Many stories, I believe that are shared, are about how being a girl scout when women were children helped them to develop their courage and character and develop into a strong woman.
My story is slightly different. My girl scout story begins almost 5 years ago when I joined the Girl Scouts of the USA staff.
Over my 30-year career in the workforce, I have been employed by high profile companies such as Merrill Lynch, AT&T, AON Consulting and Linde, an international Oil and Gas Organization. They all provide superior services and good to the public and have a high percentage of male employees. During my work experiences with these companies there was still just one thing missing for me – personal meaning. Joining the Girl Scouts has given me a sense of purpose. Working for this non for profit has increased my job satisfaction and my engagement level has increased.
Working with like-minded individuals has provided me with a group of peers that I can share ideas with and develop strong bonds. Especially during these times of new working conditions and adjusting home and family life, I have a set of co-workers and friends who I can turn to when I need support in remaining courageous.
Many of us spend more time at work than we do with our partner, families and friends. For me, having this common purpose has made a big difference in not only my professional life but in my life in general.
Valerie Egan,
Director of Learning & Development
Lifetime Member GSUSA