Heritage Headlines Magazine Spring 2024

HERITAGEHEADLINES

BUILDING THE NEXT GENERATION OF RESILIENT LEADERS THROUGH AHG

ALUMNASPOTLIGHT

Grace, a Name and a Mindset Every Step of the Way

B adgework Builds Competent Girls with a Biblical Worldview

A 96-Mile Hike And a Lifetime of Memories GIRL STORIES UNSHAKEABLE:

American Heritage Girls learn resilience, perseverance, and grit in the Great Outdoors! When Cincinnati-area Troop OH2513 took to the sandstone cliffs of the Red River Gorge, girls climbed with determination and bravery, making the most of their adventure!

Dear reader,

Grit. Moxie. Toughness. Whatever you call it, part of helping grow a Godly girl into a woman of integrity is establishing resilience.

Resiliency is a popular word in parenting circles. In my nearly 30 years of ministering to girls through American Heritage Girls, I’ve talked a lot about raising resilient girls to become strong women (and I like to think I did just that in raising my three daughters). American Heritage Girls is here to equip families as they raise up relational

girls who invest in positive and loving relationships with others and cling to Christ when navigating emotions.

Have you ever seen the hilarious tweets tagged with the hashtag #ReasonsMyKidIsCrying? Parents share things like “She says her ice cream is too cold” and “I won’t let him play in the toilet.” While these posts are always good for a laugh, I can’t help but recognize the need to equip our parents and kids with emotional intelligence, or EQ. EQ is being able to identify, evaluate, control, and express our emotions—especially key for our young people! Like reading, writing, and math, teaching kids how to identify emotions as temporary and recognize how feelings affect them, is a powerful tool!

Resiliency is overcoming difficulty, but not at the cost of ignoring or downplaying it! Resiliency isn’t a 100% success rate, it’s knowing that in failure, future success is still possible. We call this failing forward or being “free to fail”.

We know girls can feel chained by the expectation of perfection. We also see that kids today are driven by a need to achieve. For so many girls, the fear of failure is what keeps them from trying in the first place. But when a girl’s natural curiosity for the world around her is fostered at home, church, her AHG Troop, and school, she is more likely to courageously dive in and try new things without fear of failure.

We know that failure is an inevitable factor in life. So often parents are inclined to protect their children from failure at all costs. But as Dr. Tim Elmore of the Growing Leaders Ministry puts it, in protecting our children from all failure, we aren’t preparing them for life. It’s in making space for failure that we give them a framework for adulting in the real world. By incorporating chances to take risks and try without fear of failure, girls are actually able to fail forward. A girl is left feeling capable and empowered, not because of what she accomplished, but because she knows that her accomplishments (or failures) don’t define her—God does.

This issue of Heritage Headlines celebrates girls, families, Troops, and faith communities nationwide who are committed to AHG’s Mission of building women of integrity. I pray you find their stories as encouraging and inspiring as I do.

In Christ,

Patti Garibay Founder & Executive Director American Heritage Girls, Inc.

Sharing the AHG Program with audiences across the country on American Family Radio, K-LOVE, Creation Today, Focus on the Family, The Christian Post, and more. 10 Service Stories

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.

12 Girl Stories

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.

14 Badge Stories

AHG Badges give girls the opportunity to develop applicable life skills, grow in faith, and discover new passions.

16 Charter Organization Spotlight

The secret to a thriving AHG Troop is a strong, supportive Charter Organization. East Side Baptist Church in Killeen, TX is just that for the girls and volunteers of TX3210.

23 Alumnae Spotlight

Meet Grace Stevens, former Girl Member of SD8031, a resilient woman, Stars & Stripes Award Scholarship Recipient, and AHG Alumna. 26 Stars & Stripes Award Recipient Highlight

Meet Hallie Ann Dark, Stars & Stripes Award Recipient from TX0025

29 High Impact Insight

Tracy Ullman, the Area Coordinator for the Dallas Area Team, shares valuable insight on the advantages of offering high adventure activities for girls in AHG.

30 AHG Updates

Exciting updates, changes, and news from the AHG National Headquarters’ in Cincinnati, OH and Staff across the country.

STORY UNSHAKEABLE: Building the Next Generation of Resilient Leaders

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” —Philippians 4:13, NIV

ABOUT THE COVER

MEET OUR AHG COVER GIRL

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 fully-curated 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/photosubmissions

Meet Theresa, a Patriot in San Antonio Troop TX0334 . Theresa embodies the perseverance and resilience it takes to be a Godly, gritty girl in today’s culture. Theresa planned a grueling 96-mile hike on the Lone Star Trail through the Sam Houston National Forest over the span of 10 autumn days. Read more about Theresa and her friend Maggie’s adventure on page 12!

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 americanheritagegirls.org/store

Maggie, of GA1917, accompanied Theresa on the epic 96-mile Lone Star Trail adventure.

