETING SPECIALIST

Natalie Ambrose

GRAPHIC DESIGN SPECIALIST

Christine Lustenberger

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nedda Aldrich

John Wolterbeek

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

CELEBRATING AHG TROOPS ACROSS THE WEB

COMMENTS & CONVERSATION

We‘ve hit an incredible milestone—1,000 Stars & Stripes Award Recipients! Every Girl Member featured in this post has earned the prestigious award.

The Stars & Stripes Award is the pinnacle achievement that American Heritage Girls can earn. Learn more about what it takes to become a Stars & Stripes Recipient at https://americanheritagegirls.org/starsand-stripes-award/. Learn more about the award at the link in our bio. If your daughter is a recipient, drop her number in the comments!

Yay! Keep it up. Love you.

–Dannah Gresh

Planning my daughter’s ceremony now. So proud of her and what God has done in her heart through this program. #973 in the U.S. and #65 in TN.

–Angel Duty

My daughter was the second one in a Kentucky Troop. That was a while ago. Congrats, ladies!

–Rebecca Cecil

Praise God!!! Thank you all for being his hands and feet! Well done girls!

–Jill Hancock

Congratulations to all of you! My daughter Marta is #113 (MN0031), I believe #10 in MN, exactly 100 places after her mentor and inspiration, Jenny R. who was #13 (MN0100) and the first in our state. Mentors make all the difference!

–Lora Sampson Tverberg

My daughter Holly is the 1000th Recipient in the nation and 50th in Minnesota.

–Sher Jo Foss

Way to SHINE, girls!

–Kate Vogel

#993 from our household. Proud & privileged to be in these ranks. Soli Deo gloria!

–Rhonda Perry

Congratulations to every recipient who has earned this award. Glory and praise goes to God for your accomplishments, Savannah S. #680, #90 in Texas & #7 in TX0317!

–Kelly N Randy Sipes

Hannah A. #789 and #2 in our Troop OK0511 and #8 in Oklahoma. So proud of all these girls and for the girls who are currently working toward theirs.

–Angie Alsup

Share your Troop photos with the hashtag #ahgfun on Instagram for a chance to be shared in Heritage Headlines

SERVICESTORIES

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE AN ACTIVE CITIZEN OF THE UNITED STATES

TRAILBLAZER DOUBLES SERVICE IMPACT TO BENEFIT PRO-LIFE AND FOOD SECURITY IN HER COMMUNITY

Trailblazers go above and beyond to connect with their local communities and serve to meet needs. Whether younger or older, Trailblazer girls can learn how to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Felicity, a Tenderheart of TB2020, threw her net wide in order to serve her community. She and her mom regularly purchase items to donate to a local pregnancy resource center, Thrive Metro East. Before shipping a box of items out, she concluded a heartfelt prayer with, “and keep the babies safe.” She also participated in a drive-up milk distribution event through The Bridge Ministries. About 30 volunteers distributed over 3,000 gallons of milk to approximately 1,200 families as well as various churches and pantries in the Lancaster and Columbus, OH area. At the event, someone asked Felicity why they were serving in this way. She responded with, “Because we had something to give” and “we want to love people and to help the people in our town.” Talk about a servant’s heart!

SERVING THE PEOPLE WHO SERVE OUR COUNTRY IN CONNECTICUT

The men and women of 103rd Airlift Wing, Bradley located at the Air National Guard base in East Granby, CT enjoyed Christmas dinner the AHG way this year—being served by the brightest and best of CT2020! In addition to serving a hearty dinner, the Girl Members were able to tour the facility in an effort to check off a few of the U.S. Military Heroes Badge requirements. The girls learned that these service men and women also work as plumbers, doctors, engineers, mechanics, teachers, chefs, gardeners and many more occupations to support their families. The girls also had some fun with those in uniform through a pushup challenge at their booth. High fives and cheers resounded at this fun portion of the day! While this was the first time an AHG Troop had served at this air base, there are sure to be many more to come in the years ahead.

INDIANA TROOP IMPACTS YOUNG LIVES THROUGH OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD

AHG Girl Members have a huge heart to serve, and the holidays offer a wealth of opportunities to do so. This November, IN0522 pulled together a small-but-mighty group to pack shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child, an outreach of Samaritan’s Purse Ministries and longtime AHG Program Alliance. Knowing that each shoebox has the power to change a child’s life, the girls shared Christ’s love through handwritten messages, including the words of John 3:16. God empowered these Explorers and Tenderhearts to reach across the globe through their efforts, and this will greatly impact His Kingdom! These perseverant girls trust the Lord to take a small gift and multiply it by leaps and bounds in each of the shoebox recipients’ lives.

