VOLUME TWENTY EIGHT | WINTER 2024 | AMERICANHERITAGEGIRLS.ORG
HERITAGEHEADLINES LIFE-AFFIRMING LEGACY: HOW AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS CELEBRATES THE SANCTITY OF LIFE
SERVICE SPOTLIGHT HONORING LIFE IN ALL ITS STAGES THIS NATIONAL DAY OF SERVICE
BADGE STORIES Girls Discover New Passions, Learn American History & Gain Framework for Adulting
ALUMNASPOTLIGHT Meet Katy Bunn, Mom of 3, Senior Vice President at Paycor, and AHG Alumna
AHG3417 Heritage Headlines Winter 2024
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TN0516 wrapped their community with love, literally! The Troop supported a local organization that donates to families in need, aiding them through times of hospitalization or financial hardship. The girls made 19 blankets as a way to show respect for all lives in their community—a true embodiment of the AHG National Day of Service Theme!
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Dear reader, I promise to love God, cherish my family, honor my country, and serve in my community. Thus is the Oath that an American Heritage Girl recites at each Troop meeting and ceremony and has done so since our very beginning in 1995. These words, over time, become engraved on a girl’s heart and mind. Concepts of loving, cherishing, honoring, and serving are integral to the AHG experience. They are rooted in the belief that there is a loving Creator who deserves our love in return. That loving Creator has provided a family for us to cherish, a country for us to honor, and a community that desperately needs to know His love—demonstrated through selfless acts of kindness or service. AHG believes that each life is truly a gift from God and has an immense innate worth. After all, we are created in the image of our Creator! “So, God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them” (Genesis 1:27, NIV). John 1:3, ESV reiterates: “All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made.” The protection of human life is a recurring theme in Scripture. It has such importance to God that He included it in the Ten Commandments given to Moses for His people, “You shall not murder,” (Exodus 20:13). David speaks of this in the Psalms: “For you created my inmost being you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful; I know that full well” (Psalms 139:13-14, NIV). Human life begins at conception and ends at natural death. Because we are made in God’s image, we are different than His other creations—we have a soul. Only the Creator can destroy His creation. God gives life, and He alone should take it away. God is the giver of life and as a result, human life is precious. This primary tenet of the Christian faith is celebrated by American Heritage Girls. God has created each of us uniquely on purpose for a purpose. We are created to fulfill God’s unique purpose for our individual lives. Despite the cultural trade winds of today (and they are indeed “trade” winds, not stable and sovereign), AHG stands unabashedly for life. We celebrate life through service to pregnancy care centers and nursing homes. We stand for life through completing service projects and attending pro-life marches. We honor life through compassion, friendship, and prayer. And we glorify the Giver of Life through humble submission to His Truths as found in His Holy Word. May we steward the gifts of our Creator well. And may we love all His people, no matter the age or stage of life, as we love and glorify Him. Blessings,
Patti Garibay Founder & Executive Director American Heritage Girls, Inc. AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 3
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
WINTER ISSUE JANUARY 2024
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AHG News Sharing the AHG Program with audiences across the country on American Family Radio, K-LOVE, Moms on a Mission Podcast, Raising Christian Kids Podcast, Fox News, and more.
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Service Stories
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COVER STORY
A LIFE-AFFIRMING LEGACY: How American Heritage Girls Celebrates the Sanctity of Life
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 Holy 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. St. Gabriel the Archangel Catholic Church in Colorado Springs, CO is just that for the girls and volunteers of CO2000.
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Stars & Stripes Award Recipient Highlight Meet Caitlin Spendley, Stars & Stripes Award Recipient from MD1212.
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Alumnae Spotlight Meet Katy Bunn, former Girl Member of OH0895, a founding Girl Member of the AHG Ministry, a devoted wife and mother, an innovative professional leader, and a dedicated Troop leader.
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High Impact Insight Annette Lustenberger, Ministry Expansion Lead on the Cincinnati Area Team, shares valuable insight on bringing Troops together to engage with the community and uphold the sanctity of life.
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AHG Updates Exciting updates, changes, and news from the AHG National Headquarters’ in Cincinnati, OH and Staff across the country.
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“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.” —Psalm 139:13, NIV
Shop more Scripture-inspired t-shirts at store.americanheritagegirls.org
ABOUT THE COVER MEET OUR AHG COVER GIRLS
Nothing brings the miracle of life into a girl’s reality quite like a brand-new baby sibling! Zoey (Explorer, 11) and Olivia (Explorer, 10) posed with their sister Hannah (2 weeks), a “Future American Heritage Girl”. The girls and their mom, Christine, are members of Traverse City Troop MI2818 and reside in Manton, Michigan.
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 fullycurated 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://bit.ly/AHGphoto.
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 6 | AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS
AHGNEWS RECENT MEDIA SPOTS FOR AHG, INC. AHG was all over the media this quarter! Check out the many interviews AHG Founder and Executive Director Patti Garibay participated in with news outlets all over the country: Moms on a Mission Podcast Culture War | Guest: Patti Garibay | American Heritage Girls | Girls Scouts’ Indoctrination | DEI Propaganda | “Why Curse The Darkness When You Can Light A Candle” rumble.com/v3axp8y-culture-war-guest-patti-garibay-american-heritage-girls. html
The Daily Signal Here’s Where to Take Your Kids When Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts Go Woke dailysignal.com/2023/09/21/heres-where-take-kids-when-boy-scouts-girlscouts-go-woke
American Family Radio The Stand Radio: Biblical Femininity afr.net/podcasts/the-stand-radio/?id=78688
Women of Grace American Heritage Girls Scouting Troops Now in Half of all U.S. Dioceses womenofgrace.com/blog/american-heritage-girls-scouting-troops-now-in-halfof-all-u-s-dioceses
Raising Christian Kids Podcast A Christ-Centered Character and Leadership Development Program for Girls raisingchristiankids.com/a-christ-centered-character-and-leadershipdevelopment-program-for-girls
Fox News ‘People of Israel need our prayerful support’ say US faith leaders from coast to coast as war continues’ foxnews.com/lifestyle/people-israel-need-prayerful-support-faith-leaderscoast-coast-war-continues
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
Brooke Honer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Annette Lustenberger
K-LOVE For Girls Seeing And Hearing Stories About War, Violence, Conflict, A Guide To Help Parents klove.com/news/faith/for-girls-seeing-and-hearing-stories-about-war-violenceconflict-a-guide-to-help-parents-47191
A God Shift Podcast with Shayna Rattler Storms Are the Norm with Patti Garibay directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/28537265
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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SOCIAL CHANNELS Check out our social media channels for the latest AHG updates and happenings.
