How Your Troop Can: Spread the Love this Valentines Day

by Jessica Miano
Photo by Molly Champion on Pexels.com

Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate love and friendship, and what better way to spread joy than through creative and heartwarming activities? Girl Scouts can make this Valentine’s Day extra special by engaging in fun and meaningful activities that foster a sense of camaraderie and love. Here’s a guide on how Girl Scouts can celebrate Valentine’s Day with flair and friendship.

Handmade Valentine’s Cards:

Encourage the girls to unleash their creativity by making handmade Valentine’s cards. Provide a variety of art supplies such as colored paper, markers, stickers, and glitter. Girls can express their appreciation for each other by crafting unique and personalized cards, spreading love and positivity within the troop.

By sending handmade Valentine’s Day cards to military, first responders, the sick, or the elderly, girls can give back to their communities a meaningful way on this popular holiday.

Decorate your Cookie Booths:

Girl Scouts can turn their Cookie booths into charming Valentine’s Day-themed attractions by incorporating a variety of festive decorations. To create an inviting atmosphere, they could hang heart-shaped garlands and colorful streamers around the booth. Tables can be adorned with red and pink tablecloths, and small vases filled with fresh flowers or heart-shaped balloons can add a touch of romance.

Girl Scouts can also display handmade Valentine’s Day cards or posters showcasing the different cookie varieties with cute love-themed slogans. To engage customers, they might consider incorporating a Valentine’s Day-themed photo booth where customers can take pictures with their favorite cookies. Adding creative touches like heart-shaped cookie cutouts and fairy lights will enhance the overall ambiance and make the booth stand out, enticing customers to support the girls and indulge in some delightful Valentine’s Day treats.

Heartfelt Service Projects:

Valentine’s Day is an excellent opportunity for Girl Scouts to engage in service projects that promote kindness and compassion. Consider organizing a troop activity to create care packages for a local senior center or hospital. Girls can include handmade cards, sweet treats, and thoughtful notes to bring joy to those who may be feeling lonely.

Baking and Treats:

Host a baking session where girls can learn to make delicious Valentine’s Day treats. From heart-shaped cookies to cupcakes adorned with pink and red frosting, baking together can be a delightful way to bond while creating scrumptious treats. Encourage sharing and exchanging these goodies with friends and family.

Friendship Bracelet Workshop:

Nothing says friendship like a handmade bracelet. Organize a friendship bracelet workshop where girls can learn different knotting techniques and create beautiful bracelets for each other. These bracelets can serve as lasting tokens of friendship and unity within the troop.

Outdoor Adventure:

If weather permits, plan an outdoor adventure for the troop. Whether it’s a nature hike, a picnic in the park, or a camping trip, spending time outdoors can strengthen the bonds between Girl Scouts. Encourage the girls to bring Valentine’s-themed snacks and share stories around a campfire.

Valentine’s Day Sing-Along:

Host a sing-along session featuring love and friendship-themed songs. Girls can learn and perform their favorite tunes, fostering a sense of unity and joy through the power of music. Consider organizing a mini-concert for family and friends to showcase the girls’ musical talents.

Virtual Celebration:

For troops unable to meet in person, organize a virtual Valentine’s Day celebration. Host a video call where girls can share their handmade cards, play games, and express their love and appreciation for each other. You can also take this as an opportunity for the girls to reach out and connect with a nearby troop they don’t get to see often. This could be a good opportunity for making new friends! Virtual celebrations allow troops to connect and celebrate despite physical distances.

Valentine’s Day is not just about romantic love; it’s an opportunity to celebrate all forms of love and friendship. By engaging in these creative and heartwarming activities, Girl Scouts can make this Valentine’s Day memorable while strengthening the bonds of sisterhood within their troop. So, grab your crafting supplies, put on your baking hats, and get ready for a day filled with love, laughter, and meaningful connections. Happy Valentine’s Day, Girl Scouts!

Scholarship Opportunities for Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

by Jessica Miano

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, Inc. provides incredible opportunities for graduating high school senior Girl Scouts to pursue higher education through the Dr. Elinor Crawford Girl Scout Scholarship Fund. Additionally, The Community Foundation and the Selby Scholarship Program offer tuition assistance to high school and college students, providing a range of scholarships to support academic endeavors.

Dr. Elinor Crawford Girl Scout Scholarship Fund:

Since 1989, the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, Inc. Board of Directors has been awarding college scholarships to recognize the achievements of graduating high school senior Girl Scouts. The scholarship fund aims to honor young women who excel in skills, leadership, and citizenship. The application period for the Dr. Elinor Crawford Girl Scout Scholarship is open until February 28, 2024, with recipients being honored at the Young Women of Distinction Celebration on May 19, 2024.

For more information and assistance, applicants can contact Marie Graziosi at marieg@gsgcf.org or 941-921-5358 ext. 338 or 800-232-4475.

Community Foundation Tuition Scholarship:

The Community Foundation invites high school seniors of the Class of 2024 to apply for scholarships ranging from $500 to $5,000. The scholarships are available to students planning to pursue postsecondary education in the fall of 2024. Over $100,000 was awarded in 2023 to students attending 2-and 4-year colleges and internships nationwide.

