Girl Scout Alumnae, Keri Brockett Carelas shares the importance of supporting girls through the Jane S. Barringer Award

I have been involved with the Girl Scouts of the United States of America organization since I was four years old and am a lifetime member. I am a Gold Award recipient, Jane S. Barringer Award recipient, and I’ve served as a leader and teen mentor. The Girl Scouts of the United States of America and this council in particular have played a significant role in my life.

After earning my Gold Award, I was chosen to receive the Jane S. Barringer Award. This annual $1,000 award honors a Gold Award recipient and helps her to further her education or career aspirations. I was able to use the scholarship to help pay for my college education to obtain my Bachelor of Science degree in Child Life.  I am now a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) and use my skills to work with youth of all ages in different capacities.

I’m excited to share with you that Girl Scouts – North Carolina Coastal Pines plans to make the Jane S. Barringer Award a permanent opportunity for girls in our council by opening an endowment for the Award. Endowing the Jane S. Barringer Award means that for years to come we can support Girl Scout Gold Award recipients in their future endeavors. Together, we are hoping to raise $25,000 – the minimum amount to open the endowment and provide $1,000 or more annually to one of our girls.

With your help we’ll reach our goal! How great would that be?!?

What’s even more exciting is that an anonymous donor will match your gift dollar-for-dollar up to $10,000! It’s a wonderful tribute to how much this community cares about Ms. B and all our Girl Scouts.

Jane Barringer has given over 50 years of her life promoting the Girl Scout mission and inspiring girls of all ages. Her dedication and devotion has offered girls unique perspectives and opportunities to make a difference in their community, state, country, and across the world. With an endowment fund, the Jane S. Barringer Award will continue its legacy and further girl education and skill development, and possibly allow for additional or higher amount scholarships to be awarded.

As a former Girl Scout Membership Initiatives Coordinator in the Fayetteville area, I’ve seen our Girl Scouts give back to their communities every day. I truly believe this organization builds courage, confidence, and character in young women who truly make the world a better place.

I attribute many of the successes I have had in my life, specifically leadership skills and opportunities, to the values instilled in me by the Girl Scout movement.  Any investment that provides a girl to move forward in her leadership, academic growth, skills and talents to make the world a better place is truly a meaningful gift.

A gift made toward the Jane S. Barringer Award Endowment fund will ensure that the positive benefits of receiving the award continue long into the future and help many more girls in our council follow – and pursue – their dreams.

Visit www.investingirlsNC.org to make your gift today. Thank you.