GIRLSTORIES

INCREDIBLE TALES OF LEADERSHIP, VOLUNTEERING AND FRIENDSHIP

CALIFORNIA TENDERHEART DEVELOPS SENSE OF COMMUNITY IN HONORING VETERANS

A Girl Member’s connection to her community grows the more she ventures out—this comes through service, badgework, and holiday events. For Hope of CA0414, this connection was fostered through an opportunity to participate in flag placing at a local park to honor veterans. Hope’s mother, Shelly, described a beautiful moment of realization for their family. The local park is one they often walk through and drive by; however, they hadn’t considered the process of how the flag display appeared for Veteran’s Day in years past. That is, of course, until they personally took part in that community effort as AHG Members. This sparked wonderful conversations for Hope and her fellow Troop Members about the importance of honoring the veterans in their community.

FIRST TROOP MEETING OPENS DOORS OF FAITH, SERVICE, AND FUN FOR MINNESOTA SISTERS

Anita and Ella, Tenderheart sisters from Minnesota, began their AHG journey in September 2022 through MN0317 Excited to take in all the opportunities for faith, service, and fun, each girl went all-in on their first meeting night, participating in icebreaker games and making new friends. Some highlights of their first months as AHG Members include exercising in the gym through the Physical Fitness Badge and an “I’m Thankful For…” Thanksgiving craft. Anita and Ella are already working on the Sewing, Baking, and Cake Decorating Badges with plans to complete them later this year. MN0317 is a five-year-old Troop chartered through St. Peter’s Church in Forest Lake. A big Heritage Headlines high five to this Troop for recruiting new Girl Members and welcoming them into all the AHG fun!

WISCONSIN TENDERHEART OUTING BRINGS FUN, NEW EXPERIENCES

Girls love adventure—both on a small scale and a big scale! Local Troops do a terrific job discovering the adventures their communities offer Girl Members. WI2206 ventured into their community for an outing that provided both education and fun! Their Tenderheart Level Unit visited the local law enforcement K-9 unit, meeting the human officers and their canine counterparts. It was fun for the girls to meet these everyday heroes and learn about their vital role in protecting the community. They ended the outing with a visit to a nearby juicery learning about nutrition and how it fuels the body. The fresh juice treat was a sweet ending to the girls’ experience as well!

BADGESTORIES

LEARNING LIFE SKILLS AND BUILDING CONFIDENCE

OUR HERITAGE BADGE

The colonial period of the 1700s marks the beginning of our country. The pioneer period of the early 1800s marks the expansion period, as people started moving west and settling the western frontiers. Early Americans had to use their ingenuity and whatever materials were available to live and eat. People lived very differently during each of these time periods than we do now. Working on this badge will help girls learn what life was like during the early history of our country.

Immersive learning brings Girl Members the chance to experience a new concept through all their five senses. This fall, OH1436 made the most of badgework by partnering with a Pioneer Living Program in Governor Bebb Metro Park, which was also a part of their Fall Camping Trip. The Our Heritage Badge requirements easily lend themselves to immersive learning through living history programs, so this opportunity moved Girl Members Audrey, Cara, Hazel, and Samantha closer to earning the badge. During their time in the pioneer living experience, the girls learned how to start a fire with a flint stone, milled corn to make bread, prepared group meals while cooking outdoors, and cleaned around the camp. Hazel said, “Pioneers didn’t have the things we do now. It was really cool how they made food without using what we have now.” The history, life skills, and gratitude these Girl Members took away from the experience will not soon be forgotten—lifelong AHG memories!

NATURE & WILDLIFE BADGE

Learning about the plants and wildlife around us can provide many enjoyable hours of fun and relaxation. Conservation protects plants and animals that depend on the environment to survive. Each year, many new species of plants and animals are discovered, while others become endangered or extinct. From the microscopic to the giant, plants and animals are fascinating!

Badgework is a vital part of Girl Members developing skills, learning new information, and having FUN! AHG Troops do a terrific job weaving local resources into their badgework. PA1258 chose to pursue the Nature & Wildlife Badge as an Explorer Level Unit, giving them the opportunity to partner with the Westmoreland Land Trust. The Harrison City Troop invited guest speaker Dr. Paula G. Purnell to teach the girls about birds, guide them in constructing birdfeeders, and share how to help preserve native species of birds in their area. Jennifer Walker, the PA1258 Explorer Unit Leader, anticipates that the connection to Westmoreland Land Trust will also yield a service project for the Troop this spring! Victoria, an Explorer, said, “This badge taught me to view God’s creation more thoroughly and through a different lens.” Sarah, another Explorer, said her favorite part of the badgework was “exploring the fields and hunting for wildflowers. I was surprised by how many different types there were, that I never noticed before.”

ASTRONOMY BADGE

Man has always wondered about the sky and the secrets it holds. For generations there have been stories to explain what we see when we look up into the night sky. People have raced to build bigger, better telescopes and space vehicles so they can be the first to see or explore the vastness of space. Yet, despite the technology we have available today, there are still many mysteries as to what exists far out in space.

