volunteer appreciation in girl scouting 2014...volunteer appreciation in girl scouting girl scouts...

Volunteer Appreciation in Girl Scouting Girl Scouts of Western Ohio

Girl Scouts of Western Ohio

Volunteer Appreciation in Girl Scouting 2014–2015

“I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back.”

- Maya Angelou

Table of Contents

Page

Creating a Culture of Appreciation in Girls .................................................................................................... 1

Frequently Asked Questions ............................................................................................................................. 2

Recognitions in Girl Scouting Chart ........................................................................................................... 3–4

Regional Recognitions Chart ....................................................................................................................... 5–8

Basic Tips for Completing Nomination Forms ............................................................................................ 9

A Checklist for Writing Endorsement Letter ....................................................................................... 10–11

Sample Endorsement Letter ........................................................................................................................... 12

Forms

Pin Request:

Membership Year Pin Request .................................................................................................................. 14

Volunteer Years of Service Pin Request ................................................................................................. 14

Nomination Forms:

Volunteer of Excellence ........................................................................................................................ 15-16

Volunteer of Excellence Endorsement Questionnaire............................................................... 17-18

Appreciation Pin Nomination .............................................................................................................19-20

Honor Pin Nomination ...........................................................................................................................19-20

Thanks Badge Nomination ..................................................................................................................19-20

Thanks Badge II Nomination ...............................................................................................................19-20

Appreciation Pin, Honor Pin, Thanks Badge and

Thanks Badge II Endorsement Questionnaire .................................................................... 21-22

The President’s Award Nomination ................................................................................................. 23-24 Council Recognition Forms:

Service Team Star Award .................................................................................................................... 25-26

Service Team Star Award Endorsement Questionnaire .......................................................... 27-28

Green Badge of Courage ..................................................................................................................... 29-30

Green Badge of Courage Endorsement Questionnaire ............................................................ 31-32 Adult Recognitions Placement Guide .......................................................................................................... 33

MB:lb/1001607-008


1

Creating a Culture of Appreciation in Girl Scouting

A culture of appreciation is one where those working for the mission of Girl Scouts feel respected and valued for her or his service and contribution. Without the work of adult volunteers, Girl Scouts of Western Ohio would not be able to provide the Girl Scout Leadership Experience and build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. It is important for this work to be recognized in a variety of ways. This guide to volunteer appreciation in Girl Scouting will provide informal and

formal ways to recognize and celebrate the great work done each day by volunteers. Formal appreciations include council and national Girl Scout awards for volunteers that are presented in various ways at service unit circle, regional or councilwide events. Informal appreciation methods are of no less importance than formal Girl Scout awards and can often be more meaningful for a troop leader or service unit/council volunteer. Girls can and should be involved in recognizing the work that adult volunteers do for their troop, service unit and council whether it is through informal methods or formal award nominations and endorsements.

Informal Methods of Showing Appreciation Showing appreciation informally is a great way to ensure that volunteers feel appreciated year-round. It is also a great way to include both girls and parents in recognizing the work of Girl Scout leaders and volunteers. Informal appreciations can be as simple as a thank-you note or as elaborate as the creation of service unit awards. Listed below are just a few ideas of how to recognize adult volunteers throughout the year.

• A simple thank-you note

• Letters of gratitude from girls and their parents

• A brief post on Girl Scouts of Western Ohio’s Facebook page about the great work being done by a volunteer

• Submit a success story to your regional Girl Scout Center to be included in council publications

• Send a story about a volunteer’s work to your community press

• Work with your service unit to create informal awards to recognize work done by volunteers

• Create a photo memory book with notes from each girl and present to the volunteer at the end of the year

• Take a volunteer out to dinner to thank them for their hard work

• Share stories of a volunteer’s work at service unit meetings and with parents of troop members

• Be sure to celebrate the work of adult volunteers during annual Girl Scout events

• Participate in the efforts of your regional Girl Scout Center during Volunteer Appreciation Week and National Girl Scout Leader’s Day

Be sure to recognize Girl Scout volunteers on important dates:

Founder’s Day—October 31 World Thinking Day—February 22

Birthday of Girl Scouts in the USA—March 12 Girl Scout Week—Begins the Sunday before March 12, and extends through the

following Saturday National Girl Scout Leader’s Day—April 22

Volunteer Appreciation Week 2015—April 12–18, 2015


2

Volunteer Appreciation Frequently Asked Questions

1. When should I begin collecting materials for formal award nominations?

Formal award nominations are due into your regional Girl Scout Center by February 1 of each year. This means that you should begin collecting materials (nomination form, endorsement forms/letters) around the beginning of the membership year (October). **Remember: nominations are for the previous Girl Scout membership year. Forms submitted on February 1, should be based on a volunteer’s work from the past year and going back up to three years.

2. Do endorsement letters have more influence than endorsement

questionnaires?

No. Endorsement letters and questionnaires carry the same weight. The endorsement questionnaires are simply a way to increase participation in the recognitions process as sometimes the idea of writing a formal letter can deter parents, other volunteers or community members from participating.

3. Does the amount of work/time a volunteer devotes to non-Girl Scout activities

have any bearing on an award nomination?

No. Many Girl Scout volunteers have other commitments including work, families and other volunteer efforts. While the fact that they still devote time to Girl Scouts on top of everything else is greatly appreciated, Girl Scout awards are based on the work they do for girls and the organization as a whole. Informal recognitions are a great way to make sure these circumstances are recognized.

