Category Archives: GSUSA

Happy President’s Day! American First Ladies and their Role in Shaping the Girl Scouts of the U.S.A.

by Jessica Miano
Photo by Aaron Kittredge on Pexels.com

Presidents’ Day is a time to honor and celebrate the leaders who have shaped the history of the United States. The role of First Ladies in contributing to the nation’s progress is often overlooked, but the contributions they have made to American culture and progress should not be forgotten. The First Ladies of the United States hold a unique connection with the Girl Scouts of the U.S.A.

As we celebrate Presidents’ Day, it’s essential to recognize the remarkable contributions of First Ladies to the Girl Scouts. From Lou Henry Hoover to Jill Biden, these women have left an indelible mark on an organization that empowers young girls and instills values that go beyond the political landscape. The connection between Presidents’ Day and the First Ladies’ support for the Girl Scouts is a testament to the enduring commitment to service, leadership, and community building in the United States.

Edith Bolling Wilson (1915-1921)

Edith Wilson became the first Honorary President of Girl Scouts in 1917. The tradition of the First Lady of the United States serving as Honorary President of Girl Scouts continues today.

Florence Harding (1921-1924)

Florence Harding, wife of the 29th president Warren G. Harding, strongly believed in the importance of physical exercise for women and organized a women’s tennis exhibition game at the White House courts. Her message to the Girl Scouts was characterized by a determined spirit, urging them to persist in overcoming challenges and to continue their important work regardless of any sacrifices that may be required.

Grace Coolidge (1924-1929)

Grace Coolidge, the wife of Calvin Coolidge, took on the honorary presidency of the Girl Scouts and regularly participated in the organization’s events while dressed in its official uniform. However, her main focus in her public work was on two specific organizations: the Red Cross and the Clarke School for the Deaf.

Lou Henry Hoover (1929-1933):

Lou Henry Hoover, the First Lady during the late 1920s and early 1930s, played a pivotal role in the Girl Scouts. Recruited by Juliette Gordon Lowe in 1917, Hoover served as the acting commissioner of the Girl Scouts in Washington, DC. Her engagement extended over decades, including two terms as Girl Scouts president. Notably, it was during her second term that the Girl Scouts approved a national plan to bake and sell cookies in support of scouting.

Eleanor Roosevelt (1933-1945):

Amidst the challenges of the Great Depression and World War II, Eleanor Roosevelt served as the honorary president of Girl Scouts from 1933 to 1945. Her commitment to the organization provided crucial support during turbulent times.

Bess Truman (1945-1953):

Bess Truman, who served as honorary president from 1945 to 1953, became a part of Girl Scout history by accepting the first box of Girl Scout cookies at the beginning of the cookie season.

Mamie Eisenhower (1953-1961):

As honorary president of the Girl Scouts, Mamie Eisenhower went beyond the ceremonial role, occasionally donning a Girl Scout uniform during her tenure as First Lady from 1953 to 1961.

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (1961-1963):

During her brief time as First Lady from 1961 to 1963, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis served as the honorary president of Girl Scouts, leaving a lasting impact on the organization.

Lady Bird Johnson (1963-1969):

Lady Bird Johnson was first lady from 1963-1969, serving as the honorary president of Girl Scouts during those years. On March 12, 1962, when her husband, Lyndon B. Johnson, was vice-president, she celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Girl Scouts.

Pat Nixon (1969-1974):

Pat Nixon embraced the role of honorary president of the Girl Scouts from 1969 to 1974. Not only did she support the organization, but she also actively led her daughters’ Girl Scout troop.

Betty Ford (1974-1977):

On August 11, 1976, Betty Ford became the 11th honorary president of the Girl Scouts, contributing to the organization during her time as First Lady.

Rosalynn Carter (1977-1981):

Rosalynn Carter served as the honorary president of the Girl Scouts from 1977 to 1981, marking the 65th anniversary of the organization’s founding with a special reception.

