Girl Scout Resolutions for a Remarkable Year

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Hello, Girl Scout family! As we step into a brand new year, we’re filled with excitement and determination to make it extraordinary. This year, our resolutions are not just personal goals but shared commitments that unite us as a vibrant and spirited community. Join us as we embark on a journey of growth, kindness, and exploration!

1. Be a courageous leader every day

This year, our Girl Scout resolution is to lead with courage! Together, let’s embrace new challenges, stand up for what’s right, and be friends to all.

Our first resolution invites every Girl Scout to channel their inner leader fearlessly. We’re setting the stage for a year of empowerment, where courage becomes our guiding force. Let’s support one another on this path of boldness and resilience!

Hone your leadership skills by participating in the Girl Scouts’ Becoming Me Program Series, inspired by former First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama’s book Becoming: Adapted for Young Readers. As a participant in this unique experience, you can explore the truth of your own story and the power of your voice while hanging out with friends!

You can:

  • Earn three specially-selected Girl Scout badges
  • Get the Becoming Me patch
  • Participate in a national service project to honor members of your community. Learn more today!

2. Kindness Challenge

Let’s make kindness our daily mission! Our resolution is to spread love and joy through daily acts of kindness. Join us in making the world a better place, one small act at a time.

Kindness is a universal language, and this year, we’re making it a Girl Scout signature. From smiles to helping hands, let’s create a ripple effect of positivity. Together, we can make a world of difference through simple acts of kindness.

Becoming a Girl Scout means tapping into a supportive group of people who uplift you every step of the way. When it comes to caring for your mental wellness, the new Girl Scouts Mental Wellness patch program reminds you that you’re never alone in facing challenges and further invites you to dive into and understand your emotions. You can do this by participating in activities, such as making art or writing poetry, that foster resilience and help you to better understand your world. No matter the season, never doubt your ability to rise up, and remember—you got this.

3. Embark on outdoor adventures

Calling all nature enthusiasts! This year, our resolution is to embark on more outdoor adventures with our Girl Scout troop. Hiking, camping, and exploring the wonders of nature. Who’s ready for the journey?

Nature is our playground, and this resolution is an invitation to experience its wonders together. Get ready for exciting outdoor escapades, where you’ll learn, bond, and create lasting memories surrounded by the beauty of the great outdoors.

Put yourself out there with us and participate in our Girl Scouts Love the Outdoors Challenge. Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing, even if you spend that time becoming a rockstar at rock climbing or making a splash in the puddles around your neighborhood. Download our free activity sheet to see what’s possible right outside your own front door today, and earn a cool patch in the process!

4. Explore the world of STEM

Unlock the wonders of STEM with us! Our resolution is to dive into science, technology, engineering, and math activities. Join our journey of curiosity and innovation!

Let’s be explorers of the future! This resolution is all about embracing the fascinating world of STEM. From coding to experiments, we’re diving headfirst into a sea of knowledge and discovery. Who says learning can’t be an adventure?

Interested in science? Explore rocketry with your troop to build STEM skills and discover aerospace engineering with this FREE Rocketry for Girl Scouts activity. Rocketry is the design and creation of rockets. They’re often built by aerospace engineers—but you don’t have to be an aerospace engineer to build one! Why do rocketry? You get to develop important skills like teamwork, problem solving, and leadership while working with other Girl Scouts to design, create, and launch rockets.

5. Be a global citizen

Embrace diversity, build bridges, and make a global impact! Our resolution is to celebrate different cultures and create a world of understanding. Join us on this journey.

As Girl Scouts, we’re citizens of the world. Let’s celebrate our rich tapestry of cultures and foster understanding across borders. Together, we can make the world a more harmonious and connected place.