4. Can I submit formal award nominations and endorsements well before the February 1 deadline?

It’s encouraged! When nominations are submitted to the regional Girl Scout Centers, a member of the adult development department will review them to ensure they are eligible to be considered for the specific award. If there are any missing requirements, the nominator will be contacted to address whatever the issue may be, if possible. If the nomination isn’t submitted until the deadline, there is no time for a nominator to address any issues.

5. Can paper nomination forms and endorsement letters be submitted

separately?

No. A paper nomination should not be submitted without a complete nomination form and the required number of endorsements attached. Each page should have the nominee’s information listed clearly. Only digital submissions can be done separately.

3

Appreciation in Girl Scouting 2014–2015 Girl Scouts of Western Ohio

Earned Recognitions

All Candidates must meet the following criteria: 1. The applicant is a registered Girl Scout by February 1. To check the status of a volunteer’s registration, please contact the service unit registrar or

the regional Girl Scout Center. 2. The applicant is in good standing currently and at the time of service, following all policies and procedures of the council.

The applicant has completed the required training for the position or has equivalent experience. Application Procedure for Earned Awards: 1. Each individual completes their own current year award application form for the Membership Year Pins and the Volunteer Years of Service Pin

contained in this packet. 2. Make and keep a copy of all forms and letters. 3. Send the completed form and/or letters to the appropriate regional Girl Scout Center by the deadline as indicated.

Recognition Purpose Criteria Additional Procedures

Membership Year Pin

Form on page 14

Indicates the total number of years as a registered member of Girl Scouts, including years registered as both a girl and an adult member.

1. Pins are available in five-year increments.

1. Complete the Membership Year Pin/Volunteer Years of Service Pin request form in this resource or online at www.girlscoutsofwesternohio.org in the forms sections.

2. Upon receipt of year pin application, applicant will be sent their pin through the service unit or available for pick-up at the regional Girl Scout Center.

3. Application forms for membership year pins must be submitted by February 1.

Volunteer Years of Service Pin

Form on page 14

Recognizes a registered adult member for her years of active volunteer service.

1. Pins are available in five-year increments.

1. Candidates can purchase pins from five to 15 years in the Girl Scout Shop. Candidates 20 years and above must complete the Membership Year Pin/Volunteer Years of Service Pin request form in this resource or online at www.girlscoutsofwesternohio.org in the forms sections.

2. Pins of 20 years and above are purchased by the regional Girl Scout Center and presented through the service unit.

3. Application forms for pins of 20 years and above must be submitted by February 1.

4

GSUSA Recognition

All nominees for any award must meet the following criteria: 1. The applicant is a registered Girl Scout. To check the status of a volunteer’s registration, please contact your regional Girl Scout Center. 2. The nominee is in good standing currently and at the time of service, following all policies and procedures of the council. 3. The nominee has completed the required training(s) for the position. 4. The nominee has performed at a level that exceeds the expectations as outlined in the position description.

Nomination Procedure for all Awards: 1. Complete the current year nomination form included in this resource or packet available on the council’s website at www.girlscoutsofwesternohio.org. 2. Make and keep a copy of all forms and endorsements. 3. Send the completed form and/or endorsements to the regional Girl Scout Center by February 1. 4. Nominators will be notified of the results.

Recognition Who to Consider Criteria Nomination and Approval Process

Volunteer of Excellence

Nomination form on pages 15–16

Volunteers who have contributed outstanding service while partnering directly with girls in any pathway to implement the Girl Scout Leadership Experience through the use of the national program portfolio or who have contributed outstanding service in support of the council’s mission delivery to girl and adult members . Examples: leader/assistant leader, day camp volunteer, series volunteer, event coordinator and many more.

1. Nominee is a registered adult member. 2. Nominee has performed beyond

expectations for the position to deliver the Girl Scout Leadership Experience to girls.

OR

Nominee performance has been beyond expectation and has supported the Council Goals in one or more of the following ways:

• Membership growth and retention

• Volunteer coaching and support

• Community cultivation

• Program delivery

• Fund development

• Council support services (such as IT, customer service, marketing, property, etc.)

3. Nominee actively recognizes, understands and practices the values of inclusive behavior.

1. Complete nomination form. 2. Include two endorsements with the nomination

that is written by someone familiar with the nominee’s performance. Endorsements may not be written by the nominator.

3. Nominations are due to the regional Girl Scout Center by February 1.

5

GSUSA Recognitions

All nominees for any award must meet the following criteria: 1. The applicant is a registered Girl Scout. To check the status of a volunteer’s registration, please contact your regional Girl Scout Center. 2. The nominee is in good standing currently and at the time of service, following all policies and procedures of the council. 3. The nominee has completed the required training(s) for the position. 4. The candidate has performed at a level that exceeds the expectations of the position description.

Nomination Procedure for all Awards: 1. Complete the nomination form included in this resource or available on the council’s website at: www.girlscoutsofwesternohio.org 2. Nominator should make and keep a copy of all forms and letters. 3. Send the completed form and endorsement letters to the appropriate regional Girl Scout Center by February 1. 4. Nominators will be notified by council recognition representative of the results. 5. Volunteer award recipient will be notified by the appropriate regional Girl Scout Center regarding their award nomination and approval.


Appreciation Pin


A volunteer who has given exemplary service to at least one service unit or geographical area. Examples: Service unit chair, product sales chair, service team member, service unit girl led events coordinator.

