NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO 533 ELGIN, IL
South Elgin Resource Center 353 Randall Rd South Elgin, IL 60177
girlscoutsni.org | 844-GSNI-4-ME South Elgin Resource Center South Elgin, IL 60177
Lake Zurich Resource Center Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Sugar Grove Resource Center Sugar Grove, IL 60554
Freeport Resource Center Freeport, IL 61032
Rockford Resource Center Rockford, IL 61107
Rock Falls Resource Center Rock Falls, IL 61112
2019–2020
big Book
The Big Book is just the beginning! We are here for you all year!
Growing Up with Girl Scouts
Keep in Touch!
As girls grow, the Girl Scout experience grows with them! At each Girl Scout level, girls choose between tons of fun, skill-building, characterbuilding activities, and adventures that have been masterfully designed specifically for their age and developmental stage. Beyond that, we know different girls will participate in Girl Scouts in different ways. Most girls are members of a Girl Scout troop—a group of girls, often in the same age level and always led by at least two caring, responsible adults.
Daisies (K–1st) Brownies (2–3rd)
When girls are Daisies and Brownies, they’re excited about everything, eager to try new things, and building basic life skills to become confident and independent. Most of their experience is led by their troop leaders. We’re committed to providing troop leaders with the tools and resources to host successful troop meetings, field trips, badge activities, and special events.
Juniors (4–5th) Cadettes (6–8th)
When girls are Juniors and Cadettes, they’ve developed preferences for what types of activities they like and don’t like. They are curious about the world around them and dig deeper to learn how it works. Most troops connect with our Preferred Partners—businesses and organizations in our communities who have aligned what they do best with our Girl Scout Leadership Experience—to get a behind-the-scenes look at topics that interest girls.
Our Customer Care team is ready to assist you when you call 844-GSNI-4-ME (844-476-4463) or email customercare@girlscoutsni.org.
Seniors (9–10th) Ambassadors (11–12th)
When girls are Seniors and Ambassadors, they’re planning ahead for college and career. They are often still members of active troops but may stay involved as Individually Registered Members (Juliettes) instead. High school girls work one-on-one or in small groups with experts in fields that interest them. They make a big impact through the Girl Scout Gold Award and take action in their community around a cause or issue that matters deeply to them.
Our website is a great resource for GSNI members. You will always be able to find event registration, forms, news, and contact information for GSNI staff no matter where you go! Make sure to bookmark girlscoutsni.org so you’re always in the know. The News section of our website is constantly being updated with stories of what girls are up to around the council. Check in often!
In addition, there are always new and exciting things happening at GSNI, and we invite you to join the conversation on the following sites: facebook.com/GSNorthernIL pinterest.com/GSNorthernIL instagram.com/GSNorthernIL youtube.com/GSNorthernIL
Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois develops independent, confident girls by offering a variety of customizable experiences with opportunities to learn valuable life skills and try new things, all while cultivating the character to make a difference in the world.
Thank you for your support—
be it as a volunteer, member, donor, or advocate! Here’s to a great year!
Welcome!
Fiona Cummings, GSNI CEO, (far left) accompanies a group of GSNI Girl Scouts heading to London for a weeklong adventure! To find out more about Girl Scout traveling please refer to page 30.
Dear Families, in their communities. Welcome to the latest edition of Girls Scouts is flexible. We move our Big Book! We’re excited to offer even more fun, hands-on Girl Scout and adapt at the speed of girls. Girls can participate in Girl Scouts in programs this year! many ways, including as a member People often ask me “Why of a troop or as an individual. Your should my girl be a Girl Scout?” girl can choose to do sports or other In today’s world, we’re fully aware girls have more choices than ever— extra-curricular endeavors all while still being a Girl Scout. partly thanks to Girl Scouts leading As you flip through our Big Book, the way for over 100 years to you’ll see a variety of skill-building advance opportunities nationwide programs and for girls and activities your women! So, why choose The Girl Scout Leadership Girl Scout can sample. She Girl Scouts? Experience is a can earn over Girl Scouts one-of-a-kind sisterhood 200 badges in is girl-led. Girls found nowhere else. our four focus are consistently areas, take our at the center of leadership paths, everything we do. embrace the outdoors, and serve Girls prepare; girls set and reach her community—all while having their goals, and most importantly— a great time and making lifelong girls learn to lead. The Girl Scout friendships! Leadership Experience is a We have family-friendly events one-of-a-kind sisterhood found highlighted throughout the Big Book nowhere else. Opportunities with many occasions for you to see offered through our single-gender what your girl is learning and ways program gives girls the tools to live for you to come alongside her to healthy, active, and confident lives
share your abilities and experience with the next generation! You can assist at the troop level as a helper, or join us as a troop leader, Service Unit Team member, expert advisor, or volunteer board member. Girl Scouts continues to thrive thanks to our dedicated volunteers and supportive families! As we wrap up our 10th year as Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois and look toward 2020, I’m eager to see what Big Book programs your girl will choose! I can’t wait to meet you and your family at one of our events or award my “I Met the CEO Patch” to your girl at one of her programs. She’s going to have a great year, and I’m so glad Girl Scouts will be a part of it! Sincerely,
Fiona Cummings Chief Executive Officer Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois GSNI CEO FIONA CUMMINGS
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Table of Contents Welcome....................................................................................1 How to use Big Book..............................................................3 Where is GSNI?...................................................................... 4 Why GSNI—Girls in The Lead.......................................6–8 Flexible Ways to Participate in Girl Scouts....................7 Program Strategy Overview...............................................9 Volunteer Information................................................ 11–12 Volunteer ToolKit..................................................................13 Volunteer Trainings......................................................14–15 Adult Trainings.....................................................................15 Leadership and Service for Girls...................................16 Paths for Girl Scout Leadership.......................................17 Highest Awards.................................................................... 18 Scholarships......................................................................... 19 Families and Friends......................................................... 20 Girl Scouts and Faith...........................................................21 Campsite and Facility Rental................................... 22–23 Camps..................................................................................... 24 Camp Activities................................................................... 25 ON THE COVER: Troop 1196 passing the friendship squeeze as they bridge to Juniors, concluding the ceremony at Delnor Woods Park in St. Charles, Illinois. Pictured (starting from ponytail moving clockwise): Mia Murphy, Celia Sherman, Emerson Ishman, Bella Alongi, Amber Zeilenga, Taylor Greco, Kalese Simon, Maddy Lewis, Lucy Sumka, Edie Ware, Victoria Cline, Amira Abukhader, Clara Baker. Photo by Kate Sumka.
Travel
with us!
Fall 2020: G.I.R.L 2020 in Orlando, Florida October 23–25, 2020
GSNI Product Programs.............................................26–28 Where Product Program Funds Go............................... 29 Why Girl Scouts Travel...................................................... 30 Global Action Days...............................................................31 Programs-in-a-Box............................................................. 32 New Journeys and Badges........................................ 32–33 How to Register for Activities......................................... 35 At-a-Glance Schedule................................................. 36–39 Programs and Events for Girls.................................40–64 GSNI Partners................................................................ 66–73 Planned Giving......................................................................74 Major Program Supporters...............................................76
GSNI will have a council sponsored trip on this three-year cycle: Year One: Girl Scout National Convention Year Two: International Trip Year Three: National Trip There will also be a local trip and a regional adventure trip each year!
Summer 2021: Our Chalet, Switzerland
Summer 2022: Savannah, Georgia
(for Girl Scouts in high school)
For more information on GSNI travel go to girlscoutsni.org/travel. 2 | girlscoutsni.org
30 SEE PAGERE O M R FO TION INFORMA
How to use Big Book The Big Book was created in 2015. Since then, we’ve had overwhelmingly positive feedback and have decided to make it even better! Here at GSNI, we listen to our volunteers. You told us Big Book helps you plan a successful year. So, we got our GSNI Big Book dream team back together again This book is meant to last and created a better Big Book for 2019–2020! through the entire 2019-2020 The book in front of you will help you membership year. The Little Book, prepare a great Girl Scout year! The first available in early 2020, covers all section provides an introduction to Girl of our summer activities and camps. Scouting and the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. Then, browse through our all-year event plan and start scheduling the fun Event Title new today! Following the events sections, we included additional resources for Girl Scouts who want to Event Location take their adventure to the next level. Event price | GSNI Voucher Eligibility How can you get the most out of Big Book? We Date | Time suggest you sit down with the Girl Scout(s) in your Deadline for event registration life and page through the events sections of the book Event description. Badge(s) that event activities will meet requirements for are listed here. Badges and see which events are the most interesting to her. that will be completed will be listed accordingly. Badges that will meet partial Parents and leaders will find the We are GSNI and requirements will be marked with an asterisk. Example: Archery Cadette badge* Girl Scout Extras sections particularly helpful when planning activities. Girls can use this book to talk to parents and leaders about what they want to do! new This icon represents a new event for 2019-2020 Use this convenient guide to help find relevant information: updated T his icon represents a event that GSNI has done before, but has updated elements for 2019-2020
Guide to Event Listings
Guide to Big Book Icons
What’s a “GSNI Voucher?” Adventure Allowance
Adventure Allowance is an electronic voucher code earned by renewing a girl or adult membership online for the 2020 Girl Scouts membership year by June 30, 2019. For the 2020 Early Renewal campaign, Adventure Allowance is $10. Adventure Allowance voucher codes can be used for the following: ▶▶ GSNI programs during the 2020 membership year (October 1, 2019–September 30, 2020) that allow use of vouchers ▶▶ Council-sponsored GSNI resident and day camps ▶▶ Service unit events and day camps ▶▶ Adult trainings that allow use of vouchers (S.T.E.W., Lodge Camping, Outdoor Overnights) ▶▶ GSNI stores ▶▶ Renewing membership for 2021
Cookie Dough/S’more Dough/Cashew Cash Cookie Dough/S’more Dough/Cashew Cash are reward vouchers earned by some girls who participated in Girl Scout Fall Product and Cookie Programs. These vouchers are issued electronically via email as a unique e-code. All Dough e-codes expire on Monday, April 1, 2020. NOTE: When used for Service Unit Day Camp, dough vouchers are due one week earlier to enable processing.
save the date
T his icon indicates to Save the Date and more information is yet to come
This icon represents the Daisy grade level. This icon represents the Brownie grade level. This icon represents the Junior grade level. This icon represents the Cadette grade level. This icon represents the Senior grade level. This icon represents the Ambassador grade level. This icon represents events where we welcome families. This icon represents events good for adults. This icon represents events held by Preferred Partners.
You’ll notice in our event listings that some events are not GSNI Voucher eligible. That means that these events cannot take any GSNI vouchers listed above as payment. 844-GSNI-4-ME | 3
Where is GSNI? WISCONSIN
JO DAVIESS
STEPHENSON
WINNEBAGO
BOONE
LAKE McHENRY Lake Zurich
OGLE
CARROLL
IOWA
DeKALB
South Elgin
KANE DuPAGE WHITESIDE
LEE KENDALL
HENRY
COOK
BUREAU
LA SALLE
Legend ● GSNI Council Area ● GSNI Resource Centers ● GSNI Camps
GRUNDY
We are GSNI We serve 16 counties including parts or all of Boone, Carroll, Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Jo Daviess, Kane, Kendall, Lake, LaSalle, Lee, McHenry, Ogle, Stephenson, Whiteside, and Winnebago.
Contact all GSNI facilities at 844-GSNI-4-ME (844-476-4463) Fax: 847-741-5667
GSNI Resource Centers & Council Stores
GSNI Camps
South Elgin Resource Center
Rockford Resource Center
Mary Ann Beebe Center
353 Randall Rd South Elgin, IL 60177
1886 Daimler Road Rockford, IL 61112
17501 Streit Road Harvard, IL 60033
Freeport Resource Center
Sugar Grove Resource Center
Camp Dean
1834 S West Ave, Suite 21 Freeport, IL 61032
Lake Zurich Resource Center 499 Ela Road Lake Zurich, IL 60047
200 New Bond Street Sugar Grove, IL 60554
Rock Falls Resource Center 229 First Avenue, Suite 1 Rock Falls, IL 61071
46W253 Camp Dean Road Big Rock, IL 60511
Camp Far Horizons 9702 S. Lost Horizons Road Hanover, IL 61041
Camp McCormick 9995 N. Girl Scout Road Stillman Valley, IL 61084
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SciTech offers a variety of program styles for all Girl Scouts! STEM Workshops to assist with Program Level Badges/Petals STEM Sleepovers with pizza, museum exploration, STEM programming, and light breakfast. Twilight Adventures provide all of the fun of a sleepover, without the need to set up camp. Science2Go Programming brings interactive and educational entertainment to you!
www.scitechmuseum.org/scouts for program descriptions about our Girl Scout programs, please email us at scouts@scitechmuseum.org or call 630-859-3434 x230 SciTech Hands On Museum, 18 W. Benton St., Aurora, IL 60506 844-GSNI-4-ME | 5
Why GSNI—Girls in The Lead Our Girl Scout Success Framework Defines how we Uniquely Serve Girls We put the girl first in Girl Scouts, so she can become the best G.I.R.L she can. Positive Values The Girl Scout Mission—Our Mission statement says it all: Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. We are By Girls. For Girls. All Girls. We build leadership qualities in every girl to help change the world and we live by the Girl Scout Promise and the Girl Scout Law.
Girl Scout Leadership Experience
G.I.R.L.—The GSLE is girl-led, with hands-on activities in which girls discover, connect, and take action to achieve a strong sense of self, develop positive values, seek challenges, have healthy relationships, and solve problems in their communities. The result? Girls become G.I.R.L.s (Go-getters, Innovators, Risk-takers, Leaders)™! Leadership Pathways—Girl Scouts can follow one or both paths of our leadership programs. Each path builds skills in different types of leadership: ▶▶ Girl Leadership path focuses on mentorship of younger girls both in the troop setting (Junior Aide, Leader in Action, Cadette Program Aide, Volunteer in Training) and/or in the outdoor setting (Cadette Program Aide, Counselor in Training). For more information, see pages 16–17. ▶▶ Community Leadership path includes Take Action Projects and culminates with our flagship Highest Awards of Girl Scout Bronze, Silver, and Gold. The leadership skills learned here include project management and team leadership. For more information, see pages 16–17.
Fun, Customizable Adventures
GSNI’s Four Focus Areas (for more information, see page 9): ▶▶ Outdoor Activities and Adventures—Including Outdoor Skills, Environmental Education and Action, Outdoor Adventures, and Aquatic Adventures ▶▶ Travel and the Global Community—Including Travel (Local, U.S., International, and Service), Understanding Cultures, and Global Issues ▶▶ Practical Life Skills—Including Financial Literacy, Healthy Living, Cooking, DIY (Do It Yourself), and Adulting ▶▶ Career and Interest Exploration—Including The Arts, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), Career Exploration, Entrepreneurship, and History & Traditions
Community Service Girls Scouts give back to their communities—From Daisies to Ambassadors, Girl Scouts love to participate in community service to give back to their communities, locally or globally. Girl Scouts choose how, when, and where they provide community service so they can make the most impact on issues that they find important. 6 | girlscoutsni.org
Take Action Projects—Girl Scouts who participate in Journeys, which are a pre-requisite for our Highest Awards, complete sustainable Take Action Projects. These are projects meeting an identified community need which provide solutions. As girls age up in Girl Scouts, they work towards ensuring these projects are sustainable within the community. For more information, see page 17.
Girl-Centered Camps Four Camps—Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois owns four camps within our council geography: Dean, Far Horizons, Mary Ann Beebe Center and McCormick. Most Girl Scouts are no more than about an hour drive from one of our camps. Because of the proximity of Girl Scout members to a camp, girls can attend for part of a day, full day, overnight, a weekend, or longer. For more information, see pages 22–24.
Flexible Ways to Participate K–12
Program designed for every girl—At Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois, we know every girl is unique. Every girl can customize her program based on her interests and available time. For more information, see page 7. Progressive Program for girls K–12—Girl Scouts can participate in troops for their school grade level, for their Girl Scout level which cover 2 or 3 school grades (Daisies, Brownies, Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors) or in multi-level troops. Some troops focus on one focus area (such as the outdoors) and other troops choose activities from all focus areas. If a girl finds her interests are not aligned with other girls in her troop, she can work with her service unit or Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois staff to find a troop that better suits her needs. Individually Registered Members (Juliettes)—Some girls are Juliette Girl Scouts. Juliettes can participate in any council event in the Big Book or Little Book, as well as service unit events. Juliettes can participate in the fall product and cookie programs, but do not receive troop proceeds (cash). Instead, she receives vouchers, known as S’more Dough to be redeemed against council activities and store merchandise, to include uniform pieces and earned badges.
Why GSNI—Girls in the Lead
Safe, Inclusive Girl-Only Space
Safety records—Girl Scouts and GSNI are very proud of our safety record. Volunteer vetting—Adult volunteers who lead troops have to pass specific and comprehensive background checks. Activities are managed with safety checkpoints. Check out our safety record and compare to others.
Costs Can be Covered by the Cookie Program
Troops can fund themselves—Most families appreciate help in funding the cost of activities for their children and at Girl Scouts we have several funding solutions to reduce the burden on families. Girls who participate in the Girl Scout Cookie Program and Fall Product Program in their troops can earn rewards and gain valuable financial and entrepreneurial skills. Troops can start the year off earning funds to plan their adventures with the Fall Product Program, and then can earn up to 20% of the selling cost of a box of cookies later in the year. Girls decide where their money goes—Girls in their troops determine how to spend the money earned, which can be used to fund uniforms and books for each girl, the next year’s memberships, program and activity costs, camping and even travel within the USA or beyond. For more information, see page 28.
Caring Adults Volunteers are at the heart of Girl Scouts—Girl Scouts could not exist without large numbers of dedicated volunteers who give of their time, talents and energy to bring the Girl Scout Leadership Experience to as many girls as possible. Adults, who have passed the background checks, are trained and supported as troop leaders or in other leadership roles in troops and service units. Some experienced adults are trainers or experts in delivering particular aspects of our program (like the outdoors or STEM). For more information, see pages 11–13.
Community and Donor Engagement
Community support and giving back—Working within our communities is core to the success of Girl Scouts. Communities are the source of our membership, both girls and volunteers, as well as donors and advocates. Schools and places of worship—Schools and places of worship are at the heart of communities and are crucial to our success. It is here we open the Girl Scout Leadership Experience to all girls by holding troop programs and determining the right form of Girl Scouts to benefit the girls in that community, such as troops or outreach. Donors—support as individuals, foundations, United Ways, and businesses. Although the cookie program is an important source of revenue for our Council, we rely on the support of the community to help fund our programs and support our camps. Additionally, United Ways, Community Foundations and AmeriCorps entirely fund many of our outreach programs to underserved girls.
Flexible Ways to Participate in Girl Scouts Troop Program (Volunteer-Led) Troop program is planned or coordinated by Troop Volunteers and includes one or more of the following: ▶▶ Regularly scheduled meetings, which may include use of GSNI staff-developed Programs-in-a-Box ▶▶ Field trips to community organizations, including GSNI Preferred Partners, or a troop registering for a service unit and/or council-sponsored program ▶▶ Overnights/camping/travel, which may include service unit day camps or council-sponsored opportunities ▶▶ Support by GSNI via financial assistance for girls, training, facilities, safety policies and procedures, program development, Programs-in-a-Box, and support for volunteers
Multi-Troop Program (Volunteer-Led) This would include two or more troops planning and carrying out a program opportunity, school or town events*, and service unit events/day camps*.
Council-Sponsored Events (Led by Preferred Partners) Preferred Partners are businesses, organizations, and experts in our communities that offer quality events and activities designed specifically for the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE) and offered only to Girl Scouts. Preferred Partners offer programs in two ways: ▶▶ Scheduled dates listed in this book starting on page 40* ▶▶ Customized dates scheduled directly between the Preferred Partner and the troop or service unit
Council-Sponsored Events (Led by GSNI Staff and/or Volunteers and open to all Girl Scouts in the Council) ▶▶ Programs and events scheduled in this book starting on page 40* ▶▶ Resident camp and council-sponsored day camps* (Summer camping opportunities planned and led by staff.) For more information, see pages 24–25.
Events* (Led by or Managed by GSNI Staff with Volunteer Assistance) These are large events, such as: ▶▶ Cookie Kick-Off ▶▶ Water Whimsy and Fishing Derby ▶▶ STEMaplooza
▶▶ Votes For Women ▶▶ Summer Resident Camp ▶▶ Thin Mint Sprint ▶▶ Over the Edge 4 Girl Scouts
* To participate in these opportunities without belonging to a troop, simply register as an individual member.
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Why GSNI—Girls in The Lead Juliette Girl Scouts
Honor Troop
Juliette Girl Scouts do not have to attend troop meetings to be a Girl Scout. Juliette Girl Scouts work on the Girl Scout program with a parent or other adult mentor and decide what activities they want to participate in and which recognitions to earn! There’s even a special Juliette Girl Scout Guidebook to help girls throughout the year. This doesn’t mean girls are on their path alone! They can participate in any or all the following:
The Honor Troop Program provides your troop— girls and leaders—with a roadmap for your Girl Scout year. Following this roadmap can lead to an exceptional experience and will set your troop apart as a model troop! Each Girl Scout level has their own requirements to complete each year. Requirements for each Girl Scout level and multi-level troops can be found on the VTK Resource Tab and GSNI website. The Honor Troop Program runs from October 1, 2019, through September 30, 2020. Forms can be submitted between June 15, 2020, and October 15, 2020. Honor Troops are recognized in the Recognition Booklet at GSNI’s Annual Meeting each year.
⏵⏵ Juliette Star Program ⏵⏵ Earning awards and badges ⏵⏵ Attending council-sponsored and/or service unit events ⏵⏵ Participate in the Girl Scout Cookie Program and the Fall Product Program ⏵⏵ Go to resident camp and council-sponsored day camps (summer camping opportunities planned and led by staff)
My GS Kit Spend $50 and get a FREE BAG!
Your Girl Scout Adventure Begins Now! Purchase at least $25 of core merchandise and the balance on GSNI-branded merchandise.
Every girl deserves her own kit! 8 | girlscoutsni.org
Program Strategy Overview
Our Four Focus Areas By combining these skills, we’re developing independent, confident girls who build a better world. Practical Life Skills ⏵⏵ Between all the fun and adventure, Girl Scouts are learning critical life skills in everything they do. They’re preparing for a positive, healthy, and independent future. ⏵⏵ Includes Financial Literacy, Healthy Living, Cooking, DIY (Do It Yourself), and Adulting.
Outdoor Activities & Adventures ⏵⏵ In the outdoors, girls learn and practice important skills, experience unforgettable adventures, triumph through individual and group challenges, and get inspired to care for the environment. Each new adventure boosts a girl’s confidence! ⏵⏵ Includes Outdoor Skills, Environmental Education & Action, Outdoor Adventures, and Aquatic Adventures.
Travel & Global Community ⏵⏵ Girl Scouts love to travel and explore the world— from field trips as Daisies to globe-trotting adventures as teens. Girls love exploring different places and cultures, either up close or from afar. They’ll tackle unique challenges and social justice issues from around the world and be inspired to make a difference. ⏵⏵ Includes Travel (Local, U.S., International, Service), Understanding Cultures, and Global Issues.
Career & Interest Exploration ⏵⏵ Each girl’s interests and hobbies are as unique as she is. Thankfully, there’s a world of possibilities to explore through Girl Scouts. Girls delight in trying new things when they’re young and start exploring potential careers as they get older. For girls, the future is bright! ⏵⏵ Includes The Arts, STEM, Career Exploration, Entrepreneurship, and History & Traditions.
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Ways to Volunteer with GSNI Whether you want to lead a troop of Girl Scouts, mentor girls during the cookie program, help at a program event, or design programs for girls—there is a place for you in Girl Scouts! GSNI has a variety of ways for you to volunteer your time throughout the year. Some opportunities include: ⏵⏵ Troop Leader—Work with a group of girls and mentor them as they make new friends and develop connections that will last a lifetime! All troop leaders take GSNI’s required Leader Trainings and have a Member Support Specialist and local Service Unit Team of volunteers to support them! ⏵⏵ Troop Volunteers—Assist with driving, activity planning, snacks, Girl Scout Fall Product or Cookie Programs, money management, or other tasks necessary to keep the troop running smoothly from week to week! Some Troop Volunteer positions have required trainings while others don’t. They receive support from their troop leaders, Service Unit Team, and council staff depending on the volunteer position they hold. ⏵⏵ Service Unit Volunteers—Mentor adult volunteers as they work with Girl Scouts to create memories they will never forget! A Service Unit Team consists of many positions, including Service Unit Manager, Treasurer, Fall Product Coordinator, Cookie Coordinator, GS Organizers, Recognition Chair, and many more. For a full listing, check out our Why Volunteer webpage. All Service Unit Team positions have a required training to complete for their volunteer job. They receive support from their Member Support Specialist and other council staff depending on their position. ⏵⏵ Cookie Volunteers—Help coordinate the annual Girl Scout Cookie Program either locally or council-wide. Our Product Program Department is always looking for volunteers to help with cookie deliveries, cookie shuffling, answering cookie questions, and much more during January through March. Some volunteer opportunities are year-long while others are for the three months of the Cookie Program or one to two times. Depending on the opportunity, training will be provided when needed. All Cookie Volunteers receive support from the Product Program Team.
⏵⏵ Episodic Volunteers—Help once or twice at different events, programs, or during projects throughout the year with GSNI. Episodic Volunteers can choose when they want to volunteer and during what time of the year. Several departments at GSNI have episodic volunteering opportunities! Whether it’s for a girl event like Cookie Kick-Off or Super Sellerbration or helping in one of GSNI stores, there is something for everyone! Training is done onsite for the day and support comes from GSNI staff in charge of the project or event. ⏵⏵ Council Committees—Volunteering on a committee at GSNI can have a lasting impact on our girl and volunteer experience! GSNI has several committees volunteers can choose to join. Committees range from different topics such has STEM and the Outdoors to Volunteer Recognition. For a listing on council committees looking for members, please check out the Why Volunteer webpage for more information. Training is required when needed and support comes from GSNI staff who head the committee. For more information about ways to volunteer with GSNI, please contact GSNI at customercare@girlscoutsni.org.
Did you donate to Girl Scouts? Your investment means: Financial assistance for Girl Scout membership for 3,105 girls in need 1,523 hours of required training for caring, dedicated Girl Scout leaders 120 community partners vetted and enthusiastically trained to deliver the Girl Scout Leadership Experience in their programs 50 exciting, girl-inspired summer camp options (more with volunteer-led camps) 1,085 total acres of well-maintained, scenic camp property at four locations, including a 2.25 acre pond and 2 miles of river frontage
Bright Futures for Girls!
girlscoutsni.org | 844-GSNI-4-ME 844-GSNI-4-ME | 11
Volunteer Information Steps to Becoming a Troop Leader GSNI provides a variety of trainings and support throughout the year for new troop leaders! These trainings help new leaders be successful in their volunteer position. Our team of Council Trainers and GSNI staff are ready to guide you in your mission to mentor girls as they take part in their own Girl Scout adventure!
Four Steps to Becoming a Troop Leader: 1. Register by visiting girlscoutsni.org and clicking “Volunteer Now” on the home page. 2. Complete a background check. Look for the link sent from Asurint 3. Receive your Welcome Letter or email from your Member Support Specialist. 4. Complete all required trainings for troop leaders by visiting the “Online Support for Volunteers” page on our website.
Interested in volunteering, but not as a troop leader? That’s great! We have several opportunities throughout GSNI you can explore. Check out our “Ways to Volunteer” page on the GSNI website for a list of opportunities!
Volunteer Recognition Our volunteers are the driving force behind the Girl Scout Mission. Every year, GSNI recognizes the hard work volunteers do to mentor and guide girls towards their goals and dreams. Here are some of the ways GSNI, parents, and volunteers recognize all the hard work our volunteers do throughout the year.