You can tackle global challenges and earn the Global Action Award in the process. Help heal our world and make a better future for everyone. The United Nations—where nations come together to solve problems that affect humanity—might not seem to have much of an impact on your life, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. From climate action to gender equality, they’re working on the same issues that are close to your heart—and you can help! There are 17 important global problems they’ve chosen to work on (they call them the sustainable development goals, or SDGs). By learning more about them, connecting with others who care, and then taking action in your community and beyond, you can play an important role in healing our world and creating a better tomorrow for all of us. Plus? When you’ve completed all the steps, you’ll earn a special award. Learn more about this opportunity on the GSUSA website!

6. Live a healthy lifestyle

Prioritize well-being with us! Our resolution is to make smart choices for our minds and bodies. Let’s inspire each other to lead healthy, happy lives.

Healthy living is the key to a thriving community. This resolution is a commitment to nourishing our minds and bodies, supporting one another on our individual wellness journeys, and cultivating a culture of vitality.

Life isn’t always easy, but dealing with tricky emotions doesn’t have to be so hard. Try activities from the Girl Scouts: Resilient. Ready. Strong. program to unlock a patch and strengthen your mental wellness. Nobody can snap their fingers and make the world all sunshine and lollipops, but you can take steps to be ready when things get tough. Go get ‘em, Girl Scout!

7. Read more books!

Embark on a reading adventure with us! Our resolution is to discover new worlds through books. Share your favorite reads and inspire a love for literature.

The magic of books awaits! Let’s turn the pages together and share the joy of reading. Our reading challenge is a quest for knowledge, imagination, and the pleasure of getting lost in a good story.

Start a book club with your troop, or write a story together! The possibilities are endless!

8. Become an environmental steward

Green living starts with us! Our resolution is to reduce waste and live more sustainably. Let’s take care of our planet together.

As stewards of the environment, let’s make choices that leave a positive impact. This resolution is a pledge to reduce our ecological footprint and cherish the Earth, our shared home.

As climate change affects our planet, it’s up to us to do what we can to protect our Earth. When you participate in the Girl Scout Climate Challenge, you’ll get outdoors to learn about climate science, connect with your community to understand how it is impacted by climate change and spread awareness of the issue to make a difference.  Whether you learn about the effects of greenhouse gases, talk to local climate experts, or lead a sustainability project, your knowledge and involvement will help you be a climate advocate. Download your free activity guide and resources for grades K-5 or 6-12 to get out and get involved in taking climate action! 

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In the spirit of Girl Scouts, these resolutions are more than goals; they are promises we make to ourselves and each other. Together, let’s make 2024 a year of growth, friendship, and endless possibilities. Cheers to the adventures ahead!

Stay connected with us on social media, and share your journey with the world. Here’s to a fantastic year of being bold, kind, and adventurous—just like Girl Scouts do best!

Happy New Year, Girl Scouts!

How You Can Celebrate National Write a Business Plan Month with Your Girl Scouts (AND Earn Some Cool Badges!)

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We are always on the lookout for engaging and educational activities that inspire our Girl Scouts to dream big and develop essential life skills. This December, let’s embrace the entrepreneurial spirit by celebrating National Write a Business Plan Month with our troops!

This initiative is a fantastic opportunity to instill the principles of leadership, creativity, and strategic thinking in our girls. In this blog, we’ll explore age-appropriate ideas for different Girl Scout groups—Daisies, Brownies, Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors—ensuring a fun and educational experience for everyone.

For Our Youngest Entrepreneurs, Daisy Girl Scouts (K-1):

  • Mini Business Fair:

Encourage the girls to create a mini-business fair where they can showcase their talents and interests. Help them identify simple products or services they can offer, and guide them in creating colorful posters or signs to attract customers. This activity introduces basic entrepreneurial concepts and fosters teamwork.

  • Storytelling Adventure:

Foster creativity by encouraging the girls to come up with a short story about a magical business. Have them draw pictures or create a simple comic strip to illustrate their ideas. This not only introduces the concept of business planning but also enhances their storytelling skills.

  • Earn a Badge:

Follow GSUSA’s activity guide to earn the Daisy Toy Business Designer Badge! Come up with an idea for a toy and design it—just like an entrepreneur would.