Good badgework inspires creative ways to deliver a Girl Member’s learning experience thereby igniting her imagination and making lofty concepts accessible. SD8031’s above-and-beyond approach to the Astronomy Badge gave their Girl Members a memorable environment to experience God’s vast creation of space and all the stars within. By constructing a massive planetarium in their Troop meeting space, the Pioneers and Patriots of SD8031 gave the girls in younger Program Levels a chance to go to space—minus the space shuttle ride! Utilizing Lite Brite toys, the girls mapped out various constellations learning their names and positions in the sky. Whether warm summer nights or crisp winter evenings, the girls in this Troop can take what they learned and recognize the same in the heavens above their homes.

CHARTER ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT

CHRISTIAN

ASSOCIATION

OF PARENT

OF NEW MEXICO (CAPE) WHITE ROCK, NEW MEXICO NM1412

EDUCATORS

This issue, AHG is excited to shine a light on Christian Association of Parent Educators of New Mexico (CAPE), home to Santa Fe-area Troop NM1412. Charter Representative Emily Wolking reflects on their first year chartering an AHG Troop and the significant impact AHG has had on their homeschooling 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 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.

WHY DID YOUR ORGANIZATION DECIDE TO CHARTER AN AHG TROOP?

My husband and I recognized a huge thirst in our community for something with independent girl-distinctive and boydistinctive focuses, but also structured to operate somehow within the context God designed for girls and boys: the family. It was soon apparent to us that American Heritage Girls and their brother organization, Trail Life USA, were exactly the type of ministries that our community needed, and that we were being called to coordinate these Troops in such a way as to encourage whole family involvement.

I recently asked John, the Head Decision Maker from our Charter Organization, why he had accepted our out-of-theblue plea to charter Troop NM1412 when we first emailed them in 2020. He laughed and said, “When we see someone seeking to minister in an area of need and responding to a clear call from the Lord, we figure it’s our job to enable that person to the best of our ability.” Since our Charter Organization has no building or physical location (CAPE is a state-wide homeschool association without a physical building), it was critical that we have a local body willing to host us—and we were incredibly blessed to find Bryce Avenue Presbyterian—a church that had the desire to support our Troop, but they were unable to charter us. Bryce has longstanding ties with CAPE through elders and other church members, so it was a providential provision for our Troop, and we have been incredibly blessed by the hospitality of Bryce and their partnership with our Charter Organization!

HOW MANY YEARS HAS YOUR CHURCH/SCHOOL/ETC. HAD AN AHG TROOP?

Our AHG Troop launched in January of 2022, so we are just over one year old!

HOW HAVE YOU SEEN GROWTH IN YOUR HOMESCHOOL COMMUNITY SINCE CHARTERING AN AHG TROOP?

During COVID, a ton of families turned to homeschooling instead of virtual or online school, and we saw a lot of Christian families deciding to stick with homeschooling even after in-person schools reopened. Many Christian families who were suddenly homeschooling began looking for a community and opportunities for their kids, which we’ve been able to provide in our Troop and by connecting families to CAPE. We have more than a dozen homeschool families involved in our Troop, in addition to many public-or-private-schooling families who also want a Christ-centered opportunity for their kids. We consistently hear from families that they felt isolated and alone before Troop NM1412 came together, and we are delighted to provide opportunities to fellowship and minister to each other in faith, service, and fun!

For more information on the chartering process, visit americanheritagegirls.org/start-a-troop/charter-organizations

HOW ELSE HAS AHG AFFECTED YOUR ORGANIZATION’S MINISTRY EFFORTS?

CAPE’s vision for long-term, effective ministry is for homebased discipleship—that is, that the most lasting impact a ministry can have is within the context of the family. Based on this vision and discussion with other established Troops, one of our early convictions as a Board was to draw in parental involvement wherever we could, and to avoid a ministry model where families just drop off their kids. We decided to set a policy requiring a parent or guardian to attend every meeting with their girls (with appropriate exceptions). Though perhaps not the solution for every Troop, I highly recommend considering it; we see a fantastic level of involvement from parents and we even have multiple examples of grandmothers and aunts joining as Adult Members to help. It is exciting to see our work go beyond a once-a-week lesson for the girls— entire families are dedicated to helping girls become women of integrity—exactly what AHG is designed to do.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER POTENTIAL CHARTER ORGANIZATIONS LOOKING TO CHARTER AN AHG TROOP?

I can’t think of any better mindset toward a fledgling ministry than the one CAPE displayed—watch for people seeking to minister in an area of need in response to a clear call from the Lord, and enable those people to the best of your ability!

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.

GOSPEL-SPREADING

THE KINGDOM IMPACT OF THE AHG MINISTRY

The mission of American Heritage Girls (AHG) is to build women of integrity through service to God, family, community, and country. This commitment to coming alongside churches, schools, parents, and ministries in raising up Godly girls hinges on the central focus of all AHG Programming—Christ. With evangelism at its very core, AHG continues to instill the gospel message in generations of girls, families, and communities nationwide.

