JAZMIN Averbuck
32 | Girl Scouts Green & White Mtns | Outdoor Programs Coordinator & Resident Camp Director
Residence: Thetford
Career highlight(s): The career highlight I'm most proud of is presenting about innovative nature-based programs for teens during the virtual 2020 Annual Conference hosted by the Vermont Recreation and Parks Association. Sharing my work and experiences in outdoor skills, leadership and programming with professionals throughout the state is something I will continue to pursue throughout my professional career.
Community Involvement:
My community involvement includes volunteering at various community events hosted by the Milton Recreation Department since 2016 and active participation with the Vermont Recreation and Parks Association since 2017. Additionally, I strive to connect local Girl Scouts with community networks and partners that will increase a girl's interest in leadership and advocacy and reduce the barriers that keep them from experiencing these interests and more in the outdoors.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont? I was motivated to live and work in Vermont by my personal connection to the communities.
Favorite part of your job? My favorite part of my job is providing new experiences where girls can move out of their comfort zone in the outdoors and build their courage, confidence and character. Nothing is better than seeing a girl excited by her accomplishments after she has started a fire, hit the archery target or reached the top of the climbing tower, all for the first time.
Most inspiring mentor and why: My most inspiring mentor is my current supervisor, Dr. Karyn Martin. Over the last 3-years, Karyn has encouraged my professional development through trainings, professional association membership and many long conversations about management theory and past experiences. I have never, once, been afraid to ask for help or guidance and for this I am a stronger mentor myself.
Tell us something fun about yourself that few people know: Few people know that I am a competitive strength athlete. When I am not working I spend the majority of my time training in some way or another.
What three words best describe you: Three words that best describe me are; Bubbles (this is my camp name), determined and encouraging.
Favorite Vermont escape: My favorite Vermont escape is scenic route 100! I love driving along the back roads and stopping at picnic areas, waterfalls and old general stores.
Person you would most like to share a Vermont beverage with: The person I'd most like to share a Vermont beverage with is my mother, who I lost to a chronic illness in Spring 2017. Her favorite was the ice wine from Snow Farm Vineyard we would get from the Champlain Islands Farmers' Market.
How has your community service changed since the pandemic? My community service during the pandemic has changed slightly due to the decrease in large community events and in-person programs. Alternatively, I have been working to bring more leadership and advocacy opportunities to girls through virtual platforms.