AHGNEWS

RECENT MEDIA SPOTS FOR AHG, INC.

AHG was all over the media this quarter! Check out the many interviews AHG Founder and Executive Director Patti Garibay participated in with news outlets all over the country:

American Family Radio

The Hamilton Corner: “Patti Garibay, Founder and Executive Director of American Heritage Girls returns to ‘The Corner.’” afr.net/podcasts/the-hamilton-corner/2023/december/patti-garibay-founderand-executive-director-of-american-heritage-girls-returns-to-the-corner

The Marc Cox Morning Show Podcast

“Patti Garibay on the Girl Scouts New Racial Equity Training” omny.fm/shows/the-marc-cox-show-podcast/patti-garibay-on-the-girl-scoutsnew-racial-equity

Rich Valdés America At Night

“Ashley Hayek, Lora Ries, & Patti Garibay” start listening at 1:00:25 podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ashley-hayek-lora-ries-patti-garibay/ id1660820255?i=1000637772425

Creation Today Ministry

“OUR YOUTH and the Mental Health Crisis | Eric Hovind and Patti Garibay” youtu.be/6HGJqMQLBFk?si=A-kfP7MfWKOgBbW8v

The Christian Post

“The Oath of the American Heritage Girl and Abortion” christianpost.com/voices/the-oath-of-the-american-heritage-girl-and-abortion. html

Providence Forum

“Podcast with Patti Garibay on Training Girls with Good Character–But Have the Girl Scouts Lost Their Way?” providenceforum.org/blog/podcast-with-patti-garribay-on-training-girls-withgood-character-but-have-the-girl-scouts-lost-their-way

Focus on the Family

Practice Makes Parent Podcast: “Patti Garibay: Raising Strong Daughters with American Heritage Girls” omny.fm/shows/practice-makes-parent/patti-garibay-raising-strong-daughterswith-americ

K-LOVE

“Making A Difference: American Heritage Girls Achieved 590,720 Service Hours In 2023” klove.com/news/faith/making-a-difference-american-heritage-girls-achieved590-720-service-hours-in-2023-49048

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

Patti Garibay

CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER

Rachael Culpepper

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

Michelle Beckham-Corbin

CONTENT MARKETING MANAGER

Erin Marco

CONTENT MARKETING SPECIALIST

Natalie Ambrose

GRAPHIC DESIGN SPECIALISTS

Brooke Honer & Becky Lipps

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tracy Ullman

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

Mural unveiling—This year, AHG commissioned Lindsey C. (AHG Alumna and local artist!) to hand-paint a mural inside of our national headquarters, and this is how it turned out. We’re in awe!

“Wow! I love it. I hope one day to see it in person. Well done, Lindsey.”

—Christine Stellina Ojih

“Wow, it’s absolutely incredible! Beautiful work!”

—Erin Compton

“Wow! Excellent work!”

—Denise Marie

“Beautiful!”

—Sandy Goodman

“Gorgeous!”

—Tracy Jarosz

“Love it!

—Robin Jones Alley”

“Very impressive work!”

—Michelle Koster Handy

“Makayla Keplinger, look where your wagon has gone now!”

—Kelli Schleigh Hertzler

“Kelli Schleigh Hertzler, thank you! The artwork is so amazing. Glad someone was able to do that for them.”

—Makayla Keplinger

“That’s fantastic!”

—Danielle Atkinson

“It’s beautiful!”

—Mindy May

GET FEATURED

Share your Troop photos with the hashtag #ahgfun on Instagram for a chance to be shared in Heritage Headlines.

and happenings.

www.pinterest.com/ americanheritagegirls

@luluscrew

SERVICESTORIES

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE AN ACTIVE CITIZEN OF THE UNITED STATES

PATRIOTISM AND SERVICE COMBINE FOR TEXAS TROOP TO HONOR FALLEN HEROES

Teaching Girl Members about good citizenship is part and parcel of “honor my country and serve in my community” within the AHG Oath. TX0465 partnered with Wreaths Across America for their annual wreath laying ceremony in December. This was the Troop’s first experience serving in this way and Troop volunteers expertly taught the girls about each branch of the United States military and why it is so important to honor those who gave their lives to protect our country’s citizens. Candyce, a Tenderheart Unit leader, said, “The girls were able to grasp the value of honoring those in the military who have passed on by hearing about how much it means to families to come to their loved one’s grave during Christmas and see a wreath placed on there.” Among the important takeaways that day, Tenderheart Raegan said, “It is important for me to honor veterans because they keep American safe, and we can be free!”