1. Nominee is a registered adult member. 2. Nominee has provided outstanding service

beyond the position description to at least one service unit or program delivery audience that contributed to meeting at least one of the council’s goals.

3. Nominee actively recognizes, understands and practices the values of inclusive behavior.

1. An individual or group familiar with the service performed submits a nomination form and paragraph documenting the service.

2. Two letters of endorsement, written by individuals who are familiar with the service provided, are attached to the nomination form. Endorsement letters may not be written by nominator (s).


Honor Pin


A volunteer who has given outstanding service to two or more service units or program delivery audiences. Examples: Day camp director, regional event coordinator, learning facilitator, volunteer serving on council or regional task group, board member.

1. Nominee is a registered adult member. 2. Nominee has provided outstanding service

beyond the position description to two or more service units or program delivery audiences that contributed to meeting at least one of the council’s goals:



• Increased community visibility in two or more service units

3. Nominee actively recognizes, understands and practices the values of inclusive behavior

1. An individual or group familiar with the service performed completes a nomination form and letter documenting the service.

2. Three letters of endorsement, written by individuals who are familiar with the service provided, are attached to the nomination form. Endorsement letters may not be written by nominator(s).


To ensure a successful nomination, be sure letters show how the volunteer has gone above and beyond their volunteer role. Cite specific results, use of program process and impact on girls.

6


Thanks Badge

Nomination form on Pages 19–20

Volunteers who are actively giving service that is truly outstanding and impacts the council or entire Girl Scout Movement. Examples: Council task group chair, board member, a volunteer who increased program opportunities for girls councilwide, learning facilitator who developed new resources.

1. Nominee is a registered adult member. 2. Nominee has provided such outstanding

service beyond the position description, benefiting the total council or entire Girl Scout Movement, that no other award would be appropriate.

3. Nominee ensures that inclusive behavior is recognized, understood and practiced at all levels.

1. An individual or group familiar with the service performed completes a nomination form and letter documenting the service.

2. Four letters of endorsement, written by individuals who are familiar with the service provided, are attached to the nomination form. Endorsement letters may not be written by nominator (s).


Thanks Badge II


Volunteers who, after previously receiving the Thanks Badge, continue to give outstanding service that benefits the council or the Girl Scout Movement. Examples: Council task group chair, board member, a volunteer who increased program opportunities for girls, learning facilitator who developed new resources.

1. Nominee is a registered adult member. 2. Nominee has received the Thanks Badge. 3. Service performed is of the same or higher level

than service recognized by the Thanks Badge.

1. An individual or group familiar with the service performed completes a nomination form and letter documenting service.

2. Four letters of endorsement, written by individuals who are familiar with the service provided, are attached to the nomination form. Endorsement letters may not be written by nominator(s).

3. Nominations are due to the regional Girl Scout Center by

February 1.

7


The President’s Award

This award consists of a plaque that is displayed at the regional Girl Scout

Center and certificates for service team members.

Nomination form on

pages 23-24

Service unit teams who have assisted their assigned areas in successfully achieving Council Goals during a membership year.

1. All service team members are registered Girl Scouts.

2. All service team members, leaders and co-leaders have completed appropriate training(s) for their position(s) within six months of appointment.

3. Delivery of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience in the service unit area is effective, resulting in the continuity of a minimum of 75 percent retention of troops/groups or a minimum 75 percent retention of troop/group leadership.

4. Overall membership for the service unit has surpassed the membership goal agreed upon by the team and service delivery team by September 30.

5. Overall membership of the service unit reflects the diversity of the geographic area.

6. Service team members cultivate contacts in the community.

7. Required reports are submitted on time.

8. The service team maintains ongoing communications with girls registered individually in the service unit.

9. Service unit maintains ongoing communication with each troop/group and with leadership.

10. The service team encourages adult participation in fund development and has increased giving to support the council.

1. Schedule a meeting by September 30 with a member of your service delivery team to discuss criteria and documentation before you begin work on this award.

2. Complete the award nomination form.

3. Complete all appropriate documentation as outlined in the President’s Award Nomination Form.

4. Compile all documentation in a three-ring notebook and send to the regional Girl Scout Center by February 1.

8

Council Recognitions All nominees for these awards must meet the same criteria for GSUSA Recognitions (page 5).


The Service Team Star Award

Nomination form on

pages 25-26

Award is a pin, worn on the right side of the uniform above the personalized

identification pin.

(This was formerly the Buckeye Trails Award in the

Dayton Region and the Administrative Volunteer Award in the Lima Region.)

Volunteers who are currently members of a service unit team, or appointed as an administrative volunteer, who have helped a service unit achieve one of the essential responsibilities of a service unit as outlined on the nomination form.

1. Nominee is a registered Girl Scout adult serving within Girl Scouts of Western Ohio.

2. Nominee is an appointed member of a service unit service team or serves as an appointed administrative volunteer.

3. Nominee has completed required training(s) for their position.

4. The volunteer is in good standing with the organization.

5. Nominee provided outstanding service that benefits the total service unit as related to the essential responsibilities of a service unit stated on the nomination form.

6. The service goes above and beyond the expectations of the volunteer’s position description.

7. Adults and girls in the service unit have benefited from the service.

1. Nominator completes nomination form, includes a letter describing why the nominee should be considered for the award.

2. Nominator attaches additional two letters of endorsement from individuals familiar with the service given. Nominator may not write an endorsement letter.

