In celebration of Dove Self-Esteem Weekend, eleven Willow Springs girls attended a Girl Talk
workshop on Saturday, October 23. Ranging in age from kindergarten to fifth grade, the girls
attended breakout sessions about self-confidence, self-acceptance, and appreciating difference.
The newest Girl Scout resources, a book series called It’s Your Story- Tell It!, were used to
foster positive discussions about their lives and their community.
The girls worked together on team-building activities and community service ideas, coming up
with three concerns they wanted to address: graffiti, litter, and bullying. They then designed
murals that reflected their ideas for bettering the community, which they hung in the YMCA for
the community to see. The girls signed the murals to indicate their support of their community
causes, and invited community members to do the same.
“This program is a wonderful opportunity for girls to connect with their community,” said Girl
Scouts of the Missouri Heartland CEO Jennifer M. Orban, “Teamwork and service projects like
these help girls develop a stronger, positive sense of self.” The Dove Movement for Self-Esteem
encourages women and girls to create a world in which beauty is a source of confidence, not
anxiety. Among the many influential women showing their support by sharing their messages of
inspiration are Katie Couric, Abigail Breslin, Lea Michele, and newly appointed Dove Movement
for Self-Esteem Youth Ambassador, Katherine Schwarzenegger.
The girls plan to continue their involvement in Girl Scouts. For more information on how to join
or volunteer, contact Community/Membership Development Specialist Alyx Chevalier at 877-
312-4764 x1420 or achevalier@girlscoutsmoheartland.org.