MICHIGAN GIRL MEMBERS HONOR

AND SERVE LOCAL VETERANS

AHG Troops have a special passion to honor our nation’s military service members, both those actively serving, those who previously served, and those who served but have passed on. Veterans Day affords a special opportunity to respect local servicemen and women and their commitment to protecting the United States’ citizens. MI0226 and MI0138 teamed up in November to help host a beautiful Veterans Day ceremony. The girls served as ushers—welcoming guests, handing out programs, and assisting audience to find their seats. Then

they shifted gears to serve a meal to ceremony guests and their families. The Troops led the Flag Ceremony and prayer. These girls went above and beyond, honoring veterans and their families, our nation, and the AHG legacy of Godly patriotism.

D.C. METRO AREA TROOPS SERVE AT OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD PACKING FACILITY

AHG Area Teams are a beautiful snapshot of the result of Troops linking up, working together, and developing strong bonds. The D.C. Metro Area Team is one of AHG’s strongest areas, and their impact through service blesses all who receive their hard work. Their recent trip to the Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child facility gave those Area Team members a chance to see the packing facility in action and to be directly involved in the facility’s efforts! Together, 47 Girl and Adult Members gathered for this chance to live out the AHG Oath of serving their community. This service project allowed each person to see the well-coordinated efforts of both the Operation Christmas Child ministry and what happens when American Heritage Girls combine their efforts to serve kids in need, both close to home and around the world.

GIRLSTORIES

INCREDIBLE TALES OF LEADERSHIP, VOLUNTEERING AND FRIENDSHIP

TX0334 & GA1917 GIRL MEMBERS HIKE LONE STAR TRAIL

When Troops dive into High Adventure activities, it can spark something exciting in older Girl Members to seek those experiences on their own. These adventures can even bridge the span of miles bringing girls from all corners of the nation together to carve out once-in-alifetime memories! Maggie and Theresa, two Patriots from GA1917 and TX0334, put their heads, their gear, and their pioneer spirits together and took on the Lone Star Hiking Trail in October 2023. The girls began planning in 2022, then blazed a trail that crossed 96 miles over eight days of through-hiking the following autumn. Maggie remembers the last two-mile stretch of the trail were especially challenging with thick forest, huge thorns, and tired legs. The girls dubbed the campsite that night as “Mercy” to mark a hard-won achievement. Maggie feels that “This hike helped to cement a new self-identification of myself: I’m no longer the ‘ew, exercise’ girl I was a year or so ago. I [can] do hard physical things and enjoy it!”

MOTHER-DAUGHTER TEA IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST BRINGS SPRING THEME AND GREAT MEMORIES

Each spring AHG Troop WA0722 anticipates their annual Mother-Daughter Tea event. The Troop’s Pioneer Unit Leader, Elizabeth, says it is “an opportunity for bonding and creating memories over shared conversations, laughter and delicious treats.” This year’s spring-themed event immersed guests in a room of pastel flowers. Each family brought treats to share along with an assortment of teas and lemonade. The occasion included activities like a popular “make-your-own fascinator” station, where all could use provided craft supplies to design and assemble chic headbands, and a table where girls gathered to color tea-party themed pages. Tenderheart India said, “Normally mom might be doing other things, so it was fun to have a time where we were just hanging out.” Grandmothers were welcome too, making this event truly a sweet family affair. Explorer Magdalen exclaimed, “It was fun to have Grandma come! She also liked the tea. It was special to have an event for [grandmas], mothers, and daughters.”

PI/PA SISTERS VISIT AHG HEADQUARTERS FOR EPIC GIRL MEMBER EXPERIENCE

Troop OH1822 sisters Eva and Rachel, along with their mom, Elizabeth, made the journey this past fall to visit the AHG National Headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio. They arrived with smiles shining for a fun day of learning AHG’s story of origin in the History Room, taking photos near the new mural walls, touring the AHGstore fulfillment center, browsing the Gift Shop—even meeting AHG’s Founder & Executive Director, Patti Garibay herself. With the Program Year Theme of WOVEN, the girls were able to add some layers to the WOVEN loom project—a collective effort for any visitor to the AHG Headquarters! This trip also served as a special 15th birthday celebration for Patriot Eva. And her sister’s highlight—the AHG-opoly board game in the History Room! Both girls hope to someday earn the Stars & Stripes Award, and this trip was a huge part of the encouragement process. To schedule your tour of the AHG National Headquarters, visit americanheritagegirls.org/contact-us/

BADGESTORIES

LEARNING LIFE SKILLS AND BUILDING CONFIDENCE

LIVING IN THE USA BADGE

All citizens of the United States of America have common rights, responsibilities, and privileges. However, each state is quite unique due to differing location, climate, natural resources, and state laws. Exploring the history, culture, diversity, and way of life in your state will help you appreciate the place you live.