New girls and volunteers need you! From September 8–14, service units will host recruitment events to welcome new members to Girl Scouts. Help new girls and volunteers learn all about Girl Scouts by volunteering at an event near you. If you can help, reach out to Customer Care at 1-844-476-4463 or customercare@girlscoutsni.org. We’d love to have you! 12 | girlscoutsni.org
Volunteer of the Month GSNI staff nominate volunteers who do an amazing job to help provide an amazing Girl Scout experience for girls and adults within the organization. Check out the monthly blog on our website to learn more about an amazing volunteer each month!
Certified Leader Once a troop leader completes all their required trainings, they become a Certified Leader. This recognition identifies to others that this troop has dedicated and amazing leaders to help girls strive
to become all they can be through a well-rounded and wide variety of opportunities throughout the year.
Service Unit Recognition Service units throughout GSNI recognize and appreciate their local volunteers during the year in various ways. Whether something small or something big, volunteers make all the difference when it comes to their local Girl Scout program!
Annual Recognition Parents, volunteers, and GSNI staff have the opportunity every year to nominate volunteers for special awards to help celebrate their accomplishments from the previous year. Check out the “Volunteer Recognition” page on our website for a full listing of awards, past recipients, and the nomination forms for the 2020 Annual Recognition process.
Volunteer ToolKit (VTK) The Volunteer Toolkit (VTK) continues to be a breakthrough online program for all troop leaders to help plan and coordinate activities throughout the year. One of the many benefits to VTK is that it helps cut down on planning time to allow more time for activities and fun. Have you logged into your Volunteer Toolkit lately to see what it new?
Volunteers All levels including Multi-Level troops, leaders can easily enter their troop’s plans for the year as girls decide what they want to accomplish. VTK comes with pre-populated journeys for each level and several other year plans for your troop. Plus, new badges and resources went live in July 2019! This includes more for our older girl troops! It’s easy to add extra meetings and activities to your year plan as the girls make those decisions. With VTK, troop leaders can communicate with parents about meetings and activities easily with a click of a button, keep track of attendance, record badges earned, and so much more. VTK has a great resource tab specific to GSNI. Troop leaders will be able to easily access local information from GSNI on such topics as End of the Year paperwork, and Make New Friends Patch Program. Want to know more about VTK? Check out the Volunteer Toolkit webinars throughout the year on our website or talk with your local GSNI staff. You can find out more information on our “Online Support for Volunteers” web page.
Parents Parents have access to their Girl Scout’s troop’s VTK once the troop leader has set up the troop’s year plan. Parents are able to update information and view the troop’s Year Plan. Parents also have access to the Resource Tab and everything available there.
new Service
Units and Juliette Girl Scouts Have VTK Access!
Starting in July of 2019, Service Unit Managers, Juliette Liaisons, Event Coordinators, GS Organizers, Volunteer Mentors, Council Trainers, Historians and Juliette Girl Scouts will have access to VTK!! Keep an eye out in August and September for webinars on how to use this wonderful tool to build your Girl Scout Experience! 844-GSNI-4-ME | 13
Volunteer Trainings Daisy New Leader Workshop FREE/Adult During this 2-hour in-person training, gain all the basic information and resources you need to get your Daisy troop started toward success! Topics will include hosting a parent meeting, hosting your troop meeting, working with K–1st graders, finances, safety, uniforms, program resources, badges and awards, planning your year, and more! Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors working on their VIT Award can register for this training as part of their requirements to earn the award. For registration information, visit girlscoutsni.org.
St. Charles area (TBD)
St. Charles (TBD)
September 3, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
October 1, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Freeport Resource Center
South Elgin Resource Center
September 9, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
October 2, 2019 | 3–5 p.m.
Calvary United Methodist Church, Stockton
Montgomery (TBD)
September 14, 2019 | 9–11 a.m.
October 8, 2019 | 7–9 p.m.
Batavia (TBD)
Hampshire Resource Bank Schoolhouse
September 18, 2019 | 12:30–2:30 p.m.
October 9, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Lake Zurich (TBD)
Marywood Community Center
September 23, 2019 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
October 9, 2019 | 6:30–8:30 p.m.
JMS Marketing, Crystal Lake
New Life Bible Church, Pecatonica
September 25, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
October 14, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Sugar Grove Resource Center
Plano (TBD)
September 26, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
October 15, 2019 | 7–9 p.m.
Huntley (TBD)
St. Charles (TBD)
September 30, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
October 20, 2019 | 3:30–5:30 p.m.
Fox River Grove Area (TBD)
McHenry (TBD)
October 1, 2019 | 4:30– 6:30 p.m.
October 23, 2019 | 6:30–8:30 p.m.
United Way of Whiteside County, Sterling November 2, 2019 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Sycamore United Methodist Church, November 5, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Sugar Grove Resource Center November 6, 2019 | 3–5 p.m.
Bartlett area (TBD) November 6, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Geneva area (TBD) November 7, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Lake Zurich area (TBD) November 21, 2019 | 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Woodstock (TBD) December 3, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
South Elgin Resource Center December 4, 2019 | 5–7 p.m.
Freeport Resource Center December 9, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
JMS Marketing, Crystal Lake December 12, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Huntley/L.I.T.H. (TBD) January 8, 2020 | 6–8 p.m.
Barrington area (TBD) January 22, 2020 | 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Brownie New Leader Workshop FREE/Adult During this 2-hour in-person training, gain all the basic information and resources you need to get your Brownie troop started toward success! Topics will include hosting a parent meeting, hosting your troop meeting, working with 2nd–3rd graders, finances, safety, uniforms, program resources, badges and awards, planning your year, and more! Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors working on their VIT Award can register for this training as part of their requirements to earn the award. For registration information, visit girlscoutsni.org.
JMS Marketing, Crystal Lake November 13, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Geneva area (TBD) November 18, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Plano area (TBD) November 19, 2019 | 7–9 p.m.
Bryon Public Library
Woodstock (TBD)
August 17, 2019 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
October 23, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Lake Zurich Resource Center
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Dixon
McHenry Township Building
November 20, 2019 | 6:30–8:30 p.m.
August 24, 2019 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
October 23, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Lake Zurich Resource Center
Huntley/L.I.T.H (TBD)
Hampshire Resource Bank Schoolhouse
September 16, 2019 | 5–7 p.m.
November 6, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Freeport Resource Center
Montgomery area (TBD)
September 16, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
November 12, 2019 | 7–9 p.m.
Batavia area (TBD)
Marywood Community Center, Aurora
September 18, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
November 13, 2019 | 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Calvary United Methodist Church, Stockton September 28, 2019 | 9–11 a.m.
McHenry area (TBD) October 9, 2019 | 4:30–6:30 p.m.
St. Charles (TBD) October 20, 2019 | 1–3 p.m. 14 | girlscoutsni.org
December 11, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Freeport Resource Center December 14, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Bartlett area (TBD) January 14, 2020 | 6–8 p.m.
Junior–Ambassador New Leader Workshops FREE/Adult Junior–Ambassador New Leader Workshops can be scheduled by request through your Member Support Specialist. Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors working on their VIT Award can request this training as part of their requirements to earn the award. Please contact Customer Care at customercare@girlscoutsni.org to request a training time.
Volunteer Trainings Enrichment Trainings
Adult Trainings
Volunteer Toolkit Webinars
Outdoor Overnights
FREE/adult
$25/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible
Dig deeper into how you can use the Volunteer Toolkit! The Volunteer Toolkit is here to save you time in organizing your troop’s activities and goals for the whole year while keeping in touch with your troop families! Whether you are new to Girl Scout, have an older girl troop, or multi-level troop, the Volunteer Toolkit has resources you need throughout the year! Register online at girlscoutsni.org. * Dates for Service Unit Teams and Individually Registered Girl families coming soon!
Camp Dean, Big Rock September 21–22, 2019 | 2 p.m.–2 p.m.
VTK New Leader August 20, 2019 | 6:30–7:30 p.m.
VTK Older Girl & Multi-Level Troops September 17, 2019 | 6:30–7:30 p.m.
VTK New Leader
Mary Ann Beebe Center, Harvard October 19–20, 2019 | 2 p.m.–2 p.m. This training is required for all adults preparing to take girls on an overnight trip! You will learn how to prepare a delicious, nutritious meal outdoors, safe dishwashing methods, and review fire building and safety along with different types of cooking fires and methods. You’ll learn how to pitch a tent and put up mosquito netting, plus activities for camping review of latrine care and cleaning up with minimal impact to the environment. Participants are required to spend the night. Participants must complete Beyond the Troop Meeting and Lodge Camping before taking this training.
October 22, 2019 | 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Lodge Camping
VTK Older Girl & Multi-Level Troops
$7/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible
November 12, 2019 | 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Camp Dean, Big Rock August 31, 2019 | 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
VTK New Leader January 21, 2020 | 6:30–7:30 p.m.
VTK Older Girl & Multi-Level Troops February 18, 2020 | 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Customer Care | 1-844-476-4463 customercare@girlscoutsni.org
Camp Dean, Big Rock June 13, 2020 | 9 a.m.–2 p.m. This training is required for all adults preparing to take girls on an overnight trip to a facility with modern amenities, such as staying overnight indoors at one of the council-owned camps, or other indoor lodgings with an outdoor setting. Adults will learn the progression needed to prepare girls for an overnight trip, how to explore when girls are emotionally and physically ready to spend the night away from home, plan the trip, complete paperwork and safety preparations, and spark ideas on things to do in the outdoors to educate girls. Participates must complete Beyond the Troop Meeting before taking this training.
Want your troop to stand out in a crowd?
2019 Design
Troop T-shirts and hoodies are just what you need for your girls to show their troop pride! GSNI now offers one design in two different colors throughout the year in all store locations. Troop specific orders can only be placed September throught May.
Visit one of our stores and ask about the latest design in troop gear!
Every shirt has an optional Troop # sleeve print!
TROOP 1234 844-GSNI-4-ME | 15
Leadership and Service for GIRLS There is no better place for a girl to develop her independence and confidence than Girl Scouts! What makes Girl Scouts different? We connect girls with opportunities to develop their leadership skills at all levels, starting with our youngest leaders, Girl Scout Daisies, all the way through Girl Scout Ambassadors, our high school seniors! Girl Scouts can follow one or both paths of our leadership programs. Each path builds skills in different types of leadership. SERVICE
LEADERSHIP
PATH 1
PATH 2
GOLD AWARD
SILVER AWARD
BRONZE AWARD
COUNSELORIN-TRAINING II
COUNSELORIN-TRAINING I
VOLUNTEER IN TRAINING
CADETTE PROGRAM AIDE
LEADER IN ACTION (L.I.A.)
JUNIOR AIDE
Girl Leadership Community Leadership
GOLD TORCH
SILVER AND GOLD TORCH
SILVER TORCH
COMMUNITY SERVICE BAR
GRADE LEVEL
SERVICE TO GIRL SCOUTING BAR
ACTS OF SERVICE ARE BUILDING BLOCKS OF LEADERSHIP
4–5
Junior x x
6–8
Cadette
x x x x x x
9–10
Senior
x x x x x x
11–12
Ambassador x x x x x x x
Service Community Service Bar Girl Scouts who are very active make a difference in their communities! To earn this award, girls choose a community organization to work with (check with Customer Care for approved organizations), receive instructions, and complete at least 20 hours of service.** For additional information, see girlscoutsni.org/communityserviceleadership* ** Hours of service girls use to earn these awards must be separate from those used towards other awards.
Other Awards Service to Girl Scouting Bar
Summit Award
Girls at this level often volunteer to help at special events at the service unit or council level with younger girls or other special projects. Once a girl completes at least 20 hours of service, she is eligible to earn this award.** For additional information, see girlscoutsni.org/communityserviceleadership.
Torch Awards There are two steps to earn this award— complete one journey and serve for one full term in a leadership position! Silver Torch
Silver and Gold Torch
Gold Torch
This award is earned by completing three Journeys in a level.
Bridging Award Girls earn this award by completing two steps— Pass It On and Look Ahead.
Safety Award Each Girl Scout level has its own set of requirements to teach girls how to stay safe at home, at school, and in their community. As girls get older, they share what they have learned with younger girls and develop safety plans to share with families and friends!
Days of Service
Surprise your Girl Scout with
gsni An array of accessories to appeal to just Girl Scouts.
girl gear today!
Go to girlscoutsni.org/gsnigirlgear to order!
Customers pay to receive a box filled with Girl Scout awesomeness four times a year! Girl Gear boxes are now available for adults too! 16 | girlscoutsni.org
GSNI is excited to offer three organized service events for Girl Scouts this year: ▶▶ Sunday, October 27, 2019 – Honoring Juliette at Womanspace ▶▶ Saturday, March 14, 2020 – Happiness and Hairnets at Feed My Starving Children ▶▶ Saturday, April 25, 2020 – Global Youth Service Day at Northern Illinois Food Bank For more information, visit the At-a-Glance beginning on page 36.
Paths for Girl Scout Leadership Two Paths to Girl Scout Leadership Path 1 Girl Leadership
Path 2 Community Leadership
This path focuses on mentorship of younger girls in the troop setting through Junior Aide, Leader in Action, Cadette Program Aide, and Volunteer in Training, and in the outdoor setting through Cadette Program Aide and Counselor in Training.
This path focuses on the leadership skills of project management and team leadership and culminates in the Girl Scout Highest Awards of Girl Scout Bronze, Silver, and Gold. All three awards challenge girls to complete pre-requisites and then develop and implement a sustainable project to solve an identified problem in a community.
Junior Aide Girl Scout Juniors can earn this mentoring award by making and completing a plan to work with Daisies or Brownies on one of their Journeys.
Girl Scout Bronze Award
Leader in Action (LiA) Cadettes earn the LiA award by assisting Brownies as they work on a Journey. There is a LiA award for each Journey. Complete requirements can be found on GSUSA’s website and in the Brownie Leadership Journey Adult Guides.
Cadette Program Aide Earning the Cadette Program Aide award is a three-step process. A Girl Scout Cadette must earn one LIA award and complete GSNI Program Aide training. After completing the first two steps, girls will need to work directly with younger girls for a minimum of 25 hours or a minimum of 6 separate activity sessions.
Program Aides Program Aides (PAs) are Girl Scout Cadettes–Ambassadors who lead and assist with activities at council events, service unit events—including volunteer-led day camps— and/or troop meetings. Some volunteer opportunities may require girls to attend Program Aide Basic and/or Program Aide Outdoor Training. She’ll learn how to work with younger Girl Scouts, develop her teaching and communication skills, and become a role model!
Volunteer-in-Training (VIT) Seniors and Ambassadors who would like to mentor a Daisy, Brownie, Junior, or Cadette group, outside of camp, can earn this award. There are three steps to this award—work with an adult mentor, complete a GSNI leadership course, and create and implement a program for girls based on a Journey or badge. The VIT project should cover a three-to-six-month period.
Counselor-in-Training I (CIT) Seniors and Ambassadors can earn this award by mentoring younger girls in a camp setting and build skills toward becoming a camp counselor. Girls must complete CIT I Training held at a GSNI resident camp and work with younger girls at camp.
Counselor-in-Training II (CIT II) Ambassadors can earn this award after earning their CIT I Award and working with younger girls at a GSNI resident camp while focusing on increasing their skills in one specific area, such as lifeguarding or the arts. Girl Scouts who earn this award will be eligible for paid employment at GSNI resident camps. For additional information on these awards see The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting or visit girlscoutsni.org/communityserviceleadership
Say YES to the VEST! Proudly display your Girl Scout uniform love with Say YES to the VEST! fun patches
In-st o only!re
Girls
Adults
The Girl Scout Bronze Award is the highest award a Junior can earn. Once a troop completes a Junior Journey, they can begin to plan and carry out their Bronze Award Project. As girls complete their project, they’ll develop more confidence, meet new people, and work with other Girl Scouts to make a difference. The minimum hours required to complete a Bronze Award Project is 20 hours per girl. A troop or individually registered girl who submits their final Bronze Award Project report will receive a GSNI Bronze Award Certificate for each girl.*
Girl Scout Silver Award Going for the Girl Scout Silver Award, the highest award a Cadette can earn, gives girls the chance to show they are a leader who is organized, determined, and dedicated to improving their community. Cadettes can begin to work on their Silver Award project once they complete a Cadette Journey. Girls can work individually, or in groups of up to four girls, each completing 50 hours as they plan and implement their Silver Award project in their community. Once a girl submits her Silver Award Final report, she will receive a GSNI Silver Award Certificate.*
Girl Scout Gold Award The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest award an individual Girl Scout can earn. Earning the Gold Award has many benefits including scholarship opportunities and the ability to enter the military one rank higher. Once a Senior or Ambassador completes the prerequisites—completing two Journeys or earning her Silver Award and completing one Journey—she can begin to plan her individual Gold Award project. She must submit a project proposal before implementing her project plan. The proposal is reviewed by a volunteer Highest Awards Committee. The committee will meet with the girl to discuss her proposal. Gold Award projects must address the root cause of an issue, be sustainable, have a global impact, and be a minimum of 80 hours of one individual's time.* * Note about the Girl Scout Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards: The Journey Take Action project girls complete for their Journey is separate from their Bronze, Silver, or Gold Award projects. The complete guidelines for the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards can be found in The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting and on GSNI and GSUSA’s websites as well as the Volunteer Toolkit.
Customers get one FREE with purchase of a vest and insignia! 844-GSNI-4-ME | 17
Highest Awards The Girl Scout Bronze Award When a Girl Scout Junior decides to earn her Girl Scout Bronze Award, she is committing herself to a challenge—a challenge that will change her life and lives around her. She will begin to develop her leadership skills, be introduced to role models, and make a difference in her community. GSNI has developed a short, online video to help you and your troop get started earning the Girl Scout Bronze Award. You can view it at girlscoutsni.org/bronze. Requirements for the Girl Scout Bronze Award can be found in the Junior level of A Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting and on GSNI’s website. Troops that complete and submit a Final Report for the Girl Scout Bronze Award will receive a certificate from GSNI. Many service units also host local Highest Awards Celebrations and Bronze Award Girl Scouts should be acknowledged at these events. Find out more from your local service unit volunteers!
The Girl Scout Silver Award Going for the Girl Scout Silver Award—the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette can earn— gives her the chance to do big things and make her community better in the process. For information on the requirements to earn this award, visit girlscoutsni.org/silveraward. Girls who complete and submit Final Reports for the Girl Scout Silver Award will receive a certificate from the council personally signed by our CEO!
The Girl Scout Gold Award The benefits of earning the Girl Scout Gold Award are endless! Gold Award Girl Scouts develop life skills as leaders and role models. They rate their general success significantly higher than their peers and report greater success in reaching their goals in many areas! Girls who have earned the Girl Scout Gold Award distinguish themselves in the college admissions process, may have access to additional college scholarship opportunities, and if they join the military—they may enter one rank higher. For more information on how she can join a century of women who have done big things by earning the Girl Scout Gold Award, visit girlscoutsni.org/goldaward.
Learn More To learn more about the Highest Awards Girl Scouts has to offer, consider attending one of our Silver Award or Gold Award workshops. Highest Award Q & As are also an option for those girls who have attended a workshop but want to talk through their ideas. See our At-AGlance on pages 36–39 for dates and times.
Events to Go Having trouble finding one of our scheduled Silver or Gold Award workshops that fit your schedule? Wish there was something closer to home? Get together with your service unit or partner up with another troop and contact Customer Care for more information.
Highest Awards Celebrations Many service units host local Highest Awards Celebrations. This occasion is the perfect time to distribute these awards! Check with your local service unit volunteers for more information. Are you part of a service unit interested in hosting a Highest Awards Celebration? Contact Customer Care, and we’d be happy to pass on more information! GSNI provides guidelines and resources, support from volunteer committee members, as well as funding allocations to support Highest Award Celebration plans at the service unit level!
18 | girlscoutsni.org
Scholarships Scholarships
Prudential Spirit of Community Award
Girl Scouts opens doors and opportunities for girls in all parts of life! We are committed to helping girls reach their goals by offering college scholarships. Additional information on GSNI’s scholarships and how to apply will be posted on our website in Fall 2019 and can be found at girlscoutsni.org/scholarships. Some colleges and universities offer scholarships Scholarship Note—From time to time, GSNI is made aware of other specifically for scholarship opportunities. These Girl Scout Gold opportunities are shared with girls Award recipients. via email and social media. To receive updates on scholarship opportunities, Be sure to check make sure your Girl Scout’s grade with your college’s level and email address are correct by logging into MY GS or contacting Financial Aid Customer Care. office for available scholarships!
Every year, nominations are sought for the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a program sponsored by Prudential Financial. As a nominating Girl Scout council, GSNI can nominate girls in grades 5–8 and 9–12. The number of girls nominated is dependent on GSNI’s current membership. Girls who have earned their Girl Scout Silver or Gold Award are excellent candidates. Even if a girl did not complete her Silver or Gold Award, but she planted trees, planned and implemented a collection drive, or organized a craft day at her local homeless shelter—she may still apply! Information on who can apply and how will be available at the beginning of September 2019 with applications being due at the beginning of November 2019. As information becomes available, it can be found at girlscoutsni.org/scholarships and will be shared on GSNI social media outlets and in the Around GSNI monthly e-newsletter.
GSNI Girl Scout Ambassador Scholarship The Girl Scout Ambassador Scholarship is for active, registered graduating Girl Scouts. Girls are asked to share their Girl Scout experiences, their community service, and their leadership roles during their junior and senior years in high school. Past GSNI Ambassador Scholarship recipients include girls who have completed Journeys, earned various awards and badges, and led activities at service unit events or day camps—the list of their Girl Scout accomplishments is endless! They also have been student council members, part of church groups, and volunteered with community organizations.
GSNI Girl Scout Gold Award Scholarship Girls graduating high school and who have earned the Girl Scout Gold Award by January 15, 2020, are eligible to apply for the Girl Scout Gold Award Scholarship. This scholarship focuses on the girl’s Gold Award project along with her other Girl Scout, school, and community activities.
“My destination trip taught me a lot and changed the way I see things.” VIRGINIA, GIRL SCOUT TRAVELER
Contribute to the GSNI travel endowment fund and provide more girls with this opportunity. Girl Scout travel experiences provide girls an opportunity to build independence and confidence.
Visit girlscoutsni.org/travelendowment or call 844-GSNI-4-ME
Customer Care | 1-844-476-4463 customercare@girlscoutsni.org
844-GSNI-4-ME | 19
Families and Friends Make New Friends Patch Program “Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other gold.” This patch program helps girls invite new friends to share in the friendship of Girl Scouting! When a Girl Scout invites a non-member friend and the friend joins the troop, the Girl Scout will receive the Make New Friends fun patch! For each additional non-member friend who joins Girl Scouts, she will receive a silver or gold segment to go around the patch. For more information, download GSNI’s Make New Friends form from the VTK Resource Tab.
S AV E T H E DATE! 5.30.20
Pheasant Run Resort St. Charles
We are going over again!
BMO is a proud sponsor of Over the Edge 4 Girl Scouts.
© 2019 BMO Financial Group
20 | girlscoutsni.org
Girl Scouts and Faith My Promise, My Faith
many of the values integral to Girl Scouting. While My Promise, My Girl Scouts offers the My Promise, My Faith Pin Faith helps girls connect to all Girl Scouts. This award invites girls to Girl Scouting with their When anyone joins experience a faith journey through the Girl Scouts, they accept the faith, the religious exploration of the Girl Scout Law and Girl Scout Promise and Law. The Girl Scout Law recognitions programs includes many principles and values common to most teachings from their particular faith. faiths. Thus, while a secular organization, Girl Scouts help girls grow This program was designed to allow has, since our movement began, encouraged girls to take stronger in and learn spiritual journeys via their faith’s religious recognitions. troops to earn the pin as a troop even more specifically Our founder, Juliette Gordon Low, not only had a though the troop may consist of girls personal faith base but included acknowledgement about their faith. from different faith backgrounds. Girls of an individual’s faith in our Promise and Law. Each religious can earn the My Promise, My Faith Pin organization and each year. committee develops and Adult volunteers from faith organizations administers its own program. are needed to partner with girls to help them link The “To Serve God” brochure shows the pin to their faith, guide the girls through their the religious recognitions created by personal faith journey, and help girls strengthen their various faith groups. You can find this brochure, a understanding of their faith. video explaining the religious recognitions programs, There are two resources for adults to help partner and other resources for collaborating with the faith with girls called “Your Faith and Girl Scouts Make the Connection,”—one for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior levels community at Programs of Religious Activities with Youth (P.R.A.Y.) at praypub.org/gsusa. and one for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador levels. Some religious organizations are not affiliated with There are five steps to earn the pin. The complete P.R.A.Y. or may not have a national office. To learn about requirements are in the Girls’ Guide to Girl Scouting their religious recognitions, contact local faith leaders. or girlscoutsni/girlscoutsandfaith. The steps are the Girl Scout Week is celebrated each March starting same each year, but as a girl grows and matures, so with Girl Scout Sunday and ending with Girl Scout does her faith, and so each year her My Promise, My Sabbath on a Saturday and always includes Girl Scouts’ Faith experience will be different! Birthday on March 12. Girl Scout Sunday and Girl Scout Sabbath give Religious Recognitions Religious recognitions are created by national religious girls the opportunity to attend their place of worship and be recognized as a Girl Scout. In 2020, Girl Scout organizations and committees to encourage the spiritual growth of their young members and reinforce Sunday is Sunday, March 8, and Girl Scout Sabbath is Saturday, March 14.
New Date ~ New Location ~ New Time!
Join us fo a free po r Finish Line Fun , s participan t-race party for Sp ri ts nt a n d th activities & enterta eir fans! Enjoy im ent fo Be sure to get your r all ages! FREE fun patch too!
8:30 a.m.
www.runsignup.com/gsnitms
Harlem High School ~ 1 Huskie Circle ~ Machesney Park, IL 844-GSNI-4-ME | 21
Campsite & Facility Rental 2019–20 Service Unit Events Any GSNI service unit renting three or more sites at a GSNI property may submit a reservation at any time by contacting GSNI Customer Care. Reservations are subject to approval. Deposit for any service unit event is $50. This deposit will be credited toward the rental fee. The full amount must be submitted at least three weeks prior to the event.
Reservation timeline GSNI troops may book sites up to one year in advance. Out-of-council Girl Scout troops may reserve sites up to 6 months in advance. Due to popular demand by GSNI troops and groups, along with upcoming work towards our Long Range Property Plan, GSNI and troops will not be able to book on behalf of other organizations. School groups interested in renting part or all of camp during the school week should contact Customer Care.
Customer Care | 1-844-476-4463 customercare@girlscoutsni.org
Deposits No deposit is required for rental requests for any Girl Scout members. If a deposit is submitted, it will be cashed and used toward site fees.
Confirmations Confirmation packets will be sent to the contact person via email once the reservation fee has been received. Packets contain: ⏵⏵ Confirmation letter ⏵⏵ Invoice ⏵⏵ Troop Roster (to be turned in to the Ranger upon check-in) ⏵⏵ General Safety Rules and Regulations ⏵⏵ Camp Map ⏵⏵ Incident Report
You can help GSNI develop independent, confident girls who will change the world! Donate now: ⏵⏵ girlscoutsni.org/donate ⏵⏵ Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois 1886 Daimler Road Rockford, IL 61112 ⏵⏵ 844-GSNI-4-ME
Your gift could double with the help of your employer — find out how at girlscoutsni.org/donate
22 | girlscoutsni.org
Cancellations Cancellations made three weeks or more before the date of use will be refunded. Cancellations made within three weeks of the arrival date will be forfeited.
Reservation Transfers If you would like to transfer your reservation to a different date or location, please contact Customer Care at least three weeks prior to your arrival date. Transfers can be done at no cost.