COMMENTS & CONVERSATION 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
COMMENTS & CONVERSATION
@our.abundant.home
Members from across the country celebrated AHG’s National Day of Service (NDS) by uniting around this year’s NDS theme, Respect Life, which is rooted in Psalm 139:13. AHG Staff Members who are local to Cincinnati gathered together to serve a pregnancy care center, Life Forward, by sorting through baby clothing, assembling shelves, and moving furniture.
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How did your Troop or family serve for NDS? “ID4605 did a diaper and wipes drive to benefit a new local pregnancy crisis center that is opening in our community. It was our first service project as a brand-new Troop and we had an amazing time reaching out to our community and seeing the girls grow beyond their comfort zones!” —Carisa Z. “OH1611 made cards, baked cookies, harvested veggies, cut and arranged bouquets, and prayed over our assembled care packages. We created individual packages to bless widowed, homebound, single older adults, and our elders. We talked about respecting life from preborn until death and had a fun morning serving members of our charter church. We also talked about how moms served their daughters by assisting them through activities and daughters served the moms by assisting with clean up. Wonderful memories made!” —Tiffany K.
“GA0110 held a community drop-off baby shower for our local pregnancy resource center last Monday and collected lots of clothes and baby items, including over 1,150 diapers! The girls were so excited to be able to bless them so much. We also earned the Pro-Life Kids Patch during the shower activities. It was so much fun!”
@txvalues
INSTAGRAM @ahgfun
—AHG Troop GA0110 “TN0215 served at the Compassion Closet, a nonprofit organization that provides tangible needs to foster, adoption and kinship families.”
@ahgnews @trishenamarie
—Becca F. “WA0716 did a diaper and infant formula drive to benefit our local St. Vincent DePaul food bank. We held a baby-themed party for the Troop, to package the diapers according to food bank instructions. We donated over 2,000 diapers and 45 cans of formula.” —Monica K.
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www.linkedin.com/ company/ American-Heritage-Girls
@kukiebenson
YOUTUBE www.youtube.com/ AHGchannel AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 9
SERVICESTORIES WHAT IT MEANS TO BE AN ACTIVE CITIZEN OF THE UNITED STATES
VIRGINIA TROOP LINKS ARMS WITH PREGNANCY CARE CENTER This year’s National Day of Service Spotlight—Respect Life—launched new breath into AHG Troops partnering with nearby organizations that help those from pre-birth to final days. For VA0325, serving the MaRih Center provided the perfect way to teach Girl Members about the value of life, even before birth. Pregnancy care centers are uniquely positioned to care for young women who find themselves needing support, safety, and compassion at a pivotal time in their lives. When AHG Troops support the centers that provide this specialized care, the practical love of God reverberates throughout communities. From deep cleaning to organizing donations and supplies, the Girl Members of VA0325 became the hands and feet of Jesus to many young families.
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COLLABORATION MAXIMIZES FLORIDA TROOP 2023 NATIONAL DAY OF SERVICE IMPACT God honored both the desire and diligence of FL2545 this year for the AHG National Day of Service (NDS) through collaboration with their local Tabitha Society chapter and Operation Christmas Child—a Samaritan’s Purse ministry. Troop girls paired up with Tabitha Society volunteers to sew dress kits and custom hair clips. Teams formed to construct jump ropes made from t-shirts. In total, the Troop broke records for this year’s National Day of Service with over 260 total hours invested, 45 girls and 27 adult volunteers, 40 dress kits sewn (including 22 pillowcase dresses), 87 jump ropes upcycled, 117 hair clips made, and 100 shoeboxes packed for Operation Christmas Child. Their service date, September 30, will go down in Troop history as a huge success!
SOUTHERN PLAINS TROOP SERVES SENIOR ADULTS WITH CRAFTING & FUN The beauty of teaching AHG Troop girls to respect life through service brings multi-layered conversations alongside so much fun! The girls of TX1045 found that age is just a number and fun can happen at every stage of life. Troop leaders got creative for this year’s National Day of Service when they reached out to a local assisted living facility in Georgetown, Texas and offered to do some fall crafting with the residents. The leaders and girls prepared a fall tea light craft in a jar and paired girls up with residents on their day of service. The girls showed the residents the wonders of LED tea light “candles” sharing a sweet giggle at the new technology. Once the last bit of rustic twine was tied on the final jar, they celebrated their crafty achievement with some Bingo alongside a group of residents. American Heritage Girls know that respecting life means sharing joy for the life God gives at every age and stage.
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GIRLSTORIES INCREDIBLE TALES OF LEADERSHIP, VOLUNTEERING AND FRIENDSHIP
MARYLAND PATRIOT SEIZES OPPORTUNITY FOR SERVANT LEADERSHIP AT SUMMER SUMMIT When God orchestrates an opportunity for Christian girls to lead, the image of Christ shines brightly for all to see. For Audrey, a Patriot from MD1212, leading the Pledge of Allegiance at this year’s Pray.Vote.Stand. Summit meant much more than rote memorization. Along with other young leaders in the flag ceremony and National Anthem, Audrey courageously took the platform and expertly led the pledge. She says, “It was an incredible opportunity to lead all of those in attendance [and to] live out the AHG Oath in Honoring my Country. I am always impacted by the words of the pledge, especially that we are ‘One Nation Under God.’” Audrey stayed for the whole event, allowing her the chance to learn about being a responsible Christian citizen of our nation. She wisely stated that, “…it’s never too early to learn about how our government works, the various roles of our elected leaders, and the issues that are facing our nation. We must remember to look at all the challenges of today through a Biblical lens to make decisions that will affect the future of the United States.”
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AHG, INC. FEATURES OHIO TROOP SISTERS IN HIKING VIDEOS Any girl would jump at the chance to be featured in a video—but put together their passions and their fun sister dynamics, and this is a formula for AHG fun! Sisters, Stella, Mollie, and Piper, of OH0702 recently partnered with the AHG Training team to develop a series of videos to resource AHG Troops in building their Outdoors Frontier activities. All three girls describe themselves as intermediate hikers with favorite trails in the Smoky Mountains, near Laurel Falls, and any trail that features waterfalls and streams. To prepare for this special video project, the youngest sister, Piper, said she was “a bit nervous and shy at first, but once we figured out our lines, it was easy.” Mollie, 10 years old, said working on this video project will be a lifelong memory with “taking silly photos at the deer targets along the trail” as a highlight. Stella, the eldest sister, feels confident that the video will share with other Girl Members how to be safe and prepared for their next hike!