American Heritage Girls is preparing the way for epidemic

growth. Recently, the ministry’s National Board of Trustees set the goal to double membership by 2025—two years to reach 100,000 members. This goal was not set as a financial incentive or a program awareness campaign; rather, it was established to bring the gospel to more girls and families in a time where Christ’s love, mercy, and compassion are so desperately needed. The coming years will bring much change to the ministry, allowing for Troop growth opportunities, robust staffing abilities, increased curriculum and resource creation, and more. But one key premise will always remain

the same—the American Heritage Girls Ministry exists for God, because of God. This ministry is His, and His alone.

Every American Heritage Girl, whether a brand-new kindergartener or a final-semester senior, recites the same AHG Oath: “I promise to love God, cherish my family, honor my country, and serve in my community.” The AHG Oath is unwavering in its commitment to put God first— after all, including God in the scout-type experience is precisely the reason Patti Garibay founded AHG back in 1995.

GOSPEL-SPREADING GOALS

GOSPELBEARING BEGINNINGS

In the mid-1990s, the world witnessed a series of launches—the popularity of the World Wide Web, with over four million reported dialup users; the release of Windows 95, a record-breaking debut that went on to change tech as we know it; and the trending legendary WWJD bracelet, a movement that sparked Christian interest throughout the world. In the midst of these colossal, culture-shifting creations was another origin story—that of American Heritage Girls.

In 1995, Patti Garibay welcomed a group of parents into her home to discuss what was next for their girls. Knowing they couldn’t continue with their beloved scouting organization after God was made “optional” in the promise, it was time to step out in faith and develop something new. Patti felt God’s tug on her heart, and with the support of her family and friends, she answered the call. But Patti’s story is not one of unwavering confidence or instant success. Patti’s story is AHG’s story—she was not called because she was equipped; she was equipped because she was called. God has a plan and a calling in place for each and every one of His children. American Heritage Girls is committed to leading girls to the

cross, to the promise of salvation through Jesus Christ, and guiding them in discerning the vocation God has laid out for their lives. This commitment to the gospel and evangelizing through faith, service, and fun is what sets AHG apart.

“We started with 12 girls and three adults, all in one Troop. Today, there are over 59,000 Members in all 50 states. God has done an amazing work through AHG, touching the lives of hundreds of thousands of girls and adults with the gospel message,” said Patti. As the Executive Director of American Heritage Girls, Inc., Patti is at the helm of orchestrating the kingdom-work of the ministry, but

as a grandmother to a secondgeneration American Heritage Girl in the Tenderheart Program Level, Patti has a first-row seat to the legacy impact of the ministry she created nearly 30 years ago. What started as a program for a select group of frustrated families has blossomed into something more. AHG is a solution to the pressure and doubt in the hearts and minds of girls 5 to 18 years old across the country. It’s an answer to the struggle parents have in raising their daughters in today’s culture. Why? Because everything about AHG is rooted in Jesus. As a Christ-centered ministry, AHG has the responsibility to share the gospel and evangelize to today’s girls. AHG isn’t merely about girl power; AHG is about girl power because of God’s power. AHG is God’s ministry, and He is using it to develop the next generation of leaders our world so desperately needs.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE AHG PARENT

When ministering to children, there are two factors to consider: how we get more girls into the program, and how to best impact them once they’re in. While AHG is committed to creating more opportunities to join (through growth initiatives to start more Troops, increasing accessibility of individual family Trailblazer membership1, etc.), and creating more impactful programming to engage the girl (like new G.R.I.T. with Grace sessions, games, devotions, and more), one key factor anchors ongoing programmatic success— family involvement.

Research proves, time and again, that parents are the most influential players in the discipleship of their children2. When we factor in that

the majority of Christians come to Christ before the age of 18, we must recognize the crucial role that parents play in the success of the American Heritage Girls Ministry. When Troops are run, supported, and encouraged by actively involved parents of participating girls, the program’s evangelistic component is most able to thrive. In considering the way AHG evangelizes today’s girls, one must also account for the transformational role it can play in the faith life of an entire family. AHG isn’t meant to be one more drop-off on the calendar—it’s designed to involve family in the discipleship of their daughter. Even better, when AHG and its brother ministry Trail Life USA are offered simultaneously, mothers, fathers, daughters, and sons are all welcomed into the family ministry experience together.

The AHG Program offers experiences, resources, and community to girls and parents alike that result in a lasting, eternal impact. Developmental research shows that children who are surrounded by a loving community of adults are more likely to flourish3. Children’s ministry that works hand-in-hand with parents is instrumental in forming lifelong faith in the next generation. Parents, too, find community in AHG that offers faithful accountability and support. It’s been said “it takes a village to raise a child” but so often in our siloed, digital world, parents feel isolated. For those looking for “their people”, a God-honoring support system to come alongside them in raising a Godly girl—AHG is that village. AHG is the arrow in the discipleship quiver of tens of thousands of families nationwide— with thousands more to join the ranks in the coming years!