Campsite & Facility Rental 2019–20 Weekend Adventure Programs We’re excited to offer weekend adventure programs at all four GSNI camps! Through expert-led experiences, girls will be challenged physically, emotionally, support team building, have fun and build on outdoor leadership skills. In today’s busy world, not every Girl Scout leader has the chance to be trained in every outdoor skill, so GSNI is making it convenient and flexible for leaders to take girls to camp and join in fun, hands-on activities, with the help of a trained expert in a particular area of interest! Troop and group leaders can now reserve experts in archery, crate stacking, low ropes, or lifeguarding to make the most of every trip out to camp! Register for one of our Weekend Adventure Programs and keep Girl Scout camping traditions alive for the next generation! Read more online at girlscoutsni.org/campwithus.
Reserve an Expert with Your Camp Booking
Expert-led Adventures at GSNI Camps
New this year, book an expert facilitator when you book an activity area at a GSNI camp! When renting a GSNI archery range, crate stacking area, low ropes activity area, or pool, you will be asked to select whether you will be providing your own trained facilitator or if you would like to book a GSNI Outdoor Program Expert Facilitator. If you choose to book an expert facilitator, that facilitator will then contact you to confirm your scheduled activity. If GSNI is unable to provide an expert facilitator during your booked event, you will be notified and offered the opportunity to cancel with no penalty. Expert facilitators must be booked three weeks in advance to be able to have enough time to request facilitators. If you have an existing reservation and would like to add an expert facilitator, contact us at customercare@girlscoutsni.org. Existing troop camp reservations cannot be canceled due to unavailability of an expert facilitator.
GSNI will have Expert-led Adventures on Saturdays on a rotating schedule at all four of our camps! Troops will need to reserve their preferred activity, such as archery, crate stacking, pool, and camp-specific opportunities, and pay the facilitator fee and activity fee. See table below. If troops would like to come to camp for the whole day to take advantage of an Expert-led Adventure, troops should reserve a day use site and pay for the facilitator fee and activity fee. See table on page 25.
Pick up Your Frequent Buyer Card! $25
$25
$25
$25
NI Reward Card GS Earn a Punch for every $25 spent in a GSNI Store Location
$25
$25
$25
$25
Expert-led Adventures SATURDAY
CAMP DEAN
CAMP MCCORMICK
CAMP FAR HOIZONS
MARY ANN BEEBE CENTER
9/7/19 X 9/14/19 X 9/28/19 X 10/12/19 X 10/19/19 X 10/20/19 X 10/26/19 X 5/2/20 X 5/16/20 X 5/23/20 X 6/13/20 X 6/20/20 X 8/1/20 X 8/8/20 X 8/15/20 X 8/22/20 X 8/29/20 X 9/12/20 X 9/19/20 X 10/10/20 X 10/17/20 X
Once the card is filled, you can redeem it for $5 off a $15 purchase! Then start another!
Available in all GSNI Store Locations! 844-GSNI-4-ME | 23
Camps 2019–2020 Camp Dean
Camp Far Horizons
girlscoutsni.org/dean Camp Dean has 160 acres of wetlands, woodlands, and prairies for campers to explore! Located in Big Rock, about an hour west of Chicago, it offers a unique camp setting for girls that is far enough for adventure and independence but still feels close to home. Facilities include three lodges, sleeping cabin units, grassy sport fields, outdoor pool, private pond, trails, creek, dining hall, and our new activity area!
girlscoutsni.org/farhorizons Camp Far Horizons is near the Mississippi River in Hanover, about 30 minutes southeast of Galena, and has over 235 acres of woods and many nature trails. Camp facilities include a main lodge (heated/AC), craft and nature tents, archery range, crate stacking, rappelling tower, and gaga ball pit. Girls sleep in screened-in platform tents in units that can shelter from 12–36 girls. Each unit is equipped with a washstand, running water, latrines, and a fire ring.
For detailed descriptions and pricing for each GSNI camp, visit
girlscoutsni.org/campwithus.
Outdoor Patch Programs Troop Camping Flame Patch The Troop Camping Flame Patch is earned when girls camp outdoors at a non-GSNI property (such as a county campground, state park, etc.) with their troop. This patch can be earned in the same experience as earning a new Troop Camping badge! Troop Camping Flame Patches can be purchased in any GSNI store. This patch will also fit with the campfire base patch for the 4 Camp Challenge Patch Program.
Service Rocker Patch The Service Rocker Patch is earned when individual girls complete a 12-hour service project at a GSNI property, with the pre-approval of a Ranger. Service Rocker Patches will be presented to a girl by a GSNI Ranger, free of charge, once a girl completes all the hours of her property service project. Patch fees can be paid directly to the Ranger at the time of check-out (checks are preferred). Don’t wait! Make your troop’s reservation now!
Outdoor Skills Patch Program Introducing our NEW Outdoor Skills Patch and Charms! Our Outdoor Skills Patch Program is specially designed for troop leaders to help teach girls about the 8 Basic Outdoor Skills. In order to earn the outdoor skills patch and charms, girls must complete the “basic 8” camping skills; practice good outdoor manners, proper clothing, knots, pocketknives, campfire, cooking, staying safe and compass. Girls can also complete the program on their own or with their family’s help! For the complete program go to the GSNI website to download the complete program packet.
Outdoor Challenge Patch Program The NEW Outdoor Challenge Patch program is an exciting way Girl Scouts of all ages can have fun while learning more about the outdoors. The program runs throughout the year and has activities based on grade level and seasons. Girls can participate individually, by troop or with her family to complete as many activities as possible from any one of our seasonal lists. Lists can be downloaded from the GSNI website. Once your Girl Scout has finished the required amount of activities for their grade level, return the list to her troop leader or visit any Resource Center to purchase your patches!
Camp McCormick girlscoutsni.org/mccormick Camp McCormick encompasses almost 400 acres of woods and meadows and is located a few miles south of Rockford, about an hour and a half northwest of Chicago. Camp facilities include an outdoor pool, indoor pool, showers, hiking trails, Adirondacks, and platform tents. All units have latrines and washstands. Camp McCormick also features indoor heated lodging such as Friendship Center, Troophouse, and Greenwood.
Mary Ann Beebe Center girlscoutsni.org/MABC Located between Woodstock and Harvard, Mary Ann Beebe Center has nearly 300 acres of wetland, prairie, and woods. There is a small pond, yurt, covered wagons, and Adirondack units. There is plenty of open grass area for large numbers of pitched tents. All units have latrines and water.
Follow our camps on Facebook and Instagram! Camp is a place for friends! Keep up to date with camp news, photos, and videos. facebook.com/GSNICampDean facebook.com/GSNICampMcCormick facebook.com/GSNICampFarHorizons facebook.com/GSNIMaryAnnBeebeCenter instagram.com/GSNI_camps
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Camp Activities Activities • Each camp offers unique natural treasures to explore and structured activities just waiting for girls to experience! Try something new or practice an old favorite—either way, she’ll be creating memories with friends! Visit girlscoutsni.org/campwithus to check availability of our rentable activities. Check out the currently available activity options: RENTABLE ACTIVITIES ACTIVITY
FEE FOR ACTIVITY
PRICE TRAINING CAMP PER PERSON* REQUIRED
Archery $15 $3 All Camps Nerf Archery $15 n/a All Camps Crate Stacking $15 $3 All Camps Low Ropes $15 $3 Mary Ann Beebe Center Cross Country Skiing $15 n/a All Camps Geocaching $15 n/a All Camps * Price per person is only when a group hires a facilitator.
X X X X
ACTIVITIES REQUIRING HIRING OF A TRAINED FACILITATOR ACTIVITY
FEE FOR ACTIVITY
Swimming (Seasonal) Air Rifles Tomahawk Climbing Wall Rappelling Wall Zipline Canoeing/Kayaking
PRICE CAMP PER PERSON
$50 $15 $15 $15 $15 $15 $15
$5 $5 $3 $3 $3 $6 $5
Camp Dean, Camp McCormick Mary Ann Beebe Center, Camp McCormick Camp Dean, Mary Ann Beebe Center Based on Schedule Camp Far Horizons Mary Ann Beebe Center Camp Dean
FREE ACTIVITIES—ALL CAMPS
FREE ACTIVITIES—MARY ANN BEEBE CENTER
Open Activity Area Hiking Trails Gaga Ball Sports Equipment
Sledding Basketball Court Volleyball Court Fishing (must provide equipment) Bouldering Wall Mini-Golf
FREE ACTIVITIES—CAMP DEAN
Sledding Hammock Village 9 Square in the Air Fishing (must provide equipment) Mud Kitchen (NEW!) Horse Shoes Sports Equipment Slack Line
FREE ACTIVITIES—CAMP McCORMICK
Sledding Hammock Village Fishing (must provide equipment) Human Foosball FREE ACTIVITIES—CAMP FAR HORIZONS
Hammock Village
Summer Camp Looking for all the amazing sessions GSNI will offer during summer camp 2020? You’ll find them in our annual summer guide, the Little Book! This publication is mailed to all registered Girl Scout members at the beginning of February. Camp session descriptions will be available online with registration opening February 14, 2020. Watch our camp Facebook pages and Instagram instagram.com/gsni_camps as we publish sneak peeks starting in January 2020!
Summer Camp Employment Do you know someone who wants to make a difference in girls’ lives through our summer camps? Does this person have the enthusiasm to present their best self, an amazing attitude, and dedication to learning and
providing challenges for a summer our girls will never forget? Critical to the success of summer camp is finding and hiring the right staff! Camp staff members can be retirees, teachers, and others, as we offer several flexible positions that don’t require staff to live at camp or even work full-time! We are looking for summer staff with passion, drive, grit, personality, and willingness to learn Girl Scout songs, traditions, and leadership skills! Our paid training may include outdoor skills such as cooking, fire building, archery, crate stacking, small watercraft, lifeguarding, and more! Imagine what your resume could look like by the end of summer! To learn more and view all of our summer camp positions, visit girlscoutsni.org/summerstaff. Staff must be 18 years old prior to the first day of training. 844-GSNI-4-ME | 25
GSNI Product Programs Participation in Girl Scout Product Programs—Fall Products and Girl Scout Cookies—is the primary method to finance amazing experiences for girls! Both programs are offered to all levels, Daisy through Ambassador, annually and have several ways girls can participate! Not only do girls set goals and earn individual rewards, the troops also set goals (through girl-led discussions) and earn proceeds to help fund activities and adventures through the year! Most importantly, 100% of the proceeds stay local within GSNI.
Girl Scout Fall Product Program Is your troop missing out on all the fun and engaging ways to participate in the Fall Product Program? Do you think your troop doesn’t have time; it’s too hard, or there’s too much paper? You may want to reevaluate— girls can participate in the Fall Product Program as little or as much as they choose, and we have some improvements that may change your mind!
What’s New for Fall 2019? We’re keeping it simple! Last year, we introduced the single sign-on system UNIFY, but we aren’t finished. We have now reduced the amount of paper for girls, leaders, and customers! No more bulky packets with so much stuff you miss what’s important. Now, every girl gets just what she needs!
Benefits ⏵⏵ Our Fall Product Program offers great start-up funds, especially for new troops! Proceeds are in line with our Girl Scout Cookie Program proceeds, and troops earn 17% of total sales! ⏵⏵ With all proceeds staying local, we’re able to put money back into our programs, camps, and properties, so we can continue to offer customizable experiences for girls! ⏵⏵ With our nuts, candies, magazines, and more, you’re sure to find the perfect holiday gift for everyone on your list whether it be friends, family, teachers, or clients! 26 | girlscoutsni.org
New Products Don’t miss out on the awesome new Girl Scout tin being offered through the 2019 Fall Product Program! For the “and more!” part of the 2019 Fall Product Program, check out our wonderful scented candles and Tervis Tumblers! There will be new designs from the Simply Southern collection!
New to GSNI’s Product Programs! National Entrepreneurship Strategy Goal & Vision: ⏵⏵ Goal: Girl Scouts provides girls with progressive experiences that build innovative and entrepreneurial-minded leaders. ⏵⏵ Vision: The national entrepreneurship strategy will develop an entrepreneurial mind-set giving girls the courage to fail and keep trying, the tools to create an independent future, and the power to do good in the world!
NEW for 2020 Girl Scout Cookie Season! Cookie Entrepreneur Family Pins Families support girls through their individual goals and skill building. With guidance, families can help girls build their network of support. ⏵⏵ Six sets of requirements (1 per grade level) ⏵⏵ Two pins for each grade level (three for Cadette), so girls can earn one each year ⏵⏵ 13 unique pins total Note: The new Cookie Entrepreneur Family Pins replace the single designed cookie pin previously awarded.
G.I.R.L. Boss Academy & Cookie Entrepreneurs All girls who achieve the 500+ Girl Scout Cookie box level or $2,000 worth of fall product are invited to join our newly established G.I.R.L. Boss Academy! Supported by local female businesswomen, entrepreneurs, and financial experts, girls can take part in local age-appropriate events, along with badge and mentoring sessions to become entrepreneurial leaders themselves!
GSNI Product Programs Entrepreneurial and Financial Skills Participation in the Fall Product Program and Girl Scout Cookie Program is a great way to introduce girls at any age to important skills they’ll use throughout their lives! Girl Scouts learn five practical life skills which are vital for developing more independent and confident girls.
The 5 Skills: Shaping Your Girl’s Future ⏵⏵ Skill #1—GOAL SETTING—Girls learn how to set goals and create a plan to reach them! “I know I can do it!” Girl Scout Cookie entrepreneurs are always on a mission. Whether it’s through an exciting new adventure, a service project to improve their communities, an amazing summer at camp, or an eye-opening STEM activity, the goal is always to power amazing experiences for themselves and their troops all year long, while helping others too! ⏵⏵ Skill #2—DECISION MAKING—Girls learn to make decisions on their own and as a team! “I make smarter decisions.” Girl Scout Cookie entrepreneurs are leaders in the making. They make decisions about how to run and promote their cookie sales, interact with customers, and spend their earnings. When it comes time to make decisions in their personal lives, they’ll use what they learned selling cookies to make the best choices. Girls can complete requirements for the ageappropriate Cookie Business and Financial Literacy badges featured in The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting. See examples of some requirements below: ⏵⏵ Junior’s Cookie CEO—Cookie Business badge requirements have 5 steps for completion: 1) Set a group goal. 2) Explore how a small business works. 3) Create a cookie sale job list. 4) Learn to make a good impression. 5) Track your sales. P urpose: When I’ve earned this badge, I’ll know more about how to run all parts of my cookie business.
⏵⏵ Skill #3— MONEY MANAGEMENT—Girls learn to create a budget and handle money! “I make change happen!” Girl Scout Cookie entrepreneurs are always sharpening their money smarts. By running their own cookie businesses, they learn how to make correct change for customers, count and manage their cash flow, and create a budget to fund their experiences. ⏵⏵ Skill #4—PEOPLE SKILLS—Girls find their voice and build confidence through customer interactions. “I get a lifetime supply of confidence in every box.” Girl Scout Cookie entrepreneurs are relationship builders. By running their own cookie businesses, they gain valuable practice communicating with customers; talking about their product and goals; and resolving conflict in a positive, productive way—all skills that will help them succeed in school, in business, and in life. ⏵⏵ Skill #5—BUSINESS ETHICS—Girls learn to act ethically, both in business and in life. “Selling cookies is more than just business.” Girl Scout Cookie entrepreneurs are honest, fair, and responsible. Through their cookie businesses, they learn to always do the right thing by their troop members, customers, and communities—lessons that will carry them for a lifetime of leadership and #winning! ⏵⏵ Senior’s Financing My Future— Financial Literacy badge requirements have 5 steps for completion: 1) Declare your dreams. 2) Decide what you need and want. 3) Go comparison shopping. 4) Explore your financial aid options. 5) Build a blueprint for your future. Purpose: When I’ve earned this badge, I’ll have a plan for my educational future— including ideas on how to pay for it. 844-GSNI-4-ME | 27
GSNI Product Programs User-friendly Online Systems— UNIFY and Digital Cookie Is she ready to master her business skills online? Both UNIFY and Digital Cookie will help her do just that! Girls can run their own fall product and cookie business with flair while gaining new technology skills! They’ll personalize their fall product and cookie sites and email family and friends—it’s that simple! The great news is UNIFY works very much like Digital Cookie, allowing customers three options when purchasing: 1) Direct ship of product 2) In-person (girl delivery) 3) Donate product to military
New! Calling all Super Sellers! Check out these Interlocking Patches! Don’t miss out! We’ve added two new super seller patches to the mix so you can complete the look! More details on how to earn all patches pictured here, will be listed on your nut & candy order card this fall.
UNIFY and Digital Cookie online platforms allow girls to set their fall product and cookie goals, track their progress, manage orders and inventory, and learn internet safety skills. Not to mention the fun they’ll have creating personalized patches and earning select Cookie Business badges for their age level.
Mandatory Online Troop Trainings for Troops All troops participating in the Girl Scout Fall Product and/or Cookie Program must complete a mandatory online training before receiving their materials from their respective Service Unit Fall/Cookie Coordinator. Additional trainings, short just-in-time videos, and other resources are also posted on our website to assist along the way!
NEW in Fall 2019! You can earn and create your personalized MyPatchCreation patch featuring the mascot.
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Cookie Bake-Off Contest! Girls are challenged to create their own original dessert using one or more Girl Scout Cookie variety sold by GSNI. ⏵⏵ First-round competitions are hosted by GSNI Service Units starting in February. ⏵⏵ Service Unit winners compete at Super Seller-bration for the finals. ⏵⏵ Recipes for the finalists are available online after the competition. Be sure to ask how your Girl Scout can get involved! The Bake-off is open to all Girl Scout levels.
Where Product Program Funds Go All funds raised through GSNI’s product programs remain local! Approximately 50% of proceeds support all GSNI council programs and properties to benefit local Girl Scouts while approximately 25% goes directly back to local troops (as troop proceeds), service units, (monetary bonus), and girls (girl rewards). Approximately 25% covers the cost to the baker for cookies, delivery, software support, and marketing development.
Troop Proceeds Participating in GSNI’s product programs helps Girl Scout troops directly! Troops receive a portion of proceeds from both the Girl Scout Fall Product Program and Cookie Program. We realize leaders and girls work hard to achieve their goals and that’s why it was important for us to ensure troops could earn as much proceeds in the Fall Product Program as they can in the Cookie Program. Under the proceeds structure we implemented last season, troops can do just that! The average troop proceeds earned during the cookie program is approximately $1,000 with high-selling troops earning $3,000+ in troop proceeds! These funds can be used to pay for Girl Scout activities and adventures to include service projects at the troop level, as well as uniforms and registrations for troop members. In fact, many troops that participate in both the fall product and cookie program can substantially help pay for the activities Girl Scouts wish to do. Juliette Girl Scouts (not in a troop) receive “S’More Dough” in lieu of troop proceeds. These e-code vouchers can also be used to support Girl Scout service projects, activities, and adventures, such as those found in the Big Book and Little Book!
What Could Troops Do with Proceeds? Outdoor Activities & Adventures: ⏵⏵ Attend one of our great resident camp sessions— select an add-on for even more fun and adventure! ⏵⏵ Troop Camping—get away to one of GSNI’s camps to be outdoors and share fun activities for a weekend! ⏵⏵ Learn how to climb, rappel, fish, canoe, kayak, shoot, and so much more! Travel & Global Community: ⏵⏵ Plan a trip to Washington, D. C. and visit the Lincoln Memorial or the Washington Monument. ⏵⏵ International travel is an option! Whether they travel within the state, to other states, or even out of the country, girls are learning and growing with each experience. Take a trip to one of the four WAGGGS centers. How about Pax Lodge in London or Our Chalet in Switzerland? Career & Interest Exploration: ⏵⏵ Learn about cyber security, nanotechnology, or mechanical engineering. ⏵⏵ Visit a community college or university near you. ⏵⏵ Design your own clothing! ⏵⏵ Join a robotics team! ⏵⏵ Put on a troop show. Practical Life Skills: ⏵⏵ Make and donate blankets for a local pet kennel. ⏵⏵ Make and donate hats for the homeless. 844-GSNI-4-ME | 29
Why Girl Scouts Travel Taking field trips and traveling is characteristic of the Girl Scout experience! Girl Scouts provide girls with opportunities they might not otherwise have—from exploring their community to traveling the world. Every trip a Girl Scout takes will help her build courage, confidence, and character! Since planning trips in Girl Scouts is always girlled, travel planning will look different at each level. Daisies can vote on where they would like to go and what they want to do; Brownies can help research and talk about different aspects of trips or activities
and decide what to do based on what they learn. Juniors can put together reasons for taking a trip while planning and leading the trip or activity with some guidance; Cadettes can purposefully plan a trip with activities, understand how to apply budgets, and revise their plans with guidance. Seniors and Ambassadors can research, decide upon, and determine costs and logistics for their travel adventures! For more information, check out the Troop Trip & Overnight Approval Form available at girlscoutsni.org/travel.
Getaways
GSNI Travel Plans
Getaways are short-term travel opportunities for Girl Scout troops or groups. These opportunities are listed on the GSUSA Travel page at forgirls.girlscouts.org/travel/. No applications are required! However, GSNI travel paperwork is still required. Use the contact information listed on your Getaway of choice to register.
GSNI hosts council-sponsored trips on a three-year cycle: ▶▶ Year One: Girl Scout Convention ▶▶ Year Two: International Trip ▶▶ Year Three: National Trip
International Events are also listed on the GSUSA Travel page. World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts Programs, along with international events for troops and groups hosted by international Girl Scouting and Girl Guiding organizations, can be found on this page. Use the contact information listed for each event to register!
You can find more information at girlscoutsni.org/travel in the GSNI Council Sponsored Trips dropdown menu. You will be able to find out how to apply, prices, and more as this information become available!
Fall 2020 G.I.R.L 2020 in Orlando, Florida
Troop Travel Toolkit This travel planning resource has everything you and your girls will need to plan a troop trip—planning timeline, travel readiness and progression, budgeting, GSUSA insurance information, and sample packing lists! Find out more at girlscoutsni.org/travel.
Destinations Girl Scout Destinations are the ultimate travel adventure for individual Girl Scouts, ages 11–18, although age requirements vary from trip to trip. Each year, Destination sponsors (Girl Scout councils and travel groups) offer different trips providing amazing opportunities for girls. Girls will make Girl Scout friends from all over the world as they experience inspiring, life-changing experiences within the United States and abroad. Girls submit their applications and are approved by event sponsors. Whether girls are interested in cultural experiences, conservation efforts, career exploration, or participating in a service project, check out the GSUSA Destination web page. Travel opportunities will be posted by mid-September 2019. Round 1 applications are due mid-November, 2019, and the final Round 2 applications are due the beginning of February, 2020. Keep an eye on GSNI’s social channels, service unit meeting notes, and GSNI emails for exact dates. For information, email customercare@girlscoutsni.org and include “Destinations” in the subject line.
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There will also be a local trip and an adventure regional trip each year!
National Council Session | October 21–23, 2020 We’ll be seeking high school girls and volunteers to act as our delegates! Global Roundtable | October 22–25, 2020 G.I.R.L. 2020 Program | October 23–25, 2020 G.I.R.L. 2020 program is designed primarily for Girl Scout Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors and includes hands-on activities at the largest-ever exhibition by girls for girls including teen zone, college row, alum area, climbing walls and more! There will also be special partnerships with local theme parks!
Summer 2021 Our Chalet, Switzerland | Girl Scouts in high school Enjoy the high Adventure found only in Switzerland including rock climbing, touring, and hiking! (Remember hiking will take place in higher elevation than Illinois!) Participants will take part in pre-trip meetings and activities.
Summer 2022 Savannah, Georgia
2020 Regional Trip Windy City Weekend: The Arts June 12–14, 2020 | Chicago, Illinois | Page 64
2020 Adventure Trip Be a Spelunker! March 27–29, 2020 | Eagle Cave, Blue River, Wisconsin | Page 58
Travel with Sister Girl Scout Councils Girl Scout Day at the Capitol May 1, 2020 | Springfield, Illinois | Page 62 QuestFest Savannah, Georgia Watch facebook.com/GSQuestFest/ for more information!
Global Action Days Global Action Days
World Thinking Day: February 22
As Girl Scouts, we are part of a worldwide sisterhood! Girl Scouts of the USA is a member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) which includes 10 million girls in 146 countries. All of these girls in all of these countries are working to build a better world. Throughout the year, there are opportunities for girls to work together and participate in Girl Scout programming that relates to different issues affecting women and girls around the world! Mark your calendar for the following Global Action Days where GSNI girls can work together to build a better world:
On February 22 of each year, Girl Scouts and Girl Guides from 146 countries celebrate World Thinking Day. Each year there is a new theme and new activities to earn the GSUSA World Thinking Day Award. See below for more information.
International Day of the Girl: October 11
Global Youth Service Day (GYSD) was established in 1988. GYSD celebrates and mobilizes the millions of young people who improve their communities through service. This is the largest service event in the world and the only one dedicated to the contributions children and youth make 365 days of the year. See page 61.
International Day of the Girl is an opportunity to celebrate the power of girls and highlight the inequalities girls face around the world.
Global Poverty Day: October 17 Initiated in 1993, this day was designated to promote awareness of the need to eradicate poverty and destitution in all countries. Girls can dive into issues around poverty by engaging in activities with this focus in mind.
16 Days to End Gender-Based Violence: November 27–December 10 Initiated in 1991 by the Center for Women’s Global Leadership, these 16 days connect November 25 (International Day against Violence against Women) and December 10 (International Human Rights Day) in order to symbolically link violence against women and human rights—and to emphasize that such violence is a violation of human rights. This time is used by individuals and groups around the world to call for the elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls.
International Women’s Day: March 8 On this day, we help girls celebrate and recognize the importance of gender equality and women’s rights by engaging them in various program opportunities. One way to connect to the WAGGGS sisterhood is for girls to earn their Global Action Award. By earning this award, girls make a difference on a topic that affects girls and women all over the world.
Global Youth Service Day: 2nd and 3rd week in April
International Girls in Information and Communications Technology (ICT)/STEM Day: 4th week in April Initiated by the Global Campaign for Education (GCE), this week was created to highlight issues around Education for All agenda. During this week, girls can get hands-on experience with ICT/STEM.
World Environment Day: June 5 The United Nations utilizes World Environment Day to highlight and discuss the importance of environmental awareness and action. The It’s Your Planet—Love It! Leadership Journey gives girls the opportunity to learn about environmental issues such as clean water and air, noise pollution, global warming, soil contamination, and agricultural processes. Each Journey is packed with current environmental information and offers ways to interact on topics that affect everyone on the planet.
World Thinking Day World Thinking Day can be celebrated in many ways! Some service units hold large events. At these events, troops choose a country from the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS), learn about their Girl Scout sisters’ culture, and share it with one another. Events may include songs, dance, art, foods, language, and guests from the chosen country. In some cases, troops work on their own or with other troops to learn about their sister Girl Scouts and receive a World Thinking Day fun patch. Did you know there is an official World Thinking Day Award which can be worn on the front of a Girl Scout vest or sash? This award has specific requirements Girl Scouts complete through participating in activities and themes to honor their sisters around the world. Each year the theme and activities change to reflect the Global Action Theme based on the United Nations’ Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which aim to improve the lives of the world’s poorest people. The goal is about all countries, rich and poor, working together to support the MDGs.
To learn how to earn this award, visit girlscouts.org/world_thinking_day 844-GSNI-4-ME | 31
new Programs-in-a-Box Journeys and Badges Start the fun with Programs-in-a-Box! Troops, groups, or individuals can check out one of our many Programs-in-a-Box from our Resource Centers to help complete a badge or even just to make planning and prep easier for troop leaders! Reservations A full list of our are required for Programs-in-a-Box can all Programs-inbe found at a-Box. To make a girlscoutsni.org/ reservation for pick scheduleyourown up and drop off, visit girlscoutsni. org/scheduleyourown, contact Customer Care. Schedule your pick-up a minimum of three weeks prior to ensure your items are ready. At the time of scheduling, you will also make your appointment for returning the item(s). Items will not be available for check out on a “drop in” basis. At pick up, you will be required to pay a deposit. Deposits can only be paid using credit/debit card. Deposit costs vary. Deposits are returned in full if all items are returned in good condition and on time. If items are missing or damaged, additional damage/ loss fee will be assessed. The late fee is $1 per week day. More information is available at girlscoutsni.org/scheduleyourown. NOTE: If you know you will be late or cannot fulfill your specified return date, please contact Customer Care. If the item is not reserved by someone else, an extension may be available! Schedule your return time, and be sure to give yourself time for GSNI staff to verify all items are included and in good condition. If you do not allow time, your deposit will be sent to you at a later date and/or you agree any damages or missing items assessed by GSNI staff will be charged to your deposit. Items may not be left outside Resource Centers. If using an item for a large group, service unit event, or camp, please contact Customer Care. All deposits and fees are applicable.
