McHenry orthodontist goes public with support of Girl Scouts

When Dr. Michael Thompson of Conlon and Thompson Orthodontics in McHenry posted a video to the business’ Facebook page offering to buy a case (12 boxes) of Girl Scout cookies from each Girl Scout troop in McHenry County – if they came by in person and in uniform – he never expected his video to go viral.

With more than 6,500 views so far, the video has prompted a huge outpouring of community support.

“We had a wonderful response, not only from families of Girl Scouts, but also from others in the community. These are individuals who appreciate community outreach and who are there to give back to the community,” Thompson said. “Having two young daughters myself, I admire how the Girl Scouts help develop essential skills. They provide worthwhile experiences and teach values that help young girls be successful in life.”

With the Girl Scout cookie program being the largest girl-led business opportunity in the world, Thompson said he would like to see more local business owners follow his lead by interacting with these entrepreneurs and future business leaders.

“I would absolutely recommend other businesses make the same offer,” he said. “Finding ways to help the Girl Scouts reach their goals is always the right thing to do. Girl Scouts provide our community with worthwhile service projects and make a difference in so many lives.”

No matter how many cookies Thompson buys, he plans to pay forward his generosity.

“Our team will definitely enjoy some of the cookies together, but we will be donating most of them to our local first responders,” he said.

Thompson also hopes people will continue to support Girl Scouts in their community, both on the personal and business level.

“Personally, we have been blessed with other people sponsoring us when we were kids and believe paying it forward helps make the world a better place,” he said.

Hurley & Volk Orthodontics in South Elgin offered a similar challenge last year, and it has returned as a cookie business challenge partner this year.

Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois is grateful for both businesses’ commitment and generosity in supporting local Girl Scout entrepreneurs. In response, the organization has promised to publicly recognize any local business in its 16-county region that accepts the cookie business challenge.

For help with setting guidelines, advertising a cookie business challenge to local troops and to receive recognition, business owners should contact GSNI at cookies4you@girlscoutsni.org or 847-214-9295.