MD0317’s End-of-Year Campout was gifted with beautiful weather and a stunning sunrise. Getting girls outdoors to connect with God’s amazing creation is what AHG Troops do best!
Dear AHG Family,
As we begin a new 2025-2026 Program Year together, my heart is full of gratitude—for you, for this ministry, and most of all, for the PRICELESS love of our Heavenly Father.
This year’s theme calls us to reflect not on our worth, but on the immeasurable worth of God’s love for us. His love is steadfast and sacrificial, extravagant and eternal. It is the very foundation of this ministry and the reason American Heritage Girls has flourished for thirty years. As we celebrate our 30th Anniversary, we look back on the incredible legacy God has written through AHG—and we look ahead with faith, trusting Him to continue to do more than we could ask or imagine.
It has been one of the greatest privileges of my life to serve as the Founder and Executive Director of AHG since its inception. This summer, I have stepped into a new season as Executive Director Emeritus, and with great joy, I’ve passed the sacred keys of leadership to the incredibly capable hands of Rachael Culpepper, who now serves as Executive Director. Rachael brings deep passion, unwavering faith, and a clear vision for the future of this ministry. You can read her heartfelt message on page 31.
Throughout our 30 years, AHG has been richly blessed—with Christcentered Troops, faithful volunteers, courageous girls, and a growing network of supporters who believe in raising up a generation of Godly women of integrity. But our greatest gift, the one that fuels everything we do, is the limitless, unconditional, and PRICELESS love of God.
As you lead, serve, and grow this year, may you be constantly reminded of that love. Let it overflow in your words, your actions, and your relationships. Let it be the guiding light of your leadership and the anchor of your faith.
With love and gratitude,
Patti Garibay Founder & Executive Director Emeritus American Heritage Girls, Inc.
Sharing the AHG Program with audiences across the country on Fox News, Sacred Heart Radio, Truth & Liberty TV, The Church & State Podcast, Real Clear Religion, and more.
PRICELESS: LEADING GIRLS TO THE LOVE OF GOD THROUGH AHG, INTRODUCING THE AHG 2025-2026 PROGRAM YEAR THEME: PRICELESS
American Heritage Girls are fulfilling God’s call to be His hands and feet. Read about Troop service projects and their impact on local communities across the country.
Troop activities, special events, girl leadership, and more! AHG gives girls the safe and Holy Spirit-filled space to grow in their identity and abilities.
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” —MATTHEW 13:45-46, NKJV
AHG Badges give girls the opportunity to develop applicable life skills, grow in faith, and discover new passions.
The secret to a thriving AHG Troop is a strong, supportive Charter Organization. Good Shepherd Lutheran in Florence, Kentucky is just that for the girls and volunteers of KY0608
Kristy Delgado, Chicagoland Area Coordinator, shares valuable insight on how a Program Year Theme can unite, ignite, and inspire Troops and Areas nationwide.
Meet Grace Pleinis, Stars & Stripes Award Recipient from FL2131
Meet Hannah Russell, former Girl Member of TX0407, a faithful Christian woman with a fresh perspective on the intersection of faith, patriotism, and leadership.
Exciting updates, changes, and news from the AHG, Inc. Office in Cincinnati, OH and Staff across the country.
ABOUT THE COVER
MEET OUR AHG COVER GIRLS
BEHIND THE COVER
Did you know that AHG publications, social media photos, and video content feature the smiling faces of real-live American Heritage Girls? Even AHGstore merchandise is worn not by models, but by girls, parents, and volunteers registered in the program! With tens of thousands of members all across the country (not to mention the Trailblazer families in 15 countries abroad!), AHG relies on the generous submissions of Troop photographs to tell the story of the ministry. From amateur individual snapshots to fullycurated professional galleries, all 1MB+ photos of registered, media-released Girl and Adult Members are welcomed.
Members are invited to share their Troop photographs and stories at https://ahg.pub/photosubmission
Patriotic holidays bring communities together! NY4813 represented AHG well in a recent Memorial Day Parade. The Girl Members were also honored to present the flags during the ceremony held after the parade that day. AHG teaches girls to steward their citizenship well, locally and in their country, through the AHG Oath, the Citizen Program Emphasis, and participation in events like this.
Looking to share this issue with friends, family, or someone you think might love the AHG Program? Share the digital version FREE by visiting issuu.com/americanheritagegirls
Want an extra hard copy for your daughter’s memory box or to give to a potential local Charter Organization?
Order today from the AHGstore by visiting store.americanheritagegirls.org
AHGNEWS
RECENT MEDIA SPOTS FOR AHG, INC.
AHG was all over the media this quarter! Check out the many interviews AHG Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay participated in with news outlets all over the country:
Real Clear Religion
Building Community to Break the Silence of Loneliness realclearreligion.org/articles/2025/04/09/building_community_to_break_the_silence_of_ loneliness_1102943.html
Church and State Podcast
Patti Garibay American Heritage Girls churchandstate.media/patti-garibay-american-heritage-girls-interview
Fox News
First-ever American pope inspires faith leaders nationwide: ‘heart of integrity’ foxnews.com/lifestyle/first-ever-american-pope-inspires-faith-leaders-nationwide-heart-integrity
The Truth & Liberty Show
American Heritage Girls with Patti Garibay truthandliberty.net/episodes/american-heritage-girls-with-patti-garibay
Sacred Heart Catholic Radio
Driving Home the Faith 2025.06.09 omny.fm/shows/driving-home-the-faith/driving-home-the-faith-2025-06-09?t=37m25s
Faith Radio
Rachael Culpepper - American Heritage Girls podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culpepper-rachael-american-heritage-girls/ id1451236508?i=1000712351636
The Drive Home with Dr. Greg Seltz/WAVA-FM
The Drive Home Show – 06/18/2025 Hour 2”, start listening at 31:09 omny.fm/shows/the-drive-home-show/the-drive-home-show-06-18-2025-hour2?t=30m39s
The Christian Post
How parents can embrace technology as a ‘Gospel-bringing tool’ for meaningful discipleship christianpost.com/news/how-parents-can-use-technology-to-help-kids-grow-in-their-faith.html
Whether it’s faith, service, or fun, communities across the nation are witnessing contributions of local AHG Troops.
Heritage Headlines, AHG’s quarterly magazine, seeks to spread those good news stories while encouraging other Troops to follow in their footsteps.
FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR EMERITUS
Patti Garibay
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Rachael Culpepper
CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER
Sheila Jones
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
Erin Marco
CONTENT MARKETING LEAD
Natalie Ambrose
GRAPHIC DESIGN SPECIALIST
Brooke Honer
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Kristy Delgado
Direct all Letters to the Editor, address changes, or other correspondence to:
American Heritage Girls, Inc. 35 Tri-County Parkway Cincinnati, OH 45246 513-771-2025
news@ahgonline.org americanheritagegirls.org
AHGONLINE
COMMENTS & CONVERSATION
COMMENTS & CONVERSATION
The AHG Program encourages girls to serve in their communities! Troop FL5312 chose to care for their community by sewing teddy bears and diaper changing pads for their local women’s center.
“Wreaths Across America, picked up sticks at a Camp, delivered Troop-made Christmas cards to Nursing home, and are planning a baby shower for our local Pregnancy Center.”
—Shannon Jurdzy IN1914
“We made shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child. We helped drop off poinsettias for our charter church to parishioners who were over 80. That was a Christmas blessing from them to their oldest members. They were so grateful and surprised!”
—Sarah ‘Moon’ Trout
“Hello from FL9613! I recognize that camp T-shirt. We’re currently collecting registration information for FL Spring Campout! For service so far, we’ve organized donations for a new foster care group that is providing a place where families can come ‘shop’ for free when they have new children who need clothes, made bracelets for OCC boxes, made cards for meals on wheels recipients, and colored pictures for Color a Smile.”
—Melinda Kern
“AR0316 made tie pillows for Arkansas Children’s Hospital.”
—Melissa Wright Haralson
“Love this!”
—Courtney Wolter
“KY5414 took part in meal packing with Lifeline Christian Mission.”
—Erin McClure
“MI2006 packed about 120 purses with feline hygiene products, small, toiletries, and snacks as “Be a Blessing Bags” for our local food bank.”
—Kathleen Furst
“OH1850 purchased, packed & delivered baskets to a local assisted living facility. This year we delivered 43 total. This is our third year doing this service project.”
—Rachel Rawlins Lester
“MI0144 made fleece tie blankets for the local children’s hospital patients, collected toys for the local pregnancy care center, and we’re visiting residents at a nursing home in February to pass our homemade heart valentines! It’s all such a joy!”
—Amanda-Steve Rice
“What an inspiration! Hello from TX1001! Our Troop opened a crazy number (thousands) of puzzles and cut out the picture to prep for OCC Shoebox Booth at the county fair ran by our Samaritan’s Purse Local Area!”
—Janet Knapp Starr
GET FEATURED
Share your Troop photos with the hashtag #ahgfun on Instagram for a chance to be shared in Heritage Headlines.
@joyous1forever
@trishenmarie
@ahg_va7719
@kerrinnrose
SERVICESTORIES
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE AN ACTIVE CITIZEN OF THE UNITED STATES
TEXAS TROOP PROVIDES COMMUNITY EVENT AT HISTORIC ORPHANAGE
Multi-Troop events are a key part of AHG fun and connection, but when TX0407 sought to combine the event with service, the Kingdom impact was multiplied immensely! The Pythian Home in Weatherford, Texas is now a center for mothers and children in need of support and safety. Unit Leader LeAnn Russell had a passion to offer an event centering on faith, family, and fun. So, the AHG Multi-Troop event delivered all the family fun of a carnival to their doors complete with activities, food, balloons, and smiles. Each Troop participating was responsible for hosting activity booths for the residents. Explorer Adelynn enjoyed serving the children saying, “My favorite part was getting to do a booth and seeing the kids go around and enjoying themselves.” Pioneer Lily found that serving can be fun too, “I liked getting to participate in the booths with the kids.”
GEORGIA TROOP LOCK-IN COMBINES FUN WITH FOSTER CARE BACKPACK SERVICE PROJECT
AHG Troops are known for putting love into action through service. This spring, GA0110 hosted a Troop Lock-In event which included an opportunity to partner with their Charter Organization’s women’s ministry to serve local foster children. Girl Members brought their sleeping bags, pillows, and supplies to fill backpacks with care items for children in foster care. Troop volunteers set up lines of supply-filled tables and girls filed through choosing items with care for each backpack. Soon all bags were filled, and the girls’ faces beamed with joy! Girl Members also generously provided food items to stock the Charter Organization food pantry. In addition to friendship connections and memories, GA0110 also impacted the lives of many children with this lock-in event service project.
D.C. METRO AREA TEAMS UP WITH RADIO STATION FOR COMMUNITY OUTREACH CONCERT
AHG Area Teams expertly combine the momentum of Troop life with a solid community presence, then compound their efforts to truly make a difference in their respective locations across the nation. The D.C. Metro Area Team teamed up with a Washington D.C. Christian radio station for a community outreach concert, and the efforts were impressive. In conjunction with Trail Life USA Troops, they took what previously was an all-day concert setup and streamlined the process down to two hours. Many hands truly makes light work! The concert featured recording artists Sidewalk Prophets and the evening blessed hundreds in attendance. The D.C. Metro Area Team was delighted to learn that the band’s stage manager also serves as a Troop Coordinator and her adult daughter is an AHG Alumna. The AHG Ministry’s impact is evident in so many places!
GIRLSTORIES
INCREDIBLE TALES OF LEADERSHIP, VOLUNTEERING, AND FRIENDSHIP
FLORIDA TROOP CAMPOUT
WELCOMES RISING PIONEERS INTO UNIT
AHG Troops host Crossover Ceremonies for girls moving to the next age-appropriate Program Level. When Explorers turn 12 years old, they are eligible to move up to the Pioneer Program Level and participate in the Pioneer & Patriot Unit activities. This spring FL2031 hosted a special campout to specifically welcome the new Pioneers into the cadence of friendship, leadership, and service that older girls enjoy. Fort DeSoto Park provided a pristine beach backdrop for the campout offering abundant sea life on the shoreline, including crabs, jellyfish, sand dollars, sea sponges, completing some Freshwater & Marine Biology Badge requirements as an added bonus. The Pioneer and Patriot Girl Members embarked on some geocaching to complete the final requirements for the Geocaching Badge. In addition to traditional campfires, smores, and stories under the stars, the girls bonded over laughter and games. FL2031 intentionally offers older girls a truly special crossing over experience with memory-making campouts like this.
TEXAS EXPLORER WINS AHG T-SHIRT DESIGN CONTEST WITH CREATIVITY AND PIZZAZZ
Earlier this year, AHG posed a fun opportunity for Girl Members to enter a design contest. Among the nationwide entries, Isabel, an Explorer from was chosen for the winning design. She described how a day of boredom turned into a creative collaboration when she incorporated her brother’s suggestion into the design artwork—the very detail needed to take her work to the next level. Over a few more days she experimented with various iterations altering the colors and fun visual elements. By the end of the week, Isabel had a design she was happy with, and it was ready to submit! Once she was notified that her design was chosen, the AHG, Inc. Graphic Design Team collaborated with Isabel to digitize the design and prepare it to for apparel merchandising. Isabel’s design became an AHGstore t-shirt available for purchase. She said the honor means a lot to her, exclaiming “Now girls all around the world will wear my design!”