Customer Care | 1-844-476-4463 customercare@girlscoutsni.org
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Cybersecurity THREE BADGES PER LEVEL
Girls learn how computers and the internet work and apply the concepts of safety and protection to technology they use every day! These badges were developed in partnership with the Cyber Innovation Center.
Coding for Good THREE BADGES PER LEVEL
Girls find out how to create computer programs, games, and apps that solve problems and help others. There is an “Unplugged” version as well as a “Plugged” version that allows girls to do activities online. These badges are developed in partnership with codeSpark and VidCode.
Space Science ⏵⏵ Space Science Researcher—Cadettes discover more about the amazing properties of light, and how we use it to make discoveries about the universe and space science! ⏵⏵ Space Science Expert—Seniors learn about the universe—their place in it—and how light is used to make discoveries! ⏵⏵ Space Science Master— Ambassadors explore space science and ways they can be a part of NASA, both now and in the future!
New Journeys and Badges Outdoor STEM Journeys Think Like a Citizen Scientist MULTI-LEVEL 6–12 JOURNEY
Girls participate in interactive activities to learn how scientists solve problems with the scientific method. They’ll practice observation, collect data, and complete a citizen science project. Then, they’ll create their Take Action project! This Journey is developed in partnership with SciStarter.
High Adventure Badges Trail Adventure From taking an adventurous jog to backpack trips, girls will learn what it takes to truly enjoy adventures in the outdoors! ⏵⏵ Daisy Trail Adventure—Daisies choose between taking an adventurous jog or playing hiking games! ⏵⏵ Brownie Trail Adventure—Brownies choose between trail running or taking three different types of hikes (such as a night hike, beach hike, and color hike). ⏵⏵ Junior Trail Adventure—Juniors choose between trail running—for at least a mile, if possible—or taking three longer day hikes. ⏵⏵ Cadette Trail Adventure—Cadettes choose between a 3-mile trail run or a trail hiking challenge that includes trails which offer significant elevation challenges, trails covering a great distance, and trails on a new type of terrain. ⏵⏵ Senior Trail Adventure— Seniors choose between competitive trail running and a 3-day, 2-night backpacking trip! ⏵⏵ Ambassador Trail Adventure—Ambassadors choose between coaching another girl in trail running or completing a 5-day, 4-night backpacking trip.
Snow or Climbing Adventure Winter and climbing adventures await girls in these progressive badges which give girls the opportunity to play in the snow, experience winter sports, and gain experiences in climbing! ⏵⏵ Daisy Snow or Climbing Adventure—Daisies choose between playing in snow or bouldering on a rock-climbing wall in an indoor gym. ⏵⏵ Brownie Snow or Climbing Adventure— Brownies choose between cross-country skiing or rock climbing on an indoor or outdoor climbing wall. ⏵⏵ Junior Snow or Climbing Adventure—Juniors choose between snowboarding/skiing or recreational tree-climbing (using ropes and harnesses). ⏵⏵ Cadette Snow or Climbing Adventure— Cadettes choose between snowboarding/skiing or outdoor climbing with a top-rope climbing system. ⏵⏵ Senior Snow or Climbing Adventure—Seniors choose between an overnight snow camping trip or a 2-day outdoor climbing trip. ⏵⏵ Ambassador Snow or Climbing Adventure— Ambassadors choose between a 3-day winter backpacking trip in the backcountry or a 3-day outdoor climbing trip.
844-GSNI-4-ME | 33
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How to Register for Activities Tips for Registration Many of our programs and events fill early, so advance registration is always recommended! Before you register, please have the following information handy: ▶▶ Troop Number ▶▶ Girl Scout(s) birthdate(s) ▶▶ Contact email ▶▶ Contact phone number ▶▶ Any special requirements or needs Available spots may be found in the drop down box when choosing the number of people to register. If the number you are looking for is not there, the event does not have adequate space for your group.
How to Register for Events Registrations and payment may be: ▶▶ Completed online at girlscoutsni.org/activities, unless otherwise noted. ▶▶ Mailed to the Rockford Resource Center, 1886 Daimler Road, Rockford, Illinois 61112 ▶▶ Called in to 1-844-GSNI-4-ME. ▶▶ Hand-delivered to any GSNI Resource Center during regular business hours. (GSNI is not responsible for forms dropped off when a center is closed.) Registering online is the fastest way to ensure your spots are secured! Paper registrations are entered in the order they are received, and there may be a delay in this process during peak times. Registrations must be received by the deadline date. No spots will be held without payment.
Event Cancellations If an event does not meet the minimum registration by the deadline date, GSNI reserves the right to cancel the event. Participants will be notified via email.
Payment Payment must be submitted in full with all registrations. Cash, check, money order, VISA, MasterCard, Discover, and/or GSNI vouchers (for eligible events and programs) are accepted. Online registration requires credit card payment. Electronic Cookie Dough/S’more Dough/Cashew Cash eCodes can be used online. Simply select the “Gift Card” option and enter your code. “Cookie Dough/S’more Dough/Cashew Cash” must be received prior to the expiration date and can only be used for girl fees. Check event listings for exceptions to “Cookie Dough/S’more Dough” acceptance.
Confirmation A confirmation will be emailed to all participants shortly after the closing registration date. If you have not received a confirmation three days prior to the event, please contact Customer Care at 1-844-GSNI-4-ME or customercare@girlscoutsni.org. Registration opens August 15, 2019.
Register @ How to
girlscoutsni.org
⏵ Registration opens August 15, 2019! ⏴ Chaperones Adults must register for any event they will attend, whether or not an adult fee is charged. Fees are listed with the event description, when applicable. Unless otherwise noted: ▶▶ Registration for events is open for both troops/groups and individuals. ▶▶ If girls register as an individual, girls must be accompanied by an adult. If this requirement would otherwise preclude a girl from attending, please call Customer Care, to see if there are already enough adult chaperones attending. ▶▶ Troops registering as a group must meet proper girl/adult ratios. See Safety Activity Checkpoints. Adults accompanying participants may be responsible for: ▶▶ Assisting with program activities as requested by program facilitator. ▶▶ Administering any necessary disciplinary actions when behavior is disruptive. If behavior continues to be disruptive, the event facilitator may alert chaperones to handle the situation appropriately.
Meals Participants are expected to provide their own meals, unless otherwise indicated in the event listing.
Financial Assistance A limited amount of event financial assistance is available. Girl participants may request up to $15 twice per membership year for event financial assistance. Requests are considered in the membership year the event is being held, not the date submitted. If requesting financial assistance for an event, please submit a completed financial assistance request with the event registration form. The financial assistance form may be found on girlscoutsni.org/forms. Please remember the best way for girls to fund their own experience in Girl Scouts is through participation in the Girl Scout Fall Product and Cookie Programs. For more information, call 1-844-GSNI-4-ME.
Refund Procedures ▶▶ A full refund of the fee (including deposit) is made only if a participant can’t be placed in the event of her choice, or if it is necessary for GSNI to cancel an event. ▶▶ A partial refund, cost of the event minus a $5 per person processing fee or 1/2 the event fee for events costing less than $10, will be given, if requested in writing prior to the event deadline. When requesting a refund, include the following information in an email to customercare@girlscoutsni.org: name and address of participant, name and date of event, and reason for refund request. ▶▶ No refunds will be given after the event registration deadline. ▶▶ If a Girl Scout membership registration fee was paid ($25), it is non-refundable and non-transferable.
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Having problems? Contact Customer Care at 1-844-GSNI-4-ME or customercare@girlscoutsni.org 844-GSNI-4-ME | 35
At-a-Glance Schedule Date
Title
9/7/19 9/7/19 9/14/19 9/14/19 9/15/19 9/15/19 9/15/19 9/21/19 9/22/19 9/27/19 9/28/19 10/3/19 10/4/19 10/5/19 10/5/19 10/5/19 10/5/19 10/6/19 10/6/19 10/8/19 10/12/19 10/12/19 10/12/19 10/12/19 10/12/19 10/12/19 10/12/19 10/13/19 10/14/19 10/19/19 10/19/19 10/19/19 10/19/19 10/19/19 10/19/19 10/19/19 10/19/19 10/19/19 10/19/19 10/19/19 10/20/19 10/20/19 10/20/19 10/20/19 10/20/19 10/26/19 10/26/19 10/27/19 11/1/19 11/2/19 11/2/19 11/2/19 11/2/19 11/2/19 11/3/19 11/3/19
New to You Troop Camping New to You Troop Camping – PA & CIT Daisy Day at Camp Daisy Day at Camp – PA & CIT Archery Clinic Archery Clinic Tallship Windy Cruise on Lake Michigan Thin Mint Sprint 2nd Annual Fishing Derby + Water Whimsy Bonfire Bash Archery Clinic Pinch Pot Pumpkins Sports Overnight at Canlan Sportsplex Muscle Hustle Don’t Bug Me! Who Lives Here? Tree-rific Fall Outdoor Art Explorer Archery Clinic Robotics Night STEMinist Robotics Gaining College Knowledge Outdoor Artists Halloween Hike Create with Me Archery Clinic Archery Clinic Archery Clinic Program Aide Basic Training Outdoor Art Creator What Shall I Wear? Halloween Hijinx Camp-in Ascend to New Heights RoboThink Robotics Cadettes in Action – aMAZE! Daisy Day at Camp Daisy Day at Camp – PA & CIT Camp Service Day – Camp Far Horizons Camp Open House – Camp Far Horizons Halloween Dance Party at Womanspace Striving for Silver Camp Service Day – Mary Ann Beebe Center Camp Open House – Mary Ann Beebe Center Space Science Explorer Space Science Explorer – PA & CIT Travel Fair STEMinist Engineering Honoring Juliette Better Together Weekend Camp Service Day – Camp Dean Camp Open House – Camp Dean Home Scientist Galvanizing Games Program Aide Basics Camp Service Day – Camp McCormick Camp Open House – Camp McCormick
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Teen Adventure Weekend at YMCA Camp Greenville Mystery Crime Lab Camp-in Aspire – Women and the Power of Change STEMinist Robotics Owl Prowl Great Grandma’s Kitchen Paint-a-Long-Canvas Daisy Day at Camp Daisy Day at Camp – PA & CIT Career Chat - Engineering Go Rock Climbing Sewing to Help the Homeless RoboThink Robotics Daisy Day at Camp Daisy Day at Camp – PA & CIT Program Aide Basic Training Sewing to Help the Homeless Gearing Up to Go Gold Fantasy Tea Sewing to Help the Homeless Adventure Camp Overnight at YMCA Camp Greenville Christmas Ornament Painting Emergency Preparedness Wreath Making Paint-a-Long Wood Sign Cookie Kick-Off Evening Sports Sampler RoboThink Robotics Gearing Up to Go Gold The Nutcracker Ballet RoboThink Robotics The Nutcracker Ballet Chestnut Mountain Ski Day Chestnut Mountain Ski Day Highest Award Q&A Go Rock Climbing SNOWSTORM Archery STEMinist Robotics Sewing to Help the Shelter Animals Chestnut Mountain Ski Day Chestnut Mountain Ski Day Fused Glass Pendant Sewing to Help the Shelter Animals Chestnut Mountain Ski Day Travel Fair Winter Ski Weekend Chestnut Mountain Ski Day Happy Campers – Winter Overnight Vi: Be a Sister to Every Girl Scout Board Game Challenge Making Games My Family Story Playing the Past Detective Sewing to Help the Shelter Animals
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At-a-Glance Schedule Date
Title
2/8/20 2/8/20 2/8/20 2/9/20 2/15/20 2/16/20 2/16/20 2/17/20 2/17/20 2/22/20 2/23/20 2/29/20 2/29/20 3/6/20 3/7/20 3/7/20 3/7/20 3/7/20 3/7/20 3/7/20 3/7/20 3/7/20 3/7/20 3/7/20 3/7/20 3/8/20 3/14/20 3/14/20 3/14/20 3/14/20 3/14/20 3/21/20 3/21/20 3/22/20 3/27/20 3/28/20 4/4/20 4/4/20 4/4/20 4/4/20 4/4/20 4/4/20 4/4/20 4/4/20 4/5/20 4/5/20 4/10/20 4/18/20 4/18/20 4/18/20 4/19/20 4/19/20 4/25/20 4/25/20 4/25/20 4/25/20
Great Grandma’s Kitchen Muscle Hustle Paint-a-Long Canvas Chestnut Mountain Ski Day World Thinking Day Chestnut Mountain Ski Day Winter Adventurer Chestnut Mountain Ski Day Program Aide Basic Training STEMinist Engineering Striving for Silver Winter Amidships Happy Campers – Winter Overnight Women Changing the Face of Agriculture Games the 1912 Way Paint-a-Long Games the 1912 Way RoboThink Robotics STEMapoolza Digital Starlab & Engineering Challenge - STEMapoolza Robotics 1 – STEMapoolza Robotics 2 – STEMapoolza STEMapoolza – Program Aides What Shall I Wear? Imagineers Striving for Silver STEMinist Robotics Happiness and Hairnets Eco Friend Ascend to New Heights Maple Syrup Gearing Up to Go Gold Program Aide Basic Training Program Aide Outdoor Training Be a Spelunker! Maple Syrup Camp Service Day – Camp Dean Camp Open House – Camp Dean RoboThink Robotics Overnight Sports Sampler Eco Learner Climbing Up to Cadettes Space Science Adventure Overnight Space Science Adventure Overnight – PA & CIT Camp Service Day – Camp McCormick Camp Open House – Camp McCormick Program Aide Outdoor Training Overnight in the Museum Earth Day 2020 Annual Meeting Space Science Investigator Space Science Investigator – PA & CIT Animals & Art Spa Science Global Youth Service Day Highest Award Q&A
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Title
4/25/20 4/25/20 4/25/20 4/26/20 4/26/20 5/1/20 5/2/20 5/2/20 5/2/20 5/3/20 5/16/20 5/16/20 5/16/20 5/16/20 5/16/20 5/17/20 6/6/20 6/6/20 6/12/20 6/13/20 10/23/20
Camp Service Day – Mary Ann Beebe Center Camp Open House – Mary Ann Beebe Center Creative Cooking Camp Service Day – Camp Far Horizons Camp Open House – Camp Far Horizons Girl Scout Day at the Capitol Space Science Adventurer Overnight Space Science Adventurer Overnight – PA & CIT Gaining College Knowledge Space Science Explorer Space Science Investigator Space Science Investigator – PA & CIT Tree-rific Spring Votes for Women! Program Aide Outdoor Training Rosie Rally! BUG OUT! First Annual Tent Out! Windy City Weekend the Arts Program Aide Outdoor Training G.I.R.L. 2020
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stcparks.org
Your troop doesn’t have to go far to earn its badges. Check out these scouting opportunities in St. Charles, Illinois!
• Adventures for All Ages • Reasonable Group Rates • Flexible Meeting Times Weekdays & Weekends
• One-of-a-Kind Experiences
Save the Date!
Explore • Nature • Hiking Hickory Knolls Discovery Center lmccoy@stcparks.org • 630-513-4393
Learn • Observe • Perform Pottawatomie Community Center rfasching@stcparks.org • 630-513-4334
Animals • History • Hayrides Primrose Farm ajones@stcparks.org • 630-513-4370
STEAM Day • March 21, 2020
Arts • Crafts • Skills
Pottawatomie Community Center 8 North Ave, St. Charles IL
Pottawatomie Community Center skilleen@stcparks.org • 630-513-4329
844-GSNI-4-ME | 39
Programs and Events for GIRLS September
Archery Clinics new
New to You Troop Camping new
$10/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, September 15, 2019 | 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Camp Dean, Big Rock $40/girl; $20/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, September 7–Sun, September 8, 2019 | 3–12 p.m. (overnight) Register by August 23, 2019
Is troop camping new to you? Maybe you’ve been interested in taking your troop camping but don’t know where to start? Whether you want to learn or troop camp with expert guidance, this outdoor program will give your troop an opportunity to troop camp with our volunteer outdoor pros! Troops will learn the basic how-to’s of troop camping with experienced trained leaders, cool crafts and warm s’mores. This program is designed for troops and leaders who are ready to take the first steps into the amazing world of camp—yet have little or no experience. Dinner, snack, breakfast, and lunch are included. Troop leaders will provide the girl-to-adult ratio and first aider. Troop leaders must have completed outdoor training.
Register by September 1, 2019
Interested in learning archery or just want to practice archery skills? Spend time on the range with our archery facilitators! Girls must be accompanied by an adult chaperone. Cadette Archery badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Camp Dean, Big Rock Sun, September 15, 2019 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley Sun, September 15, 2019 2–5 p.m.
Register by September 10, 2019
Register by September 10, 2019
Tallship Windy Cruise on Lake Michigan AGES 13+
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Navy Pier, Chicago $13/person (Age 15 and younger); $15/person (Age 15+) |
New to You Troop Camping—Program Aide and CITs new
Not GSNI Voucher Eligible
Camp Dean, Big Rock $20/girl; $10/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, September 7–Sun, September 8 | 12–1 p.m. (overnight)
Sun, September 15, 2019 The exciting program includes a pirate-themed educational tour and fun hands-on activities! For additional details, registration information, and ticket purchases, please contact GSNI Volunteer Event Coordinator Louise Glon at 815-988-9515. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Register by August 23, 2019
New to You Troop Camping is for troops embarking on their first camping trip experience. Program Aides and CITs will be working together with experienced volunteers to plan and provide fun activities in the outdoors!
Thin Mint Sprint
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Harlem High School, Machesney Park $10/2 Mile Walk; $10/2 Mile Run; $35/8K Run | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, September 21, 2019
Daisy Day at Camp new
Register online by September 19, 2019 Race day registration available at 7 a.m. on September 21, 2019
Camp Far Horizons, Hanover $25/girl; $10/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, September 14, 2019 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Register by September 1, 2019
Daisy Girl Scouts won’t want to miss this fun-filled day at camp! Come learn all about Girl Scout camp! Discover songs, games, and SWAPs. Make new friends but keep the old. This program includes lunch and a snack. Troops must provide adult chaperones, and individual girls must be accompanied by an adult. Daisy Buddy Camper badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Daisy Day at Camp—Program Aides and CITs Camp Far Horizons, Hanover Free Sat, September 14, 2019 | 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Register by September 1, 2019
Daisy Day gives Daisy troops the opportunity to experience all camp has to offer! Program Aides and CITs will be working together with experienced volunteers to plan and provide fun activities in the outdoors. Lunch and a snack will be provided! Outdoor Activities and Adventures
40 | girlscoutsni.org
Lace up your running shoes! Join us for the 15th Annual Thin Mint Sprint at our new location—Harlem High School in Machesney Park! One of our longest running and most popular events, Thin Mint Sprint gives Girl Scouts the opportunity to raise money for their troops, support girls who want to be Girl Scouts, and enjoy a day of competitive running or leisurely walking with their family and friends! Practical Life Skills
Programs and Events for GIRLS October Pinch Pot Pumpkins Arts on Fire, Plano $18/girl; $18/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Thu, October 3, 2019 | 6:30–8:30 p.m. Register by September 25, 2019
What’s Halloween without a pumpkin? In Pinch Pot Pumpkins, girls will learn techniques to build a clay pumpkin. Then, they will glaze their pumpkin! Pieces will be ready for pick up two weeks later. Career and Interest Exploration
Sports Overnight at Canlan Sportsplex
2nd Annual All-Girl & Family Fishing Derby + Water Whimsy Rock Cut State Park, Loves Park $6/youth | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, September 22, 2019 The first year of this wildly successful event was so appealing, it sold out almost immediately! This year, we’re giving you plenty of notice to mark your calendars! To celebrate our 10th Anniversary, we’re adding in other water events, girl-led activities, and hands-on demonstrations from our official GSNI Preferred partners. Best of all, girls can invite their non-Girl Scout friends, along with their troops and families. It’ll be a wonderful introductory event for all the potential Girl Scouts in your life! It could be where another Girl Scout story begins! Eco Learner Daisy badge, Outdoor Adventurer Brownie badge, Animal Habitats Junior badge* Eco Trekker Cadette badge*, Paddling Senior badge*, Water Ambassador badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Canlan Sportsplex, Barrington $37/girl; $22/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Fri, October 4–Sat, October 5, 2019 | 6 p.m.–9 a.m. (overnight) Register by September 18, 2019
Join us at Canlan Sportsplex for a night of sports and team building fun! Activities will include inflatable American Ninja Warrior obstacle course, volleyball, basketball, dodgeball, kickball, soccer, and more! Girls will end the night with popcorn and a movie on a giant inflatable movie screen! The program includes a late evening snack and continental breakfast in the morning. My Best Self Brownie badge*, Staying Fit Junior badge*, Good Sportsmanship Cadette badge*, Cross-Training Senior badge*, Coaching Ambassador badge*, Practical Life Skills
Muscle Hustle new Rush Copley Healthplex, Aurora $17/girl; $7/adult | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 5, 2019 | 2:30–4 p.m. Register by September 18, 2019
Bonfire Bash new
Jump into the fun with this high energy, age appropriate workout designed to help girls work on developing cardiovascular health, muscular endurance, and team work!
Spring Valley Nature Center and Heritage Farm, Schaumburg $14/girl; $8/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Fri, September 27, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
Fair Play Brownie badge*, Practice with Purpose Junior badge*, Staying Fit Junior badge*, Practical Life Skills, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Register by September 18, 2019
Girls will get the chance to explore Spring Valley at night! They will go on an evening hike through the woods to explore the habitats of nighttime critters, hunt out history around the Heritage Farm, enjoy a bonfire while roasting marshmallows, and even meet a live owl! Come for the adventure, stay for the fun, and work towards badges, as well! Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Archery Clinic new
Don’t Bug Me! new WalCamp, Kingston $16/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 5, 2019 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Register by September 18, 2019
Has she ever followed a bug? Does she know the difference between butterflies and moths? She will find these answers and more all while exploring the outdoors! Brownie Bug badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Mary Ann Beebe Center, Harvard $10/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, September 28, 2019 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Register by September 14, 2019
Interested in learning archery or just want to practice archery skills? Spend time on the range with our archery facilitators! Girls must be accompanied by an adult chaperone. Cadette Archery badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
When girls are given the opportunity, they can change the world! Help us give them that opportunity by donating items on the GSNI Wish List!
More info at girlscoutsni.org/wishlist 844-GSNI-4-ME | 41
Programs and Events for GIRLS Who Lives Here? new
Outdoor Artists new
Walcamp, Kingston $16/girl | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 5, 2019 | 1–4 p.m.
Woodlawn Arts Academy, Sterling $21/girl | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 12, 2019 | 9–10 a.m.
Register by September 18, 2019
Register by October 2, 2019
How many homes can she find in the woods? Can she find where the owl lives? Does she know where racoons sleep? She will learn about animal habitats, build her own, and help animals in the process!
She will explore the outdoors and use what she sees and hears to make different kinds of art projects!
Animal Habitats Junior badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Daisy Outdoor Art Maker badge, Outdoor Art Creator badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Tree-rific Fall
Gaining College Knowledge new
The Morton Arboretum, Lisle $9/girl; $9/adult; $9/child | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 5, 2019 | 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
McHenry County College $5/girl; $3/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 12, 2019 | 1–4 p.m.
Register by September 25, 2019
Register by October 2, 2019
She will celebrate the fall season at The Morton Arboretum! Get outside and explore fall colors in this hands-on, open house style event, meant to get girls and families outside. Participants can borrow activity bags, take a hike, and make a leaf craft!
It’s never too early to prepare for college! Learn and gain resources on the college research and application process, along with ways to help pay for college and be a student successful in mind and body. The McHenry County College staff will point girls to resources they will need to attend the school of their choice. Parent sessions will also be offered on topics such as FAFSA, financial aid, and how to support girls in the college research and application process. Snacks will be provided! Girls will also receive McHenry County College swag!
Clover Daisy Petal*, Bugs Brownie badge*, Gardner Junior badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Outdoor Art Explorer
College Knowledge Ambassador badge*, Practical Life Skills
Bartlett Nature Center, Bartlett $12/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, October 6, 2019 | 1–3 p.m.
Halloween Hike
Register by September 18, 2019
Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation, Dundee $17/girl; $17/adult; $17/child | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 12, 2019 | 2–4 p.m.
She will be an outdoor art explorer! Bring a dark T-shirt and camera to this imagination-filled class. She’ll explore the world of nature art in this two-hour, fun-packed event!
Nights may be getting longer, but evening doesn't have to be a spooky time! She will learn about things that creep and crawl and fly around in the night. Dress for the weather, because we will go on a hike and see what's out in the woods!
Outdoor Art Explorer badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Archery Clinic new
Daisy Eco Learner badge*, Brownie Hiker badge*, Junior Animal Habitats badge*, Eco Trekker Cadette badge*, Eco Explorer Senior badge*, Eco Advocate Ambassador badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Mary Ann Beebe Center, Harvard $10/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, October 6, 2019 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Create with Me new
Register by September 22, 2019
Interested in learning archery or just want to practice archery skills? Spend time on the range with our archery facilitators! Girls must be accompanied by an adult chaperone. Cadette Archery badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Register September 25, 2019
Muse Art & Co., Crystal Lake $22/girl; $24/adult; $24 child | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 12, 2019 | 10–11:30 a.m. Register by September 25, 2019
Robotics Night Oswego High School $7/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Tue, October 8, 2019 | 6:30–8:30 p.m. Register by September 25, 2019
She will get an introduction to robotics and learn how to use power tools, build and program a robot, and drive a competition robot! Robotics Brownie badges*, Robotics Junior badges*, Career and Interest Exploration
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Let her share her creative side and bring the family! She will create her masterpiece during this fun paint-a-long activity. Zinni Daisy Petal*, Painter Brownie badge*, Career and Interest Exploration
The Girl Scout Promise On my honor, I will try: To serve God* and my country, To help people at all times, And to live by the Girl Scout Law. * The word “God” can be interpreted in a number of ways and many religions have different words for “God.” Girls are allowed to substitute whatever word their spiritual beliefs dictate.
Programs and Events for GIRLS Program Aide Basic Training Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley $10/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Mon, October 14, 2019 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Register by October 2, 2019
Archery Clinic new
Is she ready to lead? She can be a superhero and role model for younger Girl Scouts, just by being herself and with a little bit of training! In Program Aide Basic (PAB), she’ll learn how to work with younger girls in a variety of settings and activities. She’ll also develop her teaching and communication skills through games and activities with friends. Can’t make one of our trainings? No worries! Troops can work with their girls and do the training at a time and location more convenient for them. See girlscoutsni.org/programaide for more details. Outdoor Activities and Adventures, Leadership and Service
Mary Ann Beebe Center, Harvard $10/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 12, 2019 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Register by October 5, 2019
Interested in learning archery or just want to practice archery skills? Spend time on the range with our archery facilitators! Girls must be accompanied by an adult chaperone. Cadette Archery badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
STEMinist Robotics STEM for Kids, Roscoe $57/girl | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 12, 2019 | 12–4 p.m.
Daisy Day at Camp new Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley $25/girl; $10/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 19, 2019 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Register by October 5, 2019
Daisy Girl Scouts won’t want to miss this fun-filled day at camp! Come learn all about Girl Scout camp! Discover songs, games, and SWAPs. Make new friends but keep the old. This program includes lunch and a snack. Troops must provide adult chaperones, and individual girls must be accompanied by an adult. Daisy Buddy Camper badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Register by October 2, 2019
Daisy Day at Camp—Program Aides and CITs
She will learn all about robotics and their significance within our daily lives! Girls will explore the bounds of their creativity while designing, building, and programming their own robots—start to finish! The girls will create a one-of-a-kind robotic parade to showcase their amazing creations! Register at stemforkids.net/t/wimadison.
Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley Free Sat, October 19, 2019 | 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Designing Robots Brownie badge*, Programming Robots Brownie badge*, Showcasing Robots Brownie badge*, Career and Interest Exploration
Archery Clinic new
Register by October 5, 2019
Daisy Day gives Daisy troops the opportunity to experience all camp has to offer! Program Aides and CITs will be working together with experienced volunteers to plan and provide fun activities in the outdoors. Lunch and a snack will be provided! Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley $10/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 12, 2019 | 2–5 p.m. Register by October 5, 2019
Interested in learning archery or just want to practice archery skills? Spend time on the range with our archery facilitators! Girls must be accompanied by an adult chaperone. Cadette Archery badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Archery Clinic
new
Camp Dean, Big Rock $10/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, October 13, 2019 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Register by October 5, 2019
Camp Far Horizons Service Day Camp Far Horizons, Hanover Free Sat, October 19, 2019 | 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by October 12, 2019
Enjoy a day at camp and prepare for the season ahead! Families are invited to join other camp fans to make a difference for the Girl Scout outdoor experience. You might spruce up buildings, help with landscaping, organize summer camp program supplies, and more! You are welcome to bring your own sack lunch to enjoy on our campgrounds. Camp Service Days are a great way for girls and their families to help at the council level! Still have time and energy? Stay a little later, 12:30–3:30 p.m., and attend our camp open house! Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Interested in learning archery or just want to practice archery skills? Spend time on the range with our archery facilitators! Girls must be accompanied by an adult chaperone. Cadette Archery badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
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Programs and Events for GIRLS Camp Far Horizons Open House
Outdoor Art Creator
Camp Far Horizons, Hanover Free Sat, October 19, 2019 | 12:30–3:30 p.m.
Bartlett Nature Center, Bartlett $12/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 19, 2019 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Register by October 12, 2019
Register by October 2, 2019
Join us at our camp open house! Everyone is welcome to tour the camp and see where campers will sleep, eat, and go on adventures with new friends. Our experienced camp professionals will be available to answer questions, talk about what a day at camp is like, and ensure campers are excited and prepared for their summer experience! We’ll have a variety of activities and snacks for girls and their families. Wear comfortable shoes if you want to explore camp on your own or go on our official camp tours which will be offered 1–2 p.m. at each camp. Register online at girlscoutsni.org. Come early at 9:30 a.m. and help with our Camp Service Day immediately before the open house.
What will she see when she hikes the trails? Will she be inspired by the trees? Will the wind stir her creativity? She will need a white T-shirt to create her masterpiece!
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Halloween Hijinks Camp-In Discovery Center Museum, Rockford $32/girl; $17/adult | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 19–Sun, October 20, 2019 | 6:30 p.m.–9 a.m. (overnight) Register by October 9, 2019
She will assemble a skeleton, boogie under a black light, concoct glowing slime, bubble dry ice, and more! She will wrap up the night with glow lights and a planetarium show! Home Scientist Brownie badge*, Senses Brownie badge*, Space Science Investigator Junior badge*, Night Owl Cadette badge*, Career and Interest Exploration
What Shall I Wear? new Elgin History Museum, Elgin $12/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 19, 2019 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Register by October 9, 2019
She will learn about the clothing women, men, and children would have worn in the past. How did the clothing show what kind of tasks the person was going to do? Why did they wear some of the things they did? Where did the clothing come from? How is it different than what we wear today? She will observe examples of clothing and make her own paper bag vest with pocket watch or large brimmed ladies’ hats and reticule purse. Playing in the Past Junior badge*, Career and Interest Exploration
RoboThink Robotics RoboThink, Lake Zurich $24/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 19, 2019 | 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by October 9, 2019
Using RoboThink’s unique robotics kit, she will build her own amazing robot creation and engage her robot in an exciting challenge. She will learn basic robotics and engineering concepts in a fun, STEM-tastic learning environment! Robotics Daisy badges*, Robotics Brownie badges*, Career and Interest Exploration
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Outdoor Art Creator badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Ascend to New Heights new Rush Copley Healthplex, Aurora $22/girl; $7/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 19, 2019 | 1–3:30 p.m. Register by October 2, 2019
She will ascend to new heights at the Healthplex! She will learn rock climbing skills, overcome fears, and tackle challenges in an array of strength and team building exercises. New Adventure Cadette badge*, Practical Life Skills
Cadettes in Action—aMAZE! new Odell Library, Morrison $25/girl Sat, October 19, 2019 | 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Register by September 28, 2019
She will complete hands-on activities and discussions related to first impressions and stereotypes, study the qualities of a friend, and learn how to overcome friendship obstacles and peer pressure. Girls will also learn how to balance time, how to stay safe with cyber relationships, and delve into issues relating to conflicts and bullying. For more information or to register, please contact GSNItroop1504@gmail.com. aMAZE! Cadette Journey*, Practical Life Skills
Halloween Dance Party at Womanspace Womanspace, Rockford $13/girl; $13/adult | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 19, 2019 | 5:30–7 p.m. Register by October 9, 2019
She will celebrate Juliette Low’s birthday in style by going trick-ortreating in the enchanted forest, dancing to her favorite music in the pavilion, making a craft, and playing some fun games. She can even meet “Juliette Low” in person. Candy and treats may contain nuts. Anyone with allergies should please bring their own snack. Register at Womanspace-Rockford.org or call 815-877-0118. Career and Interest Exploration
Guide to Big Book Icons new This icon represents a new event for 2019-2020 updated T his icon represents a event that GSNI has done before, but has updated elements for 2019-2020 save the date T his icon indicates to Save the Date and more information is yet to come Daisy grade level
Cadette grade level
Events where we welcome families
Brownie grade level
Senior grade level
Events good for adults
Junior grade level
Ambassador grade level
Events held by Preferred Partners
Programs and Events for GIRLS Space Science Explorer new Camp Dean, Big Rock $25/girl; $10 adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, October 20, 2019 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Register by October 6, 2019
Daisy Girl Scouts are invited to camp to earn the Space Science Explorer Badge! Girls will become space scientists and explore and observe the sun and moon. Meet the stars and make a telescope and star patterns! Snack will be provided.
Mary Ann Beebe Center Service Day Mary Ann Beebe Center, Harvard Free Sun, October 20, 2019 | 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by October 13, 2019
Enjoy a day at camp and prepare for the season ahead! Families are invited to join other camp fans to make a difference for the Girl Scout outdoor experience. You might spruce up buildings, help with landscaping, organize summer camp program supplies, and more! You are welcome to bring your own sack lunch to enjoy on our campgrounds. Camp Service Days are a great way for girls and their families to help at the council level! Still have time and energy? Stay a little later, 12:30–3:30 p.m., and attend our camp open house!
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Space Science Explorer—Program Aides and CITs new Camp Dean, Big Rock Free Sun, October 20, 2019 | 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Register by October 6, 2019
Program Aide and CITs will assist as Daisy Girl Scouts are invited to camp to earn the Space Science Explorer badge! Girls will become space scientists and explore and observe the sun and moon. Meet the stars and make a telescope and star patterns! Snack will be provided. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Mary Ann Beebe Center Open House Mary Ann Beebe Center, Harvard Free Sun, October 20, 2019 | 12:30–3:30 p.m. Register by October 13, 2019
Join us at our camp open house! Everyone is welcome to tour the camp and see where campers will sleep, eat, and go on adventures with new friends. Our experienced camp professionals will be available to answer questions, talk about what a day at camp is like, and ensure campers are excited and prepared for their summer experience! We’ll have a variety of activities and snacks for girls and their families. Wear comfortable shoes if you want to explore camp on your own or go on our official camp tours which will be offered 1–2 p.m. at each camp. Register online at girlscoutsni.org. Come early at 9:30 a.m. and help with our Camp Service Days immediately before the open house. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Striving for Silver new South Elgin Resource Center $4/girl; Free/adults | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, October 20, 2019 | 1–3 p.m. Register by October 9, 2019
Interested in earning the Girl Scout Silver Award—the highest honor a Girl Scout Cadette can earn? If so, then this workshop is the best place to start! We will walk girls, parents, and troop leaders on the path towards earning the Girl Scout Silver Award. We’ll take a closer look at what is required to choose, design, and implement a Girl Scout Silver Award project. If this does not fit your schedule, contact Customer Care at customercare@girlscoutsni.org or call 844-476-4463 to set up a Silver Award Event-to-Go. Each participant (whether girl, parent, or leader) must register individually.
Travel Fair new Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley $6/girl; $3/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 26, 2019 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Register by October 16, 2019
Discover upcoming GSUSA Destinations, learn how to apply, and everything you need to know about these unique travel opportunities. Play games and dream up amazing trips! Relive previous Destinations experiences from GSNI girls! Travel and Global Community
STEMinist Engineering STEM for Kids, Roscoe $57/girl | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, October 26, 2019 | 12–4 p.m. Register by October 16, 2019
She will discover the incredible fun engineers have using their imaginations to plan, build, and test ideas. Girls will have an opportunity to design and test a balloon car, conjure up a crane, and take to the water when creating a paddle boat. Girls will have a great time engaging in challenging engineering designs! Register at stemforkids.net/t/wimadison/. Balloon Car Junior badge*, Crane Junior badge*, Paddle Boat Junior badge*, Career and Interest Exploration
facebook.com/GSNorthernIL
instagram.com/GSNorthernIL
pinterest.com/GSNorthernIL
youtube.com/GSNorthernIL
Leadership & Service
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Programs and Events for GIRLS Honoring Juliette new
Home Scientist new
Womanspace Free Sun, October 27, 2019 | 1–4 p.m.
Walcamp, Kingston $16/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, November 2, 2019 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Register by October 16, 2019
Register by October 23, 2019
Enjoy the outdoors and join GSNI as we honor the life of Juliette Low by taking part in a community service project to help with fall clean-up!
Has she ever wondered how to make pepper dance? How about making an egg float? She will employ the scientific method while doing fun and exciting science experiments!
Service to Girl Scouting Bar*, Leadership & Service
Home Scientist badge, Career and Interest Exploration
November Better Together Weekend: A GSNI Volunteer-Led Event! save the date Camp McCormick Fri, November 1–Sun, November 3, 2019 (overnight) Register by October 16, 2019
Cadettes will be working on the MEdia Journey, Seniors working on the GIRLtopia Journey, and Ambassadors working on the Bliss Journey. For more information or to register, contact Heidi Underhill— email: heidi0523@gmail.com or 815-721-0450
Camp Dean Service Day Camp Dean, Big Rock Free Sat, November 2, 2019 | 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by October 26, 2019
Enjoy a day at camp and prepare for the season ahead! Families are invited to join other camp fans to make a difference for the Girl Scout outdoor experience. You might spruce up buildings, help with landscaping, organize summer camp program supplies, and more! You are welcome to bring your own sack lunch to enjoy on our campgrounds. Camp Service Days are a great way for girls and their families to help at the council level! Still have time and energy? Stay a little later, 12:30–3:30 p.m., and attend our camp open house! Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Program Aide Basic Training Sugar Grove Resource Center $10/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, November 2, 2019 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Register by October 23, 2019
Is she ready to lead? She can be a superhero and role model for younger Girl Scouts, just by being herself and with a little bit of training! In Program Aide Basic (PAB), she’ll learn how to work with younger girls in a variety of settings and activities. She’ll also develop her teaching and communication skills through games and activities with friends. Can’t make one of our trainings? No worries! Troops can work with their girls and do the training at a time and location more convenient for them. See girlscoutsni.org/programaide for more details. Outdoor Activities and Adventures, Leadership and Service
Galvanizing Games new Walcamp, Kingston $16/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, November 2, 2019 1–4 p.m. Register by October 23, 2019
Board games, scavenger hunts, and puzzles, oh my! She will come for an exciting afternoon of playing and creating her own games on her way to earning the Game Visionary badge! Game Visionary Senior badge, Career and Interest Exploration
Camp Dean Open House Camp Dean, Big Rock Free Sat, November 2, 2019 | 12:30–3:30 p.m. Register by October 26, 2019
Join us at our camp open house! Everyone is welcome to tour the camp and see where campers will sleep, eat, and go on adventures with new friends. Our experienced camp professionals will be available to answer questions, talk about what a day at camp is like, and ensure campers are excited and prepared for their summer experience! We’ll have a variety of activities and snacks for girls and their families. Wear comfortable shoes if you want to explore camp on your own or go on our official camp tours which will be offered 1–2 p.m. at each camp. Register online at girlscoutsni.org. Come early at 9:30 a.m. and help with our Camp Service Day immediately before the open house. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
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Camp McCormick Service Day Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley Free Sun, November 3, 2019 | 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by October 27, 2019
Enjoy a day at camp and prepare for the season ahead! Families are invited to join other camp fans to make a difference for the Girl Scout outdoor experience. You might spruce up buildings, help with landscaping, organize summer camp program supplies, and more! You are welcome to bring your own sack lunch to enjoy on our campgrounds. Camp Service Days are a great way for girls and their families to help at the council level! Still have time and energy? Stay a little later, 12:30–3:30 p.m., and attend our camp open house! Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Programs and Events for GIRLS Camp McCormick Open Houses
Aspire ~ Women and the Power of Change
Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley Free Sun, November 3, 2019 | 12:30–3:30 p.m.
Elgin Community College $10/girl; $10/adult (grant dependent) | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, November 9, 2019 | 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Register by October 27, 2019
Register by October 23, 2019
Join us at our camp open house! Everyone is welcome to tour the camp and see where campers will sleep, eat, and go on adventures with new friends. Our experienced camp professionals will be available to answer questions, talk about what a day at camp is like, and ensure campers are excited and prepared for their summer experience! We’ll have a variety of activities and snacks for girls and their families. Wear comfortable shoes if you want to explore camp on your own or go on our official camp tours which will be offered 1–2 p.m. at each camp. Register online at girlscoutsni.org. Come early at 9:30 a.m. and help with our Camp Service Day immediately before the open house.
GSNI is excited to host our 2nd Annual Teen Conference! Aspire means to rise to a great plan, an abundant hope of fulfilling a worthwhile mission. All great ideas started with a vision. How can girls use their leadership skills to find a voice for their powerful ideas? Are they ready to unlock potential as change makers? Are they ready to challenge the status quo? Come and learn from women who pushed through barriers, who dared to take a stand for their vision, who are inspiring positive change in their communities and starting a ripple effect into the world! This program will include a continental breakfast, lunch, snacks, program supplies, and more!
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Finding Common Ground Cadette badge*, Truth Seeker Senior badge*, Public Policy Ambassador badge*, Practical Life Skills
Teen Adventure Weekend at YMCA Camp Greenville Stacie Simpson Consulting, South Carolina $116/girl; $91/adult | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Fri, November 8–Sat, November 9, 2019 | 6:30 p.m.–11 a.m. (overnight) Register by October 9, 2019
Enjoy a weekend of adventure and relaxation in the Blue Ridge Mountains of the Carolinas! Zipline across a lake, conquer an indoor climbing wall, hike to waterfalls, take aim at the riflery range, complete the high ropes course challenge, and enjoy the sunset from 3000' elevation. This program includes four hot meals in the dining hall, five adventure activities, and an event patch. Adventure Camper badge*, Adventurer badge*, Water badge*, Ultimate Recreation Challenge badge*, ravel and Global Community
Daisy Day at Camp new Camp Dean, Big Rock $25/girl; $10/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, November 9, 2019 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Register by October 25, 2019
Daisy Girl Scouts won’t want to miss this fun-filled day at camp! Come learn all about Girl Scout camp! Discover songs, games, and SWAPs. Make new friends but keep the old. This program includes lunch and a snack. Troops must provide adult chaperones, and individual girls must be accompanied by an adult. Daisy Buddy Camper badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Daisy Day at Camp—Program Aides and CITs
Mystery Crime Lab Camp-In Discovery Center Museum, Rockford $32/girl; $17/adult | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, November 9–Sun, November 10, 2019 | 6:30 p.m.–9 a.m. (overnight) Register by October 30, 2019
She will put on her detective hat and use forensic science to solve this case! She’ll examine fingerprints, take ink apart, crack a code, measure footprints, and more! Home Scientist Brownie badge*, Detective Junior badge*, Special Agent Cadette badge*, Night Owl Cadette badge*, Career and Interest Exploration
Owl Prowl Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation, Dundee $17/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, November 9, 2019 | 4–6 p.m. Register by October 23, 2019
Join the McGraw Education staff for an exploration on owl behavior, identification, as well as the places these fascinating birds are most likely to be seen. After the program, we will look and listen for these secretive birds while walking in their natural habitats. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Great Grandma’s Kitchen Elgin History Museum, Elgin $14/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, November 9, 2019 | 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by October 16, 2019
Camp Dean, Big Rock Free Sat, November 9, 2019 | 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Register by October 19, 2019
Daisy Day gives Daisy troops the opportunity to experience all camp has to offer! Program Aides and CITs will be working together with experienced volunteers to plan and provide fun activities in the outdoors. Lunch and a snack will be provided!
Bake an apple tart with Great Grandma in her old-fashioned kitchen and learn about the tools she used. Discover the Elgin dairy industry and its connection to the Gail Borden Public Library while making homemade butter. At the end of the program, participants will spread their homemade butter on crackers and enjoy warm apple tarts! Practical Life Skills
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
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Programs and Events for GIRLS Paint-a-Long—Canvas
Sewing to Help the Homeless
Muse Art Studio, Crystal Lake $22/girl; $24/adult; $24/child | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, November 9, 2019 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Ellen Violet Designs Studio, Sugar Grove $8/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Fri, November 15, 2019 | 6–7 p.m.
Register by October 30, 2019
Register by October 30, 2019
She will bring her creativity (and her crew!) to this paint-a-long party to create a holiday-inspired canvas. All supplies are included!
She will use her sewing skills to sew fleece scarves and hats to help families and homeless individuals in our area stay warm for the winter. No previous sewing skills needed! (It is helpful if participants have done previous sewing.) Sewing machines, sewing tools, and fabric are all provided. Fee per participant is only to help cover fabric costs.
Career and Interest Exploration
STEMinist Robotics
Practical Life Skills
STEM for Kids, Roscoe $57/girl | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, November 9, 2019 | 12–4 p.m.
Program Aide Basic Training
Register by October 30, 2019
South Elgin Resource Center $10/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, November 16, 2019 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Daisy Girl Scouts will learn all about robotics and their significance within our daily lives! Girls will explore the bounds of their creativity while designing, building, and programming their own robots—start to finish! The girls will create a one-of-a-kind robotic parade to showcase their amazing creations! Register at stemforkids.net/t/wimadison/. Robotics: Design a Robot, How Robots Move, and What Robots Do, Career and Interest Exploration
Career Chat—Engineering
Is she ready to lead? She can be a superhero and role model for younger Girl Scouts, just by being herself and with a little bit of training! In Program Aide Basic (PAB), she’ll learn how to work with younger girls in a variety of settings and activities. She’ll also develop her teaching and communication skills through games and activities with friends. Can’t make one of our trainings? No worries! Troops can work with their girls and do the training at a time and location more convenient for them. See girlscoutsni.org/programaide for more details. Outdoor Activities and Adventures, Leadership and Service
Virtual Free Tue, November 12, 2019 | 6–8 p.m.
RoboThink Robotics new
Register by November 6, 2019
What kind of career is your girl interested in pursuing? Whether she has her mind set on being an engineer or is still exploring her options, she can talk with professional women in different fields! Each Career Chat will be themed towards a different career track. Girls will need access to a computer and internet to participate. Career and Interest Exploration
RoboThink, Lake Zurich $24/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, November 16, 2019 | 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by November 6, 2019
Using RoboThink’s unique robotics kit, she will build her own amazing robot creation and engage her robot in an exciting challenge. She will learn basic robotics and engineering concepts, in a fun, STEM-tastic learning environment!
Go Rock Climbing Vertical Endeavors Indoor Rock Climbing, Glendale Heights $18/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Fri, November 15, 2019 | 6–8 p.m. Register by November 6, 2019
This is her chance to reach new heights! She’ll challenge herself physically and mentally as she strives for the summit in this rockclimbing adventure! Troops must meet a 1:5 adult/girl ratio. New Climbing badges, Practical Life Skills
Register by November 6, 2019
Robotics Junior badges*, Robotics Cadette badges*, Career and Interest Exploration
Sewing to Help the Homeless Ellen Violet Designs Studio, Sugar Grove $8/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, November 16, 2019 | 2–3 p.m. Register by October 30, 2019
She will use her sewing skills to sew fleece scarves and hats to help families and homeless individuals in our area stay warm for the winter. No previous sewing skills needed! (It is helpful if participants have done previous sewing.) Sewing machines, sewing tools, and fabric are all provided. Fee per participant is only to help cover fabric costs. Practical Life Skills
Shop Online...We’re open 24/7 • Visit girlscoutsni.org/shop 48 | girlscoutsni.org
Programs and Events for GIRLS Daisy Day at Camp new
Sewing to Help the Homeless
Mary Ann Beebe Center, Harvard $25/girl; $10/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, November 16, 2019 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Ellen Violet Designs Studio, Sugar Grove $8/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Fri, November 22, 2019 | 6–7 p.m.
Register by November 2, 2019
Register by October 30, 2019
Daisy Girl Scouts won’t want to miss this fun-filled day at camp! Come learn all about Girl Scout camp! Discover songs, games, and SWAPs. Make new friends but keep the old. This program includes lunch and a snack. Troops must provide adult chaperones, and individual girls must be accompanied by an adult.
She will use her sewing skills to sew fleece scarves and hats to help families and homeless individuals in our area stay warm for the winter. No previous sewing skills needed! (It is helpful if participants have done previous sewing.) Sewing machines, sewing tools, and fabric are all provided. Fee per participant is only to help cover fabric costs.
Daisy Buddy Camper badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Practical Life Skills
Daisy Day at Camp—Program Aides and CITs
Adventure Camp Overnight at YMCA Camp Greenville
Mary Ann Beebe Center, Harvard Free Sat, November 16, 2019 | 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Stacie Simpson Consulting, South Carolina $101/girl; $76/adult | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Fri, November 22–Sat, November 23, 2019 | 6:30 p.m.–11 a.m. (overnight)
Register by November 2, 2019
Daisy Day gives Daisy troops the opportunity to experience all camp has to offer! Program Aides and CITs will be working together with experienced volunteers to plan and provide fun activities in the outdoors. Lunch and a snack will be provided! Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Fantasy Tea Cross and Crown Church, Roscoe $15 per child/adult pair | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, November 17, 2019 | 2–3:30 p.m. Register by November 6, 2019
Come dressed as your favorite fantasy character and see other fairies, unicorns, princesses, and hobbits! Bring a special friend and enjoy tea, treats, crafts, and stories! For more information or to register, please contact GSNI Volunteer Event Coordinator Louise Glon at 815-988-9515. Career and Interest Exploration
Gearing Up to Go Gold Rockford Resource Center $4/girl; Free/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, November 17, 2019 | 1–3 p.m. Register by November 6, 2019
The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest award a girl can earn in Girl Scouting! The Girl Scout Gold Award is an accomplishment that stands out on college applications and benefits future career opportunities. This workshop will walk girls, parents, and troop leaders through the process and help her strategize the perfect Gold Award project. Attending a Gold Award Workshop is highly recommended for a successful Gold Award Project. If this does not fit your schedule, contact Customer Care at customercare@girlscoutsni.org or call 844-476-4463 to set up a Gold Award Event-to-Go. Each participant (whether girl, parent, or leader) must register individually. Leadership & Service
Register by October 30, 2019
Enjoy a weekend of adventure and relaxation in the Blue Ridge Mountains of the Carolinas! Zipline across a lake, conquer an indoor climbing wall, hike to waterfalls, practice your paddling in a canoe or kayak, complete the high ropes course (Cadettes only), and enjoy the sunset from 3000' elevation. This program includes four hot meals in the dining hall, four adventure activities, and an event patch. Get Moving! Junior Journey*, All Outdoor Journey*, Camper Junior badge*, Trailblazer Cadette badge*, Night Owl Cadette badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
December Christmas Ornament Painting Arts on Fire, Plano $22/girl; $22/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Tue, December 3, 2019 | 5–7 p.m. Register by November 20, 2019
Art can be expressed any time of year, but it’s more fun during the holidays! She’ll get in the holiday spirit by painting her own ornaments! She can decide to keep them or make them as gifts. Each artist will paint three ornaments. Completed pieces will be ready for pickup in 5–7 days. Practical Life Skills
Wreath Making Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation, Dundee $22/girl | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, December 7, 2019 | 1–3 p.m. Register by November 20, 2019
The holidays are here! Come spend a fun afternoon creating your very own holiday decoration. Chaperones are free! Practical Life Skills
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Programs and Events for GIRLS Paint-a-Long—Wood Sign
The Nutcracker Ballet
Muse Art & Co., Crystal Lake $22/girl; $24/adult; $24/child | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, December 7, 2019 | 10–11:30 a.m.
Elgin Community College, Elgin $17/girl; $27/adult | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, December 14, 2019 | 7–9 p.m.
Register by November 20, 2019
Register by December 4, 2019
She will use her creativity to craft a decorative wood sign. She can bring the whole family and create decorations for the season!
Join Alma Dance School for a magical annual performance of the Nutcracker! All girls receive a patch and optional picture with Clara and cast members. Spread the holiday cheer with this special performance of Alma Dance students and professional dancers. Tickets can be purchased through the Alma Dance School website at almadanceschool.com.
Practical Life Skills
Emergency Preparedness
Dance Brownie badge*, Career and Interest Exploration
Bartlett Nature Center $12/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, December 7, 2019 | 11 a.m.– 1 p.m.
Gearing Up to Go Gold
Register by November 20, 2019
What should you do when a tornado is coming? What should go in your kit at home or in the family car? We will cover the basics of what to do in different types of emergencies! Come to this class and learn to be prepared. Practical Life Skills
Cookie Kick-Off save the date BMO Harris Bank Center, Rockford Sat, December 7, 2019 We can’t wait to tell you what we have planned for our annual Cookie Kick-Off celebration with the Rockford IceHogs! Look for updates in our online events calendar at girlscoutsni.org.
RoboThink Robotics RoboThink, Wauconda $24/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, December 14, 2019 | 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by December 4, 2019
Using RoboThink’s unique robotics kit, she will build her own amazing robot creation and engage her robot in an exciting challenge. She will learn basic robotics and engineering concepts in a fun, STEM-tastic learning environment! Robotics badge, Career and Interest Exploration
South Elgin Resource Center $4/girl; Free/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, December 14, 2019 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Register by December 4, 2019
The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest award a girl can earn in Girl Scouting! The Girl Scout Gold Award is an accomplishment that stands out on college applications and benefits future career opportunities. This workshop will walk girls, parents, and troop leaders through the process and help strategize the perfect Gold Award project. Attending a Gold Award Workshop is highly recommended for a successful Gold Award Project! If this does not fit your schedule, contact Customer Care at customercare@girlscoutsni.org or call 844-476-4463 to set up a Gold Award Event-to-Go. Each participant (whether girl, parent, or leader) must register individually. Leadership & Service
Evening Sports Sampler Rush Copley Healthplex, Aurora $27/girl; $7/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, December 14, 2019 | 7–11 p.m. Register by November 20, 2019
Spend the evening trying out and learning about a variety of land sports ending with a dip in the pool! Practical Life Skills
The Nutcracker Ballet
RoboThink Robotics
Elgin Community College, Blizzard Theater, Elgin $17/girl; $27/adult | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, December 15, 2019 | 2–4 p.m.
RoboThink, Wauconda $24/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, December 14, 2019 | 1–3 p.m.
