Congresswoman Elaine Luria recently
visited Virginia Beach Troop 125 at the Mermaid Factory in Norfolk to give the
girls words of encouragement as they geared up for the start of cookie booth
sales which kicked off on Sunday, February 17. The girls were inspired as she
talked about the different careers and opportunities she has had in her
lifetime, including owning her own business.
“It’s always best to plan ahead so
you are prepared for anything and ready to accomplish your goals,” she said.
As a Girl Scout, Congresswoman Luria
learned valuable lessons about teamwork, responsibility and time management.
She said Girl Scouts also helped her realize the importance of preparation,
collaboration and working with people from a variety of backgrounds.
Since January 5 this year, Girl
Scouts all over southeast
ern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina have been planning, preparing and executing plans for their cookie businesses.
This year, Troop 125 set a goal to
sell 7,500 boxes of cookies.
“I feel it’s important for the girls
to hear from Girl Scout alums of all backgrounds because it teaches them that
they, too, can be anything they want to be,” Vanessa Fuery, leader of the troop,
said. “It allows the girls to see and hear from women who may have once been exactly
where they are and demonstrates that the future is full of possibilities.”
The Girl Scout Cookie Program is the
nation’s largest girl-led entrepreneurial program. Girls gain skills that last
them a lifetime, including business ethics and money management. Cookies are on
sale until March 24. Click here to find a booth near
you.