Girl Scouts honoring women leaders at event in Reading

Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania, or GSEP, is honoring four women leaders in Berks County at its annual Take the Lead event in Reading.

This year’s honorees are leaders in their industries and communities, serving as role models for Girl Scouts through their careers and dedication to causes, according to the organization.

The honorees will be recognized at a special event at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel on Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

2025 Take the Lead Berks County Honorees

• Christie Botterbusch, executive director, New Journey Community Outreach, Inc.

“Christie is committed to promoting equitable care for individuals and families facing hunger and adversity in the region by overseeing initiatives that deliver essential services for at-risk populations,” GSEP said in its announcement. “As cofounder of VOiCEup Berks and the Youth Volunteer Corps of Reading, Christie works to inspire meaningful transformation within the Reading community and beyond.”

• Beth Garrigan, chief executive officer, Safe Berks.

“Beth oversees the operations of Safe Berks to ensure the organization fulfills its mission of providing shelter and 24/7/365 comprehensive life-saving services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence,” the organization said. “Through her leadership, Safe Berks provides a haven for survivors to heal and receive support.”

Garrigan serves as a voting delegate of the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Pennsylvania Coalition to Advance Respect.

• Dr. Noahleen Betts Kebbay, director of podiatry, Berks Community Health Center, and president of the Reading School Board.

“A physician for over 20 years, Dr. Kebbay is a well-respected medical professional in the Berks County region through her involvement in several medical conferences across the country, including Pennsylvania Association of Community Health Centers, the United Nations General Assembly, and more,” the announcement said.

Kebbay is a founder of the Africa Lower Limb Institute and the Miss Teen Reading, PA Organization.

• Regina M. Rinehimer, partner and wealth manager, Kingsview Partners.

“As a champion for local causes in the Greater Reading area, she has a proven ability to help community organizations address financial needs and serves as a mentor to college students through her leadership and commitment to women’s professional development,” according to GSEP.

The 2025 Take the Lead Berks County honorees truly exemplify Girl Scout values, said Kim Fraites-Dow, chief executive officer of Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania.

“We look forward to having them serve as role models for our Girl Scouts, who will learn firsthand from these women ways to live a life of purpose with courage, confidence, and character,” Fraites-Dow said.

Take the Lead event

Take the Lead also provides a unique leadership opportunity for Girl Scouts, the organization said.

As part of the Take the Lead program, high school-age Girl Scouts shadow honorees for a day at work, gaining career insights and guidance.

Scouts also serve as presenters, emcees, event hosts, social media influencers, and chorus members during the event.

Take the Lead is co-chaired by Dr. Glynis Fitzgerald, president of Alvernia University, and Virginia Rush, community and nonprofit advocate.

For more information, visit www.gsep.org/takethelead or call 267-332-5483.

Source: Berkshire mont