3. Ensure letters address the service performed, award criteria and show results.

4. Award nomination form is due by February 1, to the appropriate regional Girl Scout Center.

Green Badge of Courage


Volunteers who have performed a courageous act or met a challenge in a creative way within their role as a Girl Scout volunteer.

1. Nominee is a registered Girl Scout adult serving in Girl Scouts of Western Ohio.

2. Nominee is in good standing with the organization.

3. Nominee is actively involved in volunteer service for Girl Scouts.

4. Nominee has continued to fulfill volunteer duties or recruited others in spite of the challenging circumstance.

1. Complete nomination form. 2. Attach at least two letters of

recommendation or endorsement to nomination form.

3. Nomination is submitted to the regional Girl Scout Center by February 1.


9

Basic Tips for Completing Nomination Forms

Below you will find some tips for completing an award nomination. Following these tips will help the selections committee make an informed decision and will help to ensure that the nominee is recognized. Please contact your regional Girl Scout Center if you have any questions.

Completing the Nomination Form • Make sure nominees are registered as an adult member for the current membership year.

• Check to see if the person is being nominated for another award. Do not nominate someone for more than one award within the same year.

• Complete all requested information on the nomination form. This may mean that you will have to do some research on the nominee. For example, you may not know their training record or their Girl Scout involvement beyond the service unit. Call the service unit data coordinator, service unit chair or the regional Girl Scout Center for more information. Do not leave an area blank or turn in an incomplete nomination!

• Make sure all of the personal information is complete. It is common for people to leave out their service unit name and/or number, or their zip code. Do a quick scan and be sure all information is complete.

Writing Endorsements • Endorsements can be submitted as letters or by using the Endorsement Questionnaires available

in this packet and online.

• You can view an online tutorial, which will guide you on how to write an endorsement letter at www.girlscoutsofwesternohio.org.

• Communicate with the writer of the letters regarding why you are nominating this person and the position for which the person is being nominated. Give them detailed information about the service the nominee provided in that position. The nominator may know the person in several capacities; however, they must focus on the service provided that pertains to the position stated on the nomination form.

• Use the questions on the back of the nomination form to formulate the letters. These questions are also the basis of the Endorsement Letter Guides that are available for use. The endorsement letters should be more than one paragraph. However, try to keep each endorsement letter to two pages maximum. Focus on two or three questions, and write specific examples and current results of the volunteer’s work. The comments must be specific—the more specific the letter the better. The letter must show how the volunteer has gone above and beyond the agreed upon service for the position in which the volunteer is being nominated.

• Start early with the endorsement letters. People need time to formulate thoughts and write the letters. Do not wait until the last minute. Give your letter writers a deadline prior to February 1.

• Remember to attach all endorsement letters to the nomination form and send them in together. Always make and keep copies of the nomination form and the endorsement letters.

• All nominations are due to the regional Girl Scout Center by February 1. Nominations will not be considered if they are not complete or arrive late.


10

A Checklist for Writing Endorsement Letters

The following is a guide to help you successfully write an endorsement letter. Give this page to everyone writing an endorsement letter. It will help them stay focused and help ensure that the nominee is recognized appropriately. Endorsement letters should be no more than two pages. If they prefer not to write a formal letter or need a little more help, consider using the Endorsement Questionnaires available in this packet.

The endorsement letters should have the following outline: The opening paragraph should introduce the purpose of the letter, the nominee, the position for which they are being nominated and the reason for the nomination (volunteer’s role and position). Here is an example:

I am writing this letter to support Jane Doe, Girl Scout Leadership Experience Chair, Ohio Valley Service Unit, for the Honor Pin. Jane has worked diligently in both the Ohio Valley, Miami River and River End Service Units to provide quality training to leaders, which resulted in improved delivery of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience in all three service units.

The body of the letter should describe the specific service, who benefited from the service and provide clear results of the service that was above and beyond the position description (volunteer’s role and position). For example:

Jane recognized that many of our leaders have not completed the required trainings. She realized that in our community many of the adults work in second and third shift jobs. This created a challenge when it came to training volunteers. She found out that several neighboring service units had the same problem. She called a meeting of the service unit chairs and girl scout leadership experience chairs. She proposed that they offer training at “unconventional times” due to their audience. The service units were immediately behind her. Jane’s next step was to approach the adult development department at the regional Girl Scout Center.

The volunteer experience department helped Jane enroll in a Train-the-Trainer course so she could facilitate the Girl Scout Fundamentals course and help to provide a training to address the grade level needs. Working together with both the volunteers and paid staff, Jane orchestrated three training sessions that offered the courses needed by the volunteers.

The amazing thing was that the classes were offered at the local church from 6–9 p.m. when everyone was getting off work. She worked with the service units and they provided the funds for dinner.

Introduction of nominee and brief description of service

Description of service or action that was above

and beyond� the position description.

� Above and beyond means, the candidate has contributed more in time, effort and/or resources than the responsibilities outlined in the volunteer position description for which they are being nominated.


11

Jane’s hard work resulted in 30 leaders in three service units being trained to work with their troops. She showed leaders that with some collaboration, things could get done. Jane’s work across three service units benefited over 200 girls, and has created strong relationships with each of the service units.

For her innovation in training across service units, and willingness to learn and be trained, Jane Doe deserves the Honor Pin.