Register by December 4, 2019
Register by December 4, 2019
Using RoboThink’s unique robotics kit, she will build her own amazing robot creation and engage her robot in an exciting challenge. She will learn basic robotics and engineering concepts in a fun, STEM-tastic learning environment! Robotics Junior badges*, Robotics Cadette badges*, Career and Interest Exploration
50 | girlscoutsni.org
Join Alma Dance School for a magical annual performance of the Nutcracker! All girls receive a patch and optional picture with Clara and cast members. Spread the holiday cheer with this special performance of Alma Dance students and professional dancers. Tickets can be directly purchased through the Alma Dance School website at almadanceschool.com. Dancer Brownie badge, Career and Interest Exploration
Programs and Events for GIRLS January
SNOWSTORM save the date
Chestnut Mountain Ski Day
Kinnikinnick School, Roscoe $19/girl | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, Jan 18, 2020
Chestnut Mountain, Galena $35/person (includes lift, rental, and free group lesson); $28/person (includes lift only) | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, January 5, 2020 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Register by January 3, 2020
Winter is a great time for outdoor adventures! At our Chestnut Mountain Ski Days, she’ll spend a great day skiing or snowboarding with her Girl Scout friends and family. Advance registration is required. Contact Shera at 815-777-4674. Please call in one registration per troop. New Snow badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Chestnut Mountain Ski Day
Up for a challenge? Join youth participants from across the Midwest for this annual skills competition in knots, orienteering, first aid, code flags, heaving line, and more! Enjoy dinner and a dance! SNOWSTORM consists of Girl Scouts and members of other youth-serving organizations. For more information or to register, contact Louise Glon at 815-988-9515. Outdoor Activities and Adventures This is a non-council-sponsored event hosted by a volunteer. GSNI supports events where girls can experience adventure and skill-building activities alongside other youth. However, when attending non-council events, we expect GSNI girls to proudly represent Girl Scouts by upholding their Girl Scout Promise.
Archery
Chestnut Mountain, Galena $35/person (includes lift, rental, and free group lesson); $28/person (includes lift only) | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, January 12, 2020 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation, Dundee $17/girl | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, January 18, 2020 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Register by January 10, 2020
Register by January 1, 2020
Winter is a great time for outdoor adventures! At our Chestnut Mountain Ski Days, she’ll spend a great day skiing or snowboarding with her Girl Scout friends and family. Advance registration is required. Contact Shera at 815-777-4674. Please call in one registration per troop.
Learn the basics of archery, including range safety rules, types of equipment, and proper form. There will be plenty of time to practice new skills at the indoor archery range! Outdoor Activities and Adventures
New Snow badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
STEMinist Robotics
Highest Awards Q&A
STEM for Kids, Roscoe $57/girl | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, January 18, 2020 | 12–4 p.m.
Rockford Resource Center Free Sun, January 12, 2020 | 1–3 p.m.
Register by January 8, 2020
Register by January 8, 2020
Has she attended a Highest Awards workshop but wants to talk through her ideas? Has she started on a project but wants to make sure she is on the right track? Stop by and get answers to her questions! Leadership & Service
During this event, Junior Girl Scouts will learn all about robotics and their significance within our daily lives! Girls will explore the bounds of their creativity while designing, building, and programming their own robots—start to finish! The girls will create a one-of-a-kind robotic parade to showcase their amazing creations! Register at stemforkids.net/t/wimadison/.
Go Rock Climbing
Designing Robots Junior badge*, Programming Robots Junior badges*, Showcasing Robots Junior badges*, Career and Interest Exploration
Vertical Endeavors Indoor Rock Climbing, Glendale Heights $18/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, January 12, 2020 | 2–4 p.m.
Sewing to Help the Shelter Animals
Register by January 1, 2020
Ellen Violet Designs Studio, Sugar Grove $15/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, January 18, 2020 | 2–3 p.m.
This is her chance to reach new heights! She’ll challenge herself physically and mentally as she strives for the summit in this rock-climbing adventure! Troops must meet a 1:5 adult/girl ratio. New Climbing badges, Practical Life Skills
Guide to Big Book Icons new This icon represents a new event for 2019-2020 updated This icon represents a event that GSNI has done before, but has updated elements
Register by January 8, 2020
Use your sewing skills to help animals by sewing pet beds, so pets can stay warm while waiting for adoption! Previous sewing skills are needed to operate the machines. Girls without sewing experience will help prepare fabric and stuff beds! To set up an educational class prior to this date, contact Ellen at 630-465-2954. Practical Life Skills*
for 2019-2020 save the date This icon indicates to Save the Date and more information is yet to come Daisy grade level
Cadette grade level
Events where we welcome families
Brownie grade level
Senior grade level
Events good for adults
Junior grade level
Ambassador grade level
Events held by Preferred Partners
844-GSNI-4-ME | 51
Programs and Events for GIRLS Chestnut Mountain Ski Day
Chestnut Mountain Ski Day
Chestnut Mountain, Galena $35/person (includes lift, rental, and free group lesson); $28/person (includes lift only) | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, January 19, 2020 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Chestnut Mountain, Galena $35/person (includes lift, rental, and free group lesson); $28/person (includes lift only) | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, January 26, 2020 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Register by January 17, 2020
Register by January 24, 2020
Winter is a great time for outdoor adventures! At our Chestnut Mountain Ski Days, she’ll spend a great day skiing or snowboarding with her Girl Scout friends and family. Advance registration required. Contact Shera at 815-777-4674. Please call in one registration per troop.
Winter is a great time for outdoor adventures! At our Chestnut Mountain Ski Days, she’ll spend a great day skiing or snowboarding with her Girl Scout friends and family. Advance registration is required. Contact Shera at 815-777-4674. Please call in one registration per troop.
New Snow badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
New Snow badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Chestnut Mountain Ski Day Chestnut Mountain, Galena $35/person (includes lift, rental, and free group lesson); $28/person (includes lift only) | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Mon, January 20, 2020 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Register by January 17, 2020
Winter is a great time for outdoor adventures! At our Chestnut Mountain Ski Days, she’ll spend a great day skiing or snowboarding with her Girl Scout friends and family. Advance registration required. Contact Shera at 815-777-4674. Please call in one registration per troop. New Snow badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Fused Glass Pendant Arts on Fire, Plano $18/girl; $18/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Thu, January 23, 2020 | 5–7 p.m. Register by January 8, 2020
What better way to stand out than with a piece of handmade jewelry? At this event, she’ll make her own unique piece! Girls will learn basic use of tools to create their one-of-a-kind piece of fused glass jewelry. Pendants will be ready 5–7 days after the event. Jeweler Junior badge*, Practical Life Skills
Sewing to Help the Shelter Animals Ellen Violet Designs Studio, Sugar Grove $15/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, January 25, 2020 | 10–11 a.m.
February Travel Fair new Camp Dean, Big Rock $6/girl; $3 adults | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 1, 2020 | 1–3 p.m. Register by January 22, 2020
Discover upcoming GSUSA Destinations, learn how to apply, and everything you need to know about these unique travel opportunities. Play games and dream up amazing trips! Hear about previous Destinations experienced from other GSNI girls! Travel & Global Community
Winter Ski Weekend Camp Far Horizons, Hanover $65/girl; $60/adult (includes dinner, breakfast, lunch, rental equipment, ski lesson, and lift ticket) | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 1–Sun, February 2, 2020 | 2–12 p.m. (overnight); 1–9 p.m. (Sunday) at Chestnut Mountain Register by January 18, 2020
Does she love to ski? Maybe she wants to learn! Here is her opportunity to try cross-country skiing at Camp Far Horizons and then head out to Chestnut Mountain for a downhill ski lesson before hitting the slopes! No overnight training required. Overnight accommodations will include sleeping in a heated lodge. Chaperones will determine length of stay at the ski hill. Ultimate Recreation Challenge Ambassador badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Register by January 8, 2020
Use your sewing skills to help animals by sewing pet beds, so pets can stay warm while waiting for adoption! Previous sewing skills are needed to operate the machines. Girls without sewing experience will help prepare fabric and stuff beds. To set up an educational class prior to this date, contact Ellen at 630-465-2954. Practical Life Skills*
Chestnut Mountain Ski Day Chestnut Mountain, Galena $35/person (includes lift, rental, and free group lesson); $28/person (includes lift only) | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, February 2, 2020 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Register by January 31, 2020
❧ Support GSNI. When you shop at smile.amazon.com Amazon donates. 52 | girlscoutsni.org
Winter is a great time for outdoor adventures! At our Chestnut Mountain Ski Days, she’ll spend a great day skiing or snowboarding with her Girl Scout friends and family. Advance registration is required. Contact Shera at 815-777-4674. Please call in one registration per troop. New Snow badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Programs and Events for GIRLS Happy Campers—Winter Overnight! updated
My Family Story
Camp Dean, Big Rock $40/girl; $20/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 8–Sun, February 9, 2020 | 2–12 p.m. (overnight)
Midway Village Museum, Rockford $10/girl; $4 adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 8, 2020 | 1–3:30 p.m.
Register by January 18, 2020
Register by January 29, 2020
Hello, Happy Campers! This overnight sleepover is perfect for newto-camp troops or experienced leaders looking for a pre-planned lodge camping experience! Girls will learn easy camping skills to get them ready for future adventures. No overnight training is required. Troops must provide adult chaperones. Individual members must be accompanied by an adult.
History will come alive as she researches her family history in a special immersive exhibit! Make a day of it and join the morning session of Making Games. (Page 53)
Cabin Camper Brownie badge* Camper Junior badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Vi: Be a Sister to Every Girl Scout Midway Village Museum, Rockford $10/girl; $4 adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 8, 2020 | 9:30–12 p.m. Register by January 29, 2020
She will take a trip around the world to discover toys, customs, crafts, and music from around the globe! Make a day of it and join the afternoon session of Board Game Challenge! (Page 53)
My Family Story Brownie badge*, Career and Interest Exploration
Playing the Past Midway Village Museum, Rockford $10/girl; $4 adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 8, 2020 | 9:30 a.m.–12 p.m. Register by January 29, 2020
She’ll love using the museum’s extensive collection of artifacts and costumes to create a unique costume and have a special history party! Make a day of it and join the afternoon session of Detective. (Page 53) Playing the Past Junior badge, Career and Interest Exploration
Detective
Vi: Be a Sister to Every Girl Scout Daisy Petal*, Travel and Global Community
Board Game Challenge Midway Village Museum, Rockford $10/girl; $4 adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 8, 2020 | 1–3:30 p.m. Register by January 29, 2020
She will time travel to the 1880s to make and play games from the past! After learning about what inventors and engineers do, she will create her own board game. Make a day of it and join the morning session of Vi: Be a Sister to Every Girl Scout. (Page 53)
Midway Village Museum, Rockford $10/girl; $4 adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 8, 2020 | 1–3:30 p.m. Register by January 29, 2020
A 100-year-old mystery needs solving! In Detective, travel through time to solve it! Girls will collect clues and evidence to see if they can unravel the mystery. Make a day of it and join the morning session of Playing the Past. (Page 53) Detective Junior badge*, Career and Interest Exploration
Sewing to Help the Shelter Animals
Board Game Design Challenge Daisy badge*, Career and Interest Exploration
Making Games Midway Village Museum, Rockford $10/girl; $4 adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 8, 2020 | 9:30 a.m.–12 p.m. Register by January 29, 2020
Using the museum campus as a backdrop, she will explore games old and new, as well as ones not yet created. Scavenger hunts, mysteries, and more await her at this session! Make a day of it and join the afternoon session of My Family Story. (Page 53) Making Games Brownie badge*, Career and Interest Exploration
To keep up with what we are offering in our Council Stores, visit our Pinterest page.
www.pinterest.com/gsnorthernil
Ellen Violet Designs Studio, Sugar Grove $15/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 8, 2020 | 10–11 a.m. Register by January 8, 2020
Use sewing skills to help animals by sewing pet beds, so pets can stay warm while waiting for adoption! Previous sewing skills are needed to operate the machines. Girls without sewing experience will help prepare fabric and stuff beds. To set up an educational class prior to this date, contact Ellen at 630-465-2954. Practical Life Skills
Muscle Hustle new Rush Copley Healthplex, Aurora $17/girl; $7/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 8, 2020 | 3–4 p.m. Register by January 29, 2020
This high energy, age appropriate workout is designed to help girls work on developing cardiovascular and muscular endurance, team work, and perseverance of physical and mental challenges! This fun and motivational class is led by certified Healthplex Fitness staff. Practical Life Skills
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Programs and Events for GIRLS Paint-a-Long—Canvas
World Thinking Day
Muse Art & Co., Crystal Lake $22/girl; $24/adult; $24/child | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 8, 2020 | 10–11:30 a.m.
Northern Illinois University, DeKalb $10/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 15, 2020 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Register by January 29, 2020
Register by January 22, 2020
She can paint her masterpiece while spending time with family and friends! She will create a seasonal canvas painting.
World Thinking Day is the premier event for Girl Scouts and Girl Guides worldwide! Girls across the globe think and act with one voice to support each other, towards a better world for girls. Learn different ways to be a leader and develop the power to bring the change you want to see in the world. This World Thinking Day, GSNI has devoted this event just for older Girl Scouts—Cadettes and above.
Career and Interest Exploration
Great Grandma's Kitchen
World Thinking Day Award, Travel and Global Community
Elgin History Museum, Elgin $14/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 8, 2020 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Chestnut Mountain Ski Day
Register by January 29, 2020
Bake an apple tart with Great Grandma in her old-fashioned kitchen and learn about the tools she used. Discover the Elgin dairy industry and its connection to the Gail Borden Public Library while making homemade butter. At the end of the program, participants will spread their homemade butter on crackers and enjoy warm apple tarts! Practical Life Skills , Career and Interest Exploration
Chestnut Mountain Ski Day
Chestnut Mountain, Galena $35/person (includes lift, rental, and free group lesson); $28/person (includes lift only) | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, February 16, 2020 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Register by February 14, 2020
Winter is a great time for outdoor adventures! At our Chestnut Mountain Ski Days, she’ll spend a great day skiing or snowboarding with her Girl Scout friends and family. Advance registration is required. Contact Shera at 815-777-4674. Please call in one registration per troop. New Snow badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Chestnut Mountain, Galena $35/person (includes lift, rental, and free group lesson); $28/person (includes lift only) | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, February 9, 2020 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Winter Adventurer new
Register by February 7, 2020
Lake Geneva Canopy Tours
Winter is a great time for outdoor adventures! At our Chestnut Mountain Ski Days, she’ll spend a great day skiing or snowboarding with her Girl Scout friends and family. Advance registration is required. Contact Shera at 815-777-4674. Please call in one registration per troop.
Full Zipline Tour
New Snow badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
$69.99/girl; $79.99/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Short Zipline Tour $44.99/girl/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
High Ropes Course $44.99/girl/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible 1–3 p.m. Sun, February 16, 2020 Register by January 12, 2020
Enjoy high adventure like never before with Lake Geneva Canopy Tours in the winter! Groups will experience the high ropes course, team building, and zip lining with trained professionals! Ultimate Recreation Challenge badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Chestnut Mountain Ski Day Chestnut Mountain, Galena $35/person (includes lift, rental, and free group lesson); $28/person (includes lift only) | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Mon, February 17, 2020 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Register by February 14, 2020
Winter is a great time for outdoor adventures! At our Chestnut Mountain Ski Days, she’ll spend a great day skiing or snowboarding with her Girl Scout friends and family. Advance registration is required. Contact Shera at 815-777-4674. Please call in one registration per troop. New Snow badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
54 | girlscoutsni.org
Programs and Events for GIRLS Program Aide Basic Training
Winter Amidships
Rockford Resource Center $10/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Mon, February 17, 2020 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Fond du Lac, WI
Register by February 5, 2020
Is she ready to lead? She can be a superhero and role model for younger Girl Scouts, just by being herself and with a little bit of training! In Program Aide Basic (PAB), she’ll learn how to work with younger girls in a variety of settings and activities. She’ll also develop her teaching and communication skills through games and activities with friends. Can’t make one of our trainings? No worries! Troops can work with their girls and do the training at a time and location more convenient for them. See girlscoutsni.org/programaide for more details. Outdoor Activities and Adventures, Leadership and Service
STEMinist Engineering STEM for Kids, Roscoe $57/girl | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 22, 2020 | 12–4 p.m. Register by February 12, 2020
Daisy Girl Scouts will discover the incredible fun engineers have using their imagination to plan, build, and test their ideas! Girls will have an opportunity to design and test their own board game spinners, invent a vehicle, and design a roller coaster of their dreams! The girls will have fun while engaging in some challenging engineering designs. Register at stemforkids.net/t/wimadison/. Mechanical Engineering: Board Game, Model Car, and Roller Coaster, Career and Interest Exploration
Not GSNI Voucher Eligible
Sat, February 29, 202 Join youth participants from across the Midwest for this skills competition in knots, orienteering, first aid, code flags, heaving line, and more! The program will include overnight accommodations on a Saturday evening, along with dinner and a dance. Teams of four or more Girl Scouts can enter as a combined unit from several troops. For more information or to register, contact Louise Glon at 815-988-9515. Outdoor Activities and Adventures This is a non-council-sponsored event. GSNI supports events where girls can experience adventure and skill-building activities alongside other youth. However, when attending non-council events, we expect GSNI girls to proudly represent Girl Scouts by upholding their Girl Scout Promise.
Happy Campers—Winter Overnight! updated Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley $40/girl; $20/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, February 29–Sun, March 1, 2020 | 2–12 p.m. (overnight) Register by February 14, 2020
Hello, Happy Campers! This overnight sleepover is perfect for newto-camp troops or experienced leaders looking for a pre-planned lodge camping experience! Girls will learn easy camping skills to get them ready for future adventures. No overnight training is required. Troops must provide adult chaperones. Individual members must be accompanied by an adult. Cabin Camper Brownie badge* Camper Junior badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Striving for Silver new March Rockford Resource Center $4/girl; Free/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, February 23, 2020 | 1–3 p.m.
Women Changing the Face of Agriculture
Register by February 12, 2020
Interested in earning the Girl Scout Silver Award—the highest honor a Girl Scout Cadette can earn? If so, this workshop is the best place to start. We will walk girls, parents, and troop leaders on the path towards earning the Girl Scout Silver Award. We will take a closer look at what is required to choose, design, and implement a Girl Scout Silver Award project. If this does not fit your schedule, contact Customer Care at customercare@girlscoutsni.org or call 844-476-4463 to set up a Silver Award Event-to-Go. Each participant (whether girl, parent, or leader) must register individually. Leadership & Service
IL Agri-Women, Decatur $17/girl; $17/adult | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Fri, March 6, 2020 | 8:15 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Register by January 15, 2020
Discover potential careers in the food, natural resources, and agriculture industries. Meet women who currently have careers and jobs who are willing to mentor or create job shadowing opportunities! Learn about internships and scholarships available to young women. Sow What Senior Journey*, Bliss Live it Give it Ambassador Journey*, Career and Interest Exploration
Paint-a-Long Muse Art & Co., Crystal Lake $22/girl; $24/adult; $24/child | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, March 7, 2020 | 10–11:30 a.m. Register by February 26, 2020
She can get ready to celebrate spring with a relaxing paint-a-long event. Bring the family and create together! Career and Interest Exploration
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Programs and Events for GIRLS STEMapoolza
Games the 1912 Way
Challenger Learning Center, Woodstock $8/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, March 7, 2020 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Sugar Grove Community Center $7/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, March 7, 2020 | 9–11:30 a.m.
Register by February 19, 2020
Register by February 19, 2020
This is the STEM Open House of the year! All of our friends (professionals, museums, engineering corporations, and more) are teaming up to bring Girl Scouts the best hands-on activities, all in one place! Be sure to register for additional programs (Digital Starlab & Engineering Challenge and Robotics for an additional fee) to get the most out of this experience! This program includes a fun patch!
Play games from Juliette Low's time! Activities will include hoops and graces, jacks, whirligig, Girl Scout paper dolls, and (of course) basketball in bloomers! Fair Play Brownie badge, Rosie Daisy Petal, Career and Interest Exploration
Games the 1912 Way
Career and Interest Exploration
Digital Starlab & Engineering Challenge at STEMapoolza $17/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible 9:15–10:15 a.m. Register by February 19, 2020 (must also be registered to attend STEMapoolza)
Ignite curiosity and an interest in astronomy by visiting a state-of-theart interactive Digital Starlab to explore our solar system! This session also includes an architectural building challenge. Building a large structure together as a team will reinforce the importance of teamwork and communication!
Sugar Grove Community Center $7/girl; Free/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, March 7, 2020 | 1–3:30 p.m. Register by February 19, 2020
Play games from Juliette Low's time! Activities will include pickup sticks, hoops and graces, Chinese jump rope, and (of course) basketball in bloomers! Field Day Junior badge, Career and Interest Exploration
Imagineers
Robotics 1 at STEMapoolza $17/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible 10:20–11:20 a.m. Register by February 19, 2020 (must also be registered to attend STEMapoolza)
Girl Scouts will complete robotic engineering design challenges with an entry level robotics system! Learning robotics with a user-friendly robot system will ensure confidence to explore the world of robotics in the future!
Robotics 2 at STEMapoolza $17/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible 11:25 a.m.-12:25 p.m. Register by February 19, 2020 (must also be registered to attend STEMapoolza)
Girl Scouts will complete robotic engineering design challenges with more advanced robotics systems. Practicing with sensors, action, and power blocks will reinforce the basic functions of a robot and grow a passion for the ever-expanding field of robotic engineering!
STEMapoolza—Program Aides Challenger Learning Center, Woodstock Free Sat, March 7, 2020 | 8:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by February 19, 2020
Program Aides can help to provide fun, hands-on activities for the younger girls! Career and Interest Exploration
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Discovery Center Museum, Rockford $32/girl; $17/adult | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, March 7–Sun, March 8, 2020 | 6:30 p.m.–9 a.m. (overnight) Register by February 26, 2020
Fire up your imagination to experiment with momentum, kinetic and potential energy, and the forces of physics! Work with a team to build a roller coaster thrill ride and engineer a racecar to take home! Model Car Design Daisy badge*, Rollercoaster Daisy badge*, Race Car Design Brownie badge*, Inventor Junior badge*, Night Owl Cadette badge*, Career and Interest Exploration
RoboThink Robotics RoboThink, Barrington $24/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, March 7, 2020 | 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by February 26, 2020
Using RoboThink’s unique robotics kit, she will build her own amazing robot creation and engage her robot in an exciting challenge! She will learn basic robotics and engineering concepts in a fun, STEM-tastic learning environment! Robotics Daisy badges*, Robotics Brownie badges*, Career and Interest Exploration
Programs and Events for GIRLS What Shall I Wear?
Eco Friend
Elgin History Museum, Elgin $12/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, March 7, 2020 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Bartlett Nature Center, Bartlett $12/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, March 14, 2020 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Register by February 12, 2020
Register by February 26, 2020
Learn about clothing women, men, and children would have worn in the past. How did the clothing show what kind of tasks the person was going to do? Why did they wear some of the things they did? Where did the clothing come from? How is it different than what we wear today? See examples of clothing and make grocery bag paper vests with a pocket watch or a large-brimmed ladies hat to take home!
Join us as we go for a hike and observe nature! We will teach you how to make a campfire, and then we’ll roast marshmallows over the campfire. Eco Friend Brownie badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Ascend to New Heights new
Playing in the Past Junior badge*, Career and Interest Exploration
Striving for Silver new
Rush Copley Healthplex, Aurora $22/girl; $7/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, March 14, 2020 | 1–3:30 p.m. Register by March 4, 2020
Sugar Grove Resource Center $4/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, March 8, 2020 | 1–3 p.m. Register by February 26, 2020
Interested in earning the Girl Scout Silver Award—the highest honor a Girl Scout Cadette can earn? If so, this workshop is the best place to start. We will walk girls, parents, and troop leaders on the path towards earning the Girl Scout Silver Award. We will take a closer look at what is required to choose, design, and implement a Girl Scout Silver Award project! If this does not fit your schedule, contact Customer Care at customercare@girlscoutsni.org or call 844-476-4463 to set up a Silver Award Event-to-Go. Each participant (whether girl, parent, or leader) must register individually. Leadership & Service
STEMinist Robotics STEM for Kids, Roscoe $57/girl | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, March 14, 2020 | 12–4 p.m. Register by March 4, 2020
Ascend to new heights at the Healthplex! Learn rock climbing skills, overcome fears, and tackle challenges in an array of strength and team building exercises. New Climbing badges, Practical Life Skills
Happiness and Hairnets Feed My Starving Children, Aurora Free Sat, March 14, 2020 | 2–4 p.m. Register by March 4, 2020
Our favorite week of the year is Girl Scout Week! Celebrate the happiness of being a Girl Scout and join GSNI’s service project at Feed My Starving Children. Wearing hairnets has never been so much fun, as we work together to package meals for undernourished children throughout the world! Feed My Starving Children patches will be available to purchase at the event for $1. Note: Prayer is a part of this event. Volunteers are invited to join in prayer at the end of the packing session. This is optional, and if anyone chooses to abstain, there will be an area for them to wait until the prayer has concluded. Service to Girl Scouting Bar*, Leadership & Service
Cadette Girl Scouts will learn all about robotics and their significance within our daily lives! Girls will explore the bounds of their creativity while designing, building, and programming their own robots—start to finish! The girls will create a one-of-a-kind robotic parade to showcase their amazing creations! The event will be wrapped up with the presentation of all three robotic badges. All badges are provided! Register at stemforkids.net/t/wimadison/. Designing Robots Cadette badge*, Programming Robots Cadette badge*, Showcasing Robots Cadette badge*, Career and Interest Exploration
Maple Syrup Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation, Dundee $17/girl | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, March 14, 2020 | 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by February 26, 2020
At the end of winter, when the days are longer and the sun shines warmer, the maple sap begins to flow! Join us on a hike to discover how sap is made, collected, and turned into the sweet treat we all love— syrup! Learn the history of this food staple from Native Americans to modern processing plants and taste McGraw Maple Syrup! Outdoor Activities and Adventures
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Programs and Events for GIRLS Program Aide Outdoor Training Camp Far Horizons, Hanover $15/girl; $7/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, March 22, 2020 | 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Register by February 29, 2020
Take her leadership outside where she’ll share her love of the outdoors with younger girls! She’ll learn fire building, knot tying, outdoor cooking, orienteering, basic first aid, and more. She’ll also learn how to teach outdoor skills to younger girls. What a great opportunity if she wants to help at a day camp as a Program Aide or at service unit camp events or council events! Leadership and Service
Be a Spelunker! new Gearing Up to Go Gold Sugar Grove Resource Center $4/girl; Free/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, March 21, 2020 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Register by March 11, 2020
The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest award a girl can earn in Girl Scouting! The Girl Scout Gold Award is an accomplishment that stands out on college applications and benefits future career opportunities. This workshop will walk girls, parents, and troop leaders through the process and help strategize the perfect Gold Award project. Attending a Gold Award Workshop is highly recommended for a successful Gold Award Project. If this does not fit your schedule, contact Customer Care at customercare@girlscoutsni.org or call 844-476-4463 to set up a Gold Award Event-to-Go. Each participant (whether girl, parent, or leader) must register individually. Leadership & Service
Program Aide Basic Training Camp Far Horizons, Hanover $10/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, March 21, 2020 (with optional overnight) | 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Eagle Cave, Blue River, WI $125/girl; $125/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Fri, March 27–Sun, March 29, 2020 (overnight) | 6–4 p.m. Register by January 13, 2020
Eagle Cave has over 3,000 feet of passage to explore! Groups will spend the weekend spelunking, sleeping in the cave, and may see a bat or two! Program fee will include all bus travel along with a snack on Friday; breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Saturday, and breakfast on Sunday. Ultimate Recreation Challenge badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Maple Syrup Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation, Dundee $17/girl | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, March 28, 2020 | 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by March 18, 2020
At the end of winter, when the days are longer and the sun shines warmer, the maple sap begins to flow. Join us on a hike to discover how sap is made, collected, and turned into the sweet treat we all love— syrup! Learn the history of this food staple from Native Americans to modern processing plants and taste McGraw Maple Syrup! Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Register by February 29, 2020
Is she ready to lead? She can be a superhero and role model for younger Girl Scouts, just by being herself and with a little bit of training! In Program Aide Basic (PAB), she’ll learn how to work with younger girls in a variety of settings and activities. She’ll also develop her teaching and communication skills through games and activities with friends. This event will include an optional overnight. If girls chose to participate in the overnight, an adult must attend with the girl. Consider staying for our Program Aide Outdoor Training the next day! Can’t make one of our trainings? No worries! Troops can work with their girls and do the training at a time and location more convenient for them. See girlscoutsni.org/programaide for more details. Outdoor Activities and Adventures, Leadership and Service
Follow our camps on Facebook and Instagram! Camp is a place for friends! Keep up to date camp news, photos, and videos. with facebook.com/GSNICampDean facebook.com/GSNICampMcCormick facebook.com/GSNICampFarHorizons facebook.com/GSNIMaryAnnBeebeCenter instagram.com/GSNI_camps
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April Camp Dean Service Day Camp Dean, Big Rock Free Sat, April 4, 2020 | 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by February 22, 2020
Enjoy a day at camp and prepare for the season ahead! Families are invited to join other camp fans to make a difference for the Girl Scout outdoor experience. You might spruce up buildings, help with landscaping, organize summer camp program supplies, and more! You are welcome to bring your own sack lunch to enjoy on our campgrounds. Camp Service Days are a great way for girls and their families to help at the council level! Still have time and energy? Stay a little later, 12:30–3:30 p.m., and attend our camp open house! Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Programs and Events for GIRLS Camp Dean Open House
Climb Up to Cadettes new
Camp Dean, Big Rock Free Sat, April 4, 2020 | 12:30–3:30 p.m.