The last year brought exciting growth for AHG in the state of Louisiana. In addition to the Southeast area formally establishing an AHG Area Team, Girl and Adult Members from LA1943, LA2521, LA0335, and LA2013 partnered for their first Multi-Troop campout at the Waddill Wildlife Refuge in November. Jennie Francart of LA2013 led the girls in some archery safety and hosted a friendly competition, allowing Troops a fun experience for this niche badgework skill. Traditional campout activities included hiking—and some riverbed mud fun—a game of capture the flag, and heatless s’mores with an innovative chocolate icing substitute due to an area burn ban. The Louisiana Troops have affectionately dubbed the campout “Mud and Magnolias” with intentions to make it an annual Multi-Troop event. Pioneer Girl Member Felicity of LA1943 had a great time, saying, “Mud and Magnolias was a great time and it was nice to meet other girls from other cities who are also in AHG like me.”
BADGESTORIES
LEARNING LIFE SKILLS AND BUILDING CONFIDENCE
CAKE DECORATING BADGE
Cake decorating is a fun hobby that utilizes creativity and can be enjoyed any time and for any occasion. Whether it is a practice cake, a character birthday cake for a child, a pretty cake for a special friend, a holiday cake for a party, or a beautiful wedding cake: cakes can be used to honor and encourage others.
AHG Troops have fun and innovative approaches to badgework! VA0428’s annual Father-Daughter Event took on a fun angle with dads helping the girls decorate culinary masterpieces for the Cake Decorating Badge requirement #6. In preparation for a great event, the Troop’s Pioneers and Patriots baked the cakes so the decorating fun could take center stage during the special evening. The entire event was planned by a Troop Explorer as a Level Award requirement. A Troop mom led this fun badgework experience leaning on her own professional skills as a cake decorator. The Cake Decorating Badge is always a girl favorite in AHG where creativity, giggles, and tasty treats abound!
OUR CONSTITUTION BADGE
Just as a foundation supports a building and the framework defines the walls, the Constitution of the United States of America is the foundational document that defines the structure of the government and the laws of our land. Not only does the Constitution outline the powers that the government has, but it also defines the rights of the people and declares that the government cannot take on powers that it has not been given. As a citizen, it is important to know the United States Constitution, the rights you are guaranteed under it, its history, and how the process to change the Constitution works.
The FL5312 Pioneer & Patriot (PI/PA) Unit had a unique opportunity to interview Florida Circuit Judge, Steven B. Whittington, as well as attend his judicial proceedings, allowing them to see firsthand how the U.S. Constitution is applied in real-life cases. Afterward, they had a meaningful conversation with Judge Whittington in his chambers. These experiences gave the PI/PA Girl Members realworld examples of how the U.S. Constitution and our judicial system function beyond textbooks. Pioneer Girl Member Amelia extolled the badgework experience by saying, “As a citizen of America, it is our responsibility to know our rights and laws, otherwise, we lose the freedom previously established by the founding fathers. The Our Constitution Badge was engaging, an in-depth way to introduce us to our constitutional rights as American citizens.” Assistant Unit Leader Katrina Cramer echoed similar sentiments, “The badge connects civic duty with Christian values, emphasizing the importance of moral leadership and integrity in public life.”
ENTREPRENEURSHIP BADGE
Determination and imagination are the driving forces behind many of the businesses you see each day. Learning to apply basic business principles and how to follow a careful plan of action leads to many new and successful businesses. Proverbs 31 gives us a great example of a determined woman using her talents and business abilities to bless her family and community.
Innovation. Resilience. Creativity. These are all great qualities for an entrepreneur in today’s modern business world. The Girl Members of TX0465 got the chance to learn these qualities firsthand when they took on the Entrepreneurship Badge this Program Year. Troop leaders designed the girls’ experience to closely mirror a real-world scenario complete with earned “AHG bucks” (play money used as currency), an an entrepreneurship fair (in conjunction with a Troop lock-in event) coordinated by the Pioneer & Patriot Unit, and mock “shops” built and run by teams of girls. From face painting, home-baked treats, to crafts and novelties, each mock business exhibited the girls’ innovative spirits. Tenderheart Jordyn especially enjoyed when “customers” came to her shop to purchase the lovingly crafted kitty cat paper rolls she had designed. The whole experience proved to be a Troop favorite, one that highlighted both the volunteers’ and Girl Members’ ingenuity—a vital quality for any entrepreneur!
CHARTER ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT
GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH
This issue, AHG is excited to shine a light on Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Florence, KY, home to KY0608. Charter Representative Linnea Caldon and Troop Coordinator Samantha Hall reflect on six years of chartering an AHG Troop at their church and the significant impact AHG has had on their faith community.
ARGUABLY THE MOST IMPACTFUL FORCE IN THE WELL-BEING OF AN AHG TROOP IS THE CHARTER ORGANIZATION.
Every Troop is owned by a Charter Organization, which is typically a church, school, or similarly-aligned Christian organization. Without the support of their Charter Organization, an AHG Troop would not exist. When the Charter Organization and Charter Representative are involved beyond simply providing meeting space, the AHG Ministry can have an incredible impact on the outreach of the organization.
Linnea Caldon–Charter Representative
WHY DID YOUR CHURCH DECIDE TO CHARTER AN AHG TROOP?
Looking at the changes taking place in other scouting organizations, we wanted to host a more Christian-based approach in teaching young people life skills and enjoying wholesome fun and meaningful service activities. When Good Shepherd built the Family Life Center, it was with the hope that organizations in the community would use the facility. The AHG Troop “makes themselves at home” and we are thrilled to see the space being used for the AHG families. We also delight in having a great group of faith-based girls helping with our church outreach ministry. It is also nice for me as the Charter Representative to meet with the Troop Board monthly and make new friends and prayer warriors.
HOW MANY YEARS HAS YOUR CHURCH HAD AN AHG TROOP?
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church has hosted the AHG Troop since September 2019.
HOW HAS AHG AFFECTED YOUR ORGANIZATION’S MINISTRY EFFORTS AND WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT HOSTING AN AHG TROOP?