16 TROOPS GATHER IN FLORIDA FOR G.R.I.T. WITH GRACE LEADERSHIP TRAINING FL2511 hosted a G.R.I.T. with Grace Leadership training weekend for Pioneers and Patriots from 16 other Troops at their Charter Organization site for a weekend of hands-on learning and laughter—even sparking spontaneous pen pal relationships with some girls! Jaime Rickenburg, one of the event’s coordinators, relishes in the weekend’s success with high points including AHG Alumnae and Stars & Stripes Award Recipients returning to lead some sessions, effective teambuilding exercises, and enthusiastic participation from all the girls. Ava, a Pioneer, said she is “so glad I came and stepped out of my comfort zone that weekend to learn new things and make new friends.” Finally, Patriot Emma feels the G.R.I.T. with Grace Interpersonal Communication and Peer Influence sessions “made me think of how my leadership style affects those I’m leading” and knows that “I can take [what I learned] with me into other aspects of my life with family and friends.” AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 13
BADGESTORIES LEARNING LIFE SKILLS AND BUILDING CONFIDENCE
NATIVE AMERICAN BADGE All the land of the United States was once populated by Native American tribes who were nomadic or lived in pueblos or villages. Each tribe had their own unique language and customs. They farmed, hunted, traded with one another, and lived in all types of terrain—mountains, deserts, valleys, woodlands, and coastlands. Native Americans used their resources wisely, creating a lifestyle appropriate to their area of the country. Today, tribal reservation communities have their own governments, health care, education, law enforcement, court systems, businesses, and residential areas. Enjoy learning about these incredible people, their culture, and history of respect for the natural world. When local Troops can do immersive learning for badgework, the result yields memorable experiences for the girls and lessons that will last a lifetime. VA0428 went to Widewater State Park in Stafford, VA to work on the Native American Badge. The rich history of the location paired with a high-quality guide set this Troop outing apart for all. Girls made pottery pieces by hand from riverbed clay, learned weaving using nearby plant materials, and hiked a historical trail learning about the tribe who lived long ago and walked the same path. This outing gave hands-on learning opportunities for all Program Levels through tug-of-war games, language symbols from ancient pottery pieces, a snack recipe from the tribe, and acting out a tribal story titled “Opossum’s Tail.” The Troop leaders balanced the fun with nuanced, difficult conversations about Native American history in the United States to help girls see that many lessons learned from history are important for changing the ways of society to respect all peoples.
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AUTO CARE & SAFETY BADGE Automobiles are an important part of life today. For some people they are simply a way to get from one place to another. For others, a car is a fun hobby. Either way, in order to depend on a vehicle, you will need to understand how it works, how to take care of it, and how to be safe. Badgework spans the extraordinary to the everyday—but, all the while, making each learned skill stick with girls through their whole lives. OH3722 ventured to a local automotive mechanic shop to complete requirements for the Auto Care & Safety Badge. Most seasoned mechanics will advise learners to get their hands dirty, and this Troop literally peeked under the car to learn how it all worked! Girls learned how to change oil, check all of the fluids, and tire maintenance and care. Each of these girls grew in confidence and competence during this outing with a better understanding of their family vehicle. Being good stewards with what God has given includes the cars that reliably transport families from home to church to school and fun road trip adventures!
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. The Astronomy Badge inspires awe and wonder in girls, but when a rare event happens in the heavens, badgework truly becomes exceptional. ID2911 Troop leaders along with an amateur astronomer AHG dad took a total of 19 Girl Members for an outing to Elko, Nevada to view the recent annular solar eclipse that crossed North America in the fall. Through specialized equipment like safe binoculars and welding glass, the girls had a frontrow seat to the spectacular event in the sky that day. While clouds rolled through, the girls prayed for an opening to see the eclipse at its peak—and it happened! A Troop leader shared that her favorite part of the trip was “watching the girl’s amazement as God opened up a solid mass of clouds so we could see [the eclipse] at its peak! Seeing their faith grow as it happened was fantastic.” AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 15
CHARTER ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT
ST. GABRIEL THE ARCHANGEL CATHOLIC CHURCH
CO2000 COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO
This issue, AHG is excited to shine a light on St. Gabriel the Archangel Catholic Church in Colorado Springs, CO, home to CO2000. Charter Representative Deacon Mike McGrady, together with Troop Coordinator Wendy Morales and Vice Coordinator Cheryl Higgins, reflect on 14 years of chartering an AHG Troop at their parish and the significant impact AHG has had on their faith community. CO2000 was awarded the Sapphire Level National Honor Troop Award by AHG, Inc., indicating the Troop’s healthy, well-balanced, and exemplary status.
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. 1616| |AMERICAN AMERICANHERITAGE HERITAGEGIRLS GIRLS
Deacon
M ik e M c
G ra d y
WHY DID YOUR CHURCH DECIDE TO CHARTER AN AHG TROOP? Prior to 2009, St. Gabriel the Archangel Catholic Church was a relatively young parish and hosted a Boy Scout Troop but had few opportunities for girls or younger boys. The pastor at that time asked some families who had kids in scouts to start a Troop at St. Gabriel. At that time, a lot of Catholic and other Christian churches were divesting from Girl Scouts— the pastor preferred AHG. Seven families worked with the pastor and the Knights of Columbus to start an AHG Troop in September of 2009. More recently, St. Gabriel welcomed Trail Life USA Troop CO-1230, offering families a Christcentered scout-type experience for both girls and boys.
HOW MANY YEARS HAS YOUR CHURCH HAD AN AHG TROOP? Officially founded on September 15, 2009—CO2000 has been building women of integrity for 14 years!
HOW HAVE YOU SEEN GROWTH IN YOUR YOUTH/FAMILY/WOMEN’S MINISTRY PROGRAMMING SINCE CHARTERING AN AHG TROOP? Since the founding of CO2000, the Troop has ranged in size from 20 to 75 Girl Members and has multiplied into at least two new Troops. Many times, over the years, a parent has approached the ministry team to express thanks for the opportunities their girls have been provided, through AHG: life skills (through badgework), service, leadership, and outdoor opportunities—all in an environment they were confident was Christ-centered and growing the girls. Our girls have also had opportunities they might not otherwise have had: teaching, public speaking, special FatherDaughter and Mother-Daughter events, backpacking, Troop and Multi-Troop day camp, and much more! As a Christcentered program we strive to remind each other of God’s Providence, His love through challenges, and calling on the power of prayer for strength. It has been a humbling and inspiring experience to walk with the girls and their families, as they grow and mature from Pathfinder to Patriot, and beyond!