Vertical Endeavors $18/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, April 4, 2020 | 2–5 p.m.
Register by February 22, 2020
Register by March 25, 2020
Join us at our camp open house! Everyone is welcome to tour the camp and see where the campers will sleep, eat, and go on adventures with new friends. Our experienced camp professionals will be available to answer questions, talk about what a day at camp is like, and ensure campers are excited and prepared for their summer experience! We’ll have a variety of activities and snacks for girls and their families. Wear comfortable shoes if you want to explore camp on your own or go on our official camp tours which will be offered 1–2 p.m. at each camp. Register online at girlscoutsni.org. Want to help prepare our camp for the summer? Come early at 9:30 a.m. and help with our Camp Service Day immediately before the open house.
Climbing up to be a Girl Scout Cadette? Be welcomed into the world of older girls by attending this event planned by the older girls of GSNI— just for you! Be ready to become a leader and reach new heights. Many adventures await you!
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
RoboThink Robotics RoboThink, Barrington $24/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, April 4, 2020 | 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by March 25, 2020
Using RoboThink’s unique robotics kit, she will build her own amazing robot creation and engage her robot in an exciting challenge. She will learn basic robotics and engineering concepts in a fun, STEM-tastic learning environment! Robotics Junior badge, Robotics Cadette badge, Career and Interest Exploration
Eco Learner Bartlett Nature Center, Bartlett $12/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, April 4, 2020 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Register by March 25, 2020
Dress for the weather, because we are going outside! We will be taking a hike and exploring our surroundings. Be sure to wear closed-toed shoes and bring a water bottle. Eco Learner Daisy badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
New Climbing badge*, Bridge to Cadettes Award*, Career & Interest Exploration
Overnight Sports Sampler Rush Copley Healthplex, Aurora $32/girl; $7/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, April 4–Sun, April 5, 2020 | 8 p.m.–7 a.m. (overnight) Register by March 18, 2020
Stay at the Healthplex after hours and through the morning! Get moving and try out a variety of land sports and healthy habits! Practical Life Skills
Space Science Adventurer Overnight Mary Ann Beebe Center, Harvard $40/girl; $20/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, April 4–Sun, April 5, 2020 | 2–12 p.m. (overnight) Register by March 20, 2020
Learn all about the solar system and our place in it! Just like real space scientists, Girl Scouts will explore, observe, and investigate the sun, moon, and stars and discover space is bigger and even more exciting than they may have imagined! Brownies will earn the Space Science Adventurer badge during this overnight that will have them seeing the sky in a new way. Space Science Adventure Brownie badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Space Science Adventurer Overnight— Program Aides & CITs Mary Ann Beebe Center, Harvard $40/girl; $20/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, April 4–Sun, April 5, 2020 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. (overnight) Register by March 20, 2020
Assist Brownie Girl Scouts in learning all about the solar system and our place in it! Just like real space scientists, Girl Scouts will explore, observe, and investigate the sun, moon, and stars and discover space is bigger and even more exciting than they may have imagined! Brownies will earn the Space Science Adventurer badge during this overnight that will have them seeing the sky in a new way. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Guide to Big Book Icons new This icon represents a new event for 2019-2020 updated This icon represents a event that GSNI has done before, but has updated elements for 2019-2020 save the date This icon indicates to Save the Date and more information is yet to come Daisy grade level
Cadette grade level
Events where we welcome families
Brownie grade level
Senior grade level
Events good for adults
Junior grade level
Ambassador grade level
Events held by Preferred Partners
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Programs and Events for GIRLS Camp McCormick Service Day
Earth Day
Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley Free Sun, April 5, 2020 | 9:30–12:30 a.m.
Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation, Dundee $17/girl | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, April 18, 2020 | 1–3 p.m.
Register by March 21, 2020
Register by April 8, 2020
Enjoy a day at camp and prepare for the season ahead! Families are invited to join other camp fans to make a difference for the Girl Scout outdoor experience. You might spruce up buildings, help with landscaping, organize summer camp program supplies, and more! You are welcome to bring your own sack lunch to enjoy on our campgrounds. Camp Service Days are a great way for girls and their families to help at the council level! Still have time and energy? Stay a little later, 12:30–3:30 p.m., and attend our camp open house!
This is the only Earth we have, so let’s take care of it! Learn about various plants and animals that live in your Illinois habitat and how to keep them healthy!
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Bartlett Nature Center, Bartlett $37/girl; $17/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, April 18–Sun, April 19, 2020 | 6 p.m.–7 a.m. (overnight)
Camp McCormick Open House Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley Free Sun, April 5, 2020 | 12:30–3:30 p.m. Register by March 21, 2020
Join us at our camp open house! Everyone is welcome to tour the camp and see where the campers will sleep, eat, and go on adventures with new friends. Our experienced camp professionals will be available to answer questions, talk about what a day at camp is like, and ensure campers are excited and prepared for their summer experience! We’ll have a variety of activities and snacks for girls and their families. Wear comfortable shoes if you want to explore camp on your own or go on our official camp tours which will be offered 1–2 p.m. at each camp. Register online at girlscoutsni.org. Want to help prepare camp for the summer? Come early at 9:30 a.m. and help with our Camp Service Day immediately before the open house. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Overnight in the Museum
Register by April 1, 2020
Come and join us with this nighttime adventure! We will go for a night hike, so dress for the weather. Have s’mores, pizza, and a continental breakfast! Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Space Science Investigator Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley $25/girl; $10/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, April 19, 2020 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Register by April 3, 2020
Mission Control to Girl Scout Juniors! Come be a Space Science Investigator and venture through the Solar System as you learn space is far bigger than you imagined! We'll develop scientific models and even build a Mars rover! Snack and lunch are provided. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Program Aide Outdoor Training Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley $15/girl; $7/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Fri, April 10, 2020 | 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Register by April 1, 2020
Take her leadership outside where she’ll share her love of the outdoors with younger girls! She’ll learn fire building, knot tying, outdoor cooking, orienteering, basic first aid, and more. She’ll also learn how to teach outdoor skills to younger girls. What a great opportunity if she wants to help at a day camp as a Program Aide or at service unit camp events or council events! Leadership and Service
Space Science Investigator— Program Aides and CITs Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley Free Sun, April 19, 2020 | 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Register by April 3, 2020
Come be a Space Science Investigator and assist your sister Girl Scouts and venture through the Solar System as you learn space is far bigger than you imagined! We'll develop scientific models and even build a Mars rover! Snack and lunch are provided. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Animals & Art Historic Wagner Farm, Glenview $12/girl; $7/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, April 25, 2020 | 12:30–3:30 p.m. Register by April 15, 2020
Spend the afternoon exploring art around the farm! Girls will take part in various outdoor activities that incorporate animals, crops, and food. Outdoor Art Maker Daisy badge, Outdoor Art Creator Brownie badge, Outdoor Art Explorer Junior badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
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Programs and Events for GIRLS Mary Ann Beebe Service Day Mary Ann Beebe Center, Harvard Free Sat, April 25, 2020 | 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Register by April 11, 2020
Enjoy a day at camp and prepare for the season ahead! Families are invited to join other camp fans to make a difference for the Girl Scout outdoor experience. You might spruce up buildings, help with landscaping, organize summer camp program supplies, and more! You are welcome to bring your own sack lunch to enjoy on our campgrounds. Camp Service Days are a great way for girls and their families to help at the council level! Still have time and energy? Stay a little later, 12:30–3:30 p.m., and attend our camp open house! Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Mary Ann Beebe Center Open House Mary Ann Beebe Center, Harvard Free Sat, April 25, 2020 | 12:30–3:30 p.m. Register by April 11, 2020
Join us at our camp open house! Everyone is welcome to tour the camp and see where the campers will sleep, eat, and go on adventures with new friends. Our experienced camp professionals will be available to answer questions, talk about what a day at camp is like, and ensure campers are excited and prepared for their summer experience! We’ll have a variety of activities and snacks for girls and their families. Wear comfortable shoes if you want to explore camp on your own or go on our official camp tours which will be offered 1–2 p.m. at each camp. Register online at girlscoutsni.org. Want to help prepare camps for the summer? Come early at 9:30 a.m. and help with our Camp Service Days immediately before the open house. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Spa Science Discovery Center Museum, Rockford $32/girl; $17/adult | Not GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, April 25– Sun, April 26, 2020 | 6:30 p.m.–9 a.m. (overnight) Register by April 15, 2020
Have the ultimate spa sleepover! Give facials, make colorful lip gloss, concoct a bath bomb, and even design a logo for a spa product line. Discover the science of relaxation and happiness—pampering does a body good! Career and Interest Exploration
Global Youth Service Day Northern Illinois Food Bank, Geneva Free Sat, April 25, 2020 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Register by April 15, 2020
Team up with other Girl Scouts as GSNI takes part in Global Youth Service Day (GYSD). GYSD is celebrated each year in more than 135 countries with young people working together to address the world’s most critical issues and change their communities. GSNI will work with the Northern Illinois Food Bank to sort and package food for our neighbors in 13-area counties. We believe in the power of every G.I.R.L can change the world! Service to Girl Scouting Bar*, Leadership & Service
Rope Runner Races in 2020! In 2019, there were 19 service units that hosted Rope Runner events and sent their winners on to the Regionals held at each GSNI camp in the spring! Girls created and designed their own Rope Runners for the competition. Find the packet about Rope Runners on GSNI’s website by typing “Rope Runners” into the search bar.
What is a Rope Runner? A Rope Runner is a wooden figure which rolls down a rope on a single wheel, using weights to balance. It is based on a traditional toy concept. The Rope Runner is simple in design and easy to assemble. Seeing it in motion is quite amazing! Your service unit may host a Rope Runner Race. Winners from that race move on to the Regionals. Winners from there move on to the Finals! Regionals are: ⏵⏵ Saturday, April 25, 2020, at Mary Ann Beebe Center ⏵⏵ Sunday, April 26, 2020, at Camp Far Horizons ⏵⏵ Sunday, May 3, 2020, at Camp Dean ⏵⏵ Saturday, May 9, 2020, at Camp McCormick The date of the Finals will be announced soon! Watch for more information! 844-GSNI-4-ME | 61
Programs and Events for GIRLS Highest Awards Q&A Sugar Grove Resource Center Free Sat, April 25, 2020 | 1–3 p.m. Register by April 22, 2020
Has she attended a Highest Awards workshop but wants to talk through her ideas? Has she started on a project but wants to make sure she is on the right track? Stop by and get answers to her questions! Leadership & Service
Creative Cooking new Camp Dean, Big Rock, IL $40/girl; $20/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, April 25–Sun, April 26, 2020 | 2–12 p.m. (overnight)
May
Register by April 10, 2020
Have a taste for delicious foods? Here is the chance to create and cook some amazing food not only in the kitchen but also over a campfire. Girls can build their own recipes from different countries, explore imaginative ways to present food, and practice decorating pastries!
Girl Scout Day at the Capitol 2020
New Cuisines Cadette badge, Dinner Party Ambassador badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Springfield, IL
Camp Far Horizons Service Day Camp Far Horizons, Hanover Free Sun, April 26, 2020 | 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
save the date
Not GSNI Voucher Eligible
Fri, May 1, 2020. Celebrate community, explore government in action, and advocate for policies that empower girls! Show your Girl Scout pride with a march and rally at the Illinois State Capitol building. Visit with community partners at the Girl Scout Expo and participate in fun and educational Girl Scout badge activities! Save the date, and watch for more details!
Register by April 12, 2020
Travel and Global Community
Enjoy a day at camp and prepare for the season ahead! Families are invited to join other camp fans to make a difference for the Girl Scout outdoor experience. You might spruce up buildings, help with landscaping, organize summer camp program supplies, and more! You are welcome to bring your own sack lunch to enjoy on our campgrounds. Camp Service Days are a great way for girls and their families to help at the council level! Still have time and energy? Stay a little later, 12:30–3:30 p.m., and attend our camp open house!
Space Science Adventurer Overnight
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Learn all about the solar system and our place in it! Just like real space scientists, Girl Scouts will explore, observe, and investigate the sun, moon, and stars and discover space is bigger and even more exciting than they may have imagined! Brownies will earn the Space Science Adventurer badge during this overnight that will have them seeing the sky in a new way.
Camp Far Horizons Open House Camp Far Horizons, Hanover Free Sun, April 26, 2020 | 12:30–3:30 p.m. Register by April 12, 2020
Join us at our camp open house! Everyone is welcome to tour the camp and see where the campers will sleep, eat, and go on adventures with new friends. Our experienced camp professionals will be available to answer questions, talk about what a day at camp is like, and ensure campers are excited and prepared for their summer experience! We’ll have a variety of activities and snacks for girls and their families. Wear comfortable shoes if you want to explore camp on your own or go on our official camp tours which will be offered 1–2 p.m. at each camp. Register online at girlscoutsni.org. Want to help prepare camp for the summer? Come early at 9:30 a.m. and help with our Camp Service Days immediately before the open house. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Camp Far Horizons, Hanover $40/girl; $20/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, May 2–Sun, May 3, 2020 | 2–12 p.m. (overnight) Register by April 17, 2020
Space Science Adventure Brownie badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Space Science Adventurer Overnight– Program Aides and CITs Camp Far Horizons, Hanover $40/girl; $20/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, May 2–Sun, May 3, 2020 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. (overnight) Register by April 17, 2020
Assist Brownie Girl Scouts in learning all about the solar system and our place in it! Just like real space scientists, Girl Scouts will explore, observe, and investigate the sun, moon, and stars and discover space is bigger and even more exciting than they may have imagined! Brownies will earn the Space Science Adventurer badge during this overnight that will have them seeing the sky in a new way. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
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Programs and Events for GIRLS Gaining College Knowledge new
Tree-rific Spring
McHenry County College $5/girl; $3/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, May 2, 2020 | 1–4 p.m.
The Morton Arboretum, Lisle $9/girl; $9/adult; $9/child | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, May 16, 2020 | 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Register by April 22, 2020
Register by May 6, 2020
It’s never too early to prepare for college! Learn and gain resources on the college research and application process, along with ways to help pay for college and be successful in mind and body. The McHenry County College staff will point girls to resources they need to attend the school of their choice. Parent sessions will also be offered on topics such as FAFSA, financial aid, and how to support girls in the college research and application process. Snacks will be provided! Girls will receive McHenry County College swag!
Celebrate the spring season at The Morton Arboretum! Explore trees, bugs, and flowers in this hands-on, open house-style event, meant to get girls and families outside. Participants can borrow activity bags, take a hike, and/or plant a seed. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Votes for Women! new
College Knowledge Ambassador badge*, Practical Life Skills
Space Science Explorer new
Veterans Memorial Hall, Rockford $10/girl; $6/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, May 16, 2020 | 1–3:30 p.m. Register by May 6, 2020
Camp Far Horizons, Hanover $25 girl/$10 adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, May 3, 2020 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Register by April 17, 2020
Daisy Girl Scouts are invited to camp to earn the Space Science Explorer Badge! Girls will become space scientists and explore and observe the sun and moon. They’ll meet the stars and make a telescope and star patterns! A snack will be provided.
Celebrate 100 years of women having the right to vote in the United States! She will take a step back in time and help her sisters win the right to vote. She will create banners, learn about the women who led the movement, and learn why voting is important. Practical Life Skills
Program Aide Outdoor Training
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Space Science Investigator
Camp Dean, Big Rock $15/girl; $7/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, May 17, 2020 | 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Register by May 1, 2020
Camp Dean, Big Rock $25/girl; $10/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, May 16, 2020 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Register by May 1, 2020
Mission Control to Girl Scout Juniors! Come be a Space Science Investigator and venture through the solar system as you learn that space is far bigger than you imagined! Girls will develop scientific models and even build a Mars rover! A snack and lunch are provided. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Space Science Investigator— Program Aide, CIT Camp Dean, Big Rock Free | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, May 16, 2020 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Register by May 1, 2020
Come be a Space Science Investigator and assist your sister Girl Scouts and venture through the solar system as you learn space is far bigger than you imagined! We’ll develop scientific models and even build a Mars rover! Snack and lunch are provided. Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Take her leadership outside where she’ll share her love of the outdoors with younger girls! She’ll learn fire building, knot tying, outdoor cooking, orienteering, basic first aid, and more. She’ll also learn how to teach outdoor skills to younger girls. What a great opportunity if she wants to help at a day camp as a Program Aide or at service unit camp events or council events! Leadership and Service
Rosie Rally! First Division Museum at Cantigny Park, Wheaton $16/girl; $6/adult; $16/child | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sun, May 17, 2020 | 1–4 p.m. Register by May 6, 2020
Join Girl Scouts in a celebration of the hard-working women of World War II (WWII). Strike a pose with Rosie, jump in a jeep with WWII nurses, learn 1940s dance moves, play ball, and more! Girl Scouts will receive an official Rosie Rally bandana and fun patch. Career and Interest Exploration
Guide to Big Book Icons new This icon represents a new event for 2019-2020 updated T his icon represents a event that GSNI has done before, but has updated elements for 2019-2020 save the date T his icon indicates to Save the Date and more information is yet to come Daisy grade level
Cadette grade level
Events where we welcome families
Brownie grade level
Senior grade level
Events good for adults
Junior grade level
Ambassador grade level
Events held by Preferred Partners
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Programs and Events for GIRLS June BUG OUT! Spring Valley Nature Center and Heritage Farm, Schaumburg $7/girl | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, June 6, 2020 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Register by May 27, 2020
Summer is for the bugs and catching and observing these tiny creatures is a blast! She will go on an insect safari, explore different insect habitats, and do a fun craft. She will also stop by a caterpillar rearing station to see how volunteers are helping to raise and release monarch butterflies! Bugs Brownie badge*, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
First Annual Tent Out! Camp Dean, Big Rock $40/girl; $20/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, June 6–Sun, June 7, 2020 | 2–12 p.m. (overnight) Register by May 22, 2020
Grab your gear and sister Girl Scouts for an “in-tents” adventure! After pitching your tent, explore camp, and develop your outdoor skills. Make all meals over the open fire and at the end of the day, relax around the campfire! This camp is available for girls and an adult or troops.
Program Aide Outdoor Training
Cadette Primitive Camper badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Windy City Weekend: The Arts
Mary Ann Beebe Center, Harvard $15/girl; $7/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, June 13, 2020 | 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Register by June 1, 2020
Mary Ann Beebe Center and Hosteling International, Chicago $150/girl; $150/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Fri, June 12–Sun, June 14, 2020 | 6–12 p.m. (overnight) Register by April 22, 2020
A world of experiences wait as older girls from GSNI head to the Windy City for the weekend! She will start the weekend at Mary Ann Beebe Center getting to know the other girls and planning her way around Chicago. Saturday we will head into Chicago. Our group will explore the city using buses, trains, and our own two feet to see the architecture and art of the city! Saturday night we will stay at Hosteling International, located in the heart of Chicago. Program costs include travel accommodations, two nights of lodging, two breakfasts, and lunch and dinner on Saturday, and a guided walking tour featuring Chicago architecture. Traveler Senior badge*, Travel and Global Community, Career and Interest Exploration.
Take her leadership outside where she’ll share her love of the outdoors with younger girls! She’ll learn fire building, knot tying, outdoor cooking, orienteering, basic first aid, and more. She’ll also learn how to teach outdoor skills to younger girls. What a great opportunity if she wants to help at a day camp as a Program Aide or at service unit camp events or council events! Leadership and Service
First Annual Tent Out! Camp Far Horizons, Hanover $40/girl; $20/adult | GSNI Voucher Eligible Sat, June 27–Sun, June 28, 2020 | 2–12 p.m. (overnight) Register by June 12, 2020
Grab your gear and sister Girl Scouts for an “in-tents” adventure! After pitching your tent, explore camp, and develop your outdoor skills. Make all meals over the open fire and at the end of the day, relax around the campfire! This camp is available for girls and an adult or troops. Cadette Primitive Camper badge, Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Travel to G.I.R.L. 2020 save the date G.I.R.L. 2020 Fri, October 23–Sun, October 25, 2020 | Orlando, Florida Join us for the world’s largest girl-led event for girls and young women and everyone who supports them. It’s going to be one epic celebration! Watch for more details coming soon! Travel and Global Community, Career and Interest Exploration, Outdoor Activities and Adventures, Practical Life Skills
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Danfoss is engineering tomorrow by inspiring our next generation Revelations in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) shape the future. STEM education and opportunities inspire our next generation of engineers to dream of solutions that will support the growing need for sustainable food supply, modern infrastructure, energy efficiency, and better climate control. Discover how Danfoss engineers technologies that enable the world of tomorrow to do more with less. www.danfossdrives.com
$11/GIRL SCOUT
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GSNI Partners Preferred Partners are organizations that offer quality events and activities designed specifically for Girl Scouts. Troop leaders should contact Preferred Partners offering flexible event opportunities directly to schedule a program session.
Business
City
Contact
Description
Alma Dance School
Glen Ellyn
Vilma Machin 630-580-9784 info@almadanceschool.com
Cuban-method ballet school supports dance and other badges.
Anderson Animal Shelter
South Elgin
Carrie Frost 847-697-2880 cfrost@andersonanimalshelter.org
Animal-themed programs.
Anderson Japanese Gardens
Rockford
Leah Weyermann 815-316-3285 lweyermann@andersongardens.org
Provides badge workshops in a beautiful Japanese garden setting.
Angelic Organics
Caledonia
programs@learngrowconnect.org
Variety of workshops focused on sustainable living.
Animal Quest Entertainment, Inc. Will travel
Jessica Reedy jessica@animal-show.com
Shares the nature of some of our planet’s creatures through live animals, knowledge, enthusiasm, and habitat. Shows are interactive and feature live animals!
The Archery Place
Montgomery
Michelle Helwig 630-664-1452 michelle.helwig@niarchery.org
Learn Basic Archery in accordance with USA Archery curriculum for Archery Range Safety, Equipment, Shooting Form, Shot Execution, and Scoring. Troops receive discounted rates.
The Art Place
Lake in the Hills Lindsay Calabrese 815-355-3621 lindsay@theartplaceonline.com
Art programs for badges such as painting, drawing, and pottery.
Arts on Fire
Plano
Kelly 630-273-2119
Choose from different pottery, ceramics, and fused glass projects!
Bartlett Nature Center
Bartlett
Robin 847-608-3120 rnagle@bartlettparks.org
Various interactive animal and environmental activities. Customized troop events on request, Girl Scout Saturdays, overnights, and lock-ins. Emergency preparedness workshops, simple home repair, and car care. Customized troop events on request.
Best Defense of Illinois
Will travel
Joe Rosner joe.rosner@usa.net
Fun program teaching girls to avoid violence and use self-defense as a last resort, includes workbook, graduation certificate, and wallet safety card.
Big Rock Library
Big Rock
Mary Hauge 630-556-3604
Located in a restored Victorian home, this partner offers displays of Native American artifacts and natural history along with tours and activities.
Boone County Conservation District
Belvidere
Tina Dawson Scott 815-547-7935 tdawson@bccdil.org
Offers Journey and badge programs for all levels of Girl Scouts as well as other outdoor adventure opportunities.
The Brave Way
Will travel
Mike Theriault 224-778-5182 thebravewayllc@att.net
Two-hour classes at your location to teach self-defense to Girl Scouts, parents, and siblings.
Byron Forest Preserve
Byron
Janet Dahlberg 815-234-8535 x232 buffalogirl@gmail.com
Offers badge workshops in nature, art, recycling, history, science, outdoor hobbies, cross country skiing, night hikes, and volunteer opportunities.
Canlan Sportsplex
Lake Barrington Tammy Kerr 847-387-1506 tkerr@canlansports.com
At the indoor sports facility, girls participate in teambuilding and sports activities such as kickball, volleyball, pickleball, soccer, and even an inflatable obstacle course.
Cantigny Park
Wheaton
Offers a variety of Girl Scout badge programs and outdoor fun.
Cave of the Mounds
Blue Mounds, WI groups@caveofthemounds.com
Cave tours, plus program and yearly overnights available.
Challenger Learning Center
Woodstock
Explore constellations in the StarLab, robotics, and take part in a space mission!
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Melissa Tyer 630-260-8274 MTyer@FDMuseum.org Brigitte Redman 815-338-7722 bredman@aurora.edu
GSNI Partners Business
City
Contact
Description
Characters of Character
Will travel
Joni 815-403-0217 jonidowney310@gmail.com
Provides the tools to teach girls self-esteem, responsibility, kindness, and good manners, along with other vital core values to help build confidence and lifelong social skills.
ChatterGirls (Guided Choices)
Will travel
Alicia Birong 815-404-8343 aliciachattergirls@gmail.com
A self-esteem program for girls ages 8-14, Chattergirls helps young girls with social and inner pressures that begin at a young age.
Chestnut Mountain
Galena
Shera Chumbler 815-777-4674 shera@chestnutmtn.com
Winter: Downhill skiing and snowboarding. Summer: Alpine Slide, mini-golf, disc golf, and Soaring Eagle ride.
Chicago Steel Hockey Team
Geneva
Keri Kujawa 630-517-5079 info@chicagosteelhockeyteam.com
The Chicago Steel, Chicagoland’s only Tier 1 Junior Hockey Team, located at the Fox Valley Ice Arena, provides affordable, family-friendly entertainment. The Steel offers Girl Scouts the opportunity to present the colors during the national anthem, have a pre-game talk with a coach about character development or even a Hockey 101 talk, along with a fun night of Steel hockey!
The Chilled Palette
Geneva
Miriam Kuta thechilledpalette@gmail.com
Supplies canvas, painting materials, apron, and artistic guidance
Classical Glass
Algonquin
847-854-7701 info@classicalglass.net
Teaches girls how to cut glass for various fused glass objects. Offers stained glass classes for young adults and adults.
Clay Monet Pottery Studio
Lake Zurich
Marla 847-540-7772 info@claymonet.com
Looking for a fun outing? Bring your next meeting to Clay Monet!
Code Ninjas
Algonquin
Derek Garden algonquinil@codeninjas.com
Offers computer programming and robotics session for Girl Scouts. Programming is all video game-based, so kids have fun while learning the basics of programming. Robotics sessions are designed so kids can see the different components that go into robot-building as well as programming robots.