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY IN A POST-CHRISTIAN CULTURE

We are living in a Post-Christian culture. “Post-Christianity” is known to be the loss of the primacy of the Christian worldview in political affairs, especially in our Western world where Christianity had previously flourished, in favor of alternative worldviews such as secularism or nationalism. In fact, recent Pew Research modeling predicts that by 2070, Christianity will be a minority faith in our nation4 In just a few decades, the selfproclaimed Christian Americans are expected to dip to about 35% of the population. When the premises of faith, morality, and purity are stripped from society as we once knew it, the need for strong, effective, and lasting children’s discipleship programming is clear. Together we can build up the next generation of anchored believers.

MATTHEW 28: 19 NIV

As Barna Research Group’s Faith for Exiles put it, we need more “resilient disciples”5. The study found that among Gen Z twentysomethings, only 10% possessed the key behaviors and indicators of this noted resilient faith, including church community involvement outside of regular services, a Biblical worldview, a personal relationship with Jesus, and an express desire to make a difference in the world. Authentic community, Biblical worldview training, discipleship, and service—these are all integral to the experience that every American Heritage Girl encounters. When faith is cultivated and tended in a setting that influences every facet of a girl’s life—from forging friendships to independent learning, fine-tuning servant leadership qualities to connecting with a faithful mentor—a girl’s Christian identity goes beyond Sunday service and bursts into everyday experiences. With this firm foundational understanding of her created identity, a girl can begin to discern her vocation, or God’s call for her life. This process, as believers see it, to carry out her unique journey to holiness or sanctification.

“THEREFORE GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES OF ALL NATIONS...”

DISCERNMENT IN DISCIPLESHIP

The building blocks of enduring belief include the knowledge of God’s love and His plan for each of His children—by teaching our girls how to discern His callings, we set them on the path to lifelong faith and church community involvement. 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 speciallyformed way, a vocational calling as unique as our own individual physical selves! Celebrate individual talents, explore new life skills and interests through badgework, discover new ways of serving others, and remain prayerful that the Spirit of the Lord would make known the right path!

AHG has proven to be an effective catalyst for building women of integrity who follow Christ. AHG’s legacy has been the spread of Christ’s redeeming love in our world, ultimately growing His Kingdom. The Holy Spirit has left an indelible mark on the hearts of generations of girls through AHG. In nearly 30 years of ministering to girls, families, and communities nationwide, we can already see the impact AHG’s legacy is making. Hundreds of thousands of girls and adults have participated in the Kingdom-building work of AHG. Communities across the country are changed thanks to intentional and sustainable service projects. Hearts have been softened to the gospel by the courageous and kind girls in neckerchiefs and sashes. An incredible legacy has been built through AHG, and with God at the center of all we do, we know He is calling us to continue making this everlasting impact. Join us in praying for the communities yet to be changed by God’s hand through AHG, and the generation of girls who will come to recognize their identities as Daughters of the King.

1 americanheritagegirls.org/trailblazer

2 Fuller Youth Institute, Sticky Faith, fulleryouthinstitute.org/stickyfaith

3 Child Trends, Caring Adults: Important for Positive Child Well-Being, Publication #2013-54

4 pewresearch.org/religion/2022/09/13/modeling-the-future-of-religion-in-america

5 https://www.barna.com/research/of-the-four-exile-groups-only-10-are-resilient-disciples/#:~:text=Resilient%20disciples%20are%20Christians%20who,and%20death%3B%20and%20(4)

LIGHTING THE WAY

Partnering with families for biblical education at home

Live courses for collaborative learning

6th thru 12th-grade course options

Advanced Math and Sciences, Logic, Languages, Study Skills, and many more courses available

Customizable schedules

One-on-one career and college planning

For more information, visit us at iLumenEd.org or call 540-200-8388.

ONLINE CHRISTIAN EDUC AT IO N

ALUMNASPOTLIGHT

MEET GRACE GAUSMANN

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.

AHG Alumnae hold a special gift of perspective as each looks back on her time in the program and can providentially see the Lord’s faithful preparation for her adult life. Grace Gausmann began AHG in OH3124 and watched in awe as the Lord orchestrated wonderful experiences and relationships throughout the next 10 years until she graduated. Initially, her mother sought a scout-type experience for Grace but deeply valued a Christcentered focus in the programming, so AHG fit the bill perfectly!

Badgework serves as a central hallmark for many AHG Alumnae, and Grace fondly remembers the Cooking Badge process. She still savors the memory of eating all the yummy food the girls in her Troop made. She also loved learning the Cake Decorating Badge skills saying that she loved the final phase of “decorating the cakes—it was a blast!” AHG’s emphasis on equipping Girl Members with practical life skills stands out on the forefront of Grace’s time in OH3124. One Troop outing challenged the girls to purchase groceries from a list only utilizing the given budget. She uses that same principle today in meal planning as a college student.

