Spotlight Volunteer Training

This year, thanks to a $250,000 grant from an anonymous donor, we launched Spotlight, a digital training resource that supports the continuing growth of our phenomenal volunteer leaders. The Spotlight Program defines what high-quality programming looks like at Girl Scouts of Western Washington. Our goal is to help our dedicated leaders get even better at what they do and how they do it.

Spotlight features a self-reflection tool that generates suggestions of short, practical modules that will best benefit each volunteer. Volunteers can also freely navigate all modules, and create a Take Action Plan to put their training into practice. Spotlight users can explore and grow independently, with a co-leader or other collaborator, or in the company of a Spotlight Coach. Spotlight Coaches are experienced volunteer leaders who provide one-on-one coaching to guide participants through the Spotlight Program. This includes encouraging growth in troop leadership skills in areas of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Girl-Led; Cooperative Learning; and Learning by Doing.

Volunteer Coaching Manager Erika Behrends trains, supports (and is constantly inspired by) Spotlight Coaches. She shares that,

“My Spotlight Coaches are wise and kind and passionate about supporting volunteer leaders as they learn to navigate new resources. That they stepped up during a global pandemic is a clear testament to their dedication to Girl Scouts and to their belief in the importance of encouraging and supporting our volunteers.”

Spotlight is now live, with walk-throughs and Q&A sessions planned throughout December to help volunteers get started. Especially with current events creating greater reliance on technology, we’re thrilled to implement this virtual volunteer training option. As Erika says,

“We’re grateful for the generosity that has allowed Girl Scouts of Western Washington to launch a new program during this time of economic instability. This significant source of grant funding has allowed us to offer valuable resources and support to our volunteers. Thank you!”

We can’t wait to see the many ways our volunteers and coaches will continue to support one another in developing quality programming, building community, and championing Girl Scout youth.