The closing of the letter should have the writer’s name, service unit, address, phone number and email. Here’s an example:

Sincerely, Mary Smith Service Unit 400 1000 Main St. Cincinnati, OH 45200 513-555-1111 [email protected]

Remember to review the letter and make sure the service meets the criteria of the award listed in this packet. Position descriptions are available through the service unit chairs or the regional Girl Scout Center.

Results of nominee’s work

All nominations are due to the regional Girl Scout Center by February 1, unless otherwise noted. Please make a copy of the nomination for your records.


12

Sample Endorsement Letter

The following letter is a good example of how the endorser presented the nominee’s accomplishments and showed how the nominee went “above and beyond” the position description. The names of the nominee, endorser and service unit have been changed.

January 27, 2005

Dear Members of the Selection Committee,

This letter is written in support of Sally Smith for the Appreciation Pin. Sally has been an excellent troop leader for at least eight years and is now guiding some of her Girl Scout Seniors through the Gold Award process. She has served in many capacities on the Riverway Service Unit Service team including: Junior Girl Scout Leadership Experience coach, newsletter editor, service unit chair and now as recruitment chair. I am nominating her for the Appreciation Pin, because of her contributions to the service unit in her role as service chair.

One of Sally’s strengths is her ability to organize not only paperwork, but also the information we use to run the service unit. She has improved the efficiency of the Riverway Service Unit beyond what I could imagine. I served with her as service unit chair for two years and watched her work her magic. During her term as service unit chair, she has accomplished the following:

• She not only purged old forms from the service team bins, she also reorganized them with new labels. The chairs before were content to just pass them on to the next volunteers.

• She then took the leader sign-in for service unit meetings; created new sheets on the computer listing all of the leaders and co-leaders, organized the list by grade-level and now we just initial next to our name to make sure addresses, phone numbers and email addresses are always up to date.

• She created a chart on Excel to track the volunteer application process for new leaders. This was an enormous help to me when I was responsible for the applications. The chart included name, address, phone, application date, approval date, new troop number and other necessary information. For those people who are well versed in computer programs, this may not be a big deal. For me it had a huge impact on our ability to keep track of 30 plus new leaders each year. We have passed this system on to the next service unit chair.

• She helped me in my job as data coordinator to organize the training records of all leaders in the service unit on Access. This helped me keep track of over 200 leaders and their trainings. This is not part of the responsibility of a service unit chair; however, this system has helped us work together to eliminate almost all of our non-complaint leaders by not permitting them to register without completing their required trainings.

• During her second year as service unit chair, Sally took over my position as data coordinator when my husband became critically ill. She did not just “baby-sit” the job but worked to improve the methods of record keeping.

Sally’s contribution to the Riverway Service Unit has allowed us to better serve our leaders with organized bins of information and reports. The parents of girls in our service unit can be assured that the leaders working with their daughters are approved, registered and trained. I don’t think we could have made that promise as easily with our large number of leaders without the tools that Sally has provided to the service unit. Now you can see why I strongly urge the committee to recognize Sally with the Appreciation Pin.

Sincerely, Jane Doe Riverway Service Unit 111 Main Street Any City, Ohio 45111 555-1222 [email protected]

PIN REQUEST FORMS

(Membership Year Pin and Volunteer Years of Service)

AND

NOMINATION FORMS

AND

ENDORSEMENT

QUESTIONNAIRES

14


Membership Year Pin and Volunteer Years of Service Pin Requests for Membership Year Pins and Volunteer Years of Service Pins must be received by February 1,,,, at the appropriate regional Girl Scout Center. After the deadline, you may request the pin for the following membership year or purchase the pin in the Girl Scout Shop. Please complete form in its entirety and pay close attention to the pin you are requesting.

Return pin request form to the appropriate regional Girl Scout Center by February 1. A separate form must be completed for each individual person receiving a pin. For accuracy, please print neatly all information requested. Membership Year Pin and Volunteer Years of Service Pin request forms may be collected and sent in by the service unit or by the individual. If you are completing the form for someone else, please make sure the years are correct. A service unit or volunteer may purchase these pins at the Girl Scout shop at anytime.

Name: Service Unit #:

Address:

City: State: Zip:

Home Phone: Work Phone:

Email Address:

Membership Year Pin For currently registered adult members to recognize the total number of years, including years as a girl and adult member, that a person has been a registered member of Girl Scouts of the USA. Pins are available in 5-year intervals: 5, 10, 15, etc.

Please check the appropriate box for the pin you are requesting:

� 5 years � 10 years � 15 years




� Other: Please check how you would like to receive your pin:

� Service Unit Meeting

� Pick up at regional Girl Scout Center Membership Year Pins will not be sent through the mail.

Volunteer Years of Service Pin

For currently registered adult members to recognize the total number of years of volunteer service to Girl Scouting. Pins are available in 5-year intervals: 5, 10, 15, etc.

This form is only for volunteers requesting 20-year pins and above. The 5, 10 and 15 Years of Service Pin may be purchased through the Girl Scout Shop by the service unit or the volunteer. The 5, 10 and 15 are not purchased by Girl Scouts of Western Ohio.

Please check the appropriate box for the pin you are requesting:



� Other:

Please check how you would like to receive your pin:

� Service Unit Meeting

� Pick up at regional Girl Scout Center

Volunteer Years of Service Pins will not be sent through the mail.

Application form must be submitted to the appropriate regional Girl Scout Center by February 1.