In addition to skills-based learning and fun, Grace deeply values the relationships through AHG that tracked even through to today! During Grace’s first year in AHG, she met Lucy. “We have been friends since my kindergarten year because I met her in AHG and next year we are going to live in a YoungLife house of 12 girls! I am so excited!” AHG often highlights its ability to foster lifelong friendships, and Grace and Lucy’s bond is just one shining example of these connections! AHG is a safe, Spirit-filled place that allows girls to grow, be mentored, and find Christian community.

Upon graduating high school, Grace was admitted to the University of Cincinnati as a Biology: Pre-Med student. Her goal is to become a pediatric orthopedic surgeon. In addition to handling a fulltime college student’s calendar, Grace works at Hosanna Revival, a Cincinnati-

based ministry company that designs and distributes Bibles and Biblical study resources. Grace thoroughly enjoys her position in the shipping department where she daily packs and ships God’s Word to send across the world. Grace clearly sees God’s guidance in her journey, and she loves serving through YoungLife to mentor Christian young women. Grace’s role at Indian Hill Middle School’s chapter of YoungLife daily offers her a chance to see the Lord’s hand at work. “[I want] to run after the Lord and help other girls and love them like Jesus loves them. Because at the end of the day I want as many people as I can to be in Heaven with me.” From completing the Public Speaking Badge to the Biblical Leadership Badge, God used AHG to ready her for His work! Including Jesus in every aspect of Grace’s life guides her daily life now. This integrated Biblical Worldview is the goal of AHG’s heart—that Alumnae would, like Grace, invest their decisions, resources, and efforts into multiplying God’s Kingdom through the gospel message of Christ. Grace sums this notion up beautifully in saying, “I think AHG set a very sound foundation […] to push me to Christ and make Him the center of my life in all I do! Whether that is camping or singing, all my life should reflect Him, and I should do things to the best of my ability to glorify Him! I love AHG and the heart they have for the Lord.”

God also recently sent Grace abroad through familial ties to her mother’s

heritage in Brazil. She recently returned from her mother’s home country in a solotravel experience that she sees AHG’s preparation in many facets. From money and time management, to taking initiative, even learning other world languages. “My family speaks Portuguese. My AHG Troop Coordinator, Cynthia Tann, taught me Spanish, and that has been a big help to learn other languages!” Her journey to Brazil gave Grace the gift of connecting with her family heritage in a tangible way.

The more the girls are involved in their local Troops, the higher the chances they will be best prepared to walk a road of integrity and success as a woman. When asked about passing her learned wisdom on to current AHG Girl Members, Grace said, “I would want them to know that this is an encouraging ministry and girls who graduate from AHG have more life skills and a leg-up going into the real world.” Looking back on the decade as a Girl Member, Grace says, “AHG was a really awesome experience and just gave me an outlet to have fun!”

The Lord deeply desires girls to grow into strong, capable, image-bearers who will spread the good news of the gospel through their whole lives. There is no better time than now to invest in the life of a young girl who will then fuel the next generation of Christian women. Grace Gausmann shines brightly in continuing both the Mission of AHG and the Great Commission of Christ to the world around her.

FASTFACTS

Hometown: Mason, Ohio

High School Alma Mater: William Mason High School

Siblings: 1 older brother, Isaac

Pets: 1 Shih Tzu named Jupiter!

Favorite Book: When God Writes

Your Love Story by Eric and Leslie Ludy

Favorite Movie: Mamma Mia or Star Wars

Favorite Travel Destination: Brazil

Favorite Bible Verse: Job 5:18, NIV: “For he wounds, but he also binds up; he injures, but his hands also heal.”

Favorite Social Media Platform: BeReal

Favorite Food: Pasta!

Favorite Flavor of Ice Cream: Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip from Graeter’s in Cincinnati, Ohio!

Favorite Sport: Swimming or football

Favorite Color: Hot pink

Favorite AHG Badge: Cake Decorating Badge or Cooking Badge

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!

ARE YOU AN AHG ALUMNA?

Visit americanheritagegirls.org/alumnae to update your contact information and share what you’ve been up to!

STARS & STRIPESAWARD RECIPIENT

STARS & STRIPES AWARD FACTS AND FIGURES

2022-2023 Program Year Recipients: 97

Benefiting Organizations Served: 97

Creed Word Most Used in Writing: Responsible

Total Service Hours: 24,016

Average Service Hours per Project: 247

What Stars & Stripes Award Recipients Like Most About AHG: Finding new interests through badge earning

#1 Thing Girls Learned: Good planning makes for smoother project implementation

Total Number of Stars & Stripes Project Advisors: 22

FAITH LAJUWOMI TX1221

STARS & STRIPES AWARD RECIPIENT #1011

Benefiting Organization: Deeper Life Bible Church

Location: Dallas, Texas

Project: Converted a large space in the church building into a Sunday School for children.

