Banning's 'Little Brownie Scout with Big Heart' Recognized for Helping Others

If you live in Banning, chances are you know Victoria "Torie" Bisel.

Whether she's visiting a nursing home or gathering donations for Toys for Tots, this 7½-year-old Brownie is always looking for a way to make a difference in her community.

"There are lots of people out there who need help," said Torie. "I like being able to share what I have."

And share, she does. Tooth fairy money pays for warm socks for little kids who need clothing. A reward for making honor roll buys a jacket for someone in a shelter. Christmas money goes towards food and toys for families struggling with tough times.

Along the way she's made a lot of friends. There's Henry, Barbara and Earl who she visits regularly in their nursing homes where she cheers them up with hugs and her favorite Girl Scout songs. And of course there's the Mayor Barbara Hanna, who buys cookies from her every year.

"Everyone who knows Torie is always asking her what she's doing and how they can help," laughs mom Nina. "They really get inspired by her projects and want to do whatever they can to support her. It's amazing."

Torie's supporters came out in full force to cheer on the little girl last month, when she entered Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio's "It's My Mag" Facebook photo contest.

Thirty-two girls entered the competition, each posing with their favorite magazine. Seven hundred and eighty six votes were cast, and Torie took first place with 211 votes. What does she plan to do with her prize of four free magazine subscriptions?

"Give them to friends," answered Torie promptly.

Mom Nina laughed. "Well, I think we'll maybe keep one of them ourselves. We like Family Fun magazine a lot because of all the great recipes and crafts the two of us can do together."

This isn't the first time Torie has worked hard to achieve a goal. Last winter she set a goal for herself of selling of Girl Scout cookies so she could earn one of the major incentives - a trip to Catalina Island.

"It was the hardest thing I've ever done," said she said. "I wasn't sure I could do it. But I went out and sold cookies every single day and finally earned enough for the trip. It was so fun! I got to go snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, play games and even go on a scavenger hunt!"

Would she recommend Girl Scouts to other girls who are interested in joining? "Oh yes!" said Torie. "We love making new friends, and we have such a good time together! From the day I walked into my first meeting I knew this was the place I had always wanted to be," said Torie. "Nobody has as much fun as a Girl Scout!"

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio builds girls of courage, confidence and character who help make the world a better place.

For more information about how to get involved with Girl Scouts, call 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit http://gssgc.org.