Color My World ARTS Academy
Bartlett
Kathryn Benton 224-208-5707 kathryn@colormyworldarts.com
Multicultural art and literacy workshops enhance understanding, curiosity, and appreciation of world cultures. Drawing, painting, pottery, mixed media art, mosaics, textile art, jewelry, book making, and more.
Crabtree Nature Center, FPCC
Barrington
Karen Holmes 847-381-6592 karen.holmes@cookcountyil.gov
Hands-on environmental activities and service project opportunities.
Creative Arts, Inc.
Crystal Lake
815-219-9243 creativeartsclasses@gmail.com
Complete requirements for art badges. Fun activities include clay, comics, drawing, painting, and murals!
Crystal Lake Cave
Dubuque, IA
Julie Ramirez 563-542-3573 pjlkramirez@yahoo.com
Guided cave tours are available with discount pricing for Girl Scouts. A more adventurous 2-hour tour of unexcavated passageways is also available.
Crystal Lake Nature Center
Crystal Lake
Jody Niles 815-455-1763 clpdnature@crystallakeparks.org
Archery, outdoor cooking, climbing wall, fishing, and service project opportunities.
Curves
Sandwich
Kristy Weber 630-546-5142 curvessandwich28@gmail.com
Healthy living and Athlete badges. Strength training on resistance machines, cardio workout, and Zumba.
Cut it Out Scrapbook Supplies, Inc. Crystal Lake
Angela Guibord 847-668-3483 angela@cutitoutinc.com
Scrapbooking and paper crafting for all ages! Also offers canvas painting classes. Can accommodate up to 60 girls for many arts and crafts projects.
Dance FX
Rockton
Meghan La Marca 815-624-5867 dancefx.rockton@gmail.com
Teaches the art of dance in an age appropriate environment, connected to Girl Scout badges.
Delnor Health & Fitness Center
Geneva
630-933-4234
Interactive one-session babysitting class. Skills to care for babies and children, including how to handle emergencies, basic first aid, and safety. Plus, learn fun games, child development, and discipline techniques.
Discover SCUBA
Crystal Lake
Arthur Koch 815-479-0996 sealevel@sealeveldiving.com
After a short brief by our PADI Instructor, get in the pool with all the scuba equipment and try scuba diving!
Discovery Center Musuem
Rockford
815-972-2843 scouts@discoverycentermuseum.org
Museum offers hands-on learning, and a varitey of programs and overnights.
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GSNI Partners Business
City
Contact
Description
Dolphin Swim Club
Crystal Lake
Kelly Kempf-Shane 847-854-1300 crystallake@dolphinswimclub.com
Offers water safety field trips, swim camps, recreational open swim time, and special celebration days. For an extra special troop outing, ask about Mermaid University for small groups!
DuPage Children’s Museum
Naperville
Christine Barry 630-637-8000 x 6100 scouts@dupagechildrensmuseum.org
Hands-on children’s science museum. Offers various badge and Journey activities.
Durant House and Pioneer Sholes School
St. Charles
Debra Corwin 630-377-6424 durantandsholes@ppfv.org
Learn about life on the Illinois prairie with hands-on activities and games.
Elgin History Museum
Elgin
Rebecca Miller 847-742-4248 educator@elginhistory.org
Experience the history of Elgin through interactive displays, activities, life on the prairie, working at the Elgin National Watch Co. and various architectural features of Elgin.
Elgin Public Museum
Elgin
Francesca Zomkowski 847-741-6655 francesca_epm@cityofelgin.org
Offers exhibits and educational programs with natural history and cultural themes.
Elgin School District U-46 Planetarium
Elgin
Peggy Hernandez 847-888-5324 peggyhernandez@u-46.org
Explore the night sky and constellations!
Ellen Violet Designs
Sugar Grove
630-465-2954 ellenvioletdesigns@yahoo.com
Sewing classes and camps to teach the valuable life skill of sewing.
Esther’s Place
Big Rock
Natasha Lehrer Lewis 630-556-9665 natasha@esthersplacefibers.com
Felting classes where girls can learn the process from the sheep to yarn and then create a make-and-take project. Drinks provided. Call to schedule dates and select a project. All ages, 16 person maximum.
Ethnic Heritage Museum
Rockford
815-962-7402 ehm1129@comcast.net
Provides customizable visits around the culture and contributions of six ethnic groups that settled in Rockford, including crafts and food tasting to fit the age group and interest of girls.
THE PURSUIT OF BETTER HEALTH CARE STARTS HERE. From the everyday checkups to the most complex medical care, the people of Northwestern Medicine are all in for better. We’re driven to find better outcomes for every patient and their families, and we bring that commitment to your community, every day. To learn more about our worldclass care, visit nm.org/better.
Kishwaukee Hospital
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BETTER
GSNI Partners Contact
Description
Family YMCA of Northwest Illinois Freeport
Business
City
Kayla Barnes 815-235-9622 kayla.barnes@highland.edu
Learn about new sports and have fun while earning badges.
Fever River Outfitters
Galena
info@feverriveroutfitters.net
Canoeing and kayaking with camping and biking options.
Flagg Township Museum
Rochelle
Jan Devore 815-562-3040 hubhistory@gmail.com
Tours of the museum, including information about the history of Rochelle and the surrounding area.
Fox Valley Shooting Range
Elgin
Mark Glavin 630-357-3570 info@foxvalleysr.com
Offers indoor shooting year-round, with 14 shooting lanes, including two private lanes that can accommodate groups of up to 4 people.
Fox Valley Wildlife Center
Elburn
Donna Tate 630-365-3800 fvwildlife@sbcglobal.net
Fun and educational programs on conservation, ecology, wildlife rehabilitation, and the importance of coexisting with our wild neighbors.
Freeport Art Museum
Freeport
815-235-9755 education@freeportartmuseum.org
Art programs or custom programming to match a requested badge or Journey.
The Gearbox
Oswego
Kelly Knopf ksknopf@yahoo.com
Learn about robotics from the Gear it Forward team!
Glidden Homestead and Historical Center
DeKalb
Rob Clove 815-756-7904 rob@gliddenhomestead.org
Delivers learning opportunities on barbed wire and how it helped change history.
Grace Holistic Center for Education
Yorkville
Melissa Jenkins 765-914-0789 melissa.jenkinsrncgrn@gmail.com
Yoga for kids, organic gardening, and healthy living activities.
Grand Dental Group
Aurora
Jamie Gilmore 630-585-9333 jgilmore@granddentalgroup.com
Six locations in Aurora, Channahon, Franklin Park, Sycamore, Lake Zurich, and Wilmington offer an office tour, oral hygiene discussion, and a talk about career opportunities in the dental field.
Great Lakes Credit Union
Crystal Lake
Donna Beltran 847-578-7331 donnab@glcu.org
Financial literacy badges and petals.
GSNI Historians
Local Historian
Sue Reimer gshistorysreimer@yahoo.com
Organizes tours, Programs-in-a-Box, and troop visits.
Hawthorne Hill Nature Center
Elgin
Maura Neuffer 847-531-7055 neuffer_m@cityofelgin.org
Offers 67 acres of natural area, including a pond, sedge meadow, trees, birds, hiking trails, summer amphibians, and indoor area where children can enjoy various nature games and activities.
Hickory Knolls Discovery Center
St. Charles
Laura McCoy 630-513-4393 lmccoy@stcparks.org
Enjoy the trails and exhibits of Hickory Knolls with a trained educator who will lead hands-on activities to earn badge requirements!
Historic Wagner Farm
Glenview
Sarah Schoeneberg 847-657-1506 Step back in time with a trip to the Historic Wagner Farm, sarah.schoeneberg@glenviewparks.org one of the last working dairy farms in the area. A visit to the Historic Wagner Farm is not a trip to a petting zoo. It is an opportunity to see and participate in the daily activities of a real working farm. Enjoy a variety of programs that work towards portions of badge requirements.
Hope’s In
Chicago
Courtney McGovern 847-542-1577 courtney@hopesin.org
Partnering with OSO Microenterprise, this program employs women living in the garbage dump communities of Guatemala City to craft handmade teddy bears. Hosting build-a-bear type workshops that help support the women and are a hands-on way for young girls to learn about social impact.
IL Agri-Women
Decatur
Penny Lauritzen 815-535-4141 lauritzen@farmestate.com
Career discovery related to STEM options in the food, natural resources, and agriculture industry.
Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store
McHenry
Mary 815-385-0870
Learn to sew with fun projects like pillow cases or pajama pants.
Kimmer’s Ice Cream
St. Charles
Amy Soden 630-762-9480 amy@kimmersicecream.com
Offers shop tours, information on crafting homemade ice cream, and how the business began. Female-founded and female-led company willing to discuss entrepreneurship. Patches offered for purchase upon completion of tour!
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GSNI Partners Business
City
Contact
Description
Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Gardens
Rockford
815-965-8146 info@klehm.org
Provides 155 acres of signature gardens and woodland with accessible trails.
Lacemakers of Illinois
Will travel
Kanella Diakoumis kanellaatc@yahoo.com
Make and share instruction of a variety of lacemaking techniques, bobbin lace, needle lace, tatting, etc.
Lakeside Legacy Foundation
Crystal Lake
Emily Barry 815-455-8000 ebarry@lakesideartspark.org
Variety of culinary classes to fulfill badge requirements along with “just for fun” courses held in the Dole Mansion.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Schaumburg
Jason Conrad 847-592-9706 groupsalesch@ legolanddiscoverycenter.com
LEGO Workshop + Attraction Visit: Works in partnership with LEGO Education to deliver high quality educational experiences that will prepare today’s girls for tomorrow’s world. Content of workshop matches age and interest level of participants. Workshops include admission to LEGOLAND Discovery Center, commemorative patch, and full access to the attraction before and/or after workshop. Will host events, troop nights, or award ceremonies! Events are 2.5 hours and include admission for all guests and pizza dinner.
Lifetime Climb
Warrenville
Dawn Grant 630-791-2284 dgrant@lt.life
Indoor rock climbing and sleepovers.
Lockwood Park
Rockford
Nicole Cabe 815-987-8811 nicolecabe@rockfordparkdistrict.org
Horseback trail rides and equine education sessions with 3 Cheers for Animals activities and fun patch included.
Loyola University Retreat and Ecology Center
Woodstock
Lynda Blacker 773-508-2317 lblacker@luc.edu
Low and high rope courses, teambuilding activities, archery, geocaching, and various environmental workshops.
Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation
Dundee
Colleen Goldberg 847-428-2240 cgoldberg@mcgrawwildlife.org
Offers a wide variety of conservation education programs through The Center for Conservation Education. In addition to badge programs, offers seasonal programs, as well as conservation, service, and special project opportunities.
McHenry Bank and Trust
McHenry
Rose Smith 815-344-6600
Financial literacy badges and petals.
Members Alliance Credit Union
Rockford
Anna Hauck ahauck@membersalliance.org
Hands-on, reality-based financial literacy programs.
Microsoft
Schaumburg
Paula Brkich 630-881-0907 pabrkich@microsoft.com
Badge workshops include Daisies Violet petal, Brownies Computer Expert badge, Cadettes Movie Maker and Netiquette badges, and Juniors Digital Photography badge. Non-badge workshops include Fresh Paint, PicsArt, Minecraft Build Challenge, and coding camps!
Midwest School of Isshinryu Karate
Aurora
Stacy Strunk 630-263-4064 msoikarate@gmail.com
Different kinds of martial arts styles to learn self-defense skills at your troop meeting.
Millbrook Trail Rides
Millbrook
Meredith Sleezer 630-777-9308 mgmt@millbrooktrailrides.com
Equestrian programs customized to the experience and skills your troops seek. Real trail rides through the forest.
Morton Arboretum
Lisle
Krista Phelps 630-719-4890 kchilds@mortonarb.org
Share unique discoveries in the great outdoors.
Muse Art
Crystal Lake
Heather Muse 815-790-6323 museartstudio1@gmail.com
Paint along with the artist/instructor! Learn painting techniques to create a beautiful piece of art. No experience necessary. Learn about the different tools used to create a wood plank sign. The instructor will guide the class through every step of the process.
Mystery Shop
Will travel
Mary Heitert 630-690-1105 tms@themysteryshop.com
Interactive mysteries and programs which excite the mind, as well as the funny bone, with connections to Girl Scout Journeys.
Natural Balance
Maple Park
Allen Weimer 630-728-3831 natbalance@outlook.com
Learn how to understand the ways horses communicate their emotions, learn about horses in ground-based activities, and if your troop wants more adventure, learn about horses while riding!
Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens
Rockford
815-987-8858
Encourages exploration of exotic plants with a variety of workshops available.
Nick’s Pizza & Pub
Crystal Lake/ Elgin
815-356-5550 specialevents@nickspizzapub.com
Provides a restaurant tour, pizza-making workshop (for a fee), scavenger hunt, and bag of peanuts.
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GSNI Partners Contact
Description
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Chicago
Business
City
Kristen Pratt 773-775-5177 kpratt@naturemuseum.org
Provides a variety of nature programs, badge workshops, and overnights in the museum.
Peter Patterson Glassworks
Mundelein
Peter or Sue 847-949-0013 ppglass@earthlink.net
Learn about glass blowing and how to make your own glass paperweight, ring holder, or window sparkler.
Pro Dance Elite
Algonquin
Alex Chapa 847-458-2899 pdeoffice@yahoo.com
Offers performance, competition, and training to each level of dancer.
Raging Buffalo
Algonquin
Zoe Marshal zoe@ragingbuffalo.com
Offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. Snowboard rentals and lessons available.
Red Oak Nature Center
Batavia
630-897-10808 roprograms@fvpd.net
Provides the opportunity to explore a hardwood forest, endangered Illinois prairie, and the only cave in the area.
RoboThink
Barrington, Lake Zurich, Wauconda
Liz Ray 847-315-0167 info@myrobothink.com
Armed with gears, motors, axles, and unique robotics kit, students learn about engineering, science, and coding principles by building and coding robots. Programs can be customized to fulfill badge requirements for Daisies through Cadettes.
Rockford Art Museum
Rockford
815-968-2787
Offers hands-on art experiences and tours.
Rockford Dance Company
Rockford
815-963-3341
Learn about dance!
Rocktown Adventures
Rockford
Kevin Versino 815-636-9066 kevin@rocktownadventures.com
Furnishes lessons for canoe, kayak, snowshoe, and crosscountry ski, along with rental opportunities.
Rush Copley Healthplex
Aurora
Lindsay Stuersel 630-499-2307 hpactivities@rushcopley.com
Fun indoors with rock climbing, swimming, tennis, badminton, table tennis, court sports (kickball, flag football, basketball, and dodge ball), and fitness classes.
OBER 20,
ER 4-OCT
SEPTEMB
2019
BRING YOUR TROOP AND SAVE! GROUPS OF 10 OR MORE RECEIVE UP TO 20% OFF AND PAY NO SERVICE FEES!
NOVEMBER 13, 2019-JANUARY 19, 2020
CONTACT MELISSA AT 630-723-2461 OR MELISSAS@PARAMOUNTARTS.COM.
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GSNI Partners Business
City
Contact
Description
Sahaja Meditation
Will travel
Jennifer Talarico 773-216-7583 jennifer.talarico@gmail.com
Engage girls on topics of emotional health, stress relief, and and self-awareness. Programs involve a brief, guided meditation, leading to a state of inner peace, followed by an interactive component relevant to a badge or Journey. Programs are free and led by experienced daily practitioners of meditation.
Sandwich Park District
Sandwich
Candace Kissel 815-786-8044
Customizable program to help Girl Scouts earn badges.
School of Art
Geneva
Jennifer Siracusano 630-338-3833 jen@schoolofartgeneva.com
Teaches all ages, all stages, and all mediums in connection to Girl Scout art-related badges.
Sci-Tech Museum
Aurora
Ian McCleary 630-859-3434 x230 scouts@scitechmuseum.org
SciTech Girl Scout badge workshops offer a variety of STEM programming. Each class is designed to assist in the completion of badges for each level. Sleepovers and Twilight adventures, too.
Severson Dells
Rockford
Ellen Rathbone 815-335-2915 ellen@seversondells.org
Offers 2.5 miles of trails, including a 2/3 mile hard-surfaced trail, accessible year-round, ideal for Journey and badge work at all levels!
Sewing 4 Fun
St. Charles
Christina Dahl 847-345-0979 sewing4funwithchris@gmail.com
Cut, pin, and sew (using a sewing machine and hand sewing) a project to take home.
Sky Tours at YMCA Union Park Camp
Dubuque, IA
Kevin Hougham skytourszipline@gmail.com
A nine-zipline canopy tour over the ruins of historic Union Park. Ziplines range from 300’ to over 1,000’, including a side-by-side racing zipline.
Snapology of McHenry
McHenry
Vanessa Quinn 815-708-1200 mchenry@snapology.com
Provides interactive and educational programs for Girl Scouts in the areas of engineering, robotics, animation, and more! Using a curriculum mapped to Girl Scout badge requirements, technology, and popular building toys, such as LEGO® bricks, this workshop environment is filled with teamwork and fun! Snapology fun patches offered at additional cost.
Soleunique Dance Complex
Aurora
Diana True 630-291-1424 diana@soleunique.com
Learn about many different dance techniques!
Spring Valley Nature Center and Heritage Farm
Schaumburg
Brenda Korecky 847-985-2100 brkorecky@parkfun.com
Outdoor living museum where visitors can learn about nature and local history.
St. Charles Park District
St. Charles
630-513-6200 Dance: rfasching@stcparks.org Farm: ajones@stcparks.org
Dance badges and farm tours.
Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks
Utica
Lisa Sons 815-557-4726 DNR.StarvedRock@illinois.gov
Badge-in-a-Backpack programs for leaders and Brownies (Hiker), Juniors (Animal Habitats), and Cadettes (Trees).
Steel Beam Theater
St. Charles
Lori Holm 630-887-7269 loriholm1@gmail.com
Offers theater workshops in acting, stage presence, and self-esteem.
STEM For Kids
Rockton
Donna Curtis 608-352-8330 wimadison@stemforkids.net
Deliver programs to Girl Scouts teaching robotics, computer programming, and engineering. 1-3 hour troop events which can be customized to meet badge requirements and troop requests. Will travel throughout northern Illinois.
STEM Outreach, Northern Illinois University
DeKalb (or) Will travel
Pati Sievert 815-753-1201 stemoutreach@niu.edu 815-753-0533
Facilitate skill building in STEM and DIY with tools unlikely to be readily available to troops. Works with troops or co-ops of troops to complete simple and complex requirements for STEM badges and STEM Journeys for Brownies through Ambassadors. Help girls meet female mentors in professional STEM careers.
Sterling-Rock Falls Family YMCA
Sterling
Debra Mortonson 815-535-9622 dmortonson@srfymca.org
Designed to help girls work on Aquatics badges, swimming strokes, basic first aid, or CPR. Youth sports teach girls the basics of different sports.
Success Foundation
Will travel
Laura Lindwall 630-550-6989 lauralindwall@aol.com
Fundamental principles of personal development and resources to help girls reach their full potential.
Summers Academy of Dance & Berkshire Ballet Theatre
Crystal Lake
Vicki Summers vicki_summers@msn.com
Opportunity to explore one or multiple styles of dance, along with creating fun routines, tumbling, being healthy, exercising, and connecting with each other through dance movement.
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GSNI Partners
Business
City
Contact
Description
Sylvan Learning
Sycamore
815-290-9177
Offers hand-on STEM activities.
Sylvan Learning Center of Lake Zurich/Barrington
Lake Zurich
Ken Frysztak 847-382-7755 LakeZurich.IL@sylvanlearning.com
Introduces troops to new and fun experiences with creative STEM programs!
Tasty Tidbits Culinary Services, LLC
Rockford
Chef Diana Kramer tastytidbitspcs@gmail.com
Cooking classes designed for earning badges with flexible options! These classes are partially hands on, with all students sitting down to taste what they have prepared and the rest to take home.
Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum
Rockford
Samantha Hochmann 815-964-2424 info@tinkercottage.com
Provides programming for Girl Scouts on Victorian history and architecture. Provides tour of historic Tinker Swiss Cottage and participation in a hands-on activity, ranging from the Victorian Era, Architecture, or Prairie Creek Study.
Trickster Art Gallery
Schaumburg
Joseph Podlasek 847-301-2090 joep@trickstergallery.com
Gallery of Native American artifacts and hands-on activities to learn about Native American culture. Various travelling cultural exhibits and demonstrations throughout the year.
Troop Mackinaw
St. Ignace, MI
troopmackinaw.com
Furnishes a fun and affordable weekend as the complete Mackinac Island package with a whole troop or mothers and daughters!
University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford Chapter of American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA)
Rockford
Carrie Hermanson prrockford@uic.edu Medical Students from the AMWA chapter at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford offer personalized programs in healthcare, healthy eating and lifestyles, as well as first aid.
Vertical Endeavors
Glendale Heights
630-784-9000 teresa@verticalendeavors.com
Indoor climbing in the largest climbing gym in the area.
Waterstreet Studios
Batavia
Karine 630-761-9977 karine@waterstreetstudios.com
Art classes designed for earning badges in drawing, painting, comics, and book making.
Wauconda Township Historical Society
Wauconda
Cindy Graff 847-526-9303 wths@wauconda-history.org
Docent guided tour of a historic house and what life was like in the late 1800s. Learn Local history.
White Pines Ranch
Oregon
Andee Brehm 815-732-7923 andeewhitepinesranch@gmail.com
Features horseback riding, hayrides, orienteering, cemetery study, fossil hunts, nature hikes, scavenger hunts, games, initiative tasks, bingo, country line dancing, mapping, wilderness survival class, swimming (summer/early fall), campfire sing-along, sledding, and cross country skiing.
Wilderness Inquiry
Minneapolis, MN
Suzanne Huggett 612-676-9408 suzanne@wildernessinquiry.org
Adventures encourage Girl Scouts to open themselves to new possibilities and opportunities through kayaking, canoeing, hiking and other outdoor recreational adventures. From the Mississippi River to the mountains of Colorado, it’s the perfect trip for your troop!
Wildman Adventure Resort
Silver Cliff, WI
Tracy Giordano 715-757-2938 reservations@wildmanresort.com
Offering outdoor adventures for all types of Girl Scouts including whitewater rafting, zip lines, high ropes course, and kayaking. Camp or stay in a cabin along the banks of the Peshtigo River.
Winnebago Soil Conservation District
Rockford
Dennis Anthony 815-965-2392 x3
Variety of program topics, including rain barrels and gardens, water, soil forestry, recycling/composting, prairies, and the Illinois state symbols.
Woodlawn Arts Academy
Sterling
Becky Rich 815-626-4278 brich@woodlawnartsacademy.com
Workshops and classes: art, clay pottery, culinary, dance, music, theater, woodworking.
Womanspace
Rockford
Julie Maffei or Cherie Heck 815-877-0118
Specializes in programs that stimulate awareness, develop competence, encourage creativity, and generate healthy decision-making on seven acres of woods and prairie. 844-GSNI-4-ME | 73
Planned Giving Juliette Gordon Low Society The Juliette Gordon Low Society of planned giving donors celebrates the girls of the future and ensures their opportunity to be Girl Scouts. Together, we will empower girls to reach their fullest potential and build a better world. At Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois, we believe that when girls succeed so does society. Whether they’re assembling robots, planting trees, collecting cans of food, or petitioning Congress, Girl Scouts are building a better world for all of us. But we need your help to ensure every G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader)™ develops the confidence that Girl Scouts nurtures.
Benefits of Membership As a Juliette Gordon Low Society member, you will be invited to attend special recognition and educational events. Other benefits include a subscription to the Society newsletter, listing as a Society member in select Girl Scout publications, access to digital resources and a special membership lapel pin.
Becoming a Member The Juliette Gordon Low Society celebrates planned gifts to Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois. Such gifts can include naming Girl Scouts as beneficiary of a: ⏵⏵ ⏵⏵ ⏵⏵ ⏵⏵
“ …It is bigger than just giving our money. Our commitment also reflects the confidence we have in knowing that Girl Scouts is continuing the tradition of building our girls and instilling in them the good habits and strong values that they need to be the leaders of tomorrow.” DIANNE BELK, FOUNDING CHAIR, JULIETTE GORDON LOW SOCIETY
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Will Retirement Plan Living Trust Donor Advised Fund
⏵⏵ Life Insurance Policy ⏵⏵ Remainder Gift of Real Estate ⏵⏵ A gift of any kind that benefits Girl Scouts in the future
Tax-wise gifts that provide lifetime income: ⏵⏵ Charitable Gift Annuity ⏵⏵ Charitable Remainder Trust Your thoughtful and generous financial gift will help support and sustain Girl Scouting and will extend your involvement with the Movement beyond your lifetime. Contact us today to share your plans or to discuss the best gift option for you.
The impact of your gift will shine through the smiles, the laughter, and the achievements of millions of Girl Scouts for years to come.
We invite you to join the Juliette Gordon Low Society. Please contact Lynn Momberger at lmomberger@girlscoutsni.org or (815) 209-6664
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Thank You to Our Major Program Supporters
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The Big Book is just the beginning! We are here for you all year!
Growing Up with Girl Scouts
Keep in Touch!
As girls grow, the Girl Scout experience grows with them! At each Girl Scout level, girls choose between tons of fun, skill-building, characterbuilding activities, and adventures that have been masterfully designed specifically for their age and developmental stage. Beyond that, we know different girls will participate in Girl Scouts in different ways. Most girls are members of a Girl Scout troop—a group of girls, often in the same age level and always led by at least two caring, responsible adults.
Daisies (K–1st) Brownies (2–3rd)
When girls are Daisies and Brownies, they’re excited about everything, eager to try new things, and building basic life skills to become confident and independent. Most of their experience is led by their troop leaders. We’re committed to providing troop leaders with the tools and resources to host successful troop meetings, field trips, badge activities, and special events.
Juniors (4–5th) Cadettes (6–8th)
When girls are Juniors and Cadettes, they’ve developed preferences for what types of activities they like and don’t like. They are curious about the world around them and dig deeper to learn how it works. Most troops connect with our Preferred Partners—businesses and organizations in our communities who have aligned what they do best with our Girl Scout Leadership Experience—to get a behind-the-scenes look at topics that interest girls.
Our Customer Care team is ready to assist you when you call 844-GSNI-4-ME (844-476-4463) or email customercare@girlscoutsni.org.
Seniors (9–10th) Ambassadors (11–12th)
When girls are Seniors and Ambassadors, they’re planning ahead for college and career. They are often still members of active troops but may stay involved as Individually Registered Members (Juliettes) instead. High school girls work one-on-one or in small groups with experts in fields that interest them. They make a big impact through the Girl Scout Gold Award and take action in their community around a cause or issue that matters deeply to them.
Our website is a great resource for GSNI members. You will always be able to find event registration, forms, news, and contact information for GSNI staff no matter where you go! Make sure to bookmark girlscoutsni.org so you’re always in the know. The News section of our website is constantly being updated with stories of what girls are up to around the council. Check in often!
In addition, there are always new and exciting things happening at GSNI, and we invite you to join the conversation on the following sites: facebook.com/GSNorthernIL pinterest.com/GSNorthernIL instagram.com/GSNorthernIL youtube.com/GSNorthernIL
Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois develops independent, confident girls by offering a variety of customizable experiences with opportunities to learn valuable life skills and try new things, all while cultivating the character to make a difference in the world.
Thank you for your support—
be it as a volunteer, member, donor, or advocate! Here’s to a great year!
NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO 533 ELGIN, IL
South Elgin Resource Center 353 Randall Rd South Elgin, IL 60177
girlscoutsni.org | 844-GSNI-4-ME South Elgin Resource Center South Elgin, IL 60177
Lake Zurich Resource Center Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Sugar Grove Resource Center Sugar Grove, IL 60554
Freeport Resource Center Freeport, IL 61032
Rockford Resource Center Rockford, IL 61107
Rock Falls Resource Center Rock Falls, IL 61112
2019–2020
big Book