NICU Awareness Month: Join Gold Award Girl Scout Alexis Smith in Spotlighting Prenatal Care [Gold Award Spotlight]

by Jessica Miano

September is a month of awareness designed to honor Neonatal Intensive Care Awareness (NICU) families and the health professionals who care for them. The observance seeks to increase awareness of the challenges faced in the NICU.

Gulfcoast Girl Scout Alexis Smith, who plans to become a doctor one day, decided to dedicate her 80-hour Gold Award Project to helping NICU families with her project, “Heart to Heart.”

Alexis recognized the difficulties faced by many families whose babies must stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for prolonged periods of time after premature birth. She wanted to help nurture the bonds between parents and their babies during their stays in the NICU.

Alexis created a Facebook page with educational resources about prenatal care for parents-to-be and organized a group of volunteers to sew over 250 heart-shaped aromatherapy clothes for babies staying overnight in the NICU at Golisano Children’s Hospital. In order to accomplish her goals for this project, Alexis taught herself how to sew and later taught her volunteers how to sew, as well.

“While completing my Gold Award, I learned that I am good at public speaking. In the past, speaking in front of others always seemed intimidating to me, but once I began presenting and explaining my project to people, I realized how comfortable and confident I was,” she said.

Alexis will be attending International University in the fall to major in health science.

Alexis earned the Girl Scout Gold Award in March 2023. In May, Alexis was announced as the recipient of the 2023 Lyndi Cyphers Memorial College Scholarship.

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

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 Alexis 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.

The Power of Unplugging: Why Your Teen Should Limit Their Social Media Use

by Jessica Miano

In an era dominated by technology, teenagers, especially teen girls, find themselves constantly immersed in the digital world through social media and excessive screen time. While these platforms offer connectivity and convenience, there is a growing body of evidence suggesting that reducing social media usage and screen time can lead to significant benefits for the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of young girls. Here’s why:

  1. Limiting social media exposure can alleviate the pressures of unrealistic beauty standards and foster positive body image. Teen girls are often bombarded with curated images that create an illusion of perfection, leading to self-esteem issues and a constant need for validation. By distancing themselves from these unrealistic portrayals, they can focus on building a healthy sense of self-worth and self-acceptance.
  2. Excessive screen time has been linked to sleep disturbances, affecting both quality and duration. Restorative sleep is vital for teenagers’ cognitive function, emotional regulation, and physical development. By reducing screen time, teens can improve their sleep patterns, leading to better academic performance and emotional resilience.
  3. Excessive social media usage can contribute to feelings of loneliness and anxiety, as young girls might compare themselves to others and experience the fear of missing out (FOMO). By cutting back on screen time and social media, teens can prioritize face-to-face interactions and meaningful relationships, fostering genuine connections and emotional support.
  4. Reducing screen time allows for more time spent on hobbies, physical activities, and outdoor exploration. Encouraging teens to engage in offline pursuits can lead to a healthier lifestyle, improved fitness, and a better understanding of the world around them.

In conclusion, embracing a lifestyle that limits social media and excessive screen time can be highly beneficial for teenage girls. It empowers them to develop a positive self-image, fosters authentic relationships, enhances sleep quality, and promotes physical well-being. Encouraging moderation in their digital habits allows these young girls to focus on their personal growth, cultivate real connections, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and fulfillment.

Mary Anne Servian, Esteemed CEO of Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, Joins The Community Foundation Nonprofit Advisory Council

by Jessica Miano

In a significant stride towards fostering collaboration and community-driven impact, Mary Anne Servian, the dedicated Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, has been appointed to The Community Foundation Nonprofit Advisory Council. Mary Anne joins an esteemed group of seven other distinguished nonprofit professionals in the Southwest Florida region who have been selected to serve on this newly established community advisory board.

