Everyone can agree that change is constant. And that experiencing something new is so much better when you have a cheerleader, friend, or mentor by your side.

Girl Scout troop leaders and volunteers are the role models that help Girl Scouts unleash their inner G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader)™ spirit to take the lead and make changes in the world in big and small ways. After reading notes from Girl Scout volunteers across the country, we at Girl Scouts of the USA know that millions of girls are fearlessly facing “firsts” and taking on life’s challenges every day.

When we asked volunteers to share why the experience is worth their time, the responses made us break out the tissues. Here are some of our favorites!

“Every smile, every giggle, every time the light bulb goes on, every connection that builds a bond, every wow, every gasp, every sigh, every tear, every single time a girl gets to be a girl and a sister and a leader and on and on and on.”-Kathy P.

“In 2014, I was in the hospital recovering from a critical illness. One of my caregivers was one my former Girl Scouts. She took such good care of me. I felt safe whenever she was assigned to me.” -Jane G.

Your shy girl finally has some confidence to speak in front of people.”-Sheila L.C.

You get a surprise thank you card like this…she is not my daughter biologically but it makes my heart happy that she thinks of me that way.”-Sandi S.A.

“I love my time as a volunteer. Volunteering has given me so much love, friendship, and kindness from the girls, fellow volunteers, & GSNEO staff. These people who I now consider family have inspired me to be a better person. I have my troop leader to thank for starting me out on this life long journey of ‘On my honor…’”-Amy S.

“You’re recognized as the ‘Cookie Momster’ by a lot of people in town from the years you were SUCM. And you’re not wearing your ‘momster’ hat.”-Donna G.

“You get a call or card from a girl you haven’t seen in 35+ years to let you know that she appreciates what you did for her.”-Donna S.

“When your Cadette troop finishes their New Cuisine badge by learning how to make Gorditas from a troop member’s Mom from Mexico.”-Sarah H.L.

“You know how many cases of cookies fit in each type of vehicle.”-Angela K.C.

“You have a diverse group of girls and they are all friends who build each other up!!!!!”-Michele W.

Originally appeared on GSUSA Girl Scout Blog April 15, 2018