HOW ELSE HAS AHG AFFECTED YOUR ORGANIZATION’S MINISTRY EFFORTS? Approximately half of our girls are members of our charter, St. Gabriel the Archangel, while the other half are members of other Christian churches. It has been a blessing to have many Christian denominations represented in our Troop and to give witness to the idea that we are more alike than different. St. Gabriel is dedicated to serving the surrounding community—Catholic and otherwise—and our girls also live out that dedication, especially in the ecumenism of our service projects through organizations like Samaritan’s Purse, Compassion International, Life Network, Mercy’s Gate Food Pantry, Catholic Charities, and many others. In the last 10 years, St. Gabriel has expanded the parish campus, began hosting an annual community festival, built a classical school (Pre-K through 8th Grade), and started a Trail Life USA Troop. St. Gabriel is a highly active community and AHG Troop CO2000 is a meaningful part of that!
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER POTENTIAL CHARTER ORGANIZATIONS LOOKING TO CHARTER AN AHG TROOP? If you have interest from families and girls, don’t wait! Help is “an ask” away through AHG, Inc. and other local Troops. You won’t regret the adventures and growth your girls will experience! 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.
For more information on the chartering process, For more information on the chartering process, visit americanheritagegirls.org/start-a-troop/charter-organizations americanheritagegirls.org/start-a-troop/charter-organizations/ The relationship between a Charter Organization and its Troop is designed to be a partnership. As a ministry partner, the AHG Troop serves as an extension of the Charter Organization. AHG values the role of the Charter Organization in the AHG Ministry as they are the “owners” of their Troop. AMERICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE HERITAGE GIRLS GIRLS || 17 17
A LIFE
AFFIRMING LEGACY
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How American Heritage Girls Celebrate the Sanctity of Life Today’s Christian parents are wading through conversations that they never imagined having to address so soon into their parenting journey. Conversations with young children about violence and war, gender and identity, suicide and mental illness, and most recently in the news, the right to life. While the overturning of Roe v. Wade was a huge leap toward protecting the lives of the preborn in America, it certainly wasn’t the last step toward restoring the recognition of the sanctity of life in our nation. Today, states continue to examine laws pertaining to life far beyond the womb including unnatural end of life practices like euthanasia and assisted suicide. In a word, today’s culture views life as disposable. Amid a culture seemingly clouded in confusion and darkness, AHG shines confidently and unwaveringly for Christ. American Heritage Girls celebrates the sanctity of all life, from conception to natural death, and is coming alongside parents to build the next generation of faithfilled women who will continue this lifeaffirming legacy.
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Beyond a Political Issue Despite the prevalence of issues in debate and at the polls, AHG believes that the sanctity of life supersedes the cultural opinion of today. “Standing for life is not a political issue but rather a God issue. All life is valuable to Him. And if we, as a ministry, purport to love Him and follow Him, life must be valuable to us as well. And we need to teach our daughters this most important lesson,” said Patti Garibay, AHG Founder & Executive Director. AHG teaches girls that all life has value. To be human is to have an inherent dignity and worth. With this perspective, life is simply more than a social, moral, or ethical issue—it is a foundational Biblical principle handed down by our Heavenly Father. Over and over, Scripture testifies to the devotion and love of God in designing, creating, and pursuing each individual person in His creation. To Respect Life is to see life through God’s eyes. A Biblical Worldview gives girls this lens of righteousness—to see, advocate, love, and live according to God’s Truth. AHG is committed to developing a Biblical Worldview in each and every girl because it is foundational to lifelong, deeply-rooted faith. The Truth of the Matter A Biblical Worldview is built upon a number of Scripturally-based precepts that help guide believers toward understanding. A Biblical Worldview sets its foundation in the Truth. Truth, in the context of Biblical Worldview, is in reference to the eternal Truths that God lays
This National Day of Service, VA0428 collected gifts for the staff at First Care Women’s Health, a crisis pregnancy care center in Woodbridge, VA. The staff graciously received Troop girls and volunteers, showing them the beauty of life seen through ultrasound and educating girls on the stages of human development through fetal models.
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out in Scripture. In a world that tells us to “live your truth”, believers know that Truth isn’t relative—it is concrete, a firm foundation set by our Creator. With this Biblical Worldview perspective, the call to uphold the sanctity of life is clear. Truth affirms that God created people in His image and therefore they have unquestionable worth and value. Biblical Truth also obligates that God has a unique design for His people—He created each of us on purpose, for a purpose. To be pro-life is to see all life—preborn, disabled, ill, elderly—as God does, sacred and crafted with care. The inherent dignity and importance of each life in the eyes of God is indisputable. With this Biblically-aligned view of humanity, a girl’s perspective shifts from caring only of herself, to giving selflessly to others—just as Jesus lived and taught. The Call to Compassionate Care When the Truth of a girl’s faith is rooted in God’s Word and His calling on her life, her identity as a Christ-follower doesn’t stay neatly tucked away, only to be seen on Sundays. American Heritage Girls gives young girls the framework for living life wholly in accordance with God. AHG Alumnae see the world through a different lens. One of great possibility for themselves, yes, but more so they see a world that God has placed them in with a purpose, ultimately working for His glory. To be the hands and feet of Christ on earth is to answer His call for radical compassion, love, and care for humanity. It comes as no surprise that Jesus lived in a way that honored all life—whether honorable or sinful, friend or enemy, neighbor or other. Raising a generation of pro-life girls goes beyond the basic premise of advocacy, it means raising girls who seek to emulate Jesus in their compassion and care of those in need. It means going to the rally and praying for lawmakers. It means collecting diapers and showing loving respect for a young mother experiencing a crisis pregnancy. It means visiting the sick and spending time with the elderly. Service offers girls a way to see themselves as part of the solution to the world’s problems, rather than idle viewers of the downturn.