We enjoy being good neighbors in our community by hosting the AHG Troop and supporting them in their activities. There is an outreach factor here that is important to our congregation. The AHG Girl Members have assisted our congregation in regular outreach food distribution, which helped serve 85,000 meals! In addition to packing the food baskets, the AHG families enjoyed the fellowship time. The congregation is grateful when Adult and Girl Members assist in general outdoor work to keep the Charter Organization grounds and flower beds clean and pristine. The AHG Troop was a wonderful presence in the 2024 Veterans Day ceremony, when seven veterans were honored and the girls were able to learn about their stories. The AHG girls serve in so many ways, supporting our elderly congregation members and singing Christmas carols at nursing homes brings joy and connection to those senior adults who aren’t always able to be with the congregation due to health limitations. KY0608 was thrilled to support Stars & Stripes Award Recipient Anna Christy in 2021. As a church congregation, we have viewed their AHG recruitment videos, and we pray for our Troop and its leaders. It is a great partnership together!
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER POTENTIAL CHARTER ORGANIZATIONS LOOKING TO CHARTER AN AHG TROOP?
It is important to have a dedicated team of Adult Member volunteers to help the girls grow in faith and service to God and their community. I think other Lutheran churches would grow in ministry and discipleship by hosting an AHG Troop, as we all benefit when doing good works for our neighbors. We are all faith-based people from different denominations working together to shepherd the girls of our AHG Troop.
For more information on the chartering process, visit americanheritagegirls.org/start-a-troop/charter-organizations
Charter Organizations serve a crucial role in the AHG Ministry, as they own and operate AHG Troops. Though volunteers implement the AHG Program, the Charter Organization is able to customize their AHG Troop to best accomplish their ministry goals.
The relationship between a Charter Organization and its Troop is designed to be a partnership. As a ministry partner, the AHG Troop serves as an extension of the Charter Organization. AHG values the role of the Charter Organization in the AHG Ministry as they are the “owners” of their Troop.
For more information on the chartering process, americanheritagegirls.org/start-a-troop/charter-organizations
PRICELESS:
Leading Girls to the Love of God through AHG
In celebrating American Heritage Girls’ 30th Birthday, known as the year of the PEARL, this is a time to reflect on AHG’s journey, celebrate how God has used the ministry to further the Kingdom of Heaven, and honor those involved in building women of integrity! According to the theme’s key verse, the PEARL OF GREAT PRICE, Jesus Christ’s Kingdom, is the ultimate source of belonging. He is the PRICELESS relationship every human heart longs to pursue. During a milestone anniversary year, AHG’s legacy echoes gratitude and providence under the Lord’s leadership. With three decades of provision under her belt, American Heritage Girls eagerly embarks upon the 2025-2026 Program Year.
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful PEARLS , who, when he had found one PEARL OF GREAT PRICE , went and sold all that he had and bought it.”
(MATTHEW 13:45-46, NKJV)
The life of Joseph in Genesis offers a snapshot of this beauty from ashes. From humble beginnings, Joseph’s life was consecrated, destined to glorify God. Rejection, slavery, scandal, and even famine were all stacked, layer upon layer in a difficult journey to the pinnacle realization of Genesis 50. What the enemy intended to destroy, God used to bring glory— true beauty. Through Joseph’s hardship, God expertly offered hope, reconciliation, and life rising from the ashes in this story. American Heritage Girls each navigate a unique journey—often involving risk, hardship, failing forward, and tears-mixed-with-joy. AHG Troops offer a shell—a place where girls can work out these journeys of building resilience, discovering a solid friendship base, growing as developing leaders, and facing fears in community. This is all encapsulated in the AHG girlhood experience. Girls also discover a treasure in these formational years. In an impeccable layered gem that only God can craft, girls find the Gospel
of Christ—the PRICELESS Good News of His love, His redemption, and His hope for their lives. When an AHG Girl Member embraces this gift from the Lord, her life shines as the iridescent beauty of the PEARL placed in her heart reflecting Jesus. She still has much formation and multi-faceted resilience to develop, but the PRICELESS relationship with her Savior gives hope, a resolve to endure, and immense joy in the process.
PRICELESS IN THE SEEKING, PRICELESS IN THE FINDING
Throughout Scripture God shows His heart in the relationship between seeking and finding—a beautiful ebb and flow between Creator and His girls. In Matthew 13:45-46, NKJV the seeker is voracious, passionate, and focused. When the Holy Spirit lights a girl’s heart toward His love, she becomes like the seeker
in Matthew 13. The Old Testament echoes the same promise to the seeking heart, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13, NIV). The weight doesn’t solely sit with the seeker though— this is a beautiful partnership of pursuit, and the Lord is the initiator. In Luke 15, the parable of the lost son actually glorifies the loving father—a picture of the God who pursues every girl’s heart. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him” (Luke 15:20, NIV). A girl’s Heavenly Father passionately pursues her soul. The tenacious Holy Spirit plants and cultivates a seed of yearning in her. Then her heart is overjoyed to receive the PRICELESS Gospel of Jesus that
forever alters the course of her life. The found life resounds with beauty and value through the Bible—from Psalms to 1 Peter 3. This Program Year, AHG resources like the PRICELESS Devotion Guide and the Bible Basics Badge offer girls words like “imperishable”, “precious”, and “PRICELESS” as they understand the treasure of this gift of the Gospel.
WORKING IT OUT: A PRICELESS PROGRAM YEAR
AHG Troops span from coast to coast and border to border, in addition to AHG Trailblazer families in six countries—all in all comprising nearly 70,000 members around the world. Within Troop communities, Adult and Girl Members will creatively learn, serve, and grow together through the PRICELESS Program Year Theme. Troops have a wealth of resources to lean on from the PRICELESS Devotion Guide to the PRICELESS Patch Program, and a new National Day of Service Spotlight—PRICELESS Wisdom designed to serve senior adults in their communities. AHG Area Teams will leverage their geographical presence across
the nation to celebrate this Program Year Theme in the latter half of AHG’s 30th birthday year. At weekly Troop meetings and weekend events, AHG’s GRIT with Grace girl leadership curriculum provides fun, meaningful training that builds lasting friendships and lifelong memories. AHG’s outdoor focus joins girls with God’s creation, a pristine landscape ripe for discovery, enjoyment, and service opportunities. The mood is effervescent, the ideas are flowing, and volunteers are diligently planning during the summer for their fall launch. This dedication and excitement are compounded as God continues to grow the AHG Ministry through growing membership, inspiring new resource offerings, revealing alignment with new Program Alliances, and continuing to strengthen AHG’s impact on girls’ lives.
