Orlando associate Jessica Parker authored an article, "Because Others Helped Me, I Am Willing to Lend a Hand," which was published in the November 27, 2009, Orlando Business Journal's "Partners in Philanthropy" section. Parker, who is very active in the Central Florida business and civic community, currently serves as the President of the Board of Directors for the Girl Scouts of Citrus Council, Inc.
"As a home-schooled girl from an economically challenged family, Girl Scouts was my window into a world of limitless possibilities," stated Parker. "It was through Girl Scout programs and activities . . . that I discovered my true potential. I learned that if I was willing to work hard and forgo immediate gratification I was the master of my own destiny."
Parker goes on to say that it was the "courage, confidence and character" gained through her experience with the Girl Scouts that helped her to succeed in her educational and professional goals. "But most importantly," Parker notes, "the Girl Scouts showed me there was fulfillment and joy in serving others," which is the main reason Parker joined the Citrus Council's Board of Directors in 2003.
Parker's article also discusses her involvement with "outreach troops"—for girls in economically challenged schools. Parker has worked with the outreach troop Baker Hostetler's Orlando office has sponsored for more than five years. "I have seen firsthand the change that scouting makes in these girls' lives," stated Parker.