U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall supported a resolution in the House of Representatives this week congratulating Girl Scouts of the United States of America on its 95th anniversary and commending the organization on its long, proud history of providing quality experiences that prepare girls to become the leaders of tomorrow.

"I have long supported the mission of the Girl Scouts organization, and am pleased to have the opportunity to join my colleagues in recognizing the accomplishments of this excellent program," Rahall said. "At all levels of the Girl Scouts, girls participate in activities that build self-confidence, responsibility, integrity, and teamwork, helping them take the steps to become the leaders of tomorrow and developing real-world leadership abilities that will last them a lifetime."

The resolution specifically applauds the Girl Scouts for its work at the Girl Scout Research Institute, for continuing to actively promote issues important to girls and for its efforts to launch a national dialogue on the issue of obesity among young girls

"Approximately 9 million children over the age of 6 are obese and these numbers are especially high in West Virginia," Rahall said. "It is important that we work together to promote healthy habits and the Girl Scouts are leading the way. Their definition of 'health' as a combination of diet, exercise, emotional well-being and self-esteem is making a difference in the lives of many youth."

In the Third District of West Virginia, Girl Scouts of Black Diamond Council served 5,568 girls and 1,231 adults through a variety of programs and activities for today's girls. The Black Diamond and Shawnee Girl Scout councils not only provides more than 22,000 girls in West Virginia with fun and friends, but also equips them with fundamental values essential for sound decision-making and respect.

"Our goal is to make Girl Scouting available to all girls in our area," said Susan Thompson, CEO of the Girl Scouts of Black Diamond Council. "Being part of the Girl Scouts provides girls with a nurturing, positive environment where they will develop skills necessary for success later in life."

Added Rahall, "The theme of the Girl Scouts 95th anniversary is 'Girl Scouts Make the World a Better Place,' and I can think of nothing more appropriate for this organization that has done and continues to do so much for our communities."