15


Volunteer of Excellence Award Nomination The following information must be completed in its entirety:

Deadline for Submitting: February 1

Section 2: Nominator Information

Name:

Address: Street City State Zip Code

Telephone (Day): (evening):

Troop/Group Grade Level: Troop #:

Service Unit Name: Service Unit #:

Position for which nominee is being recognized:

Selection Committee Use � Nominee meets

requirements for award. � Nominee does not meet

requirements for award.

*Application form must be submitted to the appropriate regional Girl Scout Center by February 1.

Section 1: Nominee Information Name:

Address: Street City State Zip Code

Telephone (Day): (evening):

Troop/Group Grade Level: Troop #:


Position for which nominee is being recognized:

For Council Use Only Date nomination received in its entirety:

Nominee meets training requirements �

Nominee is registered Girl Scout Member �

Nominee meets requirements for award �

Two forms of endorsement �

Endorsements clearly show criteria met �

16


Nomination Process for Volunteer of Excellence Award

1. Complete the nomination form.

2. Collect two forms of endorsement that clearly show how the volunteer has performed beyond the

expectations of the position for which they are being recognized. Endorsement may be submitted

as a letter or by utilizing the provided form on page 17. See below for some questions/ideas to help

get you started:

♦ Has the volunteer performed above and beyond the position requirements?

♦ What is the audience benefitting from the service provided?

♦ What is the service or program provided by the volunteer?

♦ What are the outcomes of the service or program?

♦ How did the service or program further the council’s mission and goals?

3. Attach the two forms of endorsement to the nomination form and submit to your regional Girl Scout Center before February 1.

Checklist for Nomination

� Nomination form is completed.

� At least two forms of endorsement are attached to nomination form.

� Each endorsement clearly shows how the volunteer has performed beyond expectations of the position for which they are being recognized.

� A copy of the nomination form and endorsements are retained by the nominator for records.

� Nomination form and endorsements are submitted to the regional Girl Scout Center no later than February 1.

� Nominee is a registered Girl Scout. Nominees not registered prior to February 1 will not be considered for an award.

17

Volunteer of Excellence—Endorsement Questionnaire

The nominee:

� Works directly with girls

� Works indirectly, working with adults If the nominee worked directly with girls, please describe how he/she has delivered outstanding service to deliver the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. If the nominee worked indirectly to support the council’s mission and goals, please describe the specific impact made in one of more of the following functional areas:


• Volunteer coaching and support

• Community cultivation

• Program delivery


• Council support services (such as IT, customer service, marketing, property and so forth.)

Outline the audience benefitting from the service provided.

Give a detailed description of the service/program activity provided by the candidate and how it goes

beyond position requirements.

Nominee Information

Name: Service unit: Position being recognized:

18

What were the outcomes from the program activity or service?

How did the program activity/service further the council’s overall mission and goals?

Additional information:

Endorser Information Name: Service Unit: Email: Address: Phone Number:

19


Appreciation Pin, Honor Pin, Thanks Badge and Thanks Badge II Nomination

Please check the appropriate award: (See pages 5–6 for criteria)

� Appreciation Pin

� Honor Pin

� Thanks Badge

� Thanks Badge II


Section II. Person(s) Submitting Award Nomination

Name: Address:

Street # and Name City State Zip Code

Telephone (day): ( ) (evening): ( ) Email: Service Unit Name: Service Unit #:

Attention Nominator: Please attach a letter to the nomination form describing why you feel the

nominee deserves the award. This is not an endorsement letter. Please attach the appropriate number of endorsements (letters or questionnaires). Ensure that the following are addressed in the endorsements:

� How the nominee has gone above and beyond their position responsibilities or role in the position you have listed above. (If the position is not a council recognized role or unique to the service unit, please attach a position description).

� Address results of the nominees work. For example, how many girls or adults have been affected by the work, how has the work impacted the service unit(s), council, Girl Scout program processes, Girl Scout mission or Council Goals.

Selection Committee Use � Nominee meets

requirements for award. � Nominee does not meet


Section I. Nominee Information Name:

Address: Street # and Name City State Zip Code

Telephone (day): ( ) (evening): ( )

Position for which the volunteer is to be recognized:

Service Unit Name: Service Unit Number:

For the volunteer position of:

(Required for award consideration)

*Application form must be submitted to the appropriate regional Girl Scout Center by February 1

20


Nomination Process for the Appreciation Pin, Honor Pin, Thanks Badge and Thanks Badge II

1. Review the selection criteria for this award, read the position description for the position you listed on

the front of this form, and complete the nomination paragraph based on how the nominee has gone above and beyond the position responsibilities.

2. Complete a nomination form and appropriate number of endorsements (letters or questionnaires). Use the following questions to help create a results-oriented nomination letter:

• Why are you nominating this person for this award?

• How has the nominee’s service been outstanding above and beyond the position description and benefited the service unit or the Girl Scout Leadership Experience?

• Describe the impact the nominee’s service has had on:

o The service unit (For Appreciation Pin)

o Larger geographic region or multiple service units (For Honor Pin)

o The council (For Thanks Badge I and II)

o The Girl Scout organization (For Thanks Badge I and II)

• Who has benefited from the nominee’s service? Give examples.

• What is special and unique about the nominee’s contribution?

• How has the service provided help move the organization toward accomplishing the Council Goals?

3. Attach endorsements (letters or questionnaires) from other individuals familiar with the service given by the nominee: Two for the Appreciation Pin, three for Honor Pin and four for the Thanks Badge and Thanks Badge II.

