Congratulations Melanie Ford, Volunteer Medal of Service 2020!

16 July 2020
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“The WAGGGS Medal of Service is the highest form of recognition that WAGGGS can bestow and is awarded to individuals (volunteers or staff) who have distinguished themselves in their outstanding service to Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting at national and global level. The Medal of Service expresses gratitude to members of the Association whose service is considered to be exceptional, noteworthy and/or extraordinary in nature.”

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Melanie is long-standing WAGGGS volunteer and currently Lead Core Mission Global Volunteer in Leadership.

She spends days of each week in support of WAGGGS and taken on ambitious large-scale projects, while never stopping her grassroots Guiding work or losing sight of impact on girls coming first.

Her humility means much of this work has gone under the radar but can be felt when so many teams call on her to share her skills, expertise and experience and, when there is a last minute need for someone who can pick up a project with a sure pair of hands, hers is often the first name that comes to mind.

“For many years, Mel has given her time, energy and passion for Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting without seeking recognition or status. She has been an inspiring role model to thousands of girls and women around the world.”

Andii Verhoeven, Head of Core Mission

Mel’s volunteer role have been far-reaching, and include:

  • Juliette Low Seminar 2019 lead volunteer
  • Global capacity building lead volunteer
  • Global rapid response volunteer
  • Europe region conference Forum lead volunteer
  • Europe region working group lead
  • Europe region working group member
  • Global educational method volunteer working with India

She has been an inspiring mentor and supporter to many, many teams of volunteers, and was a pivotal driver of the new Juliette Low Seminar model, as well as giving up a week to sit online during the event supporting every hub without attending an event herself.

Congratulations Mel!

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