“Our Troop worked with Bright Blessings to prepare materials for the homeless community. Our Troop made birthday banners, placemats, and wrapping paper for children experiencing homelessness on their birthdays. We also prepared materials for the Bless-a-Baby program that provides materials for expecting moms who are homeless, and the Pre-K literacy initiative.” —Lisa Newman, Troop Coordinator for NC0800
It’s commonly said that “service is AHG’s middle name,” this, of course, references the AHG tagline— faith, service, and fun. Today’s youth willingly and excitedly respond to Christ’s call to serve one another. Service is what allows girls to see their faith in action, they feel a sense of purpose and importance in carrying out charity—sharing the pure love freely given to us by Christ to another through compassionate care. Meeting Nationwide Need In the Fall of 2023, American Heritage Girls unified Troop efforts for the National Day of Service around a common theme—Respect Life. The event encouraged Troops nationwide to find ways to form new connections with local life-affirming organizations to make an impact in their community. Girls participated in four different types of charity as written in the AHG Service Spotlight Resource, a resource available to parents and Troops on AHGfamily: Hands-on Charity (experiential service that placed girls in direct contact with the recipients of their efforts), Witnessed Charity (experiential service that allows girls to see those whom they’re serving but does not include direct interaction), Vicarious Charity (service that relies on others to carry out the actual giving to the recipient), and Abstract Charity (serving to meet the need but without seeing who is directly impacted by the service). These four types of life-affirming charity gave girls the framework to give back, but also allowed them to see how they can grow in compassionate care as they age.
encouraged to learn about and protect the dignity and sanctity of life through several programmatic initiatives including the Respect Life Patch, All God’s Children Badge, and more. (Learn more about these initiatives on page 26.) The American Heritage Girls Ministry’s commitment to life is palpable—this January, brave girls in neckerchiefs and sashes will rally nationwide for the right to life for all people. Their service to those in need, the preborn, the ill, the elderly, shows a deep compassion and respect for God’s workmanship in every life. With a collective heart for others, a spirit of perseverance, and a desire to uphold God’s Truth, American Heritage Girls nationwide are standing firmly for life. They are a collective generation of Godly girls, a life-affirming legacy.
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. (Psalm 139:13, NIV)
From collecting formula for crisis pregnancy centers to scheduling engaging arts and crafts time with local nursing homes, Troops across the country answered this call to serve God’s people. In addition to this year’s National Day of Service effort, girls are AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 21
STARS & STRIPESAWARD RECIPIENT
CAITLIN SPENDLEY MD1212 STARS & STRIPES AWARD FACTS AND FIGURES (2nd Quarter reporting for the 2023-2024 Program Year)
2023-2024 Program Year Recipients: 47 Benefiting Organizations Served: 47
Benefiting Organization: Rockville Women’s Center Location: Rockville, MD Project: Created a custom-designed online communication system for emails, appointments, resources, and events. Total Supervisory Hours: 11.61 hours Total Hours: 115.95 hours
Creed Word Most Used in Writing: Helpful Total Service Hours: 11,741 Average Service Hours per Project: 250 What Stars & Stripes Award Recipients Like Most About AHG: Help others in their community #1 Thing Girls Learned: This project pushes each candidate out of their comfort zone. Total Number of Stars & Stripes Project Advisors:
21 22 | AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS
AN EXCERPT FROM CAITLIN’S PROJECT SUMMARY REPORT SPIRITUAL WALK ESSAY: “While working on this project, I had a sense of joy and excitement knowing that the communication system I designed could be a tool to reach out and share God’s love to pregnant women and their families in the community. This project confirmed for me that God has put a burden in my heart and a calling on my future to reach out to others and to use my God-given talents and abilities to do so.” —CAITLIN SPENDLEY
WHAT DID YOU FIND MOST REWARDING IN EARNING THE STARS & STRIPES AWARD? Being a leader means that you have the responsibility to also guide and encourage others to meet a certain goal. As you lead others in meeting that goal, you take note of the skillsets and interests of the individual team members and encourage each person to contribute their unique skills to the project. As a leader, I tried to embrace our differences more, and I actively sought to create a meeting environment where everyone’s ideas and feedback were valued. The project allowed me to experience this new responsibility as a leader and understand the importance of diversity of interests, opinions, and skills in a project. The experience allowed me to grow spiritually in my walk with God. At times I felt inadequate, overwhelmed, or unmotivated to finish the project. However, I was reminded that this project was not my project—but God’s project.
BENEFITING ORGANIZATION QUOTE: “Through her dedicated work, we can holistically care for our clients. Using Caitlin’s system, clients can now indicate their specific needs, ranging from material assistance to interest in joining a local Bible study. This provides us with the information we need in order to involve them in the local church community, care for their physical well-being, and gift them with diapers, clothes, and bottles. Caitlin’s system will equip us to continue to serve women and their families in our community!” —LATOYA ORMSBY DIRECTOR OF CLIENT SERVICES ROCKVILLE WOMEN’S CENTER AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 23
ALUMNASPOTLIGHT
MEET KATY BUNN MOM OF 3, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AT PAYCOR, AND AHG ALUMNA
24 | AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS
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.
ARE YOU AN AHG ALUMNA? Visit americanheritagegirls.org/alumnae to update your contact information and share what you’ve been up to!