• The letters must include a cover sheet that includes important information on the nominee and nominator and contact information.

• The endorsements should describe the outstanding service performed by the nominee.

• The endorsements should be specific to the service performed and show results.

4. Attach the letters of endorsement to the nomination form and send it to regional Girl Scout Center by February 1.

Checklist for Nomination: � Award nomination form is completed, including the job position for which the volunteer is

being nominated.

� Nominator (person listed on nomination form) completes nomination paragraph.

� Endorsements (letters or questionnaires) are completed by different individuals (not the nominator) who are familiar with the service provided by the nominee.

� Endorsements address about how the volunteer has gone above and beyond in the job they are being nominated for and show results.

� A copy of the nomination form and letters are kept with the nominator.

� Nomination form and all endorsements are sent together to the regional Girl Scout Center by February 1.

� All endorsements and paragraph are attached to the nomination form (paragraph completed by the nominator and letters completed by different individuals.)

� Is the volunteer registered and in good standing with the organization? Volunteers not registered by February 1 will not be considered for an award.

21

Appreciation Pin, Honor Pin, Thanks Badge and Thanks Badge II—Endorsement Questionnaire

Please answer the following questions and be as specific as possible. Attach additional sheets, if necessary. Why are you endorsing this person for this award?

How has the nominee’s service been outstanding and above and beyond the position description and benefited the service unit or the Girl Scout Leadership Experience? (Be specific)

Describe the impact the nominee’s service has had on:

• The service unit (For Appreciation Pin)

• Larger geographic region or multiple service units (For Honor Pin)

• The council and/or The Girl Scout organization (For Thanks Badge I and II)

Nominee Information

Name: Service unit: Position being recognized:

22

Appreciation Pin, Honor Pin, Thanks Badge and Thanks Badge II—Endorsement Questionnaire (continued)

Who has benefited from the nominee’s service? Give examples.

What is special and unique about the nominee’s contribution?

How has the service provided help move the organization toward accomplishing the Council Goals?


23


The President’s Award Nomination

Criteria: Schedule a meeting by September 30 with a member of your service delivery team (paid staff) to discuss criteria and documentation.

1. All service team members are registered with Girl Scouts of the USA. 2. All service team members, leaders and co-leaders have completed the

appropriate trainings within six months of appointment for their position. 3. Delivery of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience in the service unit area is

effective, resulting in the continuity of a minimum of 75 percent retention of troops/groups or a minimum 75 percent retention of troop/group leadership.

4. Overall girl membership for the service unit has surpassed the membership goal agreed upon by the team and service delivery team by September 30.

5. Overall membership of the service unit reflects the diversity of the geographic area. 6. Service team members cultivate contacts in the community (i.e. scheduled talks with civic groups,

sponsorship agreements or service unit profile form updates). 7. Required reports are submitted on time for returning troops (no later than October 31). 8. The service team maintains ongoing communications with girls registered individually in the service unit. 9. The service unit maintains ongoing communication with each troop/group and with leadership utilizing a

variety of methods. 10. The service team encourages adult participation in the fund development campaign and has increased

giving to support the council.


Section II. Person Submitting Award Nomination

Name:



Email:


Section I. President Award Nomination Information

Service Unit Name: Service Unit Number:

Service Unit Chair:


Telephone (day: ( ) (evening):

Selection Committee Use � Service unit meets

requirements for award. � Service unit does not meet



24


Nomination Process for the President’s Award 1. Schedule a meeting with a member of your service delivery team to discuss criteria

and documentation before you begin work on this award. 2. Complete the award nomination form. 3. Attach endorsements as outlined in the President’s Award Nomination Procedural

Packet. 4. Compile all required documentation in a three-ring notebook and send it to your

regional Girl Scout Center by February 1.

Checklist for Nomination:

� Meeting held with member of the service delivery team to discuss criteria and documentation at least one year prior to receiving the award.

� A President’s Award Nomination Procedural Packet is given to the service unit chair/service team.

� Service team is meeting to accomplish documentation.

� Award nomination form is completed.

� All endorsements are completed by the appropriate people as outlined in the President’s Award Nomination Procedural Packet.

� A copy of the nomination form, letters and documentation are kept with the nominator.

� Nomination forms, documentation and all letters are placed in a three-ring binder and sent to the appropriate regional Girl Scout Center by February 1.

25


The Service Team Star Award This award is for service team members, to recognize their outstanding contribution in accomplishing one of the essential responsibilities of a service unit.

Nomination Deadline is February 1

Service Team Position Being Recognized:

Section II. Nominator Name:


Telephone (day): ( ) (evening): ( ) Email:

Service unit name: Service unit #:

Attach a letter to the nomination form describing why you feel the nominee deserves this award. Please include answers to the questions below.

� How has the nominee contributed to the accomplishment of one of the essential responsibilities of a service unit in their service team position during the current membership year? Please identify the service unit responsibility accomplished.

� Address results of the nominees work: How many girls or adults have been affected by the work? How has the work impacted the service unit(s)? How has the volunteer gone above and beyond the position description in achieving the identified service unit responsibility?