Nancy Reagan (1981-1989):

Nancy Reagan, the iconic First Lady from 1981 to 1989, took on the role of honorary president of the Girl Scouts. In 1985, educational resources on contemporary issues, including the “Just Say No to Drugs” campaign, were released at a tribute luncheon in her honor.

Barbara Bush (1989-1993):

Barbara Bush eagerly accepted the invitation to be the honorary president of the Girl Scouts and actively participated in various events. She spoke at the Girl Scouts’ 80th birthday celebration in 1992.

Hillary Rodham Clinton (1993-2001):

As the honorary president of the Girl Scouts from 1993 to 2001, Hillary Rodham Clinton brought her childhood experiences as a Girl Scout and her dedication to the organization. In 1996, she participated in a Girl Scouts smoking prevention event at the White House.

Laura Bush (2001-2009):

Laura Bush, First Lady from 2001 to 2009, served as the honorary president of the Girl Scouts. Her childhood memories of being a Girl Scout in Midland, Texas, influenced her commitment to the organization.

Michelle Obama (2009-2016):

Michelle Obama enthusiastically embraced the honorary role of president of the Girl Scouts. Her ongoing work with the Becoming Me program reflects a partnership among Girl Scouts, Penguin Random House, and Mrs. Obama. The program is based on Michelle Obama’s book, Becoming: Adapted for Young Readers, and includes journaling activities designed to help girls reflect on their lives.

Melania Trump (2016-2020):

In 2016, Girl Scouts made history by marching in the inaugural parade for then President-elect Donald Trump. Throughout Trump’s presidency, Girl Scouts were frequently invited to speak at White House events, underscoring the organization’s significant role in shaping national conversations and inspiring future leaders. This dynamic relationship between the Girl Scouts and the White House further highlights the enduring impact of the organization and its commitment to fostering leadership and civic engagement.

Jill Biden (2020-Present):

The current First Lady, Jill Biden, was a Girl Scout, continuing the legacy of First Ladies’ involvement with the organization.

“I have no doubt that the girls of today will become the leaders and change-makers of tomorrow. Supporting them, empowering them and ensuring they have the opportunities they deserve is good for all of us,” said Dr. Jill Biden. “My Girl Scout experience taught me confidence, perseverance, and gave me skills that inspired me to pursue public service and helped me become a better leader. Girl Scouts is the preeminent organization that gives girls the place and the opportunity to develop their powerful voices.”

As we celebrate Presidents’ Day, it’s essential to recognize the remarkable contributions of First Ladies to the Girl Scouts, as well as the active participation of Girl Scouts in historical events. From Lou Henry Hoover to Jill Biden, these women and girls have left an indelible mark on an organization that empowers young girls and instills values that go beyond the political landscape. The connection between Presidents’ Day and the First Ladies’ support for the Girl Scouts is a testament to the enduring commitment to service, leadership, and community building in the United States.

Unlock Creativity with 9 New Maker Badges for Daisies, Brownies, and Juniors

by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

From the GSUSA Blog

Calling all makers! Did you know that anybody can be a maker? It’s true! All it takes are the right tools, a little bit of inspiration, and a whole lot of creativity. Of course, it never hurts to have a little help. That’s why Girl Scouts is excited to introduce our Art and Design, Create and Innovate, and Craft and Tinker badges for Daisies, Brownies, and Juniors made possible by Stanley Black & Decker. Each maker badge introduces different concepts and ways to bring ideas to life. Whether your Girl Scout is interested in woodwork, crafting a birdhouse out of milk cartons, welding, or brainstorming how to use solar energy to power a car, there’s an activity for every Girl Scout.

Art and Design

In this badge, Girl Scouts will learn about the basics of art and design. They’ll learn how to find inspiration in their world and see that anything can inspire! They’ll learn how to translate the images and ideas in their mind onto a blank page or mold a sculpture. Then they’ll discover the magic of sharing creative work with others. They’ll start learning how to share their pieces with others to spread joy.