The story of American Heritage Girls is closely connected to the story of Katy Bunn, daughter of AHG Founder and Executive Director, Patti Garibay, and AHG Alumna after eight years in the program. Patti Garibay often recounts founding AHG as “a program for her daughter”—Katy is that daughter for whom AHG was developed! Katy was an original AHG Girl Member in 1995, beginning in the Explorer Program Level. Katy masterfully fills the roles of wife, mother, company executive, and faithfully serves as the Assistant Unit Leader in her Troop, OH0323. She is a woman of grace, conviction, candor, and humor. She laughs effortlessly, maintains unwavering eye contact when speaking, and exudes joy when talking about the deep value of the AHG Program in the journey of building Godly women of integrity. The Garibay family held a longstanding ethic toward scouting methods and their benefits in developing leadership and communication skills alongside confidence through fun. Katy was 10 years old when her family made the shift away from Girl Scouts USA. She distinctly remembers when everything changed for their family saying, “I knew we couldn’t look back, and everything would be different from here forward.” Thus, the birth of American Heritage Girls. Even as a young girl, Katy had a sense that “we were helping build this thing” that would be much bigger than just her family. She humbly understands the gift carved out not only for her life but for the lives of thousands of girls and women in the last 28 years. In her former home Troop, OH0895, Katy, like many girls, had a favorite badge—the Horsemanship Badge. She ached for a horse of her own but soaked up every moment when she was able to ride at a nearby facility. An adventurous girl, Katy loved the outdoors but more specifically the high adventure activities. “I loved having the time with my friends making up skits, singing silly songs, and pushing past our fears to accomplish incredible adventures like whitewater rafting, climbing the highest pamper poll, or trusting ourselves to make it through a ropes course.” Katy knows well the joy of immersive learning for girls, and her Troop spent much time discovering our nation’s heritage through a connection with a Cincinnati-based historical village. They participated in heritage festivals and invested service hours as a way to give back to the place they cherished. Through badgework, Katy also gained a passion for Public Speaking—a skill she uses daily
in her professional life. She recalls that “I learned at a young age how to [get] past the fear and deliver an articulate message.” AHG Alumnae know the rich value of loyal friendships and experiencing life’s best with those they love. Katy’s AHG friendships track through to today, and she still enjoys catching up with other alumnae over social media and at AHGinspire Conferences. One relationship, though, made a lasting impression on her heart. Her friend, Kelly Beerman, was part of that original chartered Troop and tragically passed away in 2010. Katy and Kelly were close, so much so that her memory still brings tears to Katy’s eyes. The core group of friends who dearly loved Kelly still get together on a regular basis to keep her vivaciousness alive. Kelly’s legacy also lives on through the Kelly Beerman Foundation, which was established to invest in girls’ lives through AHG’s girl leadership initiatives and curricula. Katy’s continued loyalty and dedication to her AHG sisters speaks volumes to the lifelong friendships girls can develop through Troops—ones that last far into eternity. In her daily professional life, Katy shines as a leader. She credits her years in AHG, both with direct and implicit learning occasions, as the driver of her abilities to connect, strategize, communicate, and practice empathy toward those she leads. In 2023, Katy was named among the Cincinnati Courier’s “Forty Under 40”—a well-earned honor as the Senior Vice President of Leaders & Industry Growth of Paycor, a human resources management company who is also the Cincinnati Bengals’ home namesake, Paycor Stadium. Paycor is an up-andcoming publicly traded company on NASDAQ currently turning heads in the United States financial sector! For Katy, these honors serve as a stepping-stone not to her own worldly success, but as a monumental opportunity to show a Christian woman’s competency, focus, and grace. Far beyond achievements and awards, Katy is thriving as a wife to her husband, a mother to her three children, and a committed Assistant Unit leader for her Troop’s Explorers. One might think, “this woman does it all!” And the truth is, she does—but with the utmost compassion and joy.
step out and form AHG nearly 30 years ago, the story wasn’t just for them. All the Garibay children have served the ministry in various capacities over the last three decades. Today, the legacy continues with Katy’s own children and niece are part of the ongoing work Jesus is doing to build Godly women of integrity through AHG.
FASTFACTS: Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio High School Alma Mater: Lakota East Highschool College Alma Mater: Ohio University Siblings: 2 sisters (Rachael and Meghan) and 1 brother (Jon) Pets: While we lost our first fur child a few years ago, I will always consider Riley my dog. Family: Husband (Ryan), 1 girl (June), and 2 boys (Archer and Hunter) Favorite Book: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee Favorite Travel Destination: The Florida Keys Favorite Bible Verse: Matthew 17:20, NIV—“Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” Favorite Social Media Platform: Instagram Favorite Food: Crab legs and steak Favorite Flavor of Ice Cream: Graeter’s Mint Chocolate Chip Favorite Sport: This is tough…. to watch: football (go Steelers) and gymnastics. These days I’m loving being a soccer mom. Favorite Color: Olive green Favorite AHG Badge: Horsemanship
While the Lord called Katy’s parents to AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 25
WAYS GIRLS LEARN
TO RESPECT LIFE
American Heritage Girls, the premier
Through AHG
character and leadership development program for girls ages 5 to 18, provides a safe, Christcentered environment for girls to experience faith, service, and fun! AHG is proudly, boldly, faithfully, and unapologetically pro-life.
AHG supports a Biblical Worldview that respects life from conception to natural death.
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1.
AHG RESPECT LIFE PATCH PROGRAM
2.
PRO-LIFE KIDS! PATCH PROGRAM
The AHG Program offers a special recognition to girls who uphold the sanctity of life in all its forms. AHG created a Respect Life Patch in 2014 to reinforce the organization’s commitment to honoring life. Today, it outsells all other badges and patches, year after year. Girls earn the Respect Life Patch by participating in events that bring attention to respecting life and advocating for those with no voice, and/or by completing a service project for an organization whose mission or purpose demonstrates a desire to respect life. (Plus, Troop volunteers can order matching pins to show their efforts in advocating for life with a Respect Life Pin, available exclusively in the AHGstore).
AHG is proud to align with The Radiance Foundation, a faith-based, life-affirming, and educational non-profit. The PRO-LIFE KIDS! Patch Program offers five different Program Level-based patch programs, which adjust to the age, ability, and understanding of each participating girl. Girls learn about the value of all human life, born and unborn, along with actionable and age-appropriate education tools on life issues, helping them to become a voice to the voiceless. (This patch is sold exclusively though the Radiance Foundation’s PRO-LIFE KIDS! website, visit prolifekids.com/AHG to learn more about the patch program, download free resources, and order the patch).
3.
BACK2BACK MINISTRIES GO, SERVE, AND LOVE PATCH PROGRAM
Longtime AHG Ministry Alliance Back2Back Ministries is committed to loving and caring for orphaned and vulnerable children by meeting their spiritual, physical, educational, emotional and social needs that they might overcome their life circumstances and break free from the cycle of generational poverty. This patch program offers Explorer, Pioneer, and Patriot girls the opportunity to hear stories of children Back2Back Ministries has served, learn how belief systems and trauma impact orphaned and vulnerable children, engage in time with God about His heart for the fatherless, how to serve children in their community or globally, and become better prepared to serve orphaned and vulnerable children on a short-term mission trip. (This patch is sold exclusively in the AHGstore. To learn more about the patch program and to view the age-based program requirements, visit the Back2Back Ministries website at back2back.org/americanheritagegirls)
4.
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD PATCH PROGRAM
5.
AHG RESPECTING OUR ELDERS PATCH
6.