Section I. Nominee Information

Name:



Position for which the volunteer is to be recognized:

Service unit responsibility the nomination focuses on:

Service unit name: Service unit number:

The Essential Responsibilities of the Service Unit

Recruit volunteers and girls reflective of the diversity of the community: � Service team members—service unit chair, recruitment chair, data coordinator, Girl Scout Leadership

Experience chair and product sales chair

� Troop/group leaders and troop/group volunteers � Girl membership—at all grade levels

Provide support to leaders and other troop volunteers to promote the delivery of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience including: � Required and enrichment training � Girl planned service unit events

� Volunteer recognition � Participation in council and community events

� Service unit networking and discussion (buzz) groups


26


Nomination Process for Service Team Star Award 1. Review the selection criteria for this award, read the position description for the position being

recognized.

2. Complete a nomination form and a nomination letter based on how the nominee has made an outstanding contribution in accomplishing one of the essential responsibilities of a service unit. Use the following questions to help create a results-oriented nomination letter:

• Why are you nominating this person for this award?

• How has the nominee’s service been outstanding in achieving one of the service unit responsibilities?

• Describe the impact the nominee’s service has had on the service unit, region or council.

• Who has benefited from the nominee’s service? Give examples.

• What is special and unique about the nominee’s contribution?

• How has the service provided help move the organization/service unit toward accomplishing the Council Goals and one of the essential responsibilities of a service unit?

3. Obtain two letters of endorsement from other individuals familiar with the service given by the nominee.

• The letters must include the name/address and phone number of the person making the endorsement.

• The letters should describe the outstanding service performed by the nominee.

• The letters should be specific to the service performed, award criteria and show results.

4. Attach the three pieces of documentation to the nomination form and send to the appropriate regional Girl Scout Center by February 1.


� Award nomination form is completed including the position for which the volunteer is being nominated and the essential responsibilities of the service unit in which the nomination focuses.

� Nominator (person listed on nomination form) completes nomination letter.

� Endorsement letters are completed by different individuals (not the nominator) who are familiar with the service provided by the nominee.


� All required endorsements are attached to the nomination form

� Is the volunteer registered and in good standing with the organization? Volunteers not registered by February 1, will not be considered for an award.

� Nomination form and all letters are sent to the appropriate regional Girl Scout Center (Cincinnati, Dayton or Toledo) by February 1

27

Service Team Star Award—Endorsement Questionnaire


How has the nominee’s service been outstanding in achieving one of the service unit responsibilities? (Be specific)

Describe the impact the nominee’s service has had on the service unit, region or council. (Be specific)

Who has benefited from the nominee’s service? Give examples.

Nominee Information

Name: Service unit: Service Team position being recognized:

28

Service Team Star Award—Endorsement Questionnaire (continued)

What is special and unique about the nominee’s contribution?

How has the service provided help move the organization/service unit toward accomplishing the Council Goals and one of the essential responsibilities of a service unit?


29


Green Badge of Courage This award recognizes adults in Girl Scouts who have performed a courageous act or met a challenge in a

creative way within the role as a Girl Scout volunteer. This award:

� Requires two (2) letters of endorsement

� Must be submitted by February 1 to the regional Girl Scout Center

Section II. Person(s) Submitting Award Nomination

Name:



Service unit: Email: Briefly, describe what courageous act or challenge this person has met in a creative way and how it relates to the Girl Scout mission, the Council Goals and their volunteer role with Girl Scouts of Western Ohio.

Section I. Nominee Information

Name:



Email:

Service unit:


30

The following people have written endorsements, which are attached (two endorsements required): 1) Name: Address: City/State: Zip: Phone: Email: 2) Name: Address: City/State: Zip: Phone: Email:

Council Goals

Girls will:

• Understand themselves and their values

• Use their knowledge and skills to explore the world

• Care about inspire, and team with others locally and globally

• Act to make the world a better place


� Award nomination form is completed.

� Nomination letter is completed by nominator (person listed on nomination form).

� Two endorsements are completed by different individuals (not the nominator) who are familiar with the courageous act performed by the nominee.


� All required endorsements are attached to the nomination form .

� Nomination form and required endorsements are submitted to regional Girl Scout Center by February 1.

� Is the volunteer registered and in good standing with the organization? Volunteers not registered by February 1 will not be considered for an award.

31

Green Badge of Courage—Endorsement Questionnaire


How has this person performed a courageous act?

How has this person met a challenge in a creative way?

Nominee Information

Name: Service unit:

32

Green Badge of Courage—Endorsement Questionnaire (continued)

How has this person continued to fulfill volunteer duties or recruited others in spite of a challenging circumstance?

How does the courageous act or challenge relate to the Girl Scout mission and Council Goals?


33

Girl Scout Adult Recognitions Placement Guide

14, 15, 16, 17

1. 13. 2.

12. 3. 4. 5.

7, 8, 9, 10 6.

Note: If an adult has received more than one special recognition, (i.e. Appreciation Pin)

the last one received is generally the one worn on the uniform.

1. Adult Insignia Tab

2. World Trefoil Pin

3. Adult Position Pin

4. Girl Scout Pin

5. Membership Numeral Guard

6. Campus Girl Scout Guard

7. Girl Scout Gold Award

8. Bridge to Adult Girl Scouts Award

9. Years of Service Pin

10. Volunteer of Excellence

11. Personalized ID Pin

12. Lifetime Membership Pin

13. Appreciation Pin

14. Thanks Badge

15. Thanks Badge II

16. Honor Pin

MB:lb/1001607-008

volunteer appreciation in girl scouting 2014...volunteer appreciation in girl scouting girl scouts...

Documents