Craft and Tinker

This badge teaches Girl Scouts how to craft new objects and improve their functionality. By tapping into their imagination, Girl Scouts will see that they can make crafts from almost anything, including recycled materials found around their house—such as turning milk cartons into paper, or using egg cartons as pots for plants. Through doing so, Girl Scouts will learn how to create with users in mind, then ask for feedback to further improve their creation.

Create and Innovate

Girl Scouts have big dreams and ideas they want to bring to life. With this badge, they’ll tap into their creativity and needed business skills, while learning more about how their big ideas could impact the world around them. Whether it’s diving into an at-home science project or making a creation to benefit the entire STEM community, Girl Scouts will get to unlock their inner innovator, learn the design thinking process, and how to share their innovations with the world.

Explore the World Of Animals with the New Badges

by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

From the GSUSA Blog

Girl Scouts are good at so many things, from learning new skills to spreading joy and giving back to their communities. One thing that unites Girl Scouts is their desire to create positive change and help others. With their boundless curiosity, Girl Scouts have the power to make a difference in the world, not only in the lives of people, but also in the lives of every creature we share the planet with: animals!

Animals close to home can provide companionship and support, or make our lives easier. Animals far away can spark a new interest or teach us more about the world. But some animals face danger every day. Because they can’t speak up when they need help, it’s our job to protect them. When your Daisy, Junior, or Cadette starts earning one of the new Girl Scout Animal Badges, they’ll embark on a fun journey into the world of animals.

Unlock a NEW badge by downloading one of our free, fun activities! Animal Habitats and Animal Helpers badge—made possible thanks to The Elliott Wildlife Values Project. 

Animal Observer–Daisy (K-1)

Girl Scouts are naturally curious and eager to explore their surroundings. With the new Animal Observer badge, Daisy Girl Scouts will hone in on their observation skills to discover more about animals, near and far. They’ll start by using their senses to identify animal sounds, prints, and behaviors and take notes like an animal scientist. Then they’ll play games to solidify their knowledge and have the chance to visit one of their favorite animals in real life!

Animal Habitats–Junior (4-5)

Animals live in all types of homes—in trees, underground, underwater, and even on glaciers! With the Animal Habitats badge, Junior Girl Scouts can investigate different animal habitats at home and around the world. They’ll use their curiosity to explore animal homes and try their hand at building one. Then they’ll learn about endangered animals and the importance of protecting their habitats to benefit the planet.

Animal Helpers–Cadettes (6-8)

The connection between humans and animals has always existed. Whether animals are serving to protect or provide comfort in difficult times, the animal-human connection is an essential part of human history. With the Animal Helpers badge, Cadette Girl Scouts will learn about this connection and its mutual benefits. They will learn to translate knowledge into action and become advocates for animals by actively participating in organizations dedicated to animal welfare.

The Girl Scout Animal badges not only teach Girl Scouts about their favorite animals, they also help them discover more about the world around them and how to use what they learn to create positive change.

Enjoy National Booklovers Day Alongside Gold Award Girl Scout Natasha Agarwhal [Gold Award Spotlight]

by Jessica Miano

National Book Lovers Day on August 9th harnesses all the excitement bibliophiles feel about books into one celebration!

As Girl Scouts, we know it is no secret that childhood literacy and reading are important stepping stones to a successful future. This is one of the reasons why Gulfcoast Girl Scout Natasha Agarwhal chose to address childhood literacy in impoverished communities for her 80-hour Gold Award project, “PAGETURNER Digital Learning Library.”

After learning that children from lower-income homes have limited access to books, Natasha wanted to help bridge the reading gap in her community. Natasha did this by providing 150 underserved children in PRE-K with free access to a digital learning library on YouTube, along with 10 corresponding books to go with the video series.