This Program Year, AHG’s parent resource ministry, Raising Godly Girls, will continue to come alongside AHG families to deepen their discipleship journey through the Raising Godly Girls Radio Minute, Podcast, blog, and presence at homeschool conventions and ministry conference workshops. This invaluable community of Christian parents offers real-world advice, a place to grow, and hope for families in pursuit of Godliness, each on their unique journeys.
THE FULL SCOPE OF THIS PRICELESS JOURNEY
God’s faithful, sacrificial, and enduring love is truly invaluable and gives hope for the future. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, American Heritage Girls and their families can turn challenges into opportunities for growth and transformation. Like an oyster produces a beautiful PEARL from an irritating grain of sand, life’s obstacles can shape girls into stronger, more resilient, Godly girls. The Lord’s strength empowers girls to persevere through difficulties, make wise decisions, and serve others with compassion and grace. The Heavenly Father desires to develop servant leadership skills to equip and strengthen girls in this ever-changing world. Jesus Christ’s abundant power and grace provide the stamina to remain faithful when human strength runs out. With unwavering determination, girls can boldly stand for Christ with perseverance and finish the race with unshakeable faith. AHG prays this Program Year Theme inspires and motivates girls and Troops to deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ; recognizing His love is truly PRICELESS!
HIGHIMPACT INSIGHT
Kristy Delgado has been a volunteer with AHG since 2022 serving in the roles of Unit Leader, Troop Service Chair, and Troop Shepherd with Troop IL1190. She currently serves as the Chicagoland Area Coordinator, a role she has stewarded since 2024.
HOW DO PROGRAM YEAR THEMES PROMOTE UNITY AMONG GIRLS, TROOPS, AREAS?
Program Year Themes provide a shared focus for all American Heritage Girls to explore together. They create a sense of connection across different Troops and encourage girls to learn, grow, and serve together with the same values and goals in mind. Whether through service projects, badgework, or Troop meetings, these themes help girls feel like they’re a part of something bigger than just their local group—there is a nationwide sisterhood that shares the same vision. This unity strengthens bonds within Troops, between Troops in the same Area, and across the entire AHG family.
WHAT DOES THE PRICELESS THEME MEAN TO YOU?
The PRICELESS theme reminds us that every girl is uniquely valued and loved by God, regardless of her achievements or what the world says about her worth. It’s a reminder to see ourselves and others the way God does—cherished, important, and irreplaceable. In AHG, I think it is encouraging to celebrate the PRICELESS gift of Christ in our lives, to celebrate each girl’s gifts, talents, and individuality, and we are invited to stand together in helping to build one another up in love and truth. It encourages us to treat others with kindness and respect, knowing that every person we meet has inherent worth that cannot be measured by earthly standards. This theme is a beautiful way to help girls grow in confidence and faith, while remembering their PRICELESS identity in Christ and the importance of developing a PRICELESS relationship with Him throughout their lives.
HOW CAN TROOPS INCORPORATE THE PRICELESS THEME INTO RECRUITMENT EVENTS THIS SUMMER?
Troops can bring the PRICELESS theme to life in recruitment by showcasing that every girl who joins AHG is valued and loved for who she is. Simple things like warm welcomes, activities that bring all the girls together, and deep personal connections can help girls and their families see that they belong and are treasured. They can use devotions and prayer opportunities to discuss how PRICELESS the love and sacrifice of Christ is and how valuable an investment into developing a personal relationship with Him is. Troops could create small keepsakes like bookmarks or friendships bracelets with messages that highlight both each girl’s worth and how special they are in God’s eyes and the treasure of Christ’s truth and grace. By weaving this theme throughout facet of the Program Year—from crafts and games to opening devotions and PRICELESS Prayer Pals— Troops can show potential new members and their families that AHG is a place where every girl is seen, supported, and truly PRICELESS while also being shown how PRICELESS Christ is to every part of our faith and lives as a Troop.
WHAT ROLE DOES THE THEME PLAY IN THE TROOP YEAR PLANNING PROCESS?
The Program Year Theme acts as a guiding light for our Troop Program Year planning process, helping us to shape activities,
service projects, and badgework around a central message that is both meaningful and unifying. It gives Troop leaders and girls a shared vision and helps focus our efforts so that every meeting, event, and adventure reflects that theme’s message. The PRICELESS theme encourages us to plan events and activities that celebrate each girl’s unique value in Christ, build her confidence in her God-given identity, and helps to cultivate a deepened understanding of Christ and how to walk out a relationship with Him in their daily lives. Having this theme as our foundation makes our planning more purposeful and produces a deeper, rich Program Year in the process.
IN YOUR EXPERIENCE, WHAT DO GIRLS ENJOY MOST ABOUT A PROGRAM YEAR THEME?
In my experience, I believe the girls enjoy the way that the Program Year Theme brings them all together and creates a shared purpose. It gives them something to rally around and helps them to feel connected to the other girls in their Troops. I think they love how the theme shapes everything throughout the year and gives them a little insight into the things we are focusing on as a Troop, which gives them rich insight into what we are learning. From the fun activities and themebased crafts to the deeper discussions about faith and Christ…each and every girl enjoys being a part of something bigger than themselves together.
ANY CREATIVE IDEAS TROOPS CAN PUT INTO THEIR PLANS THIS PROGRAM YEAR?
I think some really creative ways to plan your Program Year with the PRICELESS theme could possibly be some activities & events such as:
• Hosting a You are PRICELESS Celebration Day
• Organizing a special service project like care packages for local shelters or cards for nursing homes with a reminder that they are PRICELESS
• Creating a PRICELESS Photo Booth with props and signs at an event or meeting
• Hosting a Faith-Focused PRICELESS Devotional Night
• Host a PRICELESS Talent Show
• Create a PRICELESS Prayer Wall that the girls can add prayers to all year long along with PRICELESS Prayer Pals
• Host a family event night where families can make a blessing jar, prayer board, or a PRICELESS memory board of their Troop Program Year
• Scripture Memory Challenges with verses that align with the Program Year Theme
• Troop Yearbook Project
• Community PRICELESS Outreach Event
(4th Quarter reporting for the 2024-2025 Program Year) STARS & STRIPES AWARD FACTS AND FIGURES
2024-2025 Program Year Recipients: 204
Benefiting Organizations Served: 204
Creed Word Most Used in Writing: Helpful
Total Service Hours: 19,256.53
Average Service Hours per Project:
What Stars & Stripes Award Recipients Like Most About AHG: Camping
#1 Thing Girls Learned: Listening to God, Trusting his Vision
Total Number of Stars & Stripes Project Advisors: 26
Benefiting Organization: K9 Partners for Patriots (K9P4P)
Location: Brooksville, FL
Project: Built obstacles for service dog training course
Total Supervisory Hours: 12.5 hours
Total Hours: 216.63 hours
AN EXCERPT FROM GRACE’S SPIRITUAL WALK ESSAY:
“One of the most valuable things I have recognized from my project is my overall life goals, which are to help people and bring them closer to God. When I was in the process of choosing my benefiting organization and project, I knew I wanted to do a project regarding something I was passionate about. After lots of brainstorming project ideas based on my passions, I decided I wanted to serve K9 Partners for Patriots. I wanted to reach different types of people outside of my community, and I knew I was passionate about mental health advocacy, supporting veterans, and animals. This brings me to the passion/future I feel God has placed on my heart. For at least the next four years, I will be studying psychology and criminology. I chose these areas of study because I want to become a criminal psychologist. As a criminal psychologist, I desire to help people and show them God’s love in any way I can. I specifically desire to work in juvenile correctional facilities as a psychologist to be able to listen and understand a population that is often so misunderstood. I want to be a safe person for these youth and remind them that they are not too far gone and that there is hope for them and their situation.”