Total Hours: 211.25 hours

“Faith Lajuwomi’s project has been transformational, in the sense that it has become a motivational force for other foreseeable projects in the church. It has created a deep sense of ‘all things are possible’ syndrome in the members of the church. Least to say also that the leadership quality of faith has ignited dedication and passion for togetherness in the members.”

(3rd Quarter reporting for the 2022-2023 Program Year)

—PASTOR SAMUEL SEGUN OLADIPO Deeper Life Bible Church

WHAT DID YOU FIND MOST REWARDING IN EARNING THE STARS & STRIPES AWARD?

Leadership in AHG has helped me to realize the importance of Christian leadership. Without strong leaders, the world would be a chaotic place; without Christian leaders, the world would be a dark place. During my time in AHG, I refreshed and added knowledge that is important to my faith.

“The benefiting organization [of my project] is the Deeper Life Bible Church of Dallas, Texas…The church mainly serves Nigerians in Dallas, Texas. There are approximately 64,000 Africans living in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metropolitan Area, 18,000 of them being Nigerian. There are currently 100 members of the church. If each member brought ten people to the church, the number of people impacted would be around 1,000. I expect this impact to last for about 30 years. I choose to pursue this project because in some churches, the children’s Sunday school rooms are unappealing to children and lack vibrance. I hoped to create a better space for children so that they will enjoy coming to Sunday school.”

FAITH LAJUWOMI

NEWTROOPS

See more every Tuesday at Facebook.com/AmericanHeritageGirls

Paradise Valley Christian Prep / Phoenix

Oak Grove Baptist Church / Comer

Goodland Church of Christ / Goodland

New Life St. Louis / Bridgeton

First Baptist Church Eldon / Eldon

The Village Chapel / Pinehurst

Covenant Presbyterian Church-Omaha / Omaha

First Congregational Church of Barrington / Barrington

The Ridge Church / Knoxville

First Presbyterians Church of Dyersburg / Dyersburg

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church / Lake Ridge

Stuart United Methodist Church / Stuart

St. Benedicts Catholic Church / Richmond

HIGHIMPACT INSIGHT

Nedda Aldrich has been an AHG volunteer since 2017. She’s been the Troop Coordinator of La Crescenta-area Troop, CA1212, for four years. In 2022 she stepped into the Vice Coordinator role for her Troop so that she could aid in the establishment of the Los Angeles-Orange County (LA-OC) Area Team. Today she serves as LA-OC Area Coordinator. She loves mentoring the girls in her Troop that want to advance to the next Program Level or earn their Stars & Stripes Award; as well as connecting Troops in her Area so they can enjoy a greater AHG community experience. She has been married for 18 years and has two kids: daughter Jordan (17) and son Caleb (16).

HOW ARE AREA TEAMS ACCOMPLISHING THE KINGDOM GROWTH GOAL?

Our Area Team supports Troops and volunteers so that they feel wellequipped and encouraged to do the role to which God has called them. In turn, volunteers will better serve girls and their families. Area Teams are also there to fill in gaps that Troops may be missing— like providing Girl Leadership training to organizing a Leaders Training Day. We help to round out the AHG Program, so girls are learning about Christ in a safe, fun environment, and hopefully they share that with family and friends.

WHAT ROLE DOES AHG PLAY IN EVANGELIZING TO TODAY’S YOUTH?

AHG and the program we offer have such an important role in today’s world. We are teaching girls about Christ’s love through badgework, Faith Awards, outdoor activities, and leadership just to name a few. There are not a lot of options for groups like ours to choose from. Fortunately, I’ve seen a lot of growth in my Area with girls joining Troops and new Troops starting up. Families are desiring to put their kids in a program that stands out from the rest, this could quite possibly be the only place some girls are hearing and learning about God. Being a part of a program that demonstrates God’s love to young girls and their families is such a blessing.

HOW DO YOU SHARE THE GOSPEL IN YOUR TROOP/AREA/COMMUNITY REGULARLY?

Sharing the gospel in my Troop has looked like mentoring girls through Faith Awards and helping them choose the right devotional for them. Encouraging our Unit Leaders to not focus on the amount of badges earned, but more so on the girls’ hearts. I write the monthly newsletter for our Area, and I find it encouraging to add a Scripture that speaks to me. Adding Scripture to my “Encouraging Notes” is a way I can encourage volunteers and parents and let them know that I’m praying for them.

HOW CAN TROOPS FOCUS ON GIRL RECRUITMENT WITH A KINGDOM GROWTH MINDSET?

The greatest way to reach new people and showcase God’s love is to get your Troop out into the community serving and engaging in public outreach. After serving at a public Veteran’s Day event, we had a lot of new parents asking our Troop who we were and what AHG was all about. We had many new families join our Troop from that one community event! It’s a little like advertising as we go out into the community together to serve (especially when we’re in our uniforms!). Not only does our Troop grow from these activities, but it gives the leaders and more importantly, the girls, an opportunity to extend God’s love in our community.

