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It has long been known that Gunta does not share a love of the
camping experience that most scouts hold dear. To her horror,
during a training event at the Edith Macy Conference Center in
New York, she was assigned to a tent. Another gracious attendee
learning of her dread kindly offered to trade her place in the lodge
with Gunta. As it then proceeded to rain the entire week, we can
only imagine how relieved Gunta must have felt and perhaps a
little guilty as she did not trade back.

One early recognition event bore the title “Dream, Dare, Do.” This
title can certainly be associated with how Gunta approached
challenges. After retiring from her job with the council, she and
a dedicated staff of 22 volunteers tackled a new idea when they
decided to write the 90-year history of the Lake Erie Girl Scout
Council. Gunta placed a quote in a forward to the book “A Promise
Kept” that states, “Empower yourself to make life worthwhile by
acting on your dreams.” This Girl Scout certainly did dream and
dared to follow through and do what it takes to make dreams
reality.

Presently, as a current volunteer, Gunta remains totally dedicated
to the Girl Scout program. She chaired the frst “Something
Special” event held at the Embassy Suites for Girl Scouts of North
East Ohio. The Wall of Honor program has beneftted from her
tireless dedication to the project as chair of the committee in
the beginning and most recently as the lead for North region. She
currently serves on the Fund Development Steering Committee
and is a member of the North Region Alumnae Support
Committee.

Gunta’s caring attitude, acceptance and genuine fondness toward
Girl Scout members, both girl and adult, are among the gifts those
of us who have worked with her treasure most. Adults working
with Gunta appreciated the fact that they found a staff member
who truly valued the role of the volunteer in Girl Scouts. Members
gave her their all and more knowing she expected their very best.
She had a way of encouraging and supporting a person, leading
them to reach their highest level. In her special way she always let
you know how genuinely appreciated your efforts were. Working
with Gunta was, as one member stated, “an honor to be asked.”
Committee members involved with her projects wanted to return
year after year, even knowing the amount of labor that would be
involved and the perfectionism expected. Her special charisma
draws members to her even today as she serves in the volunteer
ranks. She holds most dear the many Girl Scout friends she

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