Key Dates for the Community Foundation Tuition Scholarship:

  • January 1: Scholarship opens.
  • March 31 (at 11:45 p.m.): Scholarship deadline.
  • May 15: Winners announced.

Applicants can learn more about each scholarship and eligibility criteria on The Community Foundation website. To apply, eligible students must register and create an account in the online scholarship portal. For further information, contact Tiffany McQueen Lewis, Scholarship Administrator, at tiffany@capecoralcf.org or 312-848-5744.

Selby Scholarship Program:

The Selby Scholarship Program provides another avenue for students seeking financial assistance for their education. While specific details about this program are not provided in the given content, interested individuals are encouraged to explore the opportunities it offers.

Graduating high school seniors from a school in Charlottee, DeSoto, Manatee or Sarasota County are eligible. Applicants must have “exceptional financial need” as determined by the 2024-25 FAFSA. Applicants also must have a 3.0 unweighted cumulative GPA, and plan to attend an accredited college or university to complete a 4-year degree.

Applications open on Jan. 1, 2024. Visit www.selbyfdn.org to learn more and apply online.Contact Kierra Womack (941-957-0442, kwomack@selbyfdn.org) with questions.

GSUSA Gold Award Scholarship

​​​​​​​The GSUSA Gold Award Scholarship is earned by a Girl Scout who completed a Gold Award project that demonstrated extraordinary leadership, measurable and sustainable impact, and addressed an issue of national and/or global significance.

RECIPIENT BENEFITS

Additionally, all scholarship recipients will be added to a GSUSA database where they may be asked to serve as representatives for Girl Scouts through public relations, web/social, speaking engagements, or other related opportunities.

WHEN:  The application period is March 15 – April 17, 2024.

Gold Award Girl Scouts who are high school seniors or recent high school graduates can apply for the 2024 program. Specifically:

  • current high school seniors who earned or will earn anytime before April 1, 2024
  • recent high school graduates who earned in their senior year after March 31, 2023

 Notes on eligibility:

  • Gold Award Girl Scouts who applied in a previous year are not eligible to re-apply. 
  • To be eligible, all Gold Award Girl Scouts must have their final report approved in the GoGold web app within the eligibility date range. 
  • Gold Award Girl Scouts who are not yet in 12th grade will have the opportunity to apply in their senior year.

How to apply for the Gold Award Scholarship:

Apply between March 15–April 17, 2024. All applicants will receive status updates in June 2024.

In addition to providing demographic information, a headshot with photo release, and confirmation of Gold Award status, each applicant will answer four essay questions in 500 words or fewer per question about their Gold Award:

  1. Please summarize your project in a narrative describing the root cause, how your project addresses it, the resources you leveraged, and how you achieved your goal. Be sure to indicate how you displayed leadership, detailing 1) how you led a team to accomplish your goals and 2) how you involved appropriate community members in your solution. 
  2. Please describe how your project had measurable and sustainable impact. Share how you collected information or data throughout your project and used it to show how your actions had an impact on your issue. Then, share how your project carries on or continues to have impact even after you’ve done your part! 
  3. Please describe how your project had a local connection to a national or global issue. Why does your project matter? Explain how your project meaningfully addressed an issue that is relevant nationwide and/or worldwide. 
  4. Please describe the impact completing your Gold Award project has had on you. Include what new skills you may have gained, what qualities you have learned about yourself, and how these discoveries will help you in the future.

Find more information on the GSUSA website.

These scholarship opportunities are valuable resources for Girl Scouts and other students looking to pursue higher education. By taking advantage of these programs, young women can continue to excel academically and contribute to their communities as future leaders. Don’t miss the deadlines, and seize the chance to support your educational journey with these scholarships.

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Receives $6,226.05 Grant from Community Foundation of Sarasota County for Brightly Software Package Implementation

by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida (GSGCF) is thrilled to announce that we have been awarded a $6,226.05 grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, provided by the Edward K. Roberts Emerging Needs Fund. This grant is designated to support the implementation of the Brightly software package for our five council properties.

The implementation of the Brightly software package, made possible by the generous grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, will significantly impact the operational efficiency and reservation processes at five council properties owned by GSGCF. These properties include the historical Camp Honi Hanta in Bradenton, FL, Camp Caloosa in Fort Myers, the Collier Girl Scout House, the Arcadia Girl Scout House, and the central hub of activities at our Sarasota Headquarters.

The upgrade aims to streamline property and equipment reservations at these locations, ensuring seamless experiences for members, volunteers, and staff engaged in training, programming, and various educational and leadership activities. This initiative aligns with our commitment to providing an optimal environment for the Girl Scout Leadership Experience and furthering the impact of our organization across the Gulf Coast Florida region.

Mary Anne Servian, GSGCF CEO, said, “The new software upgrade will streamline reservation processes for our volunteers, and allow our council to offer more flexibility in scheduling property reservations. The implementation of the Brightly software is poised to elevate both customer, volunteer, and employee satisfaction, optimizing the utilization of our facilities and, consequently, boosting property site revenue.”

