Volunteer
411 Spring/Summer 2021
VOLUNTEER 411 is a publication of the Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland.
Spring/Summer
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Volunteer 411
The Volunteer 411 is a publication of the Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland and is published twice yearly. Think of this 411 as your sidekick. It’s here to help you create wow-worthy moments for our girls. Within its fun-soaked pages is a roadmap of possibilities, including exciting programs, amazing service opportunities, and ways to make the troop experience a blast from anywhere!
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Volunteer 411
VOLUNTEER 411
CONTENT
04 Spring Renewal
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Spring Renewal Rewards
Project Plant It
Cookie Volunteer Tips and Tricks
It’s time to sign up for another year of building change-makers! This year, we're offering even more rewards for renewing your Girl Scout Promise.
Our environment loves when we give back, so join us this spring to do just that! Save the galaxy, plant a tree—with Project Plant It!
It’s the time of year Girl Scouts put on their vests, set their goals, and fund some of their favorite Girl Scout memories! And we’re here to help!
05 A New Way to Manage Your Membership 06 Girl Scouts Love State Parks 07
Project Plant It
08 Why Girl Scout Cookies 12
Girl Scout Programs
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Girl Scouts Handcrafted
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Shop With Us
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Celebrate Girl Scout Week
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Belize: Wildlife Adventure
20 Celebrating Our Volunteers
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Girl Scouts Handcrafted
Leaders Weekend
A Menu of Adventures
You now have the option to choose from our already developed programs or reach out to us to develop a one-of-akind experience for you and your girls!
Celebrate Earth Day at Leaders Weekend 2021! This event is a fun tradition and a great way to connect with friends, old and new, who share a love of Girl Scouting.
Remember that summer feeling of freedom, excitement, and possibility? Let Girl Scout Summer Camp be the gateway to that summer feeling for your girl.
We want to connect with you! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland
@girlscouts_mh
@girlscouts_mh
info@girlscoutsmoheartland.org
www.girlscoutsmoheartland.org
877-312-4764
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Leaders Weekend and Volunteer Trainings
26 A Menu of Summer Adventure 30 Wrapping Up Your Year 32
Power Our Promise
I'M A BUTTON
When you see this shape, it's actually a button—here to help you learn more information on our website, sign up for an event, or check out even more cool stuff. Click away! Spring/Summer
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Spring Renewal: Renew for Rewards Starting May 1 and ending on May 31—it’s time to sign up for another year of building change-makers and risk-takers. New this year, we will offer even more rewards for renewing your Girl Scout Promise! Renew your memberships during the time frames listed below to receive the indicated rewards.
Register in this timeframe...
Week 1 May 1-7
Week 2 May 8-14
Week 3 May 15-21
Week 4 May 22-31
...to receive these rewards! Exclusive Renewal Patch
Exclusive Renewal T-Shirt
Exlusive Program Experience
One-of-a-Kind Summer Swag Bag
= Rewards for girls.
= Rewards for girls and adults.
New this year, Service Unit's can earn a reward too! Service Units who renew 90% or more of their members (including adults and girls) will earn dinner for volunteers at the Service Unit Meeting of your choice during the 2021 membership year. RENEW TODAY
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Volunteer 411
A New Way to Manage Your Membership I
n early December, Girl Scouts released a refreshed member management portal as part of the My GS community of online member resources. Now it's easier than ever to manage your household’s Girl Scout memberships and keep track of your Girl Scout experiences. With so many new features, here's a few we're most excited about! New Household Summary View. A scrollable list of all current and inactive Girl Scout members in your household along with troop affiliations and the status for all household memberships - renewing your girl has never been easier! New Event Dashboard. A scrollable summary of upcoming events and activities for your household. New Troop Summary View. There to provide you with a quick look at basic information on the troops that your household members are a part of! New My Account Menu. Ready to take you to pages like my household, my troop, my profile, or my events, where you will be able to find more details and information beyond the summary views on your landing page—and where you’ll go to update and edit your member account information!
Of course there's more, but we wanted to highlight just a few. Be sure to check it out. We think you’re going to like what you find!
EXPLORE THE NEW FEATURES Spring/Summer
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Girl Scouts Love State Parks!
It’s back! We know you love our Girl Scouts Love State Parks program. Make sure you mark your calendars for this year’s outdoor-exploring, courage-building good time!
