The American Heritage Girls(AHG) is a Christian Scouting organization founded in 1995 by Patti Garibay and other parents from West Chester, Ohio, who were unhappy that the Girl Scouts accepted lesbians as troop leaders, allowed girls to substitute another word more applicable to their belief for "God" in the promise, and allegedly banned prayer at meetings (see also Girl Scouts of the USA Controversies). The organization claimed 9,468 members in 2010 (up from 7552 the previous year), with troops in 42 states, plus Americans living in three other countries.

Ideals

The AHG mission statement is: Building women of integrity through service to God, family, community and country.

The vision statement reflects similar values: American Heritage Girls is the premier national character development organization for young women that embraces Christian values and encourages family involvement.

The AHG's Christian beliefs are explicit in the statement of faith: We believe that there is One Triune God – Father, Jesus Christ His One and only Son, and the Holy Spirit – Creator of the universe and eternally existent. We believe the Holy Scriptures (Old and New Testament) to be the inspired and authoritative Word of God. We believe each person is created in His image for the purpose of communing with and worshipping God. We believe in the ministry of the Holy Spirit who enables us to live a Godly life. We believe that each individual is called to love the Lord their God with all their heart, mind, soul and strength; and to love their neighbors as themselves. We believe that each individual is called to live a life of purity, service, stewardship and integrity.