Girl Scout troops rejected 6-year-old for her disability — then she broke state record by selling 100,000 cookie boxes

Many of us have spent a long time missing out because others didn’t think we were capable enough. We’re called to respond to them by doing our best, and Pittsburgh’s Pim Neill is a shining example of that, reported CBS News. The 6-year-old was determined to become a Girl Scout from the age of 3, and when it was time, she went above and beyond to join a troop. Initially, she was met with reluctance from other troops due to her disability. Still, Pim meticulously showed she’s just as capable… and more, by selling 81,000 boxes of cookies in a single season and shattering the state record.

Luke Anorak-Neill, Pim’s father, revealed how his daughter observed the girls selling cookies when she was a toddler and aspired to join them someday. When she joined kindergarten, they were on the lookout for local scouts who would welcome her. They tried troop after troop, only to be met with rejection. “The lady said that Pim's disabilities would hold back the troop, and they didn't want her to join,” Luke said of the first troop they tried. Other reasons were that she was too small or just wouldn’t manage. The dad then stumbled upon a kindergarten-only troop and knew Pim would fit right in. "The troop is a great fit for Pim, and it's 11 brilliant, fun kindergartners,” he remarked.

Around January, the cookie season began, and within a week, the 6-year-old already sold 819 boxes of cookies. Seeing her fervour, the dad knew he could lay his eyes on the prize for the most amount of cookies sold — a trip to Niagara Falls. The latter was where Pim’s parents had gone while dating, and so it would be a special trip if Pim joined them. However, the parents were encouraged to give up that vision since getting more sales was likely not possible for Pim — or so they thought. Luke went to social media and made videos of Pim and the cookies she had in store for as many buyers as possible. Within a few weeks, sales were growing brilliantly.

No one could resist the adorable question Pim had, “Do you wanna get some Girl Scout cookies?” with a smile and a glance that meant business. Within no time, she had sold thousands of cookies, and from 10,000, the goal grew and grew, according to WTRF. Just yesterday, the dad shared a post revealing that they sold 100,043 cookie boxes. “We want to take a moment to thank all those who stood behind her and helped her make history,” the caption read.  According to NEWS4SA, the dad is delighted because this is more than selling cookies; it is a dream come true and a support to girls, so they never have to hold back.

“We’re building a movement, and it’s so cool. We’re moving girls into 2026,” the dad noted. Pim’s goal is to sell “more cookies than anyone,” and there’s no number to that, so the store will remain open until March 22. According to UNICEF, there are around 240 million children in the world with disabilities. Rosangela Berman-Bieler, UNICEF Global Lead, noted that nearly a quarter of a billion children with disabilities need to be assisted in realizing their rights. “Children with disabilities have the right to be nurtured through responsive care, supported in education, and provided with adequate nutrition and social protection, including in humanitarian situations. But all too often, such rights are denied,” she remarked. 51% of these children were reportedly more likely to feel less happy and discriminated against because of their disabilities.

Pim is a vibrant example that determination and courage don’t stem from mobility but rather from a resilient and pure heart. @teresapribilski6915 said, “As a former Scout and Scout Leader, I love this story.  What a great family.” @CallyCharles added, “Pim is an outstanding entrepreneur! I'd say that makes her the #1 Girl Scout in America.” 

You can follow  Pim Neill (@lifeofapim) on TikTok for more content on an inspiring lifestyle. 

More on Scoop Upworthy

Buying cookies from this Girl Scout Troop will directly help homeless girls

This 98-year-old has been a Girl Scout for 8 decades and she's still selling cookies

Meet the Girl Scout troop comprised of girls in the New York City shelter system