Natasha knew her project was a success when she received positive feedback and even requests for more books from both teachers and parents of the children she provided the reading resources to.

“This project taught me that I like doing big multi-step projects and working on a large team,” she said.

Natasha earned the Girl Scout Gold Award in March 2023.

“Gold Award Girl Scouts are the dreamers and doers who take ‘make the world a better place’ to the next level,” said GSGCF CEO Mary Anne Servian. “These girls tackled issues that are important to them and their communities, and we congratulate them on this momentous accomplishment.”

The Girl Scout Gold Award acknowledges the power behind each Gold Award Girl Scout’s dedication to not only empowering and bettering herself, but also to making the world a better place for others. Through earning the Gold Award, Girl Scouts become innovative problem solvers, empathetic leaders, confident public speakers, and focused project managers. They learn resourcefulness, tenacity, and decision-making skills, giving them an edge personally and professionally.

By earning their Gold Awards, these young women have distinguished themselves as true community leaders and change-makers who have made a meaningful and sustainable difference in the world. Their accomplishments reflect leadership and social responsibility that set them apart from their peers.

According to recent research, Gold Award Girl Scouts are more likely to fill leadership roles at work and in their personal lives and are more civically engaged than their non-Girl Scout peers. Eighty-five percent of Gold Award Girl Scouts say that earning their Gold Award gave them skills to succeed in their daily lives, and eighty-seven percent say it gave them skills to help them succeed professionally.

As a bonus, the Gold Award opens doors to a variety of scholarships, preferred admission tracks for college, strong networking and amazing career opportunities, and much more. About 4,000 Girl Scouts earn their Gold Award every year, placing Natasha among a prestigious community of change-makers who have achieved this honor. Since 1916, over 160,000 Girl Scouts have earned the Gold Award or its equivalent.

Esteemed Delegates Represent Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida at 56th National Council Session

by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Council proudly announces the successful participation of its esteemed delegation at the 56th National Council Session of the Girl Scout Convention. Held from July 18 to July 22, 2023 at Walt Disney World® Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, this triennial business meeting brought together delegates from across the world to discuss, debate, and vote on vital issues significant to the Girl Scout Movement.

The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida council was represented by four dedicated delegates and four accomplished delegate alternates, who demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the values and principles of the Girl Scouts. The delegation comprised two adult delegates, Juliana Meek and Christina Ottman, and two inspiring girl delegates, Julianne A. of Naples and Bryanna S. of Bradenton. Serving as alternate girl delegates were Olivia T. of Cape Coral and Michaela F. of Fort Myers. Mary Anne Servian, GSGCF CEO, and Richard Cyphers, GSGCF Board President, held the positions of alternate delegates.

The delegates and alternates fulfilled their responsibilities with utmost dedication and professionalism, ensuring they were well-prepared for their crucial roles. Prior to the National Council Session, they took personal responsibility to study the agenda, familiarize themselves with background information and recommendations from the National Board of Directors, and gain a broad array of perspectives from girl and adult members within the council.

Posing with National Girl Scout CEO Bonnie Barczykowski, from left to right, are Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida alternate girl delegates Michaela and Olivia, and girl delegates Julianne and Bryanna.

During the National Council Session, the delegates and alternates actively engaged in discussions, debates, and voting on various business items that would shape the future of the Girl Scout Movement. They collaborated with the Gulfcoast Board of Directors President and CEO to plan information gathering and report back to the council, ensuring effective representation and decision-making on behalf of the entire Gulfcoast Florida council.

Upon their return, the delegates and alternates have been steadfast in their commitment to share insights and decisions made during the National Council Session with the Gulfcoast Board of Directors and the council’s membership. Their objective is to empower the entire council with the knowledge and understanding required to support and participate in future National Council Sessions effectively.

“Our delegates’ dedication and enthusiasm were inspiring to witness,” said Mary Anne Servian, GSGCF CEO. “They embraced their roles with passion and demonstrated exemplary leadership qualities, making us proud to have them represent Gulfcoast Florida at the convention.”