—GRACE PLEINIS
Grace Pleinis FL2131
WHAT WAS THE MOST REWARDING EXPERIENCE DURING YOUR STARS & STRIPES AWARD PROCESS?
The most rewarding part of the process was the delivery of the obstacles. We rented a truck to transport the obstacles built and drove to the K9P4P location in Brooksville. Mary (the founder) and her coworkers were overjoyed when we opened the truck’s back door. Mary started crying and was so thankful. Once we placed the obstacles where she wanted them, her dog, some of her coworkers’ dogs, and my mom’s service dog tried out the obstacles. Everyone was cheering on the dogs, and they seemed to enjoy the obstacles too! At the end I got to take a fabulous picture of four dogs on one of the obstacles with Mary and I standing behind the obstacles. Overall, it was so rewarding to see the dogs’ reactions to the obstacles.
WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF THE STARS & STRIPES AWARD PROCESS AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME IT?
The most challenging part for me was all the paperwork and documents that have to be filled out before and after my project. I found it hard to sit down and write out my ideas so that someone else could understand them, because it all made sense and was planned out in my mind. I found some of the documents tedious and got overwhelmed by the amount of questions at times. I also forgot to save one of my documents in AHGfamily, AHG’s member data, when I completed it, so all of my answers were deleted when I went back into my form. This discouraged me and I did not have the motivation to retype everything.
DID YOU GROW SPIRITUALLY FROM THE STARS & STRIPES AWARD PROCESS?
I grew spiritually from this experience. I think it helped my prayer life improve, and I found myself seeking God for His guidance and help. I would pray when I was unsure how I was going to fundraise enough money, when I was overwhelmed by the amount of work/steps, and when He provided me the opportunity to do this project and fundraise enough money. These prayers took me deeper in my relationship with God because I chose to seek Him and put Him first in my project. Only through God and the trust I put in Him was I able to complete this project!
WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS?
After I graduate high school, I will attend Palm Beach Atlantic University where I will major in psychology. I will play collegiate soccer and, after my undergraduate work, earn my master’s degree there. I am undecided if I will work to get a doctoral degree as I narrow down what specific career I want to work in. As of right now, I would like to become a criminal psychologist working in juvenile corrections and/or the courtroom.
BENEFITING ORGANIZATION QUOTE
“Grace’s project has had an immediate impact on our program for all of our trainers and every Veteran class since it arrived! The dogs love the agility training and, collectively, this equipment provides a very positive addition here for our entire Veteran community which now has 785 Veterans active in K9 Partners for Patriots. We are proud to have it placed outside of our building where it is visible to our local community and nearby Chamber of Commerce members as well. We hope it may inspire potential donors to think as creatively as Grace has.”
—MARY PETER
FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF TRAINING OPERATIONS
K9P4P
ALUMNASPOTLIGHT
MEET HANNAH RUSSELL
A WOMAN WHOSE 12 YEARS IN AHG OFFERED HER A CLEAR PICTURE OF GOD’S MAJESTY, HER CALL INTO LEADERSHIP, AND THAT HER PLACE AS A CHRISTIAN IN THE USA HOLDS BOTH RESPONSIBILITY AND JOY.
From a five-year-old Pathfinder’s first timid introduction to an American Heritage Girls Troop, through each formative milestone along the journey of girlhood, to a Patriot’s launch into the world of womanhood with confidence and hope, AHG Alumna are known for their resilience, tenacity, grace, and premier leadership skills. The journey for Hannah Russell of TX0407 strengthened her, held cherished memories, and sparked a love for history and citizenship.
Even from a young age, Hannah received opportunity after opportunity to learn and live out girl leadership in her Troop. Within her Tenderheart Program Level years (ages 6-9), Hannah’s first AHG Troop TX5160 Troop verse was Matthew 5:16, NIV, which says, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” As a very shy girl, Hannah lacked confidence. The Troop Shepherd frequently gave Hannah the gentle nudge to offer prayer over the whole group. She remembers, “That verse gave me the confidence and the mission of knowing that it was important for me to grow in this way.” That opened a door for her to be comfortable praying in public. She knew, “It wasn’t about me. I wanted to offer gratitude to the Lord publicly. It opened a door for me to have my faith public, outside of myself. That was important for me to confidently live as a Christian woman, but also to lead and teach. I can see even back to my Tenderheart years that God was preparing me.” Hannah enthusiastically recalls that courage was the biggest gift AHG offered her in the younger years.
Hannah’s most formative leadership milestones came through the Pioneer and Patriot Program Level years (12-18 years old). Hannah learned Christ-first leadership through a Multi-Troop Event in her home state. She also leveraged the opportunity to hone her public speaking skills, learn to lead with a partner,
Since 1995, the Mission of American Heritage Girls has been to build women of integrity While the AHG Program targets those in girlhood, the sincerity and faith-filled spirit that is nurtured and grown through AHG continues as girls develop and mature into women.
and grow in confidence. Alongside lifelong friend Rachel, the girls refined and pushed one another to become better leaders. Hannah’s perspective on leadership today is deeply rooted in her experience through these Multi-Troop events. She says, “I learned that any good leader has a good Leader. You can’t lead well if you aren’t drawing your strength from the Holy Well of Living Water, Jesus Christ. I learned that to lead is to serve, to wash feet, to do the hard things first, and to struggle alongside. […] I learned that the best leaders are the most wholehearted servants, and honestly to lead is to love like Jesus.”
