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Celebrating Our 2026 Volunteer Award Recipients

May 28, 2026

At Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska, volunteers and community supporters are at the heart of everything we do. From troop leaders and Service Unit volunteers to local businesses and community organizations, these individuals and partners help create spaces where Girl Scouts can discover their strengths, build confidence, and make a difference.

This year, we are proud to recognize volunteers and community champions from across Nebraska whose dedication continues to shape the Girl Scout experience for girls in big and small ways alike.

Each of this year’s recipients was nominated by members of the Girl Scout community who have seen firsthand the difference these volunteers and partners make. Their nominations reflect the lasting impact these individuals and organizations have had on girls, troops, and communities across Nebraska.

Years of Service Recognition

Our Years of Service recognitions celebrate volunteers who have reached milestone anniversaries in their Girl Scout service journey. From supporting troops and mentoring girls to organizing events and strengthening local communities, these volunteers have made a lasting difference through their continued commitment to Girl Scouts.

10 Years of Service

Karen Dailey, Omaha
Angela Lierman, Kearney
Holly Meader, Omaha
Kathy Robbins-Wise, Omaha

5 Years of Service

Christina Akromis, Omaha
Amanda Brand, Beatrice
Brenda Elkins, Beatrice
Melissa Forrest, Gretna
Emalee Francis, Sutton
Melissa Kistler, Omaha
Kristy Leddy, Omaha
Julie Lingbloom, Gretna
Jessica Rich, Kearney

Community Benefactor Award

The Community Benefactor Award recognizes organizations or individuals who are not Girl Scout members and provide outstanding assistance and support to Girl Scout programming.

This year’s recipients have strengthened Girl Scouts through generosity, partnership, advocacy, and community connection. Their support helps ensure girls across Nebraska have access to meaningful experiences and opportunities.

2026 Community Benefactor Award Recipients

Faith Lutheran Church, Hastings
Gretna Hy-Vee Starbucks, Hannah Johnson, Gretna
Hastings Public Library, Kelly Reisig, Hastings
Heckert Health, Wende Heckert, Norfolk
Kearney Public Library, Matthew Williams, Kearney
The Kim Foundation, Ashlee Zaragoza, Omaha
WingmanIT Services, Andrew Due, Lincoln

Helpful Adult Award

The Helpful Adult Award recognizes adults who consistently step up to support Girl Scouts. Whether lending a helping hand behind the scenes, supporting troop activities, or showing up whenever needed, these individuals embody the spirit of teamwork and service that keeps Girl Scouting thriving.

Helpful Adult Award Recipients

Christina Akromis, Bellevue
Kim Borrell, Hastings
Timothy Dailey, Omaha

Volunteer of Excellence Award

The Volunteer of Excellence Award honors volunteers who have made an outstanding impact on girls and the Girl Scout experience. Through leadership, mentorship, creativity, and dedication, these volunteers have helped girls grow in confidence, courage, and character.

2026 Volunteer of Excellence Recipients

Meghan Clark, Bennington
Lindsey Escritt, Hebron
Jessica Fisher, Chadron
Melissa Forrest, Gretna
Jennifer Fries, Benkelman
Rachel Gleason, Lincoln
Catherine Harris, Scottsbluff
Amber Havel, Benkelman
Apryl Johnson, Millard
Katheryn Keller, Grand Island
Heather Kirkendall, Falls City
Shaila Latta, Benkelman
Adilene Ledesma, Broken Bow
Emily Liechti, Bellevue
Sylvia Lupo, Broken Bow
Holly Meader, Omaha
Carrie Reinders, Valentine
Cris Smith, Hebron
Miranda Stagemeyer, North Platte
Jordan Sterup, North Platte
Brigit Talkington, Papillion
Amy Vermilion, Alliance
Ashley Wittgow, Stanton

Appreciation Pin

The Appreciation Pin recognizes volunteers who have provided exceptional service and support to one or more Service Units. These volunteers go above and beyond to strengthen local Girl Scout communities and create positive experiences for girls and fellow volunteers alike.

2026 Appreciation Pin Recipients

Liliana Delgado, Papillion
Daesha Pesek, Hastings
Sarah Rogers, Bellevue
Nicole Shimek-Langrud, Kearney

Thanks Badge II

The Thanks Badge II is one of the highest honors in Girl Scouts and recognizes a previous Thanks Badge recipient who has continued to provide exemplary leadership and service with a measurable impact benefiting the entire council or Girl Scout Movement.

This year, we are proud to recognize:

2026 Thanks Badge II Recipient

Jerri Elwonger, Falls City

To all of this year’s recipients: thank you for the countless hours, care, leadership, and encouragement you pour into Girl Scouts. Because of volunteers and supporters like you, girls across Nebraska are discovering what’s within themselves and building a brighter future for their communities.

Your impact reaches far beyond meetings, events, and programs. It helps shape the next generation of leaders. 💚