As girl delegates, Julianne and Bryanna expressed their delight at being able to contribute to the discussions and vote on important proposals. Julianne remarked, “My favorite part of the convention was having my voice heard and voting on the different proposals.” Olivia, one of the girl delegate alternates, also shared her excitement about the Opening Ceremony and the delightful Disney on Broadway performance, as she is an avid lover of musical theater.

The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Council congratulates its delegates and alternates for their outstanding efforts in representing the council and for embodying the Girl Scout values of courage, confidence, and character. Their participation in the 56th National Council Session has further strengthened the council’s commitment to empowering girls and young women in the Gulfcoast Florida community.

GSGCF delegate Juliana Meek shows off her badges and awards in between voting sessions at the 56th National Council Session of the Girl Scouts of the USA.

View a full gallery of photos below featuring Girl Scouts from around the Gulfcoast celebrating at the National Convention:

Gold Award Girl Scout Autumn Pepper Rhodes Receives $10,000 Scholarship from Girl Scouts USA

by Jessica Miano

Girl Scouts of Gulf Coast Florida (GSGCF) Ambassador Girl Scout Autumn Pepper Rhodes is the recipient of the 2023 National Gold Award Scholarship. Every year, the Girl Scouts of the USA awards a Girl Scout Gold Award Scholarship to a Gold Award recipient from each council. Due to the generosity of sponsors and donors to GSUSA, this year’s recipient Autumn Pepper Rhodes will receive $10,000, as well as recognition in local and national Girl Scout promotions.

Learn more about the National Gold Award Scholarship at GSUSA’s website.

Rhodes is one of 12 GSGCF members to have earned the Girl Scout Gold Award in 2023. The Gold Award is the highest and most prestigious award that Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors can earn. It is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to Girl Scouting.

A project must involve a minimum of 80 hours and include the following steps: identifying an issue, investigating it thoroughly, getting help and building a team, creating a plan, presenting the plan, gathering feedback, taking action, and educating and inspiring others. It is more than just a good service project—it encompasses organizational, leadership, and networking skills.

The issue that Rhodes identified for her project was a lack of gender parity within the fields of aerospace and aviation, as well as a lack of opportunities within Girl Scouts for girls to explore aviation. She hosted three workshops in her community for young women to learn about engineering and aviation and invited successful women pilots as speakers to inspire interest in aviation among girls.

Her workshops gave girls the opportunity to learn about careers in engineering and aviation and take part in a discovery flight experience.

She created a website filled with videos, educational resources, and scholarship information for girls interested in aviation. She also started an online petition urging GSUSA to lift their safety restrictions and allow discovery flights as a Girl Scout activity.

Rhodes’ petition has over 1,700 signatures and counting, and can be accessed on her website, www.girlswhosoar.com.

“This experience has inspired me and proved that I am able to make a difference in my community,” Rhodes said. “I plan to continue advocating for aviation in Girl Scouting and press the Board of Directors to implement an aviation career badge to inspire young women around the country. I will undoubtedly continue to advocate for more women in S.T.E.M., and it has confirmed my desire to work as a Certified Flight Instructor and mentor for other young aviatrix.”

Rhodes said that her favorite Girl Scouting memories include participating as a C.I.T. at Camp Honi Honta and serving on the National Media Team for the 2017 G.I.R.L. National Convention.

She will be attending Rice University in Houston in the fall, pursuing a dual major in mechanical engineering and astrophysics. She is a licensed pilot and aspires to one day become an astronaut.

Girl Scouts were able to apply for the scholarship between March 15, 2023 and April 17, 2023. Eligible Gold Award Girl Scouts included high school seniors or graduates who earned the Gold Award between April 1, 2022 and March 31, 2023. Each applicant was required to provide proof of their Gold Award and submit four 500-word essays about their Gold Award. One recipient per council was selected nationwide.