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Volunteer 411
Project Plant It Calling all Girl Scouts—the planet needs your help! Join us this Earth Day to help save planet Earth and participate in Project Plant-it. Girl Scouts can change the world, one tree at a time. This new council-wide service project allows girls to not only get outdoors and give back to their community, but encourages girls to get involved in planet conservation. Every girl who contributes to Project Plant-It also earns a custom patch! How do you earn the patch? All you have to do is plant a tree! While you can participate in this as an individual or as a troop, we recommend at least one tree for every five girls. After planting a tree, submit a photo to the Project Plant-It Report Form and your patch will be sent to the address provided. Project Plant-It kicks off on on Earth Day, April 22, and the deadline for submitting reports is September 30, 2021.
Rules • • • •
At least one photo must be submitted. Only one patch per Girl Scout membership. All entries must be submitted by September 30, 2021. Troops or groups may submit a single report for the group. One address is needed; all patches will be sent to that address. Spring/Summer
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Why Girl Scout Cookies Are you a cookie rookie learning the ropes or a cookie veteran ready for another sweet cookie season? Whether it’s your first year or tenth—cookies are here! Girl Scouts change the world one box of cookies at a time! There is a lot more packed into a box of cookies than sweet treats—girls get a taste of what it takes to be successful and channel their entrepreneurial skills. When girls sell Girl Scout Cookies, they're doing more than just helping customers stock up on delicious treats (and having lots of fun). Girls are doing it with a goal in mind. Whether that goal is going to on a summer trip, helping their community with a community project, or anything else they can dream up—girls know how many packages they need to sell to make it happen. Having the opportunity to run their very own cookie business gives them skills essential for success today and in the future.
Top Four Reasons your troop should participate in the Girl Scout Cookie Program!
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1. Life Skills.
3. Financial benefits.
The Cookie Program helps girls—and you—develop leadership skills for life, including goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills, and business ethics.
Your troop will earn money to help offset the cost of activities, outings, program supplies, and so much more! And in the process, girls gain skills to be financially independent.
2. Girls earn exciting recognitions.
4. Your girls will thank you.
From more wearable recognitions in earlier levels to a new Virtual Disney experience—girls can show off their entrepreneurial accomplishments in new and exciting ways.
Many successful business women say they got their start selling Girl Scout Cookies.
Volunteer 411
LEARN MORE
National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend You’re invited to join Girl Scouts across the country to participate in National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend on February 19-21! We’re celebrating all the fun, learning, and excitement Girl Scouts have experienced selling cookies for over 100 years! This year we will be celebrating both the old and the new—girls will have the opportunity to go back in time and learn the original cookie recipe from 1922 and fast forward into modern times with the new Hooray for Toast-Yay! Patch Challenge! Celebrate with us by participating in the following activities!
fo ray r Toa oo
y! -Ya st
We are challenging our members—girls and adults—to celebrate our new cookie, the Toast-Yay! during the 2021 Cookie Program. From February 9 through April 30, 2021, girls and adults can celebrate our new cookie and say Hooray for Toast-Yay! to earn a new custom patch. Celebrate by completing 5 activities, then complete the online Hooray for Toast-Yay Challenge form to receive your free patch.
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New Toast-Yay! Patch Challenge
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Take it Back to 1922 We’re taking it back to 1922 and learning the original Girl Scout Cookie recipe. The video will be debuted on February 16 on our Facebook page. Join us live or watch after!
Earn a Bonus Patch During National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend, February 20-21, girls will have the opportunity to share their Girl Scout Cookie stories with us via social media. The first 200 girls to share their Girl Scout Cookie story will receive a limited-edition National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend patch! Spring/Summer
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Cookie Volunteer Tips and Tricks It’s the time of year Girl Scouts put on their vests, set their goals, and fund some of their favorite Girl Scout memories—and we’re here to help! Your GSMH staff, Troop Cookie Chairs, and Service Unit Cookie Chairs are ready to help your girls reach their goals and create lifelong memories in the process.
