Let’s all take a moment to reflect on a Black woman trailblazer and change-maker whose story has impacted you. It could be someone you know personally or someone you learned about at school. Can you picture her yet?

Now, share her story with one or more people and inspire them to celebrate the strength, originality, beauty, and resilience of Black girls and women everywhere.

In this Black History Month (and every month!), let’s acknowledge, celebrate, and commemorate the achievements of Black Americans. History is not only about the past; girls everywhere are molding the future as we speak! From phenomenal Gold Award Girl Scouts making a lasting impact on their communities to bold Black women breaking records and shattering glass ceilings—Black history is happening all around us.

In 2024, the Girl Scouts continue to uphold their commitment to diversity, pluralism, and anti-racism. At the 2023 Convention, the DEIRJ Language Amendment was adopted, amending the Preamble to the Girl Scouts Constitution. The new preamble emphasizes the dedication to advancing diversity, pluralism, and anti-racism in the Girl Scout Movement and the communities in which they live.

You and your Girl Scout can start by downloading the free activity guide for the Black History Month Celebration “I’m A Girl Scout!” Fun patch.

Here are a few ideas your Girl Scout is sure to love:

1. Watch a movie or documentary about Black history in the United States, then share it with your friends. Kick off your list with a silver screen activity. Learn about Black stories through the eyes of notable Black storytellers, including directors, actors, and historians. Share what you learned with your friends or host a screening!
2. Identify five books written by Black authors that you would like to read—and start reading one of them! Throughout history, Black authors and poets have shaped the ideals and imaginations of their readers. Explore your favorite genres and find those stories that you won’t want to put down. Here are some of our favorite books by Black authors:
   • Black in Time by Alison Hammond & E. L. Norry (2022): Get ready to take a trip back in time with TV presenter Alison Hammond as she takes a look at some of the great Black people who have helped shape the world.
   • Look Up! By Nathan Bryon & Dapo Adeola (2019): Rocket loves to look up at the stars. She wants to be an astronaut after all, just like her hero Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman in space. Packed with fun facts about meteors and space to satisfy those curious minds, this charming picture book is laden with gorgeous illustrations that will convince the most phone-mad kids to get excited about the natural world, just like Rocket.
   • Becoming: Adapted for Younger Readers by Michelle Obama (2021): Michelle Obama released her bestselling memoir Becoming back in 2018, and it’s now been adapted for younger readers to enjoy.
   • Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison (2018): From singer Ella Fitzgerald to abolitionist Sojourner Truth, pilot Bessie Coleman to poet Maya Angelou and so many more, this educational and inspirational book features biographies of forty trailblazing black women in history. 
   • Change Sings by Amanda Gorman & Loren Long (2021): Poet and activist Amanda Gorman wowed the world when she delivered an inspiring poetry reading at the inauguration of US President Joe Biden in January 2021. And now Gorman, alongside illustrator Loren Long, has written a picture book that reiterates the hope and progress she spoke about that day. Change Sings tells the story of a young girl as she leads a cast of characters on a musical journey and teaches them that they all have the power to make changes. This is a must-have for everyone’s bookshelves.
3. List five Black woman scientists, along with a sentence (or more!) about each woman’s work. Get to know the trailblazers responsible for some of the most impactful contributions to science and beyond. Uplift and share the story of their legacy with those around you!
4. List five major events of the Civil Rights Movement, noting the dates and two or three details about each one. We are not that far removed from the movement that shaped the world we know today. This activity proves that it is never too late to discover new information or get a refresher on the old.
5. How did Black History Month get started? Learn more about National Freedom Day and Negro History Week. Last but not least, discover how it all came to be! Learn how the initial celebration, started by Carter G. Woodson, evolved into a month of worldwide commemoration and pride for the history, works, and achievements of the Black community.

For a full list of ideas and activities to earn your Black History Month Fun patch, download the GSUSA Black History Month Fun Patch Activity Guide.

This Black History Month, let’s fill our social media feeds with a showcase of Black women who changed our world in decades past, as well as those who continue to do so today.

Are you ready to be inspired? Welcome to a journey through the remarkable legacy of Black women who, as proud members of the Girl Scouts, have left an indelible mark on history.

From the early struggles against racial segregation to the present day, the Girl Scout Movement has been a catalyst for empowerment and leadership among Black and African American girls.

Though initially racially segregated, the first troop for Black girls was established in 1917. By the 1950s, GSUSA initiated a national effort to desegregate all Girl Scout troops, with Martin Luther King Jr. acknowledging the Girl Scouts as “a force for desegregation” in 1956. Over its 100-year history, GSUSA has fostered noble leadership among Black women, with the first African American GSUSA President, Dr. Gloria D. Scott, serving from 1975 to 1978.

In recent times, GSUSA has forged partnerships with historically black colleges and universities, Essence magazine, and organizations like the National Urban League, United Negro College Fund, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, and 100 Black Men of America, Inc. These collaborations have enriched the Girl Scout Movement, attracting new volunteers and Girl Scouts. Presently, nearly 300,000 Black and African American girls are actively involved in Girl Scouting, contributing to the organization’s beauty and strength.