Mary Anne’s unwavering commitment to empowering and nurturing the potential of young girls through her leadership at Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida has garnered recognition and admiration. Her passion for effecting positive change has not only positively transformed the lives of countless individuals but has also significantly contributed to building a more resilient and vibrant community.

As a visionary leader at the helm of an organization that shapes the futures of young girls, Mary Anne brings a wealth of insights and innovative ideas to The Community Foundation Nonprofit Advisory Council. Her appointment stands as a testament to her exceptional leadership prowess and her capacity to drive meaningful and lasting impact.

The Community Foundation, founded in Cape Coral, FL, has been at the forefront of reshaping the nonprofit and charitable landscape in Southwest Florida. With a robust network encompassing 5,219 nonprofit organizations, employing over 37,600 personnel, and generating a total annual revenue of $4.19 billion, the Foundation has demonstrated its commitment to driving positive change on a substantial scale. By establishing a platform that amplifies the voices of nonprofits alongside businesses and governmental entities, the Foundation is cultivating a collaborative and impactful ecosystem that benefits the entire community.

This collaborative initiative serves as a poignant reminder that true progress is achieved through partnerships, concerted collaboration, and a shared dedication to effecting positive change. The newly formed nonprofit advisory council stands as an emblem of The Community Foundation’s steadfast commitment to driving transformative change and propelling the charitable sector to unprecedented heights.

Join us in extending heartfelt congratulations to Mary Anne for this remarkable achievement and in expressing deep gratitude to The Community Foundation for their tireless efforts in empowering and elevating our community.

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida CEO, Mary Anne Servian

Celebrating Women’s Friendship Day with Girl Scouts: A Week of Empowerment

by Jessica Miano

Women’s Friendship Day, celebrated on the third Sunday in August each year, is a special occasion to honor the strong bonds of sisterhood and foster meaningful connections among women. For Girl Scouts, it presents an excellent opportunity to reinforce the values embedded in the Girl Scout Promise and Law while celebrating the power of friendship and female empowerment.

But why stop at one day when you can make the celebration last a whole week? This blog post offers seven days of activities for Girl Scouts to engage in throughout the week, promoting camaraderie, kindness, and growth.

Day 1: Sharing Stories of Female Role Models

Start the week by encouraging each Girl Scout to share the story of a remarkable woman who has inspired them. Whether it’s a historical figure, a community leader, or a family member, these stories will instill a sense of pride in the girls, reminding them of the incredible potential within every woman.

Take this day as on opportunity to connect with former Girl Scouts and troop alums who may wish to come back and speak to you and your troopmates about the impact Girl Scouting had on their lives.

Day 2: Acts of Kindness and Service

In line with the Girl Scout Law, which emphasizes the importance of being helpful and considerate, Day 2 revolves around acts of kindness. Girls can volunteer at a local charity, assist the elderly, or participate in a community clean-up. By working together to make a positive impact, they will experience the joy of giving back and supporting one another.

Day 3: Mentorship and Support

Create a “Big Sister, Little Sister” program within the troop, pairing older Girl Scouts with younger ones. Through mentorship and support, they can forge meaningful connections, guiding and uplifting each other along their Girl Scout journey.

Day 4: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity is a cornerstone of Girl Scouting. Day 4 encourages girls to learn about various cultures and traditions. They can organize an international potluck, where each Girl Scout brings a dish representing their heritage, fostering understanding and appreciation for each other’s backgrounds.

Day 5: Team-Building Adventures

Promote teamwork and leadership skills through exciting team-building activities. Whether it’s hiking, completing a ropes course, or collaborating on a creative project, girls will learn to trust one another and appreciate the unique strengths each member brings to the group.

Day 6: Expressing Gratitude

Day 6 is all about expressing gratitude and appreciation. Each girl can write heartfelt notes to fellow troop members, acknowledging their strengths and contributions to the group. This practice reinforces the values of the Girl Scout Law, cultivating an atmosphere of respect and kindness.