WHAT ARE SOME HURDLES YOU’VE HAD TO OVERCOME TO KEEP CHRIST AT THE CENTER OF YOUR TROOP/ AREA PROGRAMMING, RATHER THAN OTHER IDEALS?

I think one of the toughest hurdles for us is that we can get too focused on girls earning badges during the Program Year. When we focus solely on achievement, we can get distracted and elevate the goal of checking a box to get badges and service hours. When we slow down, we can be more intentional and remember why we are doing the badgework and why we are serving: to grow in Christ, show God’s love as we serve, and become the women God created us to be.

“When we slow down, we can be more intentional and remember why we are doing the badgework and why we are serving: to grow in Christ, show God’s love as we serve, and become the women God created us to be.”

AHGUPDATES

HAPPENINGS AT THE AHG, INC. OFFICE

ANNOUNCING UPDATED VOLUNTEER HANDBOOKS FOR 2023-2024 PROGRAM YEAR

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 the newest member of the AHG, Inc. Staff.

More than a decade after the release of the last printed volunteer resource comes the exciting news of the updated AHG Volunteer Handbook. Survey feedback and resource data concluded there was a reinvigorated desire among AHG volunteers for a revamped, printed handbook to supplement the wealth of resources available on AHGfamily. Coming Summer 2023, the AHG Volunteer Handbook will guide new and seasoned volunteers through best practices, guidelines, and encouragement, all while casting vision and sparking inspiration. The AHG Volunteer Handbook will be a critical resource for all volunteers and parents, shedding light on the “why behind the what” of policies and programming. The AHG Volunteer Handbook will be available for purchase exclusively in the AHGstore in time for the 2023-2024 Program Year.

NEW G.R.I.T. WITH GRACE SESSIONS IN PRODUCTION

The AHG Curriculum Development Team, comprised of Staff and High Impact Volunteers, has been busy developing fresh girl-focused leadership development materials for the G.R.I.T. with Grace curriculum series. Six new sessions will inspire, instruct, and encourage girls in their leadership skills training. New topics will include Conflict Resolution, Problem Solving, Goal Planning, and more! The six new sessions will be available for purchase exclusively in the AHGstore Summer 2023. To learn more about the G.R.I.T. with Grace and explore the bundled and individual sessions, visit store: https://ahg.pub/GRITwithGrace

Marvin Selonke Merchandising & E-Commerce Assistant

A

SHARING GOD’S LOVE

In His Great Commission (Matthew 28:1820), Jesus commands all Christians to share the faith with all the world. To be Christian means more than receiving salvation; it means to live a transformed life, and by example, word, and deed to make disciples. Pope Francis wrote, “Each Christian and every community must discern the path that the Lord points out, but all of us are asked to obey his call to go forth from our own comfort zone in order to reach all the ‘peripheries’ in need of the light of the Gospel” (EG 20 1).

The message of the gospel is simple: believe in Christ and love others. We are called to be the light of Jesus in the world. By loving others through service, we are helping to open the hearts of others to receive God’s salvation. American Heritage Girls is helping thousands of girls grow in this mission daily. The AHG Oath reminds us to love God and to serve others each time it is recited.

Service to others without reward does not come naturally without God’s help. To prepare the next generation of believers, we must ensure that our kids are extremely firm in their beliefs. The National Board of Trustees is committed to maintaining an AHG Program that helps girls form a Biblical Worldview, coming alongside parents and the local church. Having a Biblical Worldview

STAFFSCOOP

Winny Froelich, Risk & Compliance Specialist

How long have you been working at AHG?

3.5 years

What do you do in your position?

helps us to see the world through the theme of God’s redemption.

It is through this lens that AHG supports a girl to grow in her faith while nurturing her heart for service. Through visible service to communities across the country, American Heritage Girls are sharing the love of Christ every day. This service shines God’s glory to the world and shares the light of Jesus. This is sharing the gospel message.

There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in you all.“

(1 Corinthians 15:58, NIV).

As part of AHG’s Risk & Compliance Department, our top priority is to ensure the safety of girls, volunteers and AHG, Inc. In this unique position, I’m privileged to process background checks, certificates of insurance, create training resources, and make necessary updates to AHG’s Health and Safety Policies and Guidelines. I also oversee the summer camps section of the Outdoor Program Emphasis specifically resident, day, and sunset camps.

What’s your favorite part of working at AHG?

It is an honor to serve at AHG with some of the most incredible staff and volunteers. I love the opportunity we get to pray for all AHG friends and families daily.

What is your favorite Bible verse?

“I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in you all.“ (Ephesians 4:1-6, NKJV)

What is your favorite part about visiting or being involved in a Troop?

When I visited a Cincinnati-local Troop, I loved listening to their adventurous camping stories, badgework experiences, and beautiful songs. It was truly inspiring to see the direct impact that the AHG Program and volunteers have in the lives of these young girls.

1 Evangelii gaudium (No. 20), Pope Francis

Donations contribute to equipping girls with the FULL ARMOR OF GOD.

americanheritagegirls.org/donate