For Brownie Girl Scouts (Grades 2-3):

  • Marketplace Challenge:

Divide the troop into small groups and challenge them to create a “mini-marketplace.” Each group can choose a product or service to “sell” to the rest of the troop using play money. This activity introduces budgeting, pricing, and marketing strategies.

  • Design Your Dream Business:

Provide the girls with supplies like craft materials, paper, and markers. Ask them to design their dream business, complete with a logo, slogan, and basic business plan. This hands-on approach makes business planning exciting and accessible for this age group.

  • Earn a Badge:

Follow GSUSA’s activity guide to earn the Brownie Budding Entrepreneur Badge! Come up with an idea that makes life better—just like entrepreneurs do.

For Junior Girl Scouts (Grades 4-6):

  • Business Simulation Game:

Introduce a business simulation game where girls take on different roles within a fictional company. This interactive activity helps them understand the complexities of decision-making in a business setting, from product development to marketing.

  • Interview a Local Entrepreneur:

Arrange a trip to a local farmers market where your girls can interview with a local entrepreneur. Girls can prepare questions about their entrepreneurial journey, challenges faced, and successes achieved. This real-world perspective adds depth to their understanding of business planning.

  • Earn a Badge:

Follow GSUSA’s activity guide to earn the Junior Business Jump-Start Badge. Think like an entrepreneur, solve a problem!

For Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scouts (Grades 6-12):

  • Create a Business Plan Workshop:

Conduct a workshop on business plan creation. Guide the girls through the essential elements of a business plan, including executive summary, market analysis, financial projections, and more. This practical session prepares them for future entrepreneurial endeavors.

  • Pitch Competition:

Organize a friendly pitch competition where each girl presents a business idea to a panel of judges. Encourage them to use visual aids, articulate their value proposition, and demonstrate a solid understanding of their target market. This activity boosts public speaking skills and confidence.

  • Earn a Badge:

Follow GSUSA’s activity guide to earn the Cadette Business Creator Badge. Think like an entrepreneur as you come up with a technology solution.

Follow GSUSA’s activity guide to earn the Senior Business Startup Badge. Brainstorm with a team for an idea to develop into a business.

Follow GSUSA’s activity guide to earn the Ambassador Entrepreneur Accelerator Badge. Strengthen your entrepreneurial skills as you come up with an innovative business idea and create a prototype.

By celebrating National Write a Business Plan Month with our Girl Scouts, we not only empower them with essential life skills but also inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. Tailoring activities to each age group ensures that the experience is both enjoyable and educational, laying the foundation for a future of innovation and leadership.

Let’s encourage our girls to dream big, think strategically, and embark on a journey of entrepreneurial discovery this December!

🌟 Attention Troop Leaders! 🌟

Troop leaders, share the entrepreneurial magic! If you decide to implement any of our National Write a Business Plan Month ideas, snap pics, and tag us on Facebook @GirlScoutsofGulfcoastFlorida. 📸✨ Your troop could be featured on our page or in future marketing materials! You can also email photos and stories to marketing@gsgcf.org. Let’s showcase the brilliance of our girls and inspire others!

Girl Scouts Make Community Impact this Holiday Season

The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida have once again demonstrated their commitment to community service and philanthropy as Troop 123, 225, and 250 set a new local record for food and monetary donations to Heartland Food Bank in Sebring. In a parallel effort, Troop 140, 21, and 715 supported Meals on Wheels by packing, wrapping, and sorting over 100 boxes of donations. Additionally, Troop 1080 utilized some of their cookie proceeds to create 125 bags of Thanksgiving meals for the needy.

Troop 123, 225, and 250 worked diligently in shifts from 11 am to 5 pm, collecting a remarkable 1,064 pounds of non-perishable items and raising an impressive $1,169 in monetary donations for Heartland Food Bank. Their dedication not only shattered the previous local record but also showcased the powerful impact of the Girl Scout movement on community well-being.

Meanwhile, Troop 140, 21, and 715 demonstrated their commitment to Meals on Wheels by contributing their time and effort to pack, wrap, and sort over 100 boxes of essential donations. This initiative reflects the diverse range of community projects undertaken by Girl Scout troops to address various needs within their communities.

