American Heritage Girls

American Heritage Girls (AHG) is a variation on the Girl Scouts, founded in 1995 by Patti Garibay, a former Girl Scout troop leader.[1] AHG's mission statement is to "Build women of integrity through service to God, family, community and country".

Founded in 1995 in Cincinnati, Ohio, AHG has grown from ten Troops and 100 members to more than 20,000 members spanning 47 states and four countries. The Trailblazer Program operates in several European countries and Japan and in areas without established Troops.

AHG is a faith-based program providing leadership and character development for girls Kindergarten through 18 years of age in a safe, fun environment. AHG Troops meet together to grow in their faith, serve in their community, practice leadership, experience teamwork and build friendships. Over 240 badges and outdoor activities are enjoyed within age appropriate groups.

In 2009, AHG was presented a Memorandum of Mutual Support by the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). This Memorandum is historic in nature as it is the first presented to an all-girls’ organization in the one hundred-year history of the BSA.

Service continues to be the strength of AHG. More than 230,000 service hours were provided to communities around the world in 2010. The prestigious Stars & Stripes Award is the highest recognition in AHG. The award incorporates 100 service hours, badge work, religious award recognition and leadership requirements. The Stars and Stripes is equivalent to the Eagle Scout Award earned by BSA.

AHG values pro-family involvement and pro-life service projects.

AHG is open to all girls of all backgrounds. Leaders and the charter organization must uphold the AHG Statement of Faith found on the AHG website

## References[edit]

1. ↑ American Heritage Girls