LEARN MORE
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Follow these tips to make sure your cookie season is successful from start to finish! •
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Get the scoop. When we say scoop—we mean the Cookie Scoop! The Cookie Scoop is your guide to all things cookies. What’s new for the cookie program this year? What’s Smart Cookies? We’ve got all the answers and more in our 2021 Cookie Scoop! Engage girls in digital sales. From online sales to phone calls, girls have everything they need right at their fingertips. If you don’t feel comfortable going door-to-door right now—no worries! The digital world is her oyster when it comes to the Cookie Program. Get creative! Allow your girls to dream up new ideas for selling cookies. Does she want to do a socially distant drive-thru cookie booth or think of a way to do contact-less selling? This year may look different—that just means she is able to create something new! Get familiar with the cookies. Make sure your girls know their stuff! Knowing what the cookies taste like and even pair well with will help her better understand her customer’s needs. Sit down and help set goals. If you haven't already, sit down with your whole troop and allow girls to start thinking about what they want to do with their cookie funds. Girl-led planning is a great way for your girls to not only get excited about cookies—but the year ahead! Practice, practice, practice! Deadlines are coming up! Be sure to go into Smart Cookies and make sure you know everything you have to do. This way when the deadline hits, you will already be a Smart Cookie pro! Mark your calendar! There’s some key dates before, during, and after the Cookie Program, like the ones on page 12-13 of The Cookie Scoop. Make sure you set up reminders for dates that you need to remember! Participate in National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend! Make sure your girls are taking advantage of all the cookie fun—and benefits—that come from participating in the National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend! Check out ways to celebrate National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend on our website. Use your resources wisely. The Cookie Scoop isn’t your only resource—there is help around every corner! If you’re having any issues or have any questions, contact your Troop Cookie Chair. Make sure to utilize the valuable resources that GSMH staff, Troop Cookie Chairs, and Service Unit Chairs have to offer. Join the community! Make sure to join the Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland Product Program Facebook group for all up-to-date information. You can even ask your fellow Girl Scout volunteers for more tips, tricks, and best practices!
Finally, don’t hesitate to reach out for a helping hand—you’re not alone in this adventure so reach out to parents, other Troop Leaders, and anyone else at Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland. Looking for more resources? Check out the Cookie Program section on our website.
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Girl Scout Programs Calling all registered Girl Scouts—it's time for your next Girl Scout adventure! Whether you choose to participate in our Girl Scouts Delivered programs or meet us on Facebook, YouTube, or Zoom—your Girl Scout adventures are right at your fingertips. Join us at any of the action-packed, courage-building program opportunities on the following pages. Our programs are open to any registered Girl Scout, unless otherwise stated in the program description. Girls and adults can view the Activities Calendar on our website to see upcoming programs and opportunities. Once you select a program and click the “Register Now” button on our website, you will be redirected to Doubleknot—our event registration system—for program registration and payment. Program registration can be paid with card, Cookie Credit, or Fall Funds. ACTIVITIES CALENDAR 12
Volunteer 411
Try It Tuesdays
Girl Scouts Delivered
Join us on Facebook every Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. for our Try It Tuesdays! These Facebook Lives will feature GSMH Program Specialists providing Girl Scout experiences for girls and the whole family— at no cost!
In our Girl Scouts Delivered series, girls will receive a program experience delivered to her front door! Her Girl Scouts Delivered box will include a preprogram activity that will allow her to jump into the adventure before the live program and a postprogram activity to keep the adventure going. The best part? Her experience box will include all the supplies needed for both activities and everything she needs to participate in the live virtual event.
Try It Tuesdays are free and can be found on our GSMH Facebook page under the Events tab. Unable to attend live? No worries! The recording will be available after the event and we will continue to answer questions in the comments afterwards.
YouTube Programs Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland has launched our own YouTube channel! Starting in February, our channel will be updated regularly with exciting new content—just for girls! Content will include programs perfect for girls of all ages!
Due to mailing supplies to girls, registration deadlines for these programs are approximately three weeks out—and spots are filling fast! Be sure to register early! Our Girl Scouts Delivered opportunities are available in each of the four program pillars—Life Skills, STEM, Outdoors and Entrepreneurship. Whether she wants to be a scientist or own a business, we’ve got her covered! Spring/Summer
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Girl Scouts Handcrafted Custom Programs Just for You New this year, we will be offering new Girl Scouts Handcrafted programs! Girl Scouts has been and continues to be girl-led—and that’s exactly what these programs are! Girls have the option to choose from our already developed programs or reach out to us to develop a one-of-a-kind experience for you and your girls! Girl Scouts Handcrafted programs are held on Zoom and facilitated by a GSMH Program Specialist. How do you request our new Girl Scouts Handcrafted program? Follow the steps below! • •
Submit your request via the Girl Scouts Handcrafted Request Form, where we will ask for all the information needed to successfully process your request. A Program Specialist will be in contact to discuss your request and make sure we have what we need to make a program tailored to you and your girls!