56th National Council Session: Important Information & Survey

by Jessica Miano

Girl Scouts from across our country and around the world will gather for the 56th National Council Session in Orlando from July 18-20, 2023.

As we continue to prepare for our 56th National Council Session, this document outlines the items that will be placed on the agenda based on insights from local volunteers, council leaders and council staff, national leaders and GSUSA staff, and the volunteers who serve as members of the Girl Scouts of the USA Board of Directors (the “board”). The overarching goal for the 56th National Council Session is to hold an inspiring and energizing gathering—where we have productive and efficient discussions and make decisions in support of strategic objectives, and elect leaders for the next triennium. Collectively and collaboratively, we will create a strong future for Girl Scouting.

The four National Council Delegates who have been elected by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida and the other councils of Girl Scouts U.S.A. will work together in a democratic and engaging governance practice that will lay the foundation for an even brighter future for Girl Scouts—always with the girls we serve as the focus of these meetings.

View or download the seven proposed amendments that will be discussed at NCS here:

ncs-proposals-7-and-faqs-survey-members-6.27.23Download

A Town Hall session will be held on July 6 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom to discuss the proposed amendments.

Juliette Gordon Low said it best: “The work of today is the history of tomorrow, and we are its makers.” Girl Scouts convened its first National Council Session (NCS) in 1915, engaging women in a democratic process five years before the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution granted American women the right to vote.

Phenom by Girl Scouts, an event just for girls, will follow the 56th National Council Session on July 20-22.

Celebrating Juneteenth

by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

Juneteenth combines “June” and “nineteenth.” It’s also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, and Emancipation Day.   

Even though President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation officially ending slavery in 1863, in practice it remained in some parts of the country. On June 19, 1865, word that the Civil War was over and slavery was abolished finally made it to enslaved people in Galveston, Texas—and celebrations throughout the newly free Black community followed, which in time became an annual tradition across the U.S. 

We asked our Girl Scout community how they intend to commemorate the day this year. We heard about plans to gather and celebrate with family and friends, as well as plans to educate others, learn more, and reflect on the history of the occasion.

For more on the history of Juneteenth, check out KidsKonnect’s Juneteenth facts and worksheets and the National Museum of African American History & Culture’s Historical Legacy of Juneteenth. 

This article was originally published on the GSUSA Blog.

It’s Mental Health Awareness Month. What Can YOU do to Help?

by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

The challenges of today’s world don’t only affect grownups. Young people—especially girls—are facing a mental health crisis of their own. Supporting them as they grow and face life’s complexities is a top priority.

According to new CDC data released in Feb. 2023, nearly 3 in 5 (57%) U.S. teen girls felt persistently sad or hopeless in 2021—double that of boys, representing a nearly 60% increase and the highest level reported over the past decade.

According to the report, youth mental health has continued to worsen—with particularly stark increases in widespread reports of harmful experiences among teen girls:

  • Nearly 1 in 3 (30%) seriously considered attempting suicide—up nearly 60% from a decade ago.
  • 1 in 5 (18%) experienced sexual violence in the past year—up 20% since 2017, when CDC started monitoring this measure.
  • More than 1 in 10 (14%) had been forced to have sex—up 27% since 2019 and the first increase since CDC began monitoring this measure.
  • More than half (52%) of LGBQ+ students had recently experienced poor mental health and, concerningly, more than 1 in 5 (22%) attempted suicide in the past year.

After reading this, you may be asking: what can I do to help?

Girl Scouts plus their families, caregivers, and volunteers now have access to these mental wellness resources from Girl Scouts of the USA and trusted partners. From new activities to trainings, you’ll find what you need to get started.

Troop 701 practices positive affirmations for mental health during a troop meeting in April.