AHG ALL GOD’S CHILDREN BADGE
For over a decade, American Heritage Girls and Operation Christmas Child (OCC) have worked together to bring the gospel message to children across the globe. AHG encourages every girl to change a child’s life through OCC each year, praying for and blessing children in more than 100 countries worldwide. What appears to be a simple shoebox full of gifts is actually an incredible testament to each girl’s generosity and care for fellow children of the globe. Through OCC, American Heritage Girls nationwide are answering Jesus’ call in Matthew’s gospel to care for the poor and to spread the gospel to the ends of the earth. (This patch is sold exclusively on the Operation Christmas Child website at samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/american-heritage-girlsoperation-christmas-child. To see the results of AHG Troop packing efforts this year, follow #AHGOCCWOVEN on social media.)
Respecting life means honoring all of God’s people, from the time they are in the womb until the time of their natural death. The AHG Respecting Our Elders Patch recognizes girls who spend time with the elderly of their community. Often forgotten by society, AHG affirms the value of every elderly life, recognizing and celebrating the beautiful faith and wisdom they possess and can share with girls. (This patch is sold exclusively in the AHGstore and is available to any individual who completes an act of service for an elderly person in need.)
The All God’s Children Badge, available to Tenderhearts, Explorers, Pioneers, and Patriots was, with permission, based on curriculum created by Joni and Friends International Disability Center, a Christian non-profit dedicated to serving families living with disabilities worldwide. The badge program encourages girls to learn more about those with special needs in order to better love and serve as Jesus did. (This badge is sold exclusively in the AHGstore, but the purchaser must be a confirmed Troop authorized purchaser. Every Troop has a designated buyer for badges and awards to protect the integrity of the earned insignia.)
To learn more about the Christ-centered American Heritage Girls Program, visit americanheritagegirls.org/program-overview
AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 27
NEWTROOPS
See more every Tuesday at Facebook.com/AmericanHeritageGirls
AL1885
Bethany Baptist Church-Horton / Horton
MN0309
The Highlands Church / Delano
AZ3125
Holy Family Academy / Phoenix
MT3031
Refuge Church Belgrade / Belgrade
CA1613
Celebration Church Livermore / Livermore
MT4060
Crossroads Christian Fellowship / Bigfork
CA2528
Wynn Memorial Church of God in Christ / Oroville
NC1517
Diamond Hill Baptist Church / Statesville
NC3129
Faith Covenant Family Church / Dunn
CA2910
Glory Bound Fellowship / Burson
NM1350
CO0119
Grace Community Church Loveland / Loveland
First Baptist Church Bosque Farms / Bosque Farms
NV0251
CO1410
Passionate Life Church / Littleton
The Cornerstone Sparks Foursquare / Sparks
CO2638
Ave Maria Catholic Parish / Parker
NY0121
Calvary Chapel Webster / Webster
GA1262
Westminster Church PCA / Gainesville
OH0267
Toledo Christian Schools / Toledo
GA1318
Misty Creek Community Church / Sandy Springs
PA0314
Allison Park Church / Allison Park
PA2012
GA1633
Holy Family Catholic Church / Blakely
The Anglican Parish of Christ the Redeemer / Canonsburg
GA2527
First Baptist Church Statesboro / Statesboro
TN2230
Cornerstone Baptist Church / Crossville
TN2565
First Church of the Nazarene / Crossville
ID1314
Watersprings Church / Idaho Falls
TN3536
Victory Church of God / Greeneville
ID2121
North Summit Church / Sandpoint
TX0607
Vista Hills Church / El Paso
IL1248
St. Patrick Catholic Church / St. Charles
TX1211
IL4445
Christ Church Carbondale / Carbondale
Harvest Christian Fellowship Church Houston / Houston
IN1914
Delphi First Assembly of God / Delphi
TX1923
Bracken Methodist Church / San Antonio
KY1816
Ninevah Christian Church / Lawrenceburg
TX2300
Crestview Baptist Church / Georgetown
LA0408
First Baptist Church of Kentwood LA / Kentwood
TX2819
Calvary Baptist Bonham / Bonham
TX3116
First Baptist Church Nome / Nome
MA1919
Grace Gospel Church / Somerset
TX3221
MD0334
Oakland United Methodist Church / Sykesville
Fellowship Church Royse City / Royse City
TX3302
ME1756
Maine Ministry Outreach Center / Rockland
Community Christian Church Poteet / Poteet
TX4080
First Baptist Church Benbrook / Benbrook
MI0714
Faith Baptist Church-Clinton TWP MI / Clinton Township
VA3120
Grace Covenant Church / Gordonsville
WV1119
Heizer Creek Community Church / Poca
#NewTroopTuesday 28 | AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS
HIGHIMPACT INSIGHT Annette Lustenberger has been a volunteer with OH0056 since 2005, serving in various roles over the years, as Unit Leader, Troop Coordinator, and Troop Treasurer.
HOW DOES AHG FOSTER A GIRL’S DESIRE TO ADVOCATE THROUGH THE LENS OF A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW?
Findley, explains, that “the girls recognize the indispensable beauty of the residents and worked to create a magnificent environment for them to enjoy.”
The Mission of AHG is “building women of integrity through service to God, family, community, and country.” This mission, as the foundation of AHG Programming, helps girls to grow in faith and in their personal relationship with God. They come to better understand their own identity in Christ, not only by participating in Troop prayer and Faith Awards, but also through activities such as camping, small group badgework, learning about our heritage and country, and serving others in need in our community.
Karly, a high school teen recently completed her AHG Stars & Stripes Award project conducting a program for hearing-impaired adults. For years as a young Christian with a passion to help those in need, this candidate studied Sign Language, opening up this opportunity for her to serve this group and help them to see their own value and dignity. She explains that she yearns to break “the harsh stereotypes against deaf and hard of hearing individuals.”
IN WHAT WAY DOES A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW INFORM THE SERVICE PROJECTS YOUR AREA CHOOSES? AHG’s Biblical Worldview inspires AHG Troop leaders and Girl Members to see Jesus Christ living in those whom we encounter. We know that each person is created in His image, with innate value and dignity, whether it be family, friends, or strangers in need of help in the community. AHG Troops often choose service projects that directly aid the poor, persons with disabilities, and the unborn, the most vulnerable among us. Examples of service I have joyfully witnessed include: AHG younger girls and their leaders visited a residential group home for adults with disabilities. They cleaned and mulched garden beds around the campus, and cleaned and stained outdoor tables and swings. 1 Corinthians 12:22 states, “Indeed, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are all the more necessary.” Troop Shepherd, Angelle
Currently, a Cinncinnati-local Troop is preparing heartfelt Christmas cards that will be delivered to sick and homebound elderly people from a local parish. Teresa of Avila said, “Christ has no body now but yours… Yours are the eyes through which he looks compassion on this world …Yours are the hands, yours are the feet, yours are the eyes, you are his body. Christ has no body now on earth but yours.” AHG’s Biblical Worldview guides members to know it is Christ who works though us to serve those in need around us.