Moving to a new state can be like exploring a new world for a Girl Member, but Eden, an Explorer of CO1415, chose to take her move to Colorado as a fun challenge. Turns out the Living in the USA Badge was the perfect way to get to know her new home state! From discovering all the great things to do in her home city of Colorado Springs to playing in Pikes Peak summit snow on a summer afternoon, Eden went all-in to find out everything she could through this badgework experience. She was interested to learn that each state has a unique state seal and so many interesting activities to do upon visiting. Thanks to her completed badge requirements, Eden now has a bucket list of USA states to visit and a road trip might be on the family’s horizon!

BOATING BADGE

Recreational boating on an ocean, river, or lake is a great way to spend a day in nature with family and friends. The key to an enjoyable boating experience is choosing the right watercraft, understanding the basics of watercraft operation, and being familiar with boating safety. Whether you choose whitewater, open water, or flatwater, boating is an adventurous form of fun and transportation.

Our nation has beautiful treasures of water in every state—oceans, rivers, and lakes. In October, Lola, an OK2810 Explorer, visited her grandmother in southwestern Oklahoma’s Wichita Mountains with plans to kayak and check off some requirements for her Boating Badge. While this was her third time kayaking, she took care to use the needed safety gear and launch her kayak with help. Lola and her grandma set out early in the morning to watch the sunrise from the waters of Jed Johnson Lake. The journey didn’t disappoint. Lola remembers, “I liked seeing the elk on the mountain nearby, and the glowing sun coming up over the lake was really pretty.” Debbie, her grandmother, recalls, “Lola was a trooper. We got up early so we could be on the water to hear the elk bugle. Which we did! We only got to see one elk that day, but it was Lola who spotted him!”

WORLD HERITAGE BADGE

The United States is known as the world’s melting pot. People from many different countries and cultures call America their home. In order to truly understand America’s roots, we must learn to appreciate the customs and traditions of various cultures.

Badgework involves enthusiasm from both leaders and Girl

Members, so when TX0619 Explorers voted to complete the World Heritage Badge, Unit leader Amber was thrilled and intimidated—she’d never traveled outside the United States! Through the help of a friend with international student connections, Amber opened the girls’ eyes to cultural wonders from Egypt, Russia, Japan, and beyond. The Explorers made passports for each country and embarked upon a learning journey showing both the similarities and contrasts of their lives with girls in each country. “They were excited to see similarities [within each country] like school, playing with friends, and dinner with family. I think it really opened their eyes to how big the world is, and yet how similar we all are as children of God,” recalls Amber. As a fun finish, the Explorers held a fashion show and dinner with styles and foods from each country they “visited”.

CHARTER ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT

EAST SIDE BAPTIST CHURCH

TX3120

KILLEEN, TEXAS

This issue, AHG is excited to shine a light on East Side Baptist Church in Killeen, TX, home to TX3120. Charter Representative Amber Freeman and Troop Coordinator Jessica Quinn reflect on three 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.

Amber Freeman

WHY DID YOUR CHURCH DECIDE TO CHARTER AN AHG TROOP?

Our church decided to charter an American Heritage Girls Troop along with a Trail Life Troop because we are nestled in the heart of Texas next to one of largest military installations in the world, Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood). We realized that our nearest Troops were quite a drive away and with such a large population of soldiers with young families looking for Christ-centered, family-oriented programs it seemed like God was really laying it on the heart of our church to bring American Heritage Girls and Trail Life to our community.

HOW MANY YEARS HAS YOUR CHURCH HAD AN AHG TROOP?

Our Troop has been here and active for three years now.

HOW HAVE YOU SEEN GROWTH IN YOUR YOUTH/FAMILY/WOMEN’S MINISTRY PROGRAMMING SINCE CHARTERING AN AHG TROOP?

We are a young Troop, and having over 100 kids grace our front step once a week has brought a renewed life to some of our other ministries. Our Women on Mission’s efforts to support the local Hope Pregnancy Center have nearly tripled with the cooperation of our amazing American Heritage Girls. The efforts of our girls towards Operation Christmas Child have created a wonderful problem of needing more vehicles to get all the boxes transported. Ministry and outreach in the community from East Side Baptist Church through American Heritage Girls has been truly inspiring.

HOW ELSE HAS AHG AFFECTED YOUR ORGANIZATION’S MINISTRY EFFORTS?

The girls have been a real inspiration to our organization. These girls have such sweet smiling faces and joy-filled hearts as they volunteer in the community, representing East Side Baptist Church in our local Christmas parade by creating a living (and glowing!) nativity scene. I think one of the most impactful things they do in our community is taking care of the Veterans Cemetery. Placing American Flags on the graves for Memorial Day and wreaths at Christmas time along with their brother Trail Life troop. Showing their community how much they care for those who gave their all for our country is a remarkable ministry and to do so selflessly is an incredible testament to our Lord who gave it all for us.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER POTENTIAL CHARTER ORGANIZATIONS LOOKING TO CHARTER AN AHG TROOP?