Requests must be submitted 10 business days prior to the earliest date requested. There is a minimum requirement of 10 girls per program. Programs will cost $5 per girl per hour, rounded up to the nearest hour. Payments will be made after a Program Specialist has reached out to discuss your request and a date is confirmed. Programs Ready to Go for Daisies Brownies and Juniors • Everest Exploration! • Sweet Science for Animals • La Familia • SCAMPER Towards Action
Programs Ready to Go for Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors • Everest Exploration! • Sweet Science for Animals
This is a great opportunity for troops! If you don't have 10 girls in your troop, pair up with another troop in your area or contact us to see what other opportunities can be provided. 14 Volunteer 411
REQUEST A PROGRAM
Shop with us from a distance!
From online shopping to curbside pickup—we’ve got you covered! Whether you need a new vest or the latest Girl Scout hoodie, you can shop while socially distancing. Make an appointment to shop in store, call ahead for a curbside pick-up, or shop online— even with Cookie Credit!
Curbside Pickup and Shop by Appointment. Schedule a time to shop or pick up pre-ordered merchandise on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Convert Cookie Credit to Shop Online! New this year, Cookie Credit can be converted to a digital GSUSA Gift Certificate for purchases on the online retail store. Fill out a Shop Online Gift Certificate Request and a digital gift certificate will be sent to you. How does this work? Let us know the amount of Cookie Program Credit you want to use online. We will notify GSUSA and you will receive a gift certificate code from GSUSA to use at check out for any purchases made from the online store.
CONVERT COOKIE CREDIT SHOP GSMH
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Girl Scout Week
March 7-13
Girl Scout Week is celebrated each March, starting with Girl Scout Sunday and ending with Girl Scout Sabbath on Saturday, and it always includes Girl Scouts’ Birthday, March 12. Use this time to reflect on what it means to be a Girl Scout and celebrate all of the remarkable things Girl Scouts has done to make the world a better place. Celebrate Girl Scout Week 2021 with us by joining in on some of the activities here!
Sunday March 7: Celebrate Girl Scout Sunday Think about your beliefs and how they are reflected in the Girl Scout Law. What do they have in common? Talk with your friends, family, or another Girl Scout about your thoughts.
Monday March 8: Take Pride in Girl Scout Spirit Day Get out Girl Scout gear for Girl Scout Spirit day! Wear a green tee, a vest or sash, or any other Girl Scout gear that you own. Don't forget to snap a pic and share how you’re rocking your Girl Scout gear today!
Tuesday March 9: Be a Go-Getter A go-getter is bold, honest, and determined to succeed. Goal-oriented and ambitious, she’s also a life-long learner who believes no challenge is too difficult. Set a goal to achieve this Girl Scout year! Whether this is making straight A’s, completing a Girl Scout Highest Award, or mastering a new skill, create a plan and work hard to make it happen.
Wednesday March 10: Be an Innovator Thinking outside the box is an innovator's specialty, so she’s always looking for a creative way to take action. She definitely knows how to get things done. Invent something new and think outside the box to find a new way to do something! Share your ideas with other Girl Scout sisters or your family.
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Volunteer 411
Thursday March 11: Be a Risk-Taker Courageous and strong, a risk-taker’s keen to try new things and to embrace the unfamiliar. She’s ready to step up and break the mold if that’s what it takes. Do something that you have never done before! This can be sitting with someone new during lunch time at school, riding a bike for the first time, or even earning a difficult Girl Scout badge. Explore the world around you and tell us what you did!
Friday March 12: Celebrate Girl Scouts' Birthday Throw a birthday party for Girl Scouts! Whether this is at home with your family, or socially distanced with your Girl Scout troop, celebrate everything Girl Scouts has done for you and your community.
Saturday March 13: Be a Leader A leader is confident, responsible, and committed to changing the world for the better—and she’s happiest when others join her in taking the lead! Make the world a better place by giving back to your community! This could be leading a cleanup at your local park, donating food to your community food bank, and so much more.
