Girl Scouts of WNY celebrates outstanding youth volunteer with President's Volunteer Lifetime Service Award

Press Release

Girl Scouts of Western New York (GSWNY) is delighted to announce that one of its dedicated youth members has been honored with the prestigious President’s Volunteer Lifetime Service Award. This esteemed recognition, established in 2003 by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation, acknowledges individuals whose volunteer service has significantly impacted communities nationwide and has inspired others to engage in civic activities.

MJ Breeze, a committed Girl Scout from the Ken-Ton service unit, has achieved this remarkable milestone by dedicating over 4,500 hours of volunteer service in just five years. Their extensive involvement includes serving as a youth member of the outdoor committee, where they have contributed more than 2,500 hours to planning, preparing and running events that benefit girls and troops across GSWNY. Additionally, MJ has unofficially assisted a fellow troop as an assistant leader, creating and implementing engaging programs for girls and providing essential support to troop leaders.

“We are incredibly proud to recognize MJ Breeze’s extraordinary dedication and selfless contributions to our community,” said Christine Kirwan, vice president of volunteer experience at GSWNY. “To reach over 4,500 volunteer hours as a youth member is an incredible achievement that exemplifies the spirit of Girl Scouting and community service. MJ commitment and passion for helping others is truly inspiring, and we are honored to celebrate their accomplishments.”

This year marks a historic moment for GSWNY, as it is the first time the organization has awarded the lifetime achievement award to a youth member. The President’s Volunteer Service Award honors volunteers who have demonstrated a sustained commitment to service. The Lifetime Service Award is awarded to individuals who have completed 4,000 or more hours of service to a qualifying organization. Recipients must apply and provide a detailed record of their volunteer service hours to be considered for this prestigious award.

MJ Breeze has been a member of Girl Scouts for 13 years and has shown exceptional leadership and dedication. Their efforts have not only strengthened the Girl Scouts community, but also fostered a sense of fun and sisterhood among the troops. MJ’s tireless service and dedication serve as a powerful example for others, encouraging more individuals to contribute their time and talents to address the challenges facing our nation.

MJ Breeze, your dedication to service is inspiring, and we are immensely proud to call you a GSWNY member. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!

About Girl Scouts of Western New York

Girl Scouts of Western New York (GSWNY) serves girls and adult volunteers across the GSWNY jurisdiction, including Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Niagara, Orleans and Wyoming counties. The council’s administrative service centers are located in Buffalo, Jamestown, Lockport, Niagara Falls and Rochester. To volunteer, reconnect, donate or join, visit www.gswny.org or call 1-888-837-6410.