Adding another layer to the Girl Scouts’ philanthropic endeavors, Troop 1080 utilized funds from their cookie sales to create 125 bags of Thanksgiving meals for the needy, spreading holiday cheer and providing essential sustenance to those in need during the festive season.

“We are incredibly proud of the multifaceted impact our Girl Scouts are making in the community, from breaking records to supporting Meals on Wheels and spreading Thanksgiving joy,” said Yvonne Bras, Director of Member Engagement at Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida. “These initiatives embody the Girl Scout spirit of kindness, generosity, and making a positive difference in the lives of others.”

Local Girl Scouts Complete Heartwarming Bronze Award Project: Introducing “Buddy Benches” to Sarasota County Playgrounds

A group of dedicated and compassionate Girl Scouts from Troop #348 in Sarasota County have undertaken a significant community initiative as part of their Bronze Award Project. Olivia, Violet, Kinsley, Ariel, Autumn, and Sam have collaborated to install “Buddy Benches” at various playgrounds in the county, with the aim of creating comfortable spaces for friends to gather and connect.

The Bronze Award is a prestigious honor within the Girl Scouts, recognizing significant community service projects undertaken by Scouts in their pursuit of making a positive impact. Last year, the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida enabled 78 Girl Scouts to earn their Bronze Award, showcasing the dedication and commitment of these young leaders.

The idea for the project emerged when the girls noticed the positive impact of a single bench at a local playground where people regularly gathered. Inspired by the sense of community it fostered, the girls resolved to extend this camaraderie by installing more benches throughout Sarasota County.

This venture marks the Girl Scouts’ first major construction project. Olivia, one of the project leaders, expressed her enthusiasm for the learning experience, stating that she learned a lot about construction and enjoyed learning how to use a power drill.

The Buddy Benches, still in the drying phase, will be meticulously painted by the girls at the end of this month. Once completed, these benches will find their new homes at prominent locations including LaMarque Elementary in North Port, Cranberry Elementary in North Port, Atwater Elementary in North Port, and Faith Preparatory School in Lake Suzy.

A particularly touching aspect of this initiative is the dedication of one of the benches at Atwater Elementary School in North Port to the memory of six-year-old Daylan Guillen, a beloved student who recently passed away. This memorial bench will serve as a lasting tribute to Daylan’s spirit and will be the only one of its kind among the Buddy Benches.

The successful execution of this heartwarming project was made possible through generous contributions from the local community. Home Depot of North Port donated essential materials such as wood, screws, and paint rollers. Additionally, a kind-hearted local real estate agent provided funding for the paint, and the director of Faith Preparatory School showed support by sending a gift card to Lowe’s, enabling the purchase of necessary protective gear like eyewear and gloves. Under the careful supervision of adults, the girls constructed the benches entirely by themselves, showcasing their dedication and teamwork.

The Buddy Benches not only provide a comfortable space for friends to gather but also stand as a testament to the Girl Scouts’ commitment to making a positive impact in their community. Their initiative, determination, and compassion serve as an inspiration to us all.

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, Inc. Receives Prestigious Grant from Impact100 SRQ

The $109,000 grant will support the construction of an education amphitheater at Camp Honi Hanta in Bradenton.

The seven recipients for the Impact100 SRQ 2023 Grant Year were selected by vote on Nov 8. Photo credit: Impact100SRQ100

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, Inc. (GSGCF) is thrilled to announce its selection as one of the seven grant recipients of the prestigious $109,000 Impact100 SRQ grant. This honor was bestowed upon GSGCF during the Impact100 SRQ Annual Celebration held on November 8, 2023. Impact100 SRQ, comprising 763 local women local women who contribute $1,000 annually to support local nonprofit initiatives, chose GSGCF as one of the seven recipients from a pool of ten finalists for this grant.

