Riedel Foundation funds start-up of Girl Scout Mariner program in Hannibal

August 10, 2023 | By Muddy River News

From left, Erin Vlasaty, Girl Scout fund development manager; Jill Dameron, GS database manager; Robbie Hagan, Mariner skipper; Kristin Fasnacht, GS community engagement manager; and Bill Criagmiles, Riedel trustee, at a check presentation for the Girl Scout Mariners. | Photo courtesy of the Riedel Foundation

HANNIBAL, Mo. — A Mariner Girl Scout program is coming to Hannibal with the support of the George H. Riedel Foundation. Riedel trustee Bill Craigmiles recently presented a $16,331 check to the Girl Scouts that will cover all supplies to start a Mariner program, which teaches water skills to members.

In a press release, Craigmiles said, “This grant is a good collaboration for us. It’s structured so that our grant provides all the start-up materials, then an endowment from the Girl Scouts sustains it in the future. That way we know the Mariner program will be available to Girl Scouts in Hannibal for many years.”

The Mariner Girl Scouts is a special interest troop that offers adventure on, in and near the water. It’s open to teen Girl Scouts, grades 7 to 12, giving them the opportunity to engage in water-focused activities. The girls will learn skills in swimming, safety and rescue, weather and navigation, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, paddle boarding or boating.

“The Mariners acquire skills that allow them to take action on oceans, lakes, and rivers; explore careers related to water and the environment surrounding water; and participate in associated local events and competitions,” said Robbie Hagen, a Mariner program skipper who will assist in leading the new troop. “It helps cultivate a love of outdoor and aquatic adventure as well as an overall interest in Girl Scout participation in the community.”

The Riedel grant will cover the purchase of essential watercrafts such canoes and a canoe trailer that would be stored in Hannibal for the exclusive use of the Hannibal’s Mariner Girl Scouts. It covers all the associated costs, including storage, uniforms, manuals, two annual events and all the accessories needed to run the program.

The Riedel Foundation has been a long-time supporter of scouting. Locally, they provided the funds to start 10 Daisy troops, two robotics troops, STEM camp and mental health awareness programs for schools in addition to other projects and programs.