Hannah’s love for her country, its history, and how to maturely hold the responsibility of citizen leadership as a Christian woman was sparked through her home and was deepened during her AHG years. Hannah’s mother, LeAnn, collaborated with AHG to write a portion of the Our Constitution Badge. It was normal for the Russell family to speak patriotically in their home and to actively participate in the Christian civic realm from the local level, state level, and a national level. Hannah realized she had a passion but a lack of knowledge. “So I tried to earn as many AHG Heritage Frontier Badges as possible. Through this I developed a love of history.” She anchors in Joshua Chamberlain’s biography, a Civil War hero, educator, and politician, as inspiration to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past, we must learn about our past. She clearly remembers that, “One of my favorite Troop activities was flag ceremonies, learning how to respect and honor the American Flag and all that it meant was […] a great learning experience and taught me much about guiding leadership—it was also a bunch of fun!” During her journey to earn the Dolley Madison Patriot Level Award (now known as the Abigail Adams Level Award), Hannah was able to teach the same badge her mother had written to Tenderhearts and Explorers—a beautiful full-circle moment for her as a Girl Member! She also went on to earn AHG’s pinnacle
Hannah meeting AHG Founder & Executive Director Emeritus, Patti Garibay,as an explorer.
honor, the Stars & Stripes Award. As an AHG Alumna, Hannah is a bright light shining forward in her adult life.
Today, you’ll find Hannah as a vivacious presence on the Patriot Academy campus in Fredericksburg, Texas. Originally planning to go to medical school, God shifted Hannah’s vision during a Patriot Academy Leadership Congress event. As a 16-yearold on the cusp of her adult years, she yearned to serve the Lord but was unclear of her calling. She remembers crying out to the Lord, “I want to do something that has vision and purpose. I want to be part of a movement of the Lord!” In tears of uncertainty in August, she had no clear direction. So, she registered for the Patriot Academy internship upon a friend’s recommendation and her parents’ gentle nudge. She believed in their mission and wanted to be a part of it. A 2024 internship has now shifted into a full-time vocation focus for Hannah. She energetically takes on any task given to her, from working in the coffee shop to presentations for training academies and writing devotionals. You can also learn from Hannah in the Patriot Academy online seminars from time to time.
Hannah exudes passion, holds volumes of knowledge, and invites younger AHG Girl Members into a life of purpose and leadership for God. For those interested in a path of Christian leadership in the political sphere, Hannah offers this inspiration, “Government is ‘we the people’. You don’t have to be an adult to speak about your values. Even if you can’t vote, you can still influence policy decisions. But you have to speak! You’re more vulnerable if you don’t know about Constitutional rights. You have more power than you think you do!” Hannah desires that all girls, but especially AHG Girl Members, learn their heritage and move into adulthood as informed citizens of the United States. Especially for older girls, she encourages, “When you inform yourself to vote, look at [the candidate’s] values before their voting record. If they don’t live out their faith, then they won’t serve from a Biblical Worldview as an elected official. Politics requires action. We want that action to be Biblical in nature. If we as Christians step into the patriotic sphere, we have a chance to better our nation and society.”
ARE YOU AN AHG ALUMNA? Visit americanheritagegirls.org/alumnae to update your contact information and share what you’ve been up to!
FASTFACTS:
Hometown: Springtown, TX
High School Alma Mater: Homeschool
Siblings: 6 siblings
Pets: A very chaotic, death-defying Shih Tzu named Sadie
Favorite Book: The Parabaloni Series by Catherine Gruban Smith
Favorite TV Show: Hogan’s Heroes
Favorite Movie: Top Gun Maverick
Favorite Travel Destination: Washington D.C.
Favorite Bible Verse(s): Romans 8:28, NIV—“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Favorite Social Media Platform: Instagram
Favorite Food: French Fries
Favorite Flavor of Ice Cream: Chocolate
Favorite Sport: Sailing
Favorite Color: Sage Green and Blue
Favorite AHG Badge: Identity Badge
Hannah and her mentor Ellen Samek.
NEWTROOPS
AL1042
See more every Tuesday at facebook.com/americanheritagegirls
Midland Free Methodist Church / Midland
MC7034 Providence Preparatory Academy / Wilmington
NEWTROOPS
AL1412 Grace Bible Church Rainbow City / Rainbow City
NEWTROOPS
AR1273 First Baptist Church Hiwasse / Hiwasse
CO0146 Fairmount Bible Church / Golden
See more every Tuesday at Facebook.com/AmericanHeritageGirls
MC9017 Guildford Baptist Church / Greensboro
See more every Tuesday at Facebook.com/AmericanHeritageGirls
OR2415 Calvary Chapel Ontario / Ontario
AZ4816 Restoration Hope Church / Lake Havasu City
FL0432 Winter Haven Church of Nazarene / Winter Haven
FL1503 Christ Community Church / Daytona Beach
GA0314 Move Christian Church / Albany
GA2206 Lizella Baptist Church / Lizella
FL3946 North Citrus Christian Church / Citrus Springs
GA0334 First Baptist Cumming / Cumming
IN1513 Valley Life Community Church / Meridian
IN1410
GA3110 Philadelphia Baptist Church / Calhoun
IL4316 The Rock Church Centralia / Centralia
Lanesville Christian Church / Lanesville
ID3167 Outwest Bible Church / Idaho Falls
KY1273 Blaine Church of God / Blaine
KY1771
MO0613 Northside Christian Church / Warrensburg
Lola Missionary Baptist Church / Marion
IN1882 St. Paul’s Lutheran-Munster / Munster
LA1895 Alpine First Baptist Church / Pinesville
MS0512 Harmony Baptist Church / Crystal Springs
MA3125 Quaboag Church / Brookefield
KY1924 Portland Christian School / Louisville
MT0226 Harvest Church Billings / Billings
MI1853 Immaculate Conception Catholic Church / Ira Township
MI3126
KY3126 King’s Church of Lexington / Lexington
NC0274 Community Baptist Church / Mooresville
Midland Free Baptist Church / Midland
NJ1335 Clayton Baptist Church / Clayton
MD5168 Crossway Christian Fellowship / Hagerstown
MO3178 First Baptist Church Fredericktown
MO4547
MS4031
MT7867
PA1202 Nittany Bible Church / PA Furnace
PA1886 Ellen Chapel Church / Lewistown
OR4316 West Hills Community Church—Salem / Salem
PA3261 Zion Community Church / Bellefonte
NC0517 Pleasant Hill Christian Church / Benson
PA3126 Abundant Life Center Inc. / York
NC0730 New Beginnings / Shallotte
SC0314 Foothills Baptist Church / Travelers Rest
SC9915 Mountain Rest Baptist Church / Mountain Rest
SC1415 Community Bible Church / Beaufort
VA0414 Colonial Baptist Church / Keswick
OH0100 Thoburn United Methodist Church / St. Clairsville
OH1346 Village Church of Mariemont / Mariemont
VA0610 Berea Baptist Church-Rockville / Rockville
SC1983 Kingstree Presbyterian Church / Kingstree
TN2717 West Colonial Hills Baptist Church / Kingsport
OH7650 Excellence In Learning / Newark
TX0515 St. Jude Catholic—Henderson / Henderson
VA0627 Drummondtown Community Church / Accomac
TX1220 Prestonwood Baptist Church / Plano
VA7719 Monte Sion Church / Centreville
OK4316 First Baptist Church Purcell / Purcell
TX2029 Southside Baptist Church / Weatherford
TN1915 Gateway Baptist Church / Atoka
TX2714 St. Helene Catholic Church Pearland / Pearland
WA1957 Bethel Family Fellowship / Bonney Lake
TX2910 Oaks Church / Red Oak
VA1334 Lebanon Methodist Church / Hanover
WI0356 Brookside Baptist Church / Brookfield
TX3021 Airport Freeway Church of Christ / Euless
WA2016 Firmly Planted Family / Vancouver
TX3127 North Street Church of Christ / Nacogdoches
Interested in bringing AHG to your community?