GSGCF’s initiative, the “Betty Ethel Girl Scout Amphitheater,” falls under the education category. The project aims to create a new outdoor amphitheater at Camp Honi Hanta, a cherished Girl Scout camp within the Gulfcoast Florida region. This amphitheater will serve as a versatile outdoor classroom, offering opportunities for science, technology, engineering, math, and arts activities while also providing a welcoming pavilion for social and recreational gatherings.

The project aligns with GSGCF’s mission to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. The Girl Scouts Amphitheater on the River aligns with their commitment to fostering healthy relationships, trust, skill development, and civic engagement among girls. With the addition of this amphitheater, Girl Scouts from the Sarasota and Manatee Counties will have a dedicated space to gather for various activities during their camp experiences.

Camp Honi Hanta already boasts an array of amenities, including walking trails, a sports field, a swimming pool, archery range, river access for kayaking and canoeing, a ropes course, climbing wall, and more. The new outdoor amphitheater will complement these facilities, enhancing the camp’s offerings and inspiring creativity, expression, and socialization among campers.

The Girl Scouts anticipates an increase in the camp’s utilization by 25% following the addition of the amphitheater. This addition aligns with GSGCF’s strategic plan for camp upgrades, providing a sustainable and easy-to-maintain outdoor venue with a life expectancy of more than 20 years. It will support various activities, including overnight camping, multi-day retreats, cultural activities such as theater and dance, as well as STEM programs like astronomy.

Founded in 2018, Impact100 SRQ brings together a diverse group of women that annually fund transformational grants of at least $100,000 to local nonprofits in both Sarasota and Manatee Counties.  Impact100 SRQ funds grants in five focus areas: Arts, Culture & History; Education; Environment & Recreation; Family; and Health & Wellness. This year, there were seven $109,000 transformation grants thanks to the generosity of the members of Impact100 SRQ.

“We are deeply honored to receive this transformative grant in the Education Focus Area for the 2023 giving year. We are enthusiastic about the opportunities this grant brings, allowing us to fulfill our commitment to our girls and shaping them into the leaders of tomorrow,” said Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida CEO Mary Anne Servian. “This transformative grant will empower us to expand our efforts in delivering diverse and enriching programs to the young Girl Scouts in our community. Through this support, we can continue nurturing future leaders who embody courage, confidence, and character.”

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, Inc. is immensely grateful to Impact100 SRQ for their support and recognition. The amphitheater will help empower girls to discover their potential and everything they can achieve today, tomorrow, and beyond.

GSGCF CEO Mary Anne Servian (left) and GSGCF Board President Richard Cyphers (right) received the grant on Nov. 8, along with GSGCF Girl Scout Ambassador Mackenzie Shockey.

The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of Impact100 SRQ, Inc.

It’s STEM Day! See What the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Have Been Doing

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) plays a crucial role in shaping the future of our world. Recognizing the importance of encouraging girls’ interest and participation in these fields, Girl Scouts across the country come together to celebrate STEM Day. This special day offers exciting opportunities for girls to explore, learn, and embrace the wonders of STEM.

Here are a few reasons why we celebrate STEM in Girl Scouting:

  1. Breaking Stereotypes: STEM Day for Girl Scouts challenges gender stereotypes and fosters an inclusive environment where girls are empowered to pursue their interests, regardless of societal norms. By participating in hands-on activities and engaging experiments, young girls gain confidence and realize that they too can excel in STEM disciplines.
  2. Nurturing Curiosity: The world of STEM is a vast universe waiting to be explored. STEM Day sparks curiosity and ignites the passion for discovery in young minds. Through interactive workshops and immersive experiences, girls are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and problem-solve – essential skills for success in any career.
  3. Inspiring Future Leaders: STEM Day serves as a powerful platform for role models and mentors to connect with Girl Scouts. Female scientists, engineers, and technologists share their journeys, struggles, and triumphs, inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders. This exposure to real-life examples breaks down barriers and opens doors to endless possibilities.