Activities you can do

From developing social-emotional skills by showing kindness to their family and friends to celebrating differences and making others feel included, Girl Scout Daisies learn what it means to be honest and fair, friendly and helpful, and how they can apply the Girl Scout Law to their lives. Get started with the following activities today and see your Daisy grow into their strongest, most resilient self.

Create a Bag of Kindness

Practice emotional skills and social competence by making a bag of positive notes for your family.

Make a Respect Myself Checklist

Make a checklist of ways you can take care of yourself, inside and out.

Activities have been adapted from Girl Scout programming. For certain grade levels, these activities may be part of a badge program.

Patches you can earn

Complete the Resilient, Ready, Strong Activity Guide

You already know Girl Scouts is fun. Guess what? It’s also a great way to build your inner strength so that you’re ready for anything!

Scientists have found that certain activities may lift your mood, calm you down when you’re stressed, and help you face challenges—and you can do many of these activities in Girl Scouts.

The “Complete the Resilient, Ready, Strong Activity Guide” includes a chart with 10 skills that may help boost your resilience.  Each skill has two activity choices, pulled from Girl Scout programming. Choose the ones that interest you, and give them a try!

Daisy Petal Set: Mental Wellness & Inclusion

Cultivate curiosity with the Daisy Promise Center and Learning Petal badges! This set of badges will introduce Girl Scout values to Daisies through engaging, hands-on activities from one or more of the Girl Scout pillars: STEM, Life Skills, Outdoors, and Entrepreneurship. Each petal badge focuses on a different line of the Girl Scout Law.

Resources you can learn from

Hey grownups!

Want to learn more about girls’ mental wellbeing but not sure where to start? These trainings and resources from our mental health partners will give you the tools you need to begin your journey.

Being inclusive really matters

Practice using inclusive and equitable language to support girls. Volunteers: Take this 15 minute training by logging into myGS>gsLearn.

Understanding mental wellness

Coming soon: special workshops for Girl Scouts to build mental health skills, created in partnership with the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Youth Mental Health First Aid

Managed by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, adult volunteers will learn how to identify and respond to youth mental health challenges.

Articles you can read

Here is a list of articles on the GSUSA blog you can read about mental health awareness.

Girls Are Having a Mental Health Crisis—Some Solutions, Though, Are Simple

Yes, Your Daughter Just Called Herself Fat

Bad Day? Tell Your Daughter About It!

One in Four Teen Girls Self-Harm. Here’s How You Can Help.

Girl Scouts head to NYC as national representatives for 67th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations

by Jessica Miano

Three members of the Girl Scouts Gulfcoast Council were among those representing the Girl Scout movement and serving as delegates at the 67th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations headquarters in New York City in March.

The Gulfcoast delegates included Girl Scout Seniors Mackenzie Shockey, Olivia Trader, and Mackenzie Valenza.

Each year, more than 5,000 women and girls from around the world gather for this session focused on the worldwide state of gender equality. Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida is one of only five Girl Scout councils, out of more than 100 councils nationwide, selected to send a delegation to the 2023 session.

The girls submitted applications to the council and were selected to join fellow Girl Scouts from California, Florida and Oklahoma.

During the Commission on the Status of Women, girls attended sessions, listened to speakers and advocated for what they believe is important and relevant for girls today. They engaged with non-governmental organizations, U.N. agencies, country missions and other youth delegates from around the world. Delegates also took part in and spoke at Girl Scout parallel events about STEM, digital literacy, access to technology in rural areas, and the importance of Girl Scouts and other organizations to champion digital literacy for girls.

Along with attending inspirational events led by women leaders and professionals from across the globe during their visit to the U.N., the girls were also part of advocacy groups, conversation circles, assisted with girl statement writing, and moderated their own event in collaboration with the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. They also met people from all over the world, visited GSUSA headquarters, sat in on the UN General Assembly and more.

To prepare for their roles during the experience, Girl Scouts participated in bi-weekly Zoom training beginning in August 2022.