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LEARN MORE
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Show Your Girl Scout Week Spirit by Earning a New Patch! A new patch, how?! Complete as many of the listed activities as possible, take at least one photo, and be ready to answer the question… “How has Girl Scouts impacted your life?” Tell us about your activities, share your photo, and tell us your story on the Girl Scout Week Submission form, and receive one more patch to add to your collection! One patch per Girl Scout Membership. Patches will be mailed in April.
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Belize: Wildlife Adventure A tropical paradise with miles of shimmering blue Caribbean coastline and lush jungle canopies, Belize is bursting with diverse wildlife and a sense of adventure. See native jungle animals up close on multiple nature hikes, whiz through the treetops on a zip-line, and snorkel in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean. Ancient ruins, cave tubing, and a riverboat cruise ensure this will be an adventure your girls will never forget. Check out the details!
Join us June 21-28, 2023! Cost for Girls: $3,545 Cost for Adults: $3,995
A deposit of $95 saves your spot. But hurry—only a few spots remain!
Full-time Tour Director Your full-time Tour Director is with your group every step of the way on tour, providing insight about your destinations as well as great local tips.
Sightseeing A sightseeing tour led by an expert, licensed local guide.
Activity Level Active, with moderate walking (at least 2 hours daily), and may include high-altitude hiking, swimming, rafting, or more strenuous activities in high heat and humidity.
All of the Details are Covered Round-trip flights on major carriers; comfortable motorcoach; boat; 6 overnight stays in hotels with private bathrooms (7 with extension); 3 meals daily (Days 2-6); dinner on arrival day; breakfast on departure day (Breakfast on Day 7 and 8, lunch and dinner on Day 7 with extension). 18 Volunteer 411
Only a few spots left, reserve yo urs today!
Trip Itinerary
ENROLL TODAY
Day 1: Fly to Belize
Day 6: Ambergris Caye
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Located off the tip of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Ambergris Caye Island is less than 25 miles long and about 1 mile wide, but the number of incredible activities makes the island seem much larger. Its coastline is protected by the Belize Barrier Reef, a diverse ecosystem with over 500 species of fish, hundreds of invertebrates and over 90 varieties of coral identified. Snorkel at Hol Chan, then enjoy a free afternoon exploring Ambergris Caye.
Meet your Tour Director at the airport in Belize City.
Day 2: Belize City • • •
Travel by boat to the New River Lagoon. Take an expertly guided tour of Lamanai Ruins. Visit the Old Sugar Mill.
Day 3: Belize City | Cayo Region • • •
Travel via Sandhill to the Cayo region. Take a guided jungle hike. Adventure continues with a zipline tour through the broadleaf rainforest. Travel to the Cayo region.
Day 4: Cayo Region • • • •
Visit Xunantunich Ruins. Visit the Chaa Creek Natural History Center. Participate in a local exchange. Take a jungle night hike.
Day 5: Cayo Region | Ambergris Caye • •
Visit the Belize Zoo to see howler monkeys. Travel by ferry to Ambergris Caye Island.
Day 7: Depart for Home • •
Return by ferry to Belize City. Depart for your flight home.
Learn more at girltrips.eftours.com/tourwebsite/2422975JW
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Celebrating Our Volunteers Our volunteers wear so many hats. You are a cheerleader, guide, and mentor that allow girls to develop essential life skills and confidence that will last a lifetime. Because of you—our girls can make memories and change in the world around them. With so many new awards, consider nominating fellow volunteers for volunteer awards! Showing love and appreciation for volunteers is a long-standing Girl Scout tradition. After all, our volunteers are ah-mazing! Our volunteers are all about the girls—and we love you for it! Let's be honest, Girl Scouting wouldn’t be the same without you. We have three categories for Volunteer Awards— GSUSA Awards, GSMH Awards, and Service Unit Awards. New this year, GSMH Awards allow us to celebrate you even more! The GSMH Awards are nominated by staff or service unit volunteers, approved by GSMH leadership, and presented at the GSMH Volunteer Recognition Ceremony. All nominations are due by February 1.
New GSMH Awards Diversity Award For a volunteer who not only endorses diversity and inclusion, but takes active steps to encourage global diversity and inclusion of all types within their local area. This volunteer seeks to help girls and families have a true Girl Scout Experience regardless of barriers or obstacles to that goal.
GSMH Glowing Green Award For the volunteer who visibly exhibits a sincere commitment to the Girl Scout Promise and Law over an extended period and repeatedly inspires others to carry out the Girl Scout mission.
