As we celebrate Volunteers’ Week, it’s the perfect time to recognise and thank the incredible volunteers who make Girlguiding possible.
This year, we are also marking the end of an important chapter as Lorna Hamilton steps down from her role as County Commissioner for Girlguiding Dunbartonshire.
Lorna’s leadership has helped guide the county through some of its most significant challenges and achievements in recent years. As she reflects on her time in the role, one thing shines through above all else: her appreciation for the people who make Girlguiding Dunbartonshire such a special community.
“It has been an incredible honour,” says Lorna. “Working with amazing people, full of surprises and challenges, fantastic friendships – something that will live with me always.”
Leading through change
Lorna took on the role during a period that demanded resilience, adaptability and determination. One of her proudest achievements has been helping the county recover and rebuild following the disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Alongside this, she is proud of the opportunities that have been created for girls and volunteers across the county, as well as the work undertaken to strengthen governance and compliance and build a cohesive leadership team.
Under Lorna’s leadership, Girlguiding Dunbartonshire has also embraced important changes to safeguarding and compliance, helping to ensure the county is in a strong position for the future. She has worked closely with volunteers to shape a team that is ready to meet the needs of guiding for years to come.
Celebrating our members
When asked about her favourite memories, Lorna doesn’t point to a single event or achievement. Instead, it’s the people who have made the greatest impact.
She described her highlight as: “Getting the opportunity to meet the girls, present awards, meet with our volunteers and celebrate their achievements.”
These moments capture the heart of Girlguiding – recognising the confidence, skills and accomplishments of young members, while celebrating the dedication of the volunteers who support them every step of the way.
The power of teamwork
Like many volunteer leaders, Lorna faced challenges along the way. Managing the wide range of responsibilities that come with leading a county can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Her key lesson has been the importance of teamwork.
“It took me a while to break things down and target specific areas,” she reflects. “Finding the right volunteer with the expertise and enthusiasm to see something through to completion made all the difference.”
It’s a reminder of the incredible range of skills, experience and passion that exists within Girlguiding Dunbartonshire’s volunteer community.
A heartfelt thank you
As Volunteers’ Week encourages us to celebrate those who give their time to help others, Lorna has a simple but powerful message for everyone who has supported her throughout her journey: “A huge thank you. I am eternally grateful to you all.”
Whether you’re leading a unit, supporting behind the scenes, organising events, maintaining properties or helping girls gain new experiences, every volunteer plays a vital role in making Girlguiding happen.
Looking to the future
As Lorna hands over the reins to incoming County Commissioner Lynne Gibbons, she offers some wise advice: “Laugh, seek help and advice, and grow the team around you. Don’t try to do it all yourself. We have volunteers with amazing skills and commitment.”
While she may be stepping down from the County Commissioner role, Lorna’s Girlguiding journey is far from over. She will continue in her Scottish property role and remain actively involved in supporting the county, including work on Catterburn, the redevelopment of the Guide hut, property matters, international opportunities and supporting Lynne wherever she can.
Thank you, Lorna
As we celebrate Volunteers’ Week, we want to extend our sincere thanks to Lorna for her dedication, leadership and commitment to Girlguiding Dunbartonshire.
Her passion for guiding, belief in volunteers and focus on creating opportunities for girls have left a lasting impact on our county. We are grateful for everything she has achieved and delighted that she will continue to be part of our guiding community.