Interested in bringing AHG to your community?
Scan the QR code to start your journey.
Interested in bringing AHG to your community? Scan the QR code to start your journey.
Scan the QR code to start your journey. #NewTroopTuesday
#NewTroopTuesday
PIONEER AND FAITHFUL AHG TEAM MEMBER WILL BE LONG-REMEMBERED AND HONORED
Carolyn Moore
(1959-2025)
Carolyn Moore, an early adopter of AHG and employee for 25 years, has left an indelible mark on the ministry. AHG Founder and Executive Director Emeritus, Patti Garibay, said of Carolyn, “Her courage, strength, and unflappable determination were integral to the establishment and ultimate thriving of the ministry throughout the nation. Her willingness to learn new things and wade through uncharted waters make her a woman of integrity and impact.” Among the many roles she held at AHG, Carolyn’s most impactful one was through the Stars & Stripes Award Program. She worked tirelessly and innovatively to pioneer new processes and to honor the over 1,000 recipients of AHG’s pinnacle award. After a brave and brief battle with pancreatic cancer, Carolyn met her Creator and Savior on May 15, 2025. Carolyn rests in the joy of the Lord who she served so passionately.
AHGUPDATES
HAPPENINGS AT THE AHG NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
NEW HIRES
The AHG, Inc. Staff is growing! New Staff members come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, but all are called to share their talents with the AHG Ministry. It is AHG’s distinct honor to welcome the newest member of the AHG, Inc. Staff:
AHG ON THE ROAD IN 2025
Barbara Gonyor
Troop Support Specialist
AHG and Raising Godly Girls have been making the rounds at various conferences and events this year. You might have had a chance to stop by the booth, say hello, and get some great AHG resources! Check out the stops on “AHG’s On the Road” booth and workshop presence in 2025.
Teach Them Diligently, Dayton, OH (March 20-22)
D6 Northwest, Kirkland, WA (March 21-22)
Moms in Prayer, Black Mountain, NC (May 9-10)
Colson Center National Conference, Louisville, KY (May 29-June 1)
Homeschool Educators Association of Virginia, Richmond, VA (June 5-7)
Great Homeschool Convention, Ontario, CA (June 12-14)
Allegheny West Annual Conference, Global Methodist Church, Mt. Vernon, OH (June 18-21)
Lutheran Educator Association Convocation, St. Louis, MO (October 2-4)
The KidzMatter Conference, Evansville, IN, (October 7-9)
Pat & Patti Garibay with Bethany Hamilton
VISION CASTING FROM AHG’S NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
As we step into the PRICELESS Program Year, my heart is full of hope and expectation. Oxford Dictionary defines PRICELESS as “so precious that its value cannot be determined.” There is nothing more PRICELESS than the unwavering love of God. What an honor that we get to share this PRICELESS gift with girls across the country! This Program Year is a fresh invitation to lean into His purpose, to see lives transformed, and to create spaces where girls know their worth, identity, and calling in Christ. I’m honored to begin this journey as Executive Director at such a meaningful time. God is clearly at work in the Ministry of American Heritage Girls, and the vision ahead is bold: deepening impact, expanding access to a Troop, and ensuring every girl has the opportunity to grow in faith, leadership, and service. The seeds planted today will shape generations. I’m excited to partner with you, our incredible families, volunteers, and supporters, as we follow His lead into this new chapter for AHG. Together, we’ll watch Him do more than we can imagine!
—Rachael Culpepper Executive Director, American Heritage Girls
STAFFSCOOP
Sheila Jones Chief Strategy Officer
How long have you been working at AHG, Inc.?
Since April 29, 2024
What do you do in your position?
As Chief Strategy Officer, my role is to steward the organization’s mission by leading the creation and execution of our strategic plan. This involves translating our mission and vision into clear, actionable, and measurable goals; identifying new initiatives and opportunities for collaboration; and extending AHG’s reach and impact in meaningful ways. I work closely with the Executive Director and Chief Operations Officer to ensure all impact-driven efforts are aligned with predictable and sustainable growth. In addition, I support the Senior Member Experience Director and Senior Strategic Growth Director in overseeing key departments, including Curriculum Development, Volunteer Services, Marketing & Communications, and New Troop Growth. Through all of this, my goal is to ensure that every
strategic initiative is grounded in prayer, guided by data, and ultimately furthers the AHG Mission to build women of integrity through service to God, family, community, and country.
What’s your favorite part of working at AHG?
Everything! I am grateful to be part of an organization where both the Staff and the work are focused daily on Christ and building His Kingdom.
What is your favorite Bible verse?
Proverbs 3:5-6, ESV, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
What is your favorite part about visiting or being involved in a Troop?
I’ve had the joy of serving as Troop Treasurer for GA0110 in Rome, GA for nearly a decade. Being part of the ministry outreach that AHG provides through my church, Pleasant Valley North Baptist Church, has been a true blessing. The weekly fellowship with our incredible
Adult Members and dedicated parents continually inspires me, and it’s a privilege to witness our girls grow in confidence, leadership, and life skills—all grounded in a strong Biblical Worldview. It’s a beautiful reflection of Christ-centered discipleship in action.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I deeply value the work AHG is doing through its Raising Godly Girls (RGG) initiative. RGG provides Biblically sound, practical resources that equip parents to navigate the challenging issues our daughters face today. By addressing these topics with truth and grace, AHG helps families stay grounded in their faith and empowers girls to grow into confident, Christcentered young women.
