GRAND CROSSING — Even though Heather Smith doesn't live in Chicago and was never a Girl Scout, she plans to start a local chapter this fall to ensure more inner-city girls have an opportunity to be a part of the national organization.
The 43-year-old Army sergeant, who lives in south suburban Evergreen Park, said she fell in love with the Girl Scouts after serving last year as a volunteer in south suburban Matteson, where her 13-year-old niece is a Scout.
She started as a volunteer but later became the troop leader.
"Once I started working with all the wonderful young ladies in the organization I wanted to do more," Smith said. "I wanted girls from inner-city neighborhoods like Chatham to be able to participate as well."
Her Girl Scouts of the United States of America troop will start up in October for girls in kindergarten through eighth grade, and the group will meet at least twice a week at the South Central Community Center, 1021 E. 83rd St., Smith said. Annual fees are $35, but for girls unable to pay, Smith said the leadership organization "would provide a way for every girl who wants to join to become a member."
With three volunteers already, Smith said she could accommodate 30 girls in the troop. But she hopes to recruit even more volunteers, which would allow her to accept more girls.
"The benefits are endless when it comes to becoming a Girl Scout. What I can tell you is that being a Girl Scout builds courage, confidence and character, which is our national motto," Smith said.
Linda Sterling, who is with the Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana Council for the Girl Scouts, said Smith's group would become part of its council.
Last week, Smith began fundraising for the troop by offering Zumba classes at the South Central Community Center from 6-7 p.m. for $10. Three more classes will take place on Tuesday and July 15 and 22. Tickets can be bought online in advance for $9 and the instructor is Kathy Bradley, a certified Zumba instructor
"Hopefully these classes will attract parents with daughters interested in joining and more volunteers," Smith said.
For more information about joining the new troop, call Smith at 469-708-8254 or email her at troop.taji@gmail.com.
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