In the kitchen with Girl Scout leaders Rocio Marrero and Jennifer Beekman

BY GINNY PRIVITAR
WEST MILFORD — Rocio (Roe-SEE-oh) Marrero and Jennifer Beekman have a lot in common. Their daughters, Cindy and Hannah, respectively, have been good friends since fourth grade. Both girls participated in Girl Scouts. Beekman was already a co-leader for their troop, #70639, when the other co-leader stepped down. The troop would have to be disbanded with only one leader; Marrero volunteered and became Beekman’s co-leader so the troop could continue.

That volunteer partnership was the beginning of a great friendship, both say. “It’s great because Jen and I work together really well," said Marrero. "Jen and I do everything together.” And it’s obvious they enjoy it. In fact, one would not be interviewed without the other, as they consider each other equally important to the Girl Scouts.

Not only do they run their troop, but both are also unit service managers for all the troops in West Milford. The job entails coordinating activities for 36 Girl Scout troops and ensuring the leaders have appropriate training. The troops are comprised of eight Daisy troops; 10 Brownies; seven Junior; six Cadet; three Senior and two Ambassador. Marrero oversees the financial reports and submits them to the local council.

Marrero is originally from the Dominican Republic. She and her husband, Freddy, have three daughters: Alondra 19, Cindy 14; and Valery 12. They have lived in West Milford since 2004.

You might say volunteering to help the community is in their DNA. Marrero also volunteers at the Macopin school store every other Monday. During band season, she helps out at the concession stand. Beekman also volunteers with the band and helps out at her church, in addition to Girl Scout duties.

All of the West Milford troops — 174 girls in all — participated in the town’s Dec. 7 tree-lighting ceremony, singing carols and, those also in band, playing music.

During the holiday break this winter, the girls will go camping (with indoor accommodations) and work on their badges.

Townwide, the troops enjoy snow tubing and cupcake wars, where each troop decorates and is judged on their cupcake creations. They also participate in the powder puff derby, building and racing a small wooden car.

A popular activity is “Thinking Day” when the older girls learn about and celebrate different countries that have Girl Scouts: how they dress, live, and the food they eat. Older troops create a booth for their country. Younger girls come through, learn, do a quick craft and maybe have a local snack. The event is held at West Milford Presbyterian Church.

Any time there’s an activity, the troops bring food to donate to the food pantry at the church.

Both women find the job very rewarding. “It’s great being there for the girls. I think that I make a difference in their lives," Marrero said. "We have had them since fourth grade, so they’re our kids, too.”

“I think we have an amazing group of girls. Three out of four are on the honor roll," Beekman added. "The older girls have helped with younger troop meetings. The girls are at a fun age: ninth and tenth grade. We have a lot of fun with them.”

Beekman and her husband, David, have lived in West Milford for 15 years and have five children; four daughters and one son: Bethany, 28; Susie, 26; Daniel, 22; Jamie, 19 and Hannah, 14.

Beekman got involved in Girl Scouts because she was a Girl Scout. She was also previously an assistant leader. “I like to help and if it involves my children, that’s much better.”

Their troop meets alternate Sundays. For information, contact Marrero at 973-851-5978.

Of course, it’s almost a given that if you’re a Girl Scout mom or leader, you know how to bake. Marrero and Beekman shared two treats for the holidays.

Jennifer Beekman gives us Uncle Carl’s Apple Crisp and Rocio Marrero’s recipe is for Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Enjoy!