Ways to Recognize a Volunteer

Girl Scout Volunteers work hard to create a fun and empowering environment for our girls. They put in extended time and often work extra hours on top of busy schedules and hectic lives to bring the Girl Scout Leadership Experience to our Girl Scouts. Here are some great ways to say "thank you.”

When and How to Recognize Volunteers

Everyday little things go a long way. A card from the girls, handmade gifts, photo keepsakes, are all special ways for girls to say thank you to their leaders, and often are the most meaningful. Recognitions might be made on Girl Scout holidays, at service unit meetings, at troop meetings, or at special recognition events.

Annual Meeting & Adult Recognition

Know a volunteer whose contributions stand out? Every year, we recognize the outstanding efforts of our volunteers at our Annual Meeting & Adult Recognition event. Volunteers may be nominated for recognition by leaders/advisors, service unit team members, parents, or council staff. Consider nominating someone inspiring. The GSUSA/GSNNJ Awards Decision Chart below will help you decide which award best suits your nominee. Nominations and endorsements for the current Girl Scout year are now being accepted.

National and Council Adult Volunteer Recognition Awards

To nominate an inspiring Girl Scout Leader for a recognition award to be presented at the Annual Meeting & Adult Recognition event in May, download our Listing of Awards and Requirements and our Decision Tree document as references to help you decide on the appropriate award. Then, fill out the Nomination Form. If you are endorsing an already nominated volunteer, use the Endorsement Form.

New GSNNJ Adult Volunteer Recognition Awards

Exceptional Leadership Award

This award recognizes a volunteer who inspires those around them and is a guiding example of an ideal Girl Scout volunteer.

Commitment to Excellence II - Above and Beyond

This award is given to volunteers who continue to demonstrate exceptional service, and extraordinary dedication to the Girl Scout Movement for two years or more after receiving the Commitment to Excellence Award.

Years of Membership Pins

To apply for your Years of Membership Pin (5, 10, 15, 20, or 25+ years), fill out a Years of Membership Pin Application Form by Friday, April 2, 2026. Years of Membership include total years as a registered member (both as a girl and as an adult). Volunteers receiving these pins must be registered members for the current Girl Scout year. Years of Membership is self-nominated. Note: for 15 years and above, pins are presented at the Annual Meeting & Adult Recognition event, while 5 and 10 year pins are presented at the service unit level.

Girl Scout Leader's Day

April 22 is Girl Scout Leader's Day, which honors all the volunteers who work as leaders and mentors in partnership with girls. Girls, their families, and communities should find a special way to thank their adult Girl Scout volunteers. Appreciation can be shown on this special day and all through the year.

Questions? Call Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey Customer Care: (973) 248-8200

Or, email us at customercare@gsnnj.org