Lasting Legacy Award For the volunteer that has led a troop in good standing from Daisy through Senior levels, has led a troop that has completed Girl Scout Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards, or is a long-term volunteer whose service has contributed immensely to the growth of GSMH and spread of the Girl Scout Mission throughout the geographic area covered by GSMH. This volunteer has clearly left a legacy which honors Girl Scout values. 20 Volunteer 411
Want to learn more about volunteer awards? Check out our website for more information on how to nominate, which award best fits your volunteer, and more!
MORE INFO
Leadership Launch Award This volunteer is a registered Girl Scout adult in a troop leadership or assistant leadership role for less than two years. This new leader has hit the ground running and made a positive impact on Girl Scouting. This volunteer's performance is so outstanding that it merits recognition, putting effort into helping girls grow in courage, confidence, and character, as well as sharing their commitment to the Girl Scout Promise and Law.
Rising Star The GSMH Rising Star Award recognizes a first-year volunteer who has embraced the Girl Scout movement with energy and passion and has performed outstanding volunteer work in their first year.
Unsung Hero The GSMH Unsung Hero Award recognizes volunteers who help wherever needed, whenever needed, and completes whatever needs to be done.
Volunteer Appreciation Week is a national movement to show love for all the volunteers across the country that make so many organizations what they are! Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland encourages girls and volunteers to celebrate and thank all the change-making volunteers they know. During this entire week in April, we honor all the volunteers who volunteer as leaders and mentors in partnership with girls.
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Lead e rs Weeke n d
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Back to
Our Roots
Leaders Weekend Get back to your roots and celebrate Earth Day at Leaders Weekend 2021! Held at Finbrooke Program Center on April 23-25, this event is a fun tradition and a great way to connect with friends—old and new—who share a love of Girl Scouting. Choose from a variety of workshops and activities to create your own adventure. Workshops include art classes, team building, outdoor training, Girl Scout traditions, two mystery workshops, and more! Choose how long you stay—come for the whole weekend or just the day on Saturday. Lodging is available but space is limited. No matter what you choose to do or how long you choose to stay, you will leave re-energized and ready to continue your journey with Girl Scouts!
When and Where
Registration
Finbrooke Program Center April 23-25 | 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 a.m. Min/Max: 50/100
Online-only registration is open! Registration closes Thursday, March 25. Event details are available on our website. For questions about Leaders Weekend, call us at 877-312-4764 or send an email to info@ girlscoutsmoheartland.org.
Cost $15 fee includes lodging, lunch, Saturday snacks, and administrative costs. Cost may increase depending on your workshops and meal selections.
Merchandise Event t-shirts, patches, tote bags, and bandanas will be available. Coming soon!
Aspects of this event are subject to change based on COVID-19 guidelines, including evaluating whether it will be held in-person or virtually.
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REGISTER NOW
Volunteer Training Our Always-Expanding Training Selection on gsLearn • • • • •
Successful Leader Learning Series Girl Scouts in the Outdoors Indoor Overnights & Day Trips – Home Study Outdoor Level 1 – Home Study Money-Earning Activities Training
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Mandated Reporter Training Opening a Troop Bank Account Standards of Conduct and Volunteer Appointment Agreement Volunteer Toolkit Tutorials
Trainings on Request Do you and fellow volunteers in your area need a training? In some cases, we can bring the training to you or we can set up a training date that works for your volunteers. The following trainings are available on request: First Aid and CPR Blended Learning, Outdoor Level 2, and Outdoor Level 3. Visit the training page of our website and complete the Volunteer Training and Support Request to request a training. Request approvals will be depending on COVID-19 guidance and the availability of facilitators.
Virtual Volunteer Training Card Your volunteer training card is about to turn virtual through gsLearn - the online learning platform! But first—we need your help. Follow the steps below and we will do the rest! 1. Log in to gsLearn. 2. Search for the Virtual Volunteer Training Record under the Content tab. 3. Collect scans or photos of your Volunteer Training Card or other training records. Upload the documents!