STEM Day is a celebration of the limitless potential that lies within every Girl Scout. By embracing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, these young girls are equipped with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. As we celebrate STEM Day with Girl Scouts, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering girls to reach for the stars and make a lasting impact in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Check out these Girl Scouts from around the Gulfcoast as they have been exploring STEM with their troops all year long:

In January, Girl Scouts toured the AJAX Paving facility in Venice to learn all about the engineering of how rocks are turned into roads! This patch program was created by the awesome female engineers at AJAX and we are so grateful we were able to tour their facility and explore careers opportunities in construction! Thanks AJAX!
Junior Troop 379 earned their Think Like an Engineer Patch!

These Girl Scouts toured the Lee County Sheriff Office Forensics Facility and learned real scientific forensics skills to earn their Special Agent Badges!

Explore more badges and patch programs you and your troop can earn by visiting the GSUSA Shop.

Girl Scout Troop 673 went to Run Right Automotive LLC in Bonita Springs to earn their Car Car Badge.

Celebrating Thanksgiving the Girl Scout Way: Fostering Gratitude and Giving Back

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The holiday season is a wonderful time for Girl Scouts to come together, express gratitude, and give back to their communities. Thanksgiving, in particular, provides a perfect opportunity to reflect on the values embedded in the Girl Scout Promise and Law. Here are some creative ideas for Girl Scouts to celebrate Thanksgiving in a meaningful way, aligning with the spirit of the Girl Scout movement.

1. Gratitude Jar Activity:

Encourage Girl Scouts to create gratitude jars. Each scout can decorate a jar and write down things they are thankful for on colorful slips of paper. Sharing their gratitude with fellow scouts can inspire a sense of community and thanksgiving.

2. Service Projects:

Living by the Girl Scout Law, scouts can organize food drives, collect warm clothes, or prepare care packages for the less fortunate. Partnering with local food banks or shelters, they can distribute these items to families in need, embodying the value of helpfulness and consideration.

3. Thanksgiving Feast with a Twist:

Host a Thanksgiving potluck where each Girl Scout brings a dish that represents her family’s cultural background. This activity promotes understanding, tolerance, and respect, embodying the principles of diversity and inclusion in the Girl Scout Law.

4. Thanksgiving Nature Hike:

Connect with nature by organizing a hike. During the hike, encourage the scouts to observe and appreciate the beauty of the natural world. This activity reinforces the Girl Scout Law’s principle of being a sister to every Girl Scout and respecting authority, nature, and property.

5. Handmade Thank-You Cards:

Get creative! Scouts can make handmade thank-you cards for essential workers, healthcare professionals, or military personnel. Expressing gratitude through heartfelt cards demonstrates kindness, one of the key elements of the Girl Scout Law.

6. Storytelling and Sharing:

Host a storytelling session where scouts share personal stories of gratitude and thanksgiving. This activity promotes honesty and courage as they open up and express their feelings in front of others.

7. Gratitude Meditation and Yoga:

Incorporate mindfulness into the celebration by organizing a gratitude meditation or yoga session. Focusing on gratitude and inner peace aligns with the Girl Scout Law’s principles of respecting oneself and others.

8. Thanksgiving Crafts for a Cause:

Engage in creative projects like making blankets, scarves, or ornaments. These crafts can be donated to local shelters or nursing homes, spreading warmth and cheer, and instilling the value of generosity.

9. Virtual Friendship Circle:

In this digital age, organize a virtual Friendship Circle where scouts from different troops come together online. They can share their thoughts on gratitude and what Thanksgiving means to them, fostering a sense of unity and understanding.

10. Community Cleanup:

Encourage scouts to participate in a community cleanup event. Demonstrating respect for authority and responsibility, they can work together to beautify their neighborhood, showing appreciation for the environment and the community they live in.

By incorporating these activities into their Thanksgiving celebrations, Girl Scouts can not only practice gratitude and thanksgiving but also live the Girl Scout Promise and Law in their daily lives. Through these meaningful actions, they learn the importance of giving back, supporting one another, and making the world a better place—a true embodiment of the Girl Scout spirit. Happy Thanksgiving!