“We are grateful to the Community Foundation of Sarasota County for their support and commitment to our mission. This grant will significantly contribute to the success of our programs and initiatives, allowing us to continue providing valuable experiences to our members,” added Mary Anne Servian.

The Community Foundation of Sarasota County is a vital supporter of philanthropy and community impact. With assets of $488 million in over 1,580 charitable funds, the Community Foundation awarded grants and scholarships totaling $40 million last year in various areas, including education, the arts, health and human services, civic engagement, animal welfare, and the environment.

For more information about the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, visit gsgcf.org

About the Community Foundation of Sarasota County:

The Community Foundation of Sarasota County is a public charity founded in 1979 by the Southwest Florida Estate Planning Council as a resource for caring individuals and the causes they support, enabling them to make a charitable impact on the community. With assets of $488 million in more than 1,580 charitable funds, the Community Foundation awarded grants and scholarships totaling $40 million dollars last year in the areas of education, the arts, health and human services, civic engagement, animal welfare, and the environment. Since its founding, the Community Foundation has been able to grant more than $435.8 million to area nonprofit organizations to our community thanks to the generosity of charitable individuals, families, and businesses. For more information, visit www.CFSarasota.org or call (941) 955-3000.

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Announces New Director of Member Experience

by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

Ashley Gill, a GSGCF veteran employee, will take on the new role in Jan. 2024

The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida (GSGCF) is thrilled to announce the promotion of Ashley Gill to the position of Director of Member Experience, effective January 2024. Ashley has been an integral part of the GSGCF team since April 6, 2018, and her dedication and proficiency have earned her this well-deserved promotion.

In her previous role, Ashley served as a valuable member of the organization, contributing significantly to its success. Her commitment to the mission and values of Girl Scouts has been evident throughout her tenure. As Director of Member Experience, Ashley will play a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience for the GSGCF membership.

Mary Anne Servian, CEO of Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, expressed her confidence in Ashley’s abilities, stating, “Ashley is a proficient and highly regarded team member at Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida. We have full confidence that Ashley will thrive in her new role and will contribute to the enhancement of our membership’s overall experience.”

Ashley Gill brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having been involved with Girl Scouts for a total of almost 6 years as a staff member. In addition to her staff role, Ashley has spent 3 years as a Girl Scout and dedicated 10 years as a volunteer, earning recognition with awards such as the Volunteer of Excellence and Green Angel.

Ashley conveyed her excitement for her new role, expressing her anticipation of collaborating with girls and families to enhance their Girl Scout experience. Over the past two years, she has connected with them through the Product Program, and now she looks forward to incorporating Programs into her responsibilities, finding the prospect of being involved in both aspects to be particularly rewarding.

The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida congratulates Ashley Gill on her promotion and looks forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly bring to the organization and its members.

How Your Troop Can: Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day with Service and Learning

by Jessica Miano

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.

Unboxing Girls’ Potential: The Skills Girl Scouts Develop Through Cookie Sales

by Jessica Miano

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 Awarded $5,000 Grant from the Community Foundation for Girl Scout Leadership Experience Expansion

by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida
GSGCF employee Connie Martin accepted the check from The Community Foundation on behalf of the Girl Scouts on Dec. 13, 2023.

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.

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Receives $5,000 Grant from the Bishop Parker Foundation

by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida

Fund of the Manatee Community Foundation to Enhance Camp Honi Hanta Amenities

The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida is delighted to announce the generous grant of $5,000 awarded by the Bishop Parker Foundation Fund of the Manatee Community Foundation (MCF).  This grant will be instrumental in providing essential air conditioning units for Camp Honi Hanta, ensuring a comfortable and conducive environment for year-round activities.

Camp Honi Hanta, a cherished retreat nestled in the heart of our community, serves as a crucial space for Girl Scouts to embark on their Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE). The GSLE empowers girls to discover themselves, connect with others, and take action to make a positive impact on the world. With this grant, Girl Scouts will now have the opportunity to engage in these transformative experiences throughout the entire year.

The air conditioning units funded by the Bishop Parker Foundation Fund of the Manatee Community Foundation will not only enhance the overall experience for the Girl Scouts but also enable them to participate in age-appropriate, girl-led, cooperative, and hands-on activities. Guided by supportive adults and peers, the GSLE fosters the development of important leadership skills that are crucial for the girls’ future success.

Mary Anne Servian, CEO at Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, expressed her gratitude, saying, “We are incredibly thankful to the Bishop Parker Foundation Fund of the Manatee Community Foundation for their generous grant. This support will make a significant difference in the lives of our Girl Scouts, providing them with a comfortable and enriching environment to learn, grow, and build lifelong friendships.”

The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida are excited about the positive impact this grant will have on the girls’ experiences at Camp Honi Hanta and extends its heartfelt thanks to the Bishop Parker Foundation Fund and the Manatee Community Foundation for their commitment to supporting the development of our future leaders.

Girl Scout Resolutions for a Remarkable Year

by Jessica Miano
Photo by freestocks.org on Pexels.com

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! 

Photo by olia danilevich on Pexels.com

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!

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.