The theme for Black History Month in 2024 is “African Americans and the Arts.” Numerous Black Girl Scout alum have made groundbreaking contributions to arts, fashion, television, and music over the years, exemplifying the potential for every Girl Scout to be influential in their communities and the world, making it a better place.

Highlighted among these accomplished individuals are notable Black Girl Scout alumnae:

Queen Latifah

Occupation: Actress, Singer

Background: Born Dana Elaine Owens in Newark, New Jersey, Queen Latifah earned acclaim as a rap artist with her debut album “All Hail to the Queen.” Her single “U.N.I.T.Y.” won a Grammy Award. In addition to her successful music career, she made her movie debut in Spike Lee’s “Jungle Fever” in 1991 and was nominated for an Oscar for her performance in “Chicago” in 2002. As a former Girl Scout, she recently lent her voice to “Lifetime of Leadership,” a documentary celebrating famous Girl Scouts.

Robin Roberts

Occupation: Television Anchor

Robin Roberts, a Black woman and Girl Scout alum, anchors Good Morning America. Over the course of her career, she has received numerous accolades, including the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism and induction into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame.

Dionne Warwick

Occupation: Singer, Actress, Television Host

Background: Born in East Orange, NJ, Dionne Warwick ranks among the top U.S. hit makers from 1955 to 1999. Warwick is a legendary American singer known for her soulful and sophisticated vocal style. She has recorded numerous hits across several decades. Some of Dionne Warwick’s most well-known songs include “Walk On By” (1964) and “I Say a Little Prayer” (1967). She served as the United Nations Global Ambassador for the Food and Agriculture Organization. Her commitment to empowering others is inspirational.

Star Jones

Occupation: Television Host, Fashion Designer, Lawyer, Writer

Star Jones, a former Girl Scout, co-hosted The View for nine years. In addition to her prominent role in television, she is a fashion designer, lawyer, and writer. She was the first African-American woman to host a courtroom reality-drama in the subcategory of arbitrations.

Mariah Carey

Occupation: Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Actress

Background: Mariah Carey, a former Girl Scout, is renowned for her exceptional vocal range and melismatic singing style. Known as the “Songbird Supreme,” she has produced chart-topping hits, including the best-selling Christmas song by a female artist of all time, “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” Carey comes from a mixed racial background of Irish, African-American, and Venezuelan descent.

Meghan Markle

Occupation: Former actress, former fashion designer, Duchess of Sussex

Background: Born on August 4, 1981, in Los Angeles, Meghan Markle has a mixed-race heritage. Before her marriage to Prince Harry, she pursued acting, gaining recognition for her role as Rachel Zane in the legal drama series Suits. An outspoken feminist, Markle addressed issues of gender inequality and showcased influential women on her lifestyle website, The Tig. Her contributions to the arts through her acting career and fashion design are significant.

These women exemplify the diverse and impactful journeys that Girl Scouts can undertake, highlighting how we foster leadership, empowerment, and success across various fields for all women.

Want to learn more? Make this Black History Month even better and earn the Black History Month Fun Patch with your troop!

Download and complete the free Fun Patch Activities here. Then, go get your patch at the Girl Scout Shop!

In 1956, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. called the Girl Scouts “a force for desegregation” as volunteers continued to press for adopting policies that would ensure equal treatment for all.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than just a day off from school; it’s an opportunity for reflection, service, and learning. For Girl Scouts, this day holds particular significance as it aligns with the values of community engagement, empathy, and equality that the organization strives to instill in its members. In this blog post, we’ll explore creative ways for Girl Scouts to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day through a combination of service projects and educational activities.

Service Projects:

Community Clean-Up: Gather the troop and organize a community clean-up event. Identify a local park, neighborhood, or public space that could use some care. Not only does this contribute to the community’s well-being, but it also teaches the girls about the importance of collective responsibility.

Food Drive: Partner with a local food bank or organize a food drive within your community. Encourage the girls to learn about food insecurity and its impact on families. This hands-on experience will help them understand the value of compassion and giving back.

Supporting Seniors: Reach out to local senior living centers and nursing homes. Plan a visit (virtually or in person, depending on circumstances) where the girls can engage in activities or share stories with the elderly. It’s a wonderful way to bridge generational gaps and spread joy.

Learning Activities:

Martin Luther King Jr. History Lesson: Design a session or host a movie screening where the girls can learn about the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Discuss his contributions to the Civil Rights Movement, his famous speeches, and the values he stood for. Incorporate multimedia elements like videos or documentaries for a more immersive experience.

Diversity and Inclusion Workshop: Foster a sense of inclusivity within the troop by organizing a workshop on diversity. Encourage open discussions about different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. This activity will promote empathy and understanding among the girls.

c. Creative Arts Expression: Provide the girls with a platform to express their thoughts and feelings through creative arts. This could include writing poems, creating artwork, or putting together a short play that reflects the principles of unity, equality, and justice.