Empowering Girl Scouts: The Importance of Voting and Civic Engagement

In a world where change is constant, and voices yearn to be heard, voting emerges as a powerful tool to shape the future. As we encourage the next generation to embrace their potential, it becomes crucial for young individuals, including Girl Scouts, to understand the significance of voting and civic participation. By taking the initiative to learn about voting and civics, Girl Scouts can unlock a world of opportunities to create positive change, foster democracy, and contribute to the betterment of society.

What is Voting?

Voting is a fundamental aspect of any democratic society. It is a process through which eligible citizens participate in choosing their representatives and leaders. Whether it’s for local, regional, or national elections, the act of voting allows individuals to exercise their right to influence decisions that affect their lives, communities, and nation as a whole. Every vote counts, and the collective impact of these individual choices determines the course of our society.

In the journey of becoming future leaders and advocates for change, Girl Scouts have the opportunity to embrace the essence of democracy by understanding voting and civic engagement. By participating in the voting process, they can empower themselves, promote diversity and inclusion, strengthen democracy, and contribute to a brighter future for all. As Girl Scouts take the initiative to learn about voting and civics, they embark on a path of active citizenship, where their voices become a catalyst for positive transformation in society. Let us encourage and support these young changemakers as they shape a world where every voice matters.

Read: The Citizen Badges Every Girl Scout Should Earn

The Significance of Voting and Civic Engagement:

Empowerment through Participation: When Girl Scouts engage in the voting process, they learn to take charge of their future. Their votes can influence policies on issues like education, healthcare, the environment, and social justice. By actively participating in civic life, Girl Scouts can break down barriers and create a society that aligns with their values.

Advocacy for Change: Voting and civic engagement provide a platform for Girl Scouts to stand up for causes they believe in. By learning about the candidates, issues, and proposed solutions, they can make informed decisions and champion initiatives that resonate with their sense of justice and fairness.

Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: As members of a diverse organization, Girl Scouts understand the importance of inclusion. By learning about voting, they can contribute to a system that values and respects the voices of all citizens, regardless of their background, gender, race, or socioeconomic status.

Strengthening Democracy: Democracies thrive when citizens actively participate in governance. By encouraging young Girl Scouts to embrace voting and civic engagement, we nurture a generation that will uphold democratic principles and safeguard the future of democracy itself.

Inspiring Positive Change: Girl Scouts are known for their commitment to making the world a better place. By taking an interest in voting and civics, they can channel their passion into actionable change and bring about improvements in their communities and beyond.

Encouraging Girl Scouts to Learn about Voting and Civics:

Introducing Civic Education: Girl Scout troops can incorporate age-appropriate civic education into their activities. By understanding the basics of government, the election process, and the importance of voting, they can build a solid foundation for future civic engagement.

Organizing Mock Elections: Organizing mock elections within Girl Scout troops can be a fun and interactive way to learn about voting. This activity can help familiarize them with the voting process and instill a sense of responsibility in making choices.

Inviting Guest Speakers: Invite local elected officials or community leaders to speak with Girl Scout troops about their roles, responsibilities, and the impact of civic engagement. These interactions can inspire young minds and show them the power of individual voices.

Volunteering in the Community: Engaging in community service projects exposes Girl Scouts to real-world issues and the importance of addressing them. Through hands-on experiences, they can see the relevance of voting and civic participation in creating positive change.

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Troops Take Action on World Cleanup Day

Collier County Girl Scouts spent the day on the beach, cleaning up litter and debris.

Girl Scouts from Collier County demonstrated their commitment to environmental stewardship by participating in World Cleanup Day. The event, held in mid-September, saw Troop 825 and Troop 446, alongside other community members, come together for a beach cleanup at Vanderbilt Beach in Naples, FL.

World Cleanup Day, a global initiative targeting the worldwide solid waste issue, including marine debris, serves as a catalyst for collective action. Girl Scouts across the gulf coast and worldwide are actively contributing to this cause through various initiatives, such as the Girl Scout Tree Promise. In alignment with this promise, Girl Scouts have pledged to undertake 5 million actions to address climate change. Their efforts involve planting, protecting, and honoring trees, thereby supporting wildlife conservation and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.