HOW HAVE YOUR AREA TROOPS MADE STRIDES IN ADVOCATING FOR THE SANCTITY OF LIFE IN YOUR REGION? AHG Troops have joined in the local Cross the Bridge for Life march, giving girls and their families the opportunity to witness in solidarity their respect for life and their support for the dignity of mothers and their children. Each
September, AHG Troops participate in The National Day of Service, an outreach to those in need. Our Troop has often supported pregnancy centers by making donations of diapers and other baby items to support families.
HOW DOES AN AREA TEAM
SUPPORT AND MULTIPLY THE SERVICE EFFORTS OF LOCAL TROOPS? An AHG Area Team gathers information on Multi-Troop service events and invites Area Troops to join in.
WHAT AHG PROGRAMMING DO YOU FIND MOST HELPFUL IN TEACHING GIRLS AND VOLUNTEERS ABOUT THE SANCTITY OF LIFE? At its core, AHG promotes that each person has dignity, simply by being created by God who loves him/her. The AHG Creed recited at each Troop Meeting reinforces the reverence we are called to give to God and the respect we are asked to give to all whom He brings into our lives. Troop leaders organize service projects for their small groups, or for the whole Troop. This regular emphasis on service reminds girls of the sanctity of the life of every person. So often, society recognizes people for what they can contribute or produce. Service for those who are less fortunate, teaches girls and their leaders, that all people deserve respect and help just because they are a child of God. AHG girls can earn The AHG Respect Life Patch by participating in any event that focuses on respecting life. AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 29
AHGUPDATES HAPPENINGS AT THE AHG NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
HOWDY
HI OL’A
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.
LOCAL TROOPS CELEBRATE FALL FUN DAY Troop families and volunteers joined members of the Cincinnati Area Team and AHG, Inc. Staff for a day of fall-themed fellowship. The free event at the AHG National Headquarters offered local AHG Members a chance to appreciate the alumna-painted mural, take the new AHG History Museum guided audio tour narrated by Patti Garibay, and contribute to a WOVEN themed art installation. AHG Fall Fun Day attendees also shopped new arrivals in the AHGstore Gift Shop after touring the Fulfillment Center to see how their Troop orders are prepared. AHG, Inc. Staff is thankful for the local Troops who encouraged their members to attend and for the turnout that inspired some good-old-fashioned family fun!
It is AHG’s distinct honor to welcome the newest members of the AHG, Inc. Staff:
PLEASE WELCOME
Ember Olmstead Accounting Specialist
RAISING GODLY GIRLS GUIDE TO PEACE IN TIMES OF GLOBAL CONFLICT Parenting is hard work. Christian parenting can feel twice as difficult. But Christians are called to shine Christ’s light in the midst of darkness. Raising Godly Girls, presented by American Heritage Girls, offers parents timely, Scripturebased, and applicable advice on some of the most challenging topics girls face. In the weeks following the Gaza attacks, AHG published the
Laurie Soto Staff Accountant
30 | AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS
Raising Godly Girls Guide to Peace in Times of Global Conflict. This 32page resource includes timeless Truth about God’s sovereignty, love, and mercy as well as applicable ways to build a culture of Biblical peace at home, in the community, and in a girl’s heart. To download the free resource, visit https://ahg.pub/RGGpeaceebookpage.
A NOTE FROM PHILIP WILLIAMSON, AHG NATIONAL BOARD OF TRUSTEES | CINCINNATI, OHIO What does it mean to be “sacred?” It means to be set apart for the worship of God. And that is what we are! Pick up any catechism from any denomination and you will find that we are God’s unique creation, made in His image. And our chief end is to know, love, and worship God forever. We are His.
If your kids ask “why” long enough, you will eventually get to one of those deep truths that must be true, otherwise the universe does not make any sense. The sacredness of human life is one of those truths.
And we know from Scripture that God loves us solely because we are His creation. It is not because we earned it; Paul reminds us that Christ died for us while we were still His enemies (Romans 5: 6-11) And it is not because any one of us have something to add to God—He is not “served by human hands, as though he needed anything” (Acts 17:25, ESV). Ignoring that fundamental truth has dire consequences. If other people are valuable only to the extent that they can contribute to us, then why serve them?
Why cherish our own family members, even, if love is merely conditional? The mental health crisis of our age is driven in large part by children and young adults (and even the middle-aged!) who do not understand their own intrinsic value. And so they chase validation from fleeting external markers: awards, money, or the even more ephemeral subscriptions, retweets, and likes. So we must reaffirm in our own homes that each life matters for the simple reason that God says over every human heart “This one is Mine; I made it, I love it, and I call it.” And as we put that belief into action, we become beacons of the Gospel to the rest of the world. As Christ Himself said, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35, ESV).
STAFFSCOOP Jennie Ferguson Curriculum Development Specialist Location Chattanooga, Tennessee How long have you been working at AHG? Since the spring of 2021 What do you do in your position? It is a joy to spend my days dreaming up and documenting many of AHG’s fun programming initiatives, such as Program Year Themes, G.R.I.T. with Grace, NDS Service Spotlights, Faith Awards, event guides, and badge guides. I also have the pleasure of working with AHG Program Alliances as they create new and exciting patch programs for our Troops and contribute beautiful reflections for the Program Year Theme Devotion Guides.
What’s your favorite part of working at AHG? It still amazes me that I get to spend my days immersed in God’s Word and working with such a supportive, collaborative, dynamic team that loves Him, each other, and our Troops with such conviction. What is your favorite Bible verse? “Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands” (1 Thessalonians 4:11a, NLT). What is your favorite part about visiting or being involved in a Troop? My daughter and I began with Chattanooga’s first Troop in the fall of 2011. She graduated in 2020, and I took a step back from volunteering until recently. I have enjoyed returning to Troop life this year with my younger cousin, the Troop’s oldest Patriot, and seeing so many of the earlier Pathfinders and Tenderhearts who are now in her Unit. It is beautiful to witness their spiritual, social,
and leadership growth. I am grateful that our families found each other through AHG and have been able to experience our daughters’ friendships and life milestones together.
AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS | 31
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