Everyone is out there trying to find a tribe. If you want to create an unforgettable group of passionate people, be the tribe they are looking for. We aren’t looking for people to fill seats, we are looking for friends and sisters in Christ to fill up the hearts of young girls and you need people that are just as passionate about it as you are!

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.

For more information on the chartering process, americanheritagegirls.org/start-a-troop/charter-organizations

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.

BUILDING THE NEXT GENERATION OF RESILIENT LEADERS

UNSHAKEABLE:

UNSHAKEABLE:

The world tells our girls that words are weapons, that failure is costly, and that in order to succeed, they must get it right the first time all on their own.

Culture leads girls to believe that their worth lies in their achievements, their accolades, and their clout. But Jesus calls His followers to live a life counter to the culture—where the humble inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5), the last will be first (Matthew 20:16), where the leader is the servant (Mark 10:45), and those who die to themselves will live in glory (John 3:3-7). American Heritage Girls answers God’s counter-cultural call— giving girls the Gospel while teaching them the power that lies not in their own abilities, but in their reliance on Christ. AHG is building resilience, grit, and perseverance in the next generation of leaders with unshakeable faith in Christ.

Defining Resilience

Webster’s Dictionary explains resilience in relation to physics. It states that resilience is the ability of an elastic material, such as rubber or animal tissue, to absorb energy and spring back into its original shape after being stretched. The recovery that occurs in this phenomenon is similar to a girl’s ability to rebound after a jarring setback. Like the elastic material, our girls must release that hardship and allow it to stretch them but not define them. Through American Heritage Girls, girls learn and develop many different types of resilience including emotional, mental, social, and spiritual resilience.

Emotional resilience is the capacity to adapt to stress. It involves maintaining emotional stability and wellbeing in the face of adversity. Mental resilience is the ability to problem-solve and persevere in times of uncertainty. For young girls especially, mental and emotional resilience is crucial for navigating the ups and downs of life, building healthy relationships, and developing a strong sense of self-worth. Social resilience is the ability to come together to find a solution in times of difficulty. The AHG Troop structure allows girls to be in community with their peers, working together as they grow into women of integrity.

AHG programming reflects the importance of building mental, emotional, and social resilience in girlhood. Through badgework, service projects, and leadership opportunities, AHG equips girls with the skills to manage their emotions, communicate effectively, and develop coping strategies when faced with challenges. Spiritual resilience is the unshakeable nature of a girl’s relationship with Christ. For many girls, spiritual resilience provides a sense of hope, comfort, and guidance in times of uncertainty. Through the AHG Program, girls experience a whole-life faith, one where God and the Truths laid out in His Word shape her entire worldview.

entire AHG experience is centered around Jesus, she learns that her relationship with God is not just one facet of her life. Through AHG, each girl discovers how all-encompassing her faith life must be. From 5 to 18, American Heritage Girls learn just how much their dependence on God is required through every trial, success, and failure. Girls in every Program Level learn that, with God, they don’t have to lean on their own abilities, but rather, they can be fortified in the strength of Christ. They establish spiritual resilience and get gritty, not because of their own doing, but because they seek the presence and power of God in times of difficulty. They have a Gospel-guided grit.

From a Biblical Worldview perspective, the word grit is not a pull-up-your-bootstrap kind of grit. It is a grit cultivated by the Holy Spirit inside the heart of a Christ-follower. Grit is a spiritual discipline

“I cannot get through this life on my own strength. Each day I pray for His strength and energy. It is hard to keep going sometimes. When I feel like giving up, I pray, and remind myself that if I am still here then God still has a purpose and plan for me on earth. I thank God for every day He has given me. What keeps me going is reading the Bible, reminding myself of God’s promises, prayer, and listening to wonderful worship songs. I am so thankful that I am not alone and God is walking with me.”

–Sarah, AHG Patriot and Stars & Stripes Award Recipient

Gospel-Guided Grit

Everything about the American Heritage Girls Program is centered around Christ, including instilling resilience and perseverance in girls. Why? Because when a girl’s

that enables Christ-followers to persevere through hardships, walk wisely in all areas of life, and serve others. While serving others can be challenging, Christ seeks to develop each of our servant leadership skills in this ever-changing world. Godly grit is required to persevere and finish the race well because His abundant power and grace enable believers to remain faithful when human strength runs out.

Learn more about building resilience in girls, download the FREE Raising Godly Girls Guide to Resilience.

Inspiration from the AHG Creed

Instilling a sense of perseverance in today’s girls is crucial to raising a successful generation of young women of integrity. American Heritage Girls in every Program Level adhere to the promises of the AHG Creed. The Creed word “Perseverant” is among these Godly character traits, and it’s easy to see why! There is great value in instilling a sense of confidence, poise, and grit in our girls.