The beach cleanup event at Vanderbilt Beach was organized in collaboration with Keep Collier Beautiful, a non-profit organization affiliated with Keep America Beautiful, Inc. Keep Collier Beautiful, founded in 1996, is dedicated to enhancing waste handling practices in Collier County. Governed by a volunteer board representing diverse sectors, including business, government, environmental organizations, and civic associations, the organization acts as a catalyst, bringing together various groups to work towards a cleaner, more sustainable community.

Troop 825 and Troop 446, alongside other community members, participated in the International Coastal Cleanup with Keep Collier Beautiful. Their active involvement on World Cleanup Day exemplifies the Girl Scouts’ dedication to making a positive impact on the environment and the community. By joining hands with local organizations and fellow residents, these Girl Scouts are actively engaged in “Making the World a Better Place.”

Through events like the Vanderbilt Beach cleanup and their ongoing commitment to the Girl Scout Tree Promise, Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida continue to inspire positive change, one action at a time. Their dedication to environmental conservation and community engagement serves as a shining example of youth-led initiatives contributing to a cleaner, greener future.

Honoring Veterans: 5 Meaningful Ways Girl Scout Troops Can Celebrate Veterans Day

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Veterans Day is a time to honor the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country. It’s an opportunity to express gratitude for their sacrifices and contributions. Girl Scout troops can play a vital role in commemorating this day by engaging in activities that promote awareness, appreciation, and support for veterans. Here are five impactful suggestions for how Girl Scout troops can honor and celebrate Veterans Day.

Host a Fundraiser or Supply Drive for the Local Veteran Affairs Clinic:
One meaningful way to support veterans is by organizing a fundraiser or supply drive for the local Veteran Affairs Clinic in your community. By collecting essential items such as clothing, toiletries, and non-perishable goods, Girl Scout troops can make a significant difference in the lives of veterans in need. The guidelines for donations can be found on the VA website, offering valuable information on what items are most needed and how to contribute effectively.

Visit a Museum:
Plan a troop outing to a local military or veterans museum. Museums often provide educational exhibits and interactive displays that offer insights into the history and experiences of veterans. This visit can be a source of inspiration, allowing Girl Scouts to learn about the sacrifices made by veterans and fostering a sense of appreciation for their service to the nation.

Invite a Veteran or Active Duty Servicemember to Speak:
Another impactful way to honor Veterans Day is by inviting a veteran or active duty servicemember to speak at your troop meeting. Hearing firsthand accounts of military life, experiences, and the challenges veterans face can be incredibly educational and eye-opening for the scouts. It not only provides an opportunity to learn more about the sacrifices made by veterans but also fosters empathy and understanding among the troop members.

Create Thank You Cards and Care Packages:
Encourage Girl Scouts to express their gratitude by creating handmade thank you cards and assembling care packages. These thoughtful gestures can be distributed to local veterans’ organizations, hospitals, or nursing homes. Personalized cards and care packages show veterans that their service is appreciated and valued, bringing warmth and comfort to their lives.

Organize a Community Awareness Campaign:
Raise awareness about veterans’ issues within your community by organizing a campaign. This could involve creating informative posters, hosting awareness events, or conducting outreach initiatives to educate others about the challenges veterans face, such as PTSD or homelessness. By spreading awareness, Girl Scouts can contribute to a more informed and supportive community for veterans.

Honoring and celebrating Veterans Day is a wonderful opportunity for Girl Scout troops to learn about the importance of service, sacrifice, and gratitude. By engaging in activities such as fundraisers, museum visits, inviting speakers, creating thank you cards, and organizing awareness campaigns, Girl Scouts can make a meaningful impact and express their appreciation for the dedication of veterans and active duty servicemembers. Through these initiatives, Girl Scout troops can play a significant role in fostering a sense of unity, respect, and understanding in their communities.