Thanks Badge

This award is the highest honor in Girl Scouts. It honors a registered adult Girl Scout whose ongoing commitment, leadership and service have had an exceptional, measurable impact on meeting the mission-delivery goals and priorities of the entire council or entire Girl Scout Movement.

Linda Bockin Mondovi, WI

From her days as a troop leader to her current role on the GSNWGL board of directors, Linda has impacted the lives of many Girl Scouts and volunteers—and they are stronger, kinder, and more driven because of her. Linda generously gives her time and knowledge while keeping girls at the forefront of her decision-making. Keeping the Girl Scout law top of mind and close to her heart, Linda is known for bettering the community she serves, lending a hand wherever needed, and sharing unwavering support for the Girl Scouts she serves.

“Linda has impacted people on so many levels. First her troop, then her community and service area, and now the council as a whole with her voice as a board member.”—Renee Erickson

Lisa Freeman Appleton, WI

From prioritizing relationships to her passion for outdoor experiences, Lisa (Puck) has provided unparalleled service to GSNWGL and, most importantly, to Girl Scouts seeking outdoor adventures. At the helm of a staff that changes lives, Lisa puts in extra effort to train and instill a love for the outdoors and Girl Scouting in each counselor she trusts to deliver the camp experience. Through her fierce dedication to Girl Scouts, Lisa provides a camp experience where Girl Scouts can immerse themselves in nature, learn new outdoor skills, and develop relationships in a non-judgemental setting. Her passion, skills, experience, and willingness to work long, hard hours at Camp Birch Trails have undoubtedly helped shape the lives and experiences of so many campers.

“I’m honored to put forth this nomination for a lifelong Girl Scout who has given her heart and soul to making the world a better place, one Girl Scout camper at a time.”—Mary Birrittella

Desi Kilbourn-Mims Gwinn, MI

Desi’s efforts to promote inclusivity and acceptance within the Girl Scouts community are truly commendable. Their dedication to creating safe spaces for all youth within the Girl Scout program is helping to break down barriers and promote understanding, kindness, and empathy. From collaborating with the council on inclusion efforts to their many volunteer roles, Desi has undoubtedly shaped the lives of many young people and impacted the communities they serve. Desi is an inspiring example of the kind of volunteerism that makes a real difference in the lives of others.

“Desi opened themselves up to the Customer Care team so the department could better serve the LGBTQ+ community in our council. They continue to provide support for making GSNWGL an inclusive and welcoming community.”—Gidget Kilbourn-Mims

Kay MacGregor Manistique, MI

Kay’s lifelong involvement with Girl Scouts and her unwavering dedication to the Girl Scout Mission and outdoor experiences has profoundly impacted countless Girl Scouts’ lives. For many years, Girl Scouts have relied on Kay (Stretch) to introduce them to new adventures, teach them resiliency and confidence, and be there when they need a shoulder to lean on. As camp director for Summer Thing for the past few years, Kay goes out of her way to make sure all campers and volunteers feel welcome at camp. Girl Scouts and adults alike depend on her for leadership, mentorship, and dedication.

“Kay’s focus has always been on the girl and how to positively impact their lives. She is truly a sister to every Girl Scout and to those who aren’t Girl Scouts. She is kind, hardworking, involved, creative, dedicated, and will do anything to help someone in need.”—Sharon

Pickering-Polzin

Elizabeth Ross Manistique, MI

Elizabeth’s work as a nurse at Camp Nesbit, leading first aid and CPR classes for volunteers and providing lifeguard services for day camp and troop activities, has undoubtedly helped to provide a safe and supportive environment for girls to learn and grow. Because of the care and compassion that Elizabeth (BooBoo) gives to ensure everyone’s health and safety, she eases the anxieties and concerns of both girls and their families. Her efforts impact the experiences that every Girl Scout and volunteer has at camp. Elizabeth is an asset to Girl Scouts for many reasons—being there for anyone who needs her, providing assistance, a strong shoulder, or a good ear.

“BooBoo is kind, considerate, helpful, and courageous. She lives up to the Girl Scout Law in her actions and interactions with girls and adults.”—Linda Levin

Cheryl Schnelle Irma, WI

Cheryl’s dedication to providing fun and memorable experiences for Girl Scouts is truly inspiring. Through tireless efforts, she helped create a supportive and inclusive environment for girls to learn, grow, and have fun. Her commitment to making each activity engaging and enjoyable has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the girls and volunteers she worked with and helped promote the values of the Girl Scout community. Cheryl’s contributions have made a real difference in girls’ lives and helped shape tomorrow’s future leaders. Her selfless service and dedication to the Girl Scout Movement will help make the world a better place.

“Cheryl treats everyone like a sister. She treats everyone as if they are capable and encourages them to keep trying for the good of the girls.”—Elizabeth Wilson

Kelly Steelman Houghton, MI

As a board member for GSNWGL, Kelly’s leadership and guidance have helped to create a supportive environment for girls to learn and grow, and her vision for the future has helped to inspire GSNWGL to reach new heights. Kelly’s contributions and efforts will ensure that Girl Scouts continues to thrive for generations to come. With an ability to bring people together, foster a sense of teamwork, and encourage everyone to contribute their best efforts, Kelly is an invaluable asset to the council. Her commitment to collaboration and engagement is a testament to her character and her genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of Girl Scouts.

“Kelly gives so much time and talent to Girl Scouts. Her Girl Scout experience is rich and shows in her input and decision-making.”—Amy Schultz

Michele VandenHeuvel

Manawa, WI

Through her dedication to promoting confidence in outdoor activities, Michele (Jesse) has significantly impacted the lives of many Girl Scouts. By instilling a sense of self-assurance and showing Girl Scouts the joy and beauty of the natural world, Michele empowered girls to take on new challenges and explore new horizons. As a role model, Michele has shown others what it means to be passionate, dedicated, and driven to make a difference. Michele’s willingness to share her knowledge and experience with others and her commitment to positively influencing those around her encapsulate the Girl Scout Movement.

“For Michele, it’s about giving back to the organization that shaped her. She openly shares that she is who she is because of her time at Girl Scout camp.”—Kelly Butzlaff