The AHG Program encourages girl involvement at every Level, guiding girls through age-appropriate programming that gives them the chance to build upon their skillset and grow in their identity in Christ. It is not AHG’s Mission to push a girl into mastery, but every girl should leave the Troop having learned and experienced new things. Thought-provoking programming material, Troop responsibilities, and outdoor adventure all give girls the chance to explore, learn, and experience. The G.R.I.T. with Grace girl leadership curriculum, created by AHG with Troops and girls in mind, offers instruction on critical resilience-fostering lessons through sessions including “Conflict Resolution”, “Growth Through Feedback and Rejection”, and the namesake session, “G.R.I.T. with Grace. Getting a girl out of her comfort zone is the first step toward instilling resiliency! After all, without failure or difficulty, resiliency cannot exist.

Persevering Through Problems

So often in AHG, leaders witness girls overcome difficulty on the road to achievement. Whether it be learning to develop an unselfish heart as a young Pathfinder or nailing down the nitty-gritty details of planning and implementing a Stars & Stripes Award project as a Patriot, there is a natural presence of challenge and discomfort for a girl in the AHG Program. Why? Because we, as Christians, are not called to an easy life. Today’s world values a life of convenience and comfort. But as girls grow in resiliency, they recognize that when little is given, little is gained. AHG offers a safe-to-fail place for girls to grow in their abilities, reliance on God, and ability to persevere. An American Heritage Girl learns through challenging programs, like awards and badges, how to overcome obstacles, lean on Jesus, and bounce back in order to achieve.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” –Philippians 4:13, NIV

Paul’s words in his letter to the Philippians are some of the most quoted from Scripture, but they’re also some of the most misused. The traditional achievements of today, like winning a sporting event or building material wealth, aren’t the “all things” Paul spoke of in his letter. In fact, the circumstances in which he turned to Christ for strength were quite the opposite. Turmoil, difficulty, despair—those are the times Paul turned to Christ. Paul did not ask the Father to take his problems away or change his circumstances, but instead to give him the

“My time in American Heritage Girls has tremendously influenced my life, and given me so many opportunities to learn new skills, meet lots of people, and participate in some awesome experiences… Beyond just the ‘usual’ life and outdoor skills, AHG has helped me to grow in self-confidence and as a leader by forcing me to stretch

my comfort zone a little bit with every meeting, camp, event, and workshop.”

–Arianna Santiago, AHG Alumna and Stars & Stripes Award Recipient

strength to shift perception and joyfully trust in the Lord despite the hardship. Teaching girls to trust in the Father while experiencing difficulty instills a sense of graceful poise and Godly perseverance that the world is so desperately devoid of today.

The American Heritage Girls Ministry prays that all girls experience the AHG Program with monumental successes that come through challenge, not because the path is always easy. When girls are given the environment to fail forward, learning from mistakes, they are able to expand and thrive. Grit, perseverance, and resiliency are learned through action, not by understanding theory. AHG gives girls the space to lean on Christ as they work through their issues, hold-ups, and stopping points. Through their Troop experiences, girls learn the valuable skills of mental, emotional, social, and spiritual resiliency. It’s amazing what girls are capable of when they are given the chance to persevere!

STARS & STRIPES AWARD FACTS AND FIGURES

(4th Quarter reporting for the 2023-2024 Program Year)

2023-2024 Program Year Recipients: 87

Benefiting Organizations Served: 87

Creed Word Most Used in Writing: Helpful

Total Service Hours: 22,250

Average Service Hours per Project: 256

What Stars & Stripes Award Recipients Like Most About AHG:

Outdoor experiences with their friends

#1 Thing Girls Learned: Prayer helps lessen the anxiety of leading.

Total Number of Stars & Stripes Project Advisors: 25

Benefiting Organization: South Texas Botanical Gardens

Location: Corpus Christi, TX

Project: Built six wooden bird hides and chew toys for parrots

Total Supervisory Hours: 10 hours

Total Hours: 116 hours

AN EXCERPT FROM HALLIE’S SPIRITUAL WALK ESSAY:

“It was not an easy process; it was very challenging for me. I may not fully understand everything right now, but I believe one day I will be able to see more fully God’s hand in leading me here. I had to reach farther out of my comfort zone than ever before, and it hurt at times. Even though it was hard I feel more prepared to face hard things in my future life and career.”

—HALLIE ANN DARK

Hallie Ann Dark TX0025

WHAT DID YOU FIND MOST REWARDING IN EARNING THE STARS & STRIPES AWARD?

When I was little, I was very anxious. Anxiety kept me from so many things I wanted to cry, but God gave me peace to attend AHG the first time, at a brand-new church with people I did not know. I realize God gave me courage because He had many things to teach me through my AHG journey, and part of that would be earning my Stars & Stripes Award. I now see that God placed this on my heart and it was not my worldly and selfish desires. It was not an easy process; it was very challenging for me. I may not fully understand everything right now and maybe never will, but I believe one day I will be able to see more fully God’s hand in leading me here.