Reflection and Discussion:

Troop Reflection Session: Set aside time for the girls to reflect on their service projects and learning activities. Discuss the impact they believe they’ve made on the community and the importance of continuing these efforts beyond Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Guest Speaker: If possible, invite a guest speaker who can share personal experiences related to civil rights, activism, or community service. Hearing real-life stories can be a powerful way for the girls to connect with the principles they’ve been learning about.

Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a combination of service and learning activities provides Girl Scouts with a unique opportunity to embody the values of leadership, community engagement, and equality. By actively participating in meaningful projects and deepening their understanding of historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr., these young girls can contribute to building a more compassionate and just society. As they embark on this journey, they not only honor the legacy of a great leader but also take important steps towards becoming empowered agents of positive change in their communities.

Girl Scout Cookie Season isn’t just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s an opportunity for young scouts to embark on a journey of skill development, personal growth, and empowerment. As they set up booths and engage with their communities, Girl Scouts acquire a range of skills that extend far beyond the world of cookies.

1. Goal Setting and Decision Making: Setting and achieving cookie sales goals is a fundamental aspect of the Girl Scout Cookie Program. Scouts learn to articulate their goals, make strategic decisions, and create a plan to accomplish them. This early exposure to goal-setting builds a foundation for effective decision-making in various aspects of their lives.
2. Customer Interaction and Communication: From approaching potential customers to confidently discussing their cookie offerings, scouts hone their communication skills during cookie sales. They learn the art of persuasion, how to handle rejection gracefully, and the importance of a friendly demeanor. These communication skills serve them well in future personal and professional endeavors.
3. Financial Literacy: Managing cookie sales involves handling money, keeping track of inventory, and understanding basic financial concepts. Scouts gain practical experience in budgeting, financial responsibility, and the importance of saving—a valuable introduction to financial literacy that prepares them for future financial independence.
4. Teamwork and Collaboration: Many hands make light work, and this holds true for cookie sales. Scouts often work in teams, learning to collaborate, delegate tasks, and appreciate the strengths of each team member. These teamwork skills are transferable to group projects in school, extracurricular activities, and future professional settings.
5. Problem Solving: Not every cookie sale goes smoothly. Whether dealing with inventory issues, unexpected challenges, or addressing customer concerns, scouts develop problem-solving skills. Learning to think on their feet and find creative solutions contributes to their ability to tackle challenges confidently in various situations.
6. Entrepreneurial Spirit: Through cookie sales, Girl Scouts get a taste of entrepreneurship. From marketing their products to managing logistics, scouts learn to be innovative and resourceful. This entrepreneurial spirit nurtures a mindset of creativity and adaptability that can be applied to any future endeavor.

Conclusion: Girl Scouts selling cookies isn’t just a seasonal tradition—it’s a transformative experience that equips young girls with essential life skills. As they engage with their communities, set and achieve goals, and overcome challenges, these scouts are not just selling cookies; they are building the foundation for a future of success and leadership. So, the next time you enjoy a box of Girl Scout Cookies, remember that you are supporting the development of skills that will last a lifetime.

Girl Scouts of Gulf Coast Florida (GSGCF) is excited to announce that it has been awarded a generous grant of $5,000 from The Community Foundation. This significant contribution will empower GSGCF to further deliver the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE) to girls in Lee and Hendry County, fostering their growth as leaders and contributing members of their communities.

The grant was officially presented to GSGCF at a ceremony where Connie Martin, a dedicated employee of Girl Scouts, accepted the check on behalf of the organization. This funding will enable GSGCF to expand its reach and impact, providing the GSLE to even more girls in Cape Coral and surrounding communities in Lee and Hendry County.

The Girl Scout Leadership Experience is a transformative program that encourages girls to discover themselves, connect with others, and take action to make the world a better place. Guided by supportive adults and peers, Girl Scouts engage in age-appropriate activities that are girl-led, cooperative, and hands-on. Participating in the GSLE helps girls develop crucial leadership skills needed for success in adulthood.

“Girls who engage in the GSLE are more likely to enjoy and attribute their leadership skills to Girl Scouts,” said Mary Anne Servian, CEO at GSGCF. “The GSLE delivers ‘fun with purpose’ by helping girls gain valuable life skills and amazing new experiences while having fun and building friendships!”

GSGCF currently serves more than 95 troops and over 1,000 Girl Scouts in Cape Coral and other surrounding communities in Lee and Hendry County. With the support of The Community Foundation’s grant, GSGCF can continue its mission of empowering girls to become confident leaders, compassionate individuals, and responsible citizens.

“We are proud and thankful to receive this grant from The Community Foundation,” expressed Mary Anne Servian. “It will significantly contribute to the positive impact Girl Scouts is making on the lives of young girls in our community.”

This partnership between Girl Scouts of Gulf Coast Florida and The Community Foundation exemplifies the shared commitment to fostering leadership skills, personal growth, and community engagement among girls. The grant will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy, positively shaping the lives of countless young girls in Lee and Hendry County.