Day 7: Empowerment Workshop

End the week with an empowerment workshop where the girls participate in activities that build self-confidence and resilience. They can engage in public speaking exercises, learn about female leaders who have made a difference, and set personal goals for the future.

Conclusion

As Girl Scouts come together to celebrate Women’s Friendship Day, they reinforce the core principles of the Girl Scout Promise and Law. Through a week of activities centered on camaraderie, kindness, and empowerment, they will forge deeper connections with one another, creating a powerful network of support that will last a lifetime. By nurturing these values, Girl Scouts will emerge as strong, compassionate, and empowered young women, ready to take on the world and make a difference in the lives of others.

Celebrate National Aviation Day with Gold Award Girl Scout Autumn Pepper Rhodes [Gold Award Spotlight]

by Jessica Miano
Gold Award Girl Scout Autumn Pepper Rhodes was honored at the 2023 Young Women of Distinction Awards Ceremony.

In 1939, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt established National Aviation Day by presidential proclamation designating the anniversary of Orville Wright’s birthday for the observance. Orville and Wilbur successfully flew the first powered airplane, which they invented after four years of research and development, in 1903.

120 years later, aviation has changed quite a bit. According to the latest estimates, there are approximately 100,000 flights per day in the U.S.. An estimated 617,000 citizens hold active pilot certificates, Gulfcoast Girl Scout Autumn Pepper Rhodes being one of them.

Rhodes has been advocating for girls and women to experience more opportunities in the field of aviation.

“As a student pilot, I noticed the discrepancy in women mentors for young people interested in aviation,” she said. “I wanted to introduce aviation to young women in my community, create a community of mentors for them to look up to, and to advocate for an aviation career badge and the modification of regulations concerning flight in private aircraft within the Girl Scout program.”

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. Autumn’s workshops gave girls the opportunity to learn about careers in engineering and aviation and take part in a discovery flight experience. She also created a website filled with videos, education resources, and scholarship information for girls interested in aviation.

Autumn started an online petition urging GSUSA to lift the safety restrictions and allow discovery flights as a girl scout activity. To date, Autumn has collected over 1000 signatures to convince GSUSA to change their safety regulations to allow girls to fly airplanes as part of Girl Scout programming.

Autumn earned her Gold Award in March 2023, but she continues her advocacy to this day.

“This experience has inspired me and proved that I am able to make a difference in my community. 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.”

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

She will be attending Rice University in the fall as a Mechanical Engineering and Astrophysics double major. She dreams of becoming a commercial airline pilot, and maybe even an astronaut one day!

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.

“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.”

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.

About 4,000 Girl Scouts earn their Gold Award every year, placing Autumn 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.

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. In July 2023, Girl Scouts of the USA announced that Autumn was the recipient of the 2023 Gold Award Scholarship. One Girl Scout per council in the U.S. is chosen each year for this prestigious award. This year, thanks to the generosity of the Girl Scouts of the USA’s donors, scholarship recipients received $10,000 each towards their high education pursuits.

Getting Ready for a Successful Back-to-School Season with Girl Scouts

by Jessica Miano

As summer comes to an end, it’s time for Girl Scouts to gear up for a successful back-to-school season. Transitioning from lazy summer days to a structured school routine can be challenging, but with a little preparation and the support of their Girl Scout sisterhood, they can navigate this exciting time with confidence. Here are some helpful tips to help Girl Scouts prepare for the upcoming school year:

  1. Embrace the Routine: Going back to school means a return to a set schedule. Help girls adjust by gradually reintroducing routines before school starts. Encourage them to set regular bedtimes, plan their outfits, and practice their morning routines. This will make the first week of school feel less overwhelming.
  2. Tackle Homework: With a new school year comes an increase in homework load. Encourage girls to create a dedicated study space and establish a homework routine. Setting aside time each day for homework, and completing assignments promptly, can help them stay on top of their schoolwork.
  3. Navigating Social Issues: Entering a new grade or school cani bring social challenges. Encourage open communication and active listening among girls to address any concerns or anxieties they may have. Remind them that they have a supportive sisterhood in Girl Scouts to lean on during times of uncertainty.
  4. Take Care of Mental Health: School can be stressful, and it’s essential to prioritize mental wellness. Encourage girls to engage in activities that promote relaxation and self-care, such as mindfulness exercises, journaling, or spending time outdoors. Remind them that it’s okay to seek help from parents, teachers, or counselors if they’re feeling overwhelmed.
Read: Mental Wellness Activities for You and Your Troop (PLUS a NEW Patch)
  1. Set Goals and Celebrate Achievements: Encourage girls to set personal and academic goals for the school year. Whether it’s improving grades, trying out for a school team, or being more involved in community service, setting objectives can boost motivation and self-confidence. Celebrate their accomplishments, no matter how small, to keep their spirits high.

Going back to school can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for Girl Scouts. By following these tips and relying on the support of their Girl Scout community, they can navigate any changes, challenges, and opportunities the new school year brings. Remember, in Girl Scouts, they have a sisterhood that will stand beside them through it all, fostering leadership, resilience, and friendship. Here’s to a fantastic school year ahead!

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:

Embracing National Wellness Month: A Guide for Every Girl Scout to Nourish Her Mind, Body, and Spirit

by Jessica Miano

As August arrives, it brings with it a special occasion: National Wellness Month. This month-long observance encourages individuals to focus on their overall well-being, nurturing their mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. For Girl Scouts across the country, this presents an opportunity to embark on a journey of self-care and personal growth. In this blog, we will explore what National Wellness Month is and how Girl Scouts can embrace it, fostering wellness in all aspects of their lives.

Understanding National Wellness Month

National Wellness Month is a time to prioritize self-care and explore various avenues of wellness to maintain a balanced and fulfilling life. It serves as a reminder to take a step back from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing individuals to focus on their inner selves and nourish their bodies, minds, and spirits. By promoting self-awareness and healthy habits, this month encourages people to make positive changes that can lead to long-term well-being.

Practicing Mental Wellness

Mental wellness is vital for maintaining a healthy mind and emotional state. Girl Scouts can cultivate mental wellness in August by practicing:

  1. Mindfulness and Meditation: Encouraging daily mindfulness exercises and meditation can help girls to manage stress, improve focus, and enhance emotional resilience.
  2. Journaling: Promoting the habit of journaling allows girls to express their thoughts and emotions, leading to greater self-understanding and emotional processing.
  3. Positive Affirmations: Emphasizing the power of positive affirmations can boost self-esteem and foster a growth mindset.

Badges you can earn relating to Mental Wellness:

  • Participate in the national Resilient. Ready. Strong. Patch Program
  • Earn the Daisy Petal Patch 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.

Emotional Wellness

Emotional wellness involves recognizing, understanding, and managing emotions effectively. Here’s how Girl Scouts can practice emotional wellness:

  1. Emotional Expression: Encouraging open and honest communication about feelings helps create a supportive and empathetic environment within the troop.
  2. Building Resilience: Organizing activities that challenge girls to overcome obstacles and setbacks will strengthen their resilience and emotional coping skills.
  3. Practicing Empathy: Participating in community service projects allows girls to connect with others, cultivating empathy and compassion.

Girl Scout activities you can participate in relating to Emotional Wellness:

Spiritual Wellness

Spiritual wellness goes beyond religious beliefs; it involves finding purpose and meaning in life. For Girl Scouts, spiritual wellness can be nurtured by:

  1. Nature Walks: Encouraging girls to spend time in nature helps them connect with the world around them and fosters a sense of wonder and spirituality.
  2. Reflection and Gratitude: Incorporating moments of reflection and gratitude in troop activities promotes a sense of appreciation and spiritual growth.
  3. Service to Others: Engaging in volunteer work and acts of kindness gives girls a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Badge Programs relating to Spiritual Wellness:

  • My Promise, My Faith Pin, which helps a girl strengthen the connection between the Girl Scout Law and her faith.
  • The P.R.A.Y. Award is the linchpin connecting scouting and churches to benefit young people. The result is stronger youth, stronger families, stronger congregations, and stronger councils.