BENEFITING ORGANIZATION QUOTE:

“Hallie has been volunteering at South Texas Botanical Garden for several years. Having her choose to do her project for our Animal Ambassadors was a privilege. The hide boxes and toys give our parrots an opportunity to forage and to deconstruct, which are activities vital to their happiness and overall health. We are grateful for the impact she has made and the future volunteers she has inspired.”

—DEDRA R. BENEDICT

ANIMAL CARE DEPARTMENT COORDINATOR

SOUTH TEXAS BOTANICAL GARDEN

NEWTROOPS

See

AZ4816 Restoration Hope Church / Lake Havasu City

GA0314 Move Christian Church / Albany

GA0334 First Baptist Cumming / Cumming

IL4316 The Rock Church Centralia / Centralia

MO0613 Northside Christian Church / Warrensburg

MS0512 Harmony Baptist Church / Crystal Springs

MT0226 Harvest Church Billings / Billings

NC0274 Community Baptist Church / Mooresville

NJ1335 Clayton Baptist Church / Clayton

PA1202 Nittany Bible Church / PA Furnace

PA1886 Ellen Chapel Church / Lewistown

PA3261 Zion Community Church / Bellefonte

SC9915 Mountain Rest Baptist Church / Mountain Rest

VA0414 Colonial Baptist Church / Keswick

VA0610 Berea Baptist Church-Rockville / Rockville

VA0627 Drummondtown Community Church / Accomac

VA7719 Monte Sion Church / Centreville

WA1957 Bethel Family Fellowship / Bonney Lake

WI0356 Brookside Baptist Church / Brookfield

HIGHIMPACT INSIGHT

Tracy Ullman is the Area Coordinator for the Dallas Area Team. She has volunteered with TX5413 since 2009, holding many positions within the Troop, and currently serves as Troop Shepherd. Tracy served Troops in the North Texas region as a Ministry Expansion Lead (MEL), as a Hometown Mentor in Collin County, and as a Stars & Stripes Mentor to Stars & Stripes Award Candidates.

WHAT ARE HIGH ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES AND WHY DOES OFFERING THEM SET AHG APART FROM OTHER GIRLFOCUSED PROGRAMS?

High Adventure activities provide girls with the opportunity to team build with young ladies their own age. When doing hard things in a safe environment, girls build relationships with friends working together through these challenges. High Adventure activities give girls confidence in themselves. The strength built, the memories that glue relationships together, the joy overcoming challenges in support of each other—all these are implicitly woven into AHG’s High Adventure activities.

The difference between other girl-focused programs and AHG lies in AHG’s ability to meet all girls during their unique journey into womanhood and growing in their faith. Taking girls on High Adventure trips gives them chances to hike, backpack, and camp. Any physical activity that pushes them beyond themselves will strengthen their resilience and self-confidence.

HOW DO HIGH ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES ENHANCE MENTAL RESILIENCE IN AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS?

Although High Adventure activities challenge girls physically, these experiences give them the opportunity to develop mental resilience in girlhood as well. Challenging experiences within the AHG years allow girls to expand on their abilities, problem-solve, and overcome adversity. Embarking on High Adventure activities provides girls a way to build competence within the adventure and apply it to challenges in their adult life too!

IN WHAT WAYS DOES AHG PROMOTE SOCIAL RESILIENCE OUTDOORS?

Outdoor activities are one of my favorite times with our Girl Members. These precious experiences in God’s Creation show both the splendor of the outdoors and the leadership potential within each girl. When you see a Pioneer or Patriot Girl teach an Explorer Girl how to build

a fire, then teach them about fire safety, watch over it, and cook a meal over that same fire—you see so many things in those brief moments! The older girl leads, supports, and cares for the younger girl, while the younger girl learns, trusts, and builds confidence from the older girl’s example.

HOW DOES OUTDOOR EXPLORATION FOSTER EMOTIONAL RESILIENCE IN AHG?

Girls who participate in High Adventure activities often find an inner resilience and ability to overcome setbacks in their everyday lives. Being in God’s Creation improves their overall balance helping to nurture emotional wellness. Nature has been known to lessen the stresses of the world. By taking girls out of an often overstimulating and distracting environment, outdoor time actually gives them an opportunity to relax both mentally and physically.

HOW

DOES CONNECTING WITH NATURE STRENGTHEN AHG GIRLS SPIRITUALLY?

Being out in nature can bring girls to a place of peace. If we offer them time to take in the fresh air, slow the pace, and calm their hearts, they can find comfort and calm— letting all the noise of the world around them wash away. Those are the moments when they can hear what God’s voice and feel reaffirmed that they are a Daughter of the Most High King.

