The Spirit of Girl Scouting Award ~ Guilford, CT ~ June 2013

 Today we got word that Christen received the "Spirit of Girl Scouting Award".  She received this award out of 26 Girl Scout Troops in Guilford, CT,  for living the Girl Scout Promise and Law!

Christen, we are so proud of you!

 Christen carried the American Flag in the Memorial Day Parade.

 Christen works very hard, and so does her her mother.  Jodi is an assistant GS leader and also earned a Helping Hands award!  She is always present with her camera also.  ( :

Christen and Jodi also volunteer at High Hopes Therapeutic Riding.  High Hopes is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing the benefits of horseback riding and other equine related activities to individuals with special needs.

With over 250 special needs participants each week, High Hopes relies on over 600 volunteers to support all aspects of the program including working directly with the special needs riders in  the arena as horse leader and sidewalkers, supporting their summer camp program and taking care of the facility. 

As a dedicated and responsible and reliable volunteer Christen has contributed 112 hours of volunteer work from March 2012 to present. "Christen's patience and maturity are exemplary and she has expressed that this experience has helped her to form personal goals."

Again, we are soooo proud of both of you....Jodi & Christen!

 



 Christen's support as a sidewalker and coach is instrumental in providing a sensory rich experience for these children, many who have diagnoses on the autism spectrum.

 Caring for the horses and stables, working as a barn assistant!

High Hopes where horses are therapeutic magic....

 

When not volunteering Christen always finds something fun to do!

She also visits her friend May every week.  May turned 101 this year and lives in her own home and enjoys Christen's visits!

In her spare time, Christen also volunteers with the Special Olympics, takes piano lessons,  plays the french horn, plays soccer, and keeps her A average in school.

Congratulations on you GS Award Christen!  And Jodi! We are proud of both of  you!

Keep up the good work!  I hope your Mom will continue to keep up with you Christen!   (:

Love you guys!

Granny & Pa