Physical Wellness

Physical wellness involves maintaining a healthy body through proper nutrition, exercise, and self-care. Here’s how Girl Scouts can practice physical wellness:

  1. Healthy Eating Habits: Educating girls about balanced nutrition and encouraging healthy snack options during troop meetings and outings.
  2. Active Lifestyle: Organizing physical activities like hiking, biking, or dancing to promote regular exercise and overall fitness.
  3. Rest and Relaxation: Emphasizing the importance of adequate sleep and relaxation to support physical recovery and mental well-being.

Badge programs relating to physical wellness:

Conclusion

National Wellness Month presents an opportunity for Girl Scouts to prioritize their mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. By embracing various wellness practices, they can cultivate self-awareness, resilience, and a balanced lifestyle. As they embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth, they will not only benefit individually, but also collectively strengthen their bond as a supportive and compassionate troop. Let August be a month of empowerment, self-care, and wellness for every Girl Scout. Happy National Wellness Month!

Girl Scouts Love State Parks: Celebrate with Gulfcoast Girl Scouts Sept 9-10

by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

Let’s celebrate our shared love of the outdoors.

Every year, Girl Scouts explore the natural wonders found across our country during the Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend. Girl Scouts nationwide, along with their troops, friends, and families, celebrate our shared love of the outdoors.

Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend is on September 9 and 10 this year. Grab your backpack and head out to your local state parks for self-guided tours, family hikes, watersports, stargazing, special events, and more!

Get the free Girl Scouts Love State Parks Passport NOW!

The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida have partnered with five parks within our council’s jurisdiction to offer a weekend of events, designed for families or troops to attend together.

Participants will choose one of the five parks to attend during the hours of 10:00 am to 3:00 pm on one of the dates listed below. A small entrance fee of $5 or $6 (depending on each park) will grant each car load access to the park.

Each car load can include up to eight (8) people. It is important to tell the park staff at the gate that you would like to participate in the Girl Scouts Love State Parks Program and ask for an activity sheet. Notify park staff that you are with the Girl Scouts at the gate and they will provide each car with an activity sheet specific to that park.

Participants will complete a scavenger hunt, go on nature trails, and learn leave-no-trace practices. Entrance fee does not include patches. Patches can be ordered for $2 on the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida website the week following. Families and troops are welcome to bring their own lunch and snacks. If you are attending as a troop, you must complete the “Day Trip and Activity Travel Form: https://girlscoutsofgulfcoastflorida.wufoo.com/forms/z1te7wt10e9pllt/

Please read through the details below, as a few of the parks will be offering guided activities during a specific time frames throughout the weekend.

Dates: Saturday, September 9th and Sunday, September 10th, 2023.

Time: 10:00 am 3:00 pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

Please do not arrive before 10:00 am, and be sure you have completed your activities in time to exit the parks by 3:00 pm.

Locations:

Highlands Hammock State Park, 5931 Hammock Rd, Sebring, FL 33872

Oscar Scherer State Park, 1843 S Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL 34229

Koreshan State Park, 3800 Corkscrew Rd, Estero, FL 33928

Collier Seminole State Park, 20200 Tamiami Trail E, Naples, FL 34114

Myakka River State Park, 13208 State Rd 72, Sarasota, FL 34241

You can order the Girl Scouts Love State Parks Patch here.

The Girl Scouts of the USA have also created a Girl Scouts Love State Parks Passport to guide your adventures throughout the weekend and unlock your Girl Scouts Love State Parks 2023 Patch.