AHGUPDATES

HAPPENINGS AT THE AHG NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

RAISING GODLY GIRLS PODCAST AN INSTANT SUCCESS

NEW STAFF SPOTLIGHT

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 members of the AHG, Inc. Staff:

PLEASE WELCOME

Andy Haas Director of eCommerce & Merchandising

Jessi Fitzsimmons Ministry Relationship Specialist

Nick Perkins IT Development Operations Manager

Gretchen

Wilhelm Senior Member Experience Director

For nearly 30 years, American Heritage Girls has come alongside families in offering Christ-centered, girl-focused character development. Through the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, presented by American Heritage Girls, listeners get to tap into the advice that seasoned AHG leaders have gleaned

over three decades of ministering to girls. Listeners enjoy timely, Biblicallysound, and actionable tips from fellow moms, Troop volunteers, and thought leaders on how to raise up a girl after God’s own heart. Since its launch on January 1, the Raising Godly Girls Podcast has captured the attention of listeners nationwide, celebrating 40,000+ downloads in the first 100 days. Guests have included Bethany Bomberger of the Radiance Foundation, Abe Hamilton of American Family Radio, and Kathy Koch of Celebrate Kids. Podcast listener Michelle Rivera shared “I am so grateful for this podcast! We moms needed this. My daughter is 11. She’s starting to ask the big questions, and having grown up without God it helps so much to look to my Bible, my pastors, and a podcast like this. I want to hear what other moms who are walking with God want to know! Thank you for helping us raise Godly Girls in a world that doesn’t value them. Looking forward to more episodes.”

Listen to the show anywhere you listen to podcasts, or stream on raisinggodlygirls.com

ONCE IN A LIFETIME PATCH PROGRAM OPPORTUNITY

American Heritage Girls celebrated God’s incredible Creation with this once-in-alifetime patch opportunity this April! April 8, 2024 ushered in the “Great North American Eclipse”, a total solar eclipse visible from 13 states including: Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, Oklahoma, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Vermont. According to NASA, the next solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States won’t happen until August 2044! The AHGstore offered unique glow-in-the-dark AHG Eclipse Patches to commemorate Girl Members’ completion of the patch requirements surrounding this unprecedented event. While there are no formal patch program requirements to receive the patch, the AHG Curriculum Development team created the Solar Eclipse Event Patch Resource, available on AHGresource, for families and Troops looking to celebrate the event with a Biblical Worldview in mind.

AHG MAKES A SPLASH AT NATIONAL RELIGIOUS BROADCASTERS CONVENTION

Each year, members of the AHG Staff travel to the National Religious Broadcasters Convention to build media relationships and raise awareness for the American Heritage Girls Ministry. This year AHG’s Founder & Executive Director, Patti Garibay, interviewed with countless outlets and added a new title to her business card—host of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast! Patti conducted 15 interviews for the Raising Godly Girls Podcast with industry experts in an array of fields including ministry, mental health, national media, entertainment, homeschooling, and more.

STAFFSCOOP

Angie Reck Troop

Development Coach

Location

Woodbury, Minnesota

How long have you been working at AHG? I’ve been working here for almost three years.

What do you do in your position?

I help parents and church leadership start new AHG Troops in their area. This includes phone or video calls and countless emails to help them achieve the development of a new Troop. I also attend homeschool conventions throughout the year to share what this wonderful ministry is all about!

What’s your favorite part of working at AHG?

Sharing the enthusiasm of the people I’m working with who are so excited to bring this ministry to their community! I also love our

daily prayer time as an AHG Staff and the incredible support this organization provides on a professional and personal level. I’m very grateful God has brought me to this position.

What is your favorite Bible verse?

In 1 Chronicles 28:20, NIV, David said, “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you.” Sometimes we’re called to do hard things but we can have hope that God will not fail us. I also turn to Psalm 96 frequently as a reminder of who God is and to rejoice always!

What is your favorite part about visiting or being involved in a Troop?

I was first made aware of this ministry at my local homeschool convention and set out to start a new Troop in my area 10 years ago with some homeschool friends who also had daughters. I served as the Troop Coordinator for a number of years and enjoyed watching the girls learn and grow through the various activities our Troop offered! I’ve been

known to get emotional at the Court of Awards every year because it’s a testimony that this program is making a difference in their lives.

Anything else you’d like to add? I’ve personally seen how this program shaped who my daughter has become and I’m so grateful for that. It’s also helped me to use the skills God blessed me with as a way to draw nearer to Him and have a small part in spreading this ministry to communities across the country.

Dr. Alveda King (left) & Patti Garibay (right) Garrett Hinton (left) & Patti Garibay (right)

Patti Garibay (left) & Pastor Jack Hibbs (right)

Rachael Culpepper (left) & Nicole Hust (right)

americanheritagegirls.org/donate