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Building Your Troop Family Now, more than ever, troops and volunteers could use all the help they can get! There is no better way to keep girls engaged in troop activities, virtual or in-person, than to involve parents and guardians. Parent and guardian participation helps to enrich the troop experience of your Girl Scouts and invest families in the Girl Scout adventure! For some parents, volunteering could feel like a big responsibility, but there are so many ways Girl Scout families can volunteer with Girl Scouts. Parents can step or even start as a Troop Helper. Encourage your parents to sign up as a registered adult member and use their strengths. Are they uncomfortable leading meetings? Not a problem! They can help in any of the following ways as a Girl Scout Volunteer! •
Be included in the required number of adult volunteers needed to meet girl/adult ratio.
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Handle troop money or finances.
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Be a signer on the troop bank account (if unrelated to other 2 signers).
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Transport girls (in addition to their own) to and from meetings and activities.
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Organize and run cookie booths.
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Oversee execution of troop money-earning activities, as outlined by GSMH guidelines.
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Provide guidance and oversight to girl and troop Take-Action Projects.
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Utilize the Volunteer Toolkit to plan badge work and meetings.
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Deliver the girl program during meetings and activities on a regular basis.
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Lead the outdoor experience during troop camping trips or family campouts.
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Confirm all safety activity checkpoints for troop activities are in place and being followed. EXPLORE WAYS TO VOLUNTEER
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Not all heroes wear capes—our Girl Scout families make sure girls can continue to build courage, confidence, and character. Parents do not need to be registered or background checked members, but it is highly recommended. If they don’t feel comfortable taking on an official volunteer role quite yet, ask them to do one of the following! •
Coordinate troop communication, delivering updates to families on troop activities, upcoming meetings, or local opportunities..
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Help find and secure meeting spaces.
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Purchase badges and/or other meeting materials or supplies.
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Help organize the Fall Product Program.
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Provide snacks at meetings or events.
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Assist with girl and troop Take-Action Projects.
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Identify a grade-level appropriate badge you'd be interested in helping with at a troop meeting.
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Chaperone during a troop outing.
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Assist during a family campout.
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Help keep the troop organized.
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Be kind and encouraging to all volunteers, families, and Girl Scouts.
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A Menu of Summer Adventure Remember that summer feeling—that feeling of freedom, excitement and possibility? You wanted to pack every moment with something fun. You were in charge of your adventure, and it was awesome. Let Girl Scout Summer Camp be the gateway to that summer feeling for your girl. Summer Camp may look a little different this year, but our mission is the same! In 2021, we’re offering a menu of adventure to provide a wide range of opportunities, from one day to week-long in-person sessions at Finbrooke and Latonka, to another summer of virtual girl-led, outdoor adventures— delivered to your front door. Every girl can find summer adventures that are as awesome as she is—whatever her interests, age, or level of outdoor experience. Below are ways to get that summer feeling for your girl this year.
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In-Person Summer Camp at Finbrooke and Latonka Coming Summer 2021, we are returning to leadership-building, friend-meeting, and challenge-seeking summer camp opportunities at Finbrooke and Latonka. More information will be available in Explore, set for release in March.
Day Camp at Fox Run Stables We are continuing our partnership with Fox Run Stables for another summer! At this magical 75-acre equestrian community located just outside of Cape Girardeau, we’ll be partnering to offer day camp experiences for girls in June.
Virtual Summer Camp, Delivered We’re offering four weeks of virtual summer camp in June 2021! Each week will have a theme that will influence what girls do and what badges they earn. Each session will have two meeting times via Zoom a day—once in the morning, and once in the afternoon. All materials needed to participate will arrive at her doorstep to have an epic summer adventure, right from home!
Get your girl ready for her next adventure, and be on the lookout for Explore—our publication dedicated to the outdoors and awe-some summer experiences—arriving at doorsteps in March. All girls in grades K-12 are welcome and no Girl Scout experience necessary. Health and safety continues to be our number one priority while we plan for our summer of adventure.
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LEARN MORE
Girl Scouts’ Highest Awards Bronze. Silver. Gold. These represent the highest honors a Girl Scout can earn. All three awards give girls the chance to do big things while supporting an issue they care about. Girl Scouts who earn these highest awards are impacting the worlds of STEM, education, agriculture, medicine, and beyond.
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The Bronze Award. The Girl Scout Bronze Award adventure is big—in fact, this award is the highest honor a Girl Scout Junior can achieve. As girls plan and complete their project, they'll develop more confidence, meet new people, and have the kind of fun that happens when you work with other Girl Scouts to make a difference. Fourth or fifth grade registered Girl Scout Juniors that have completed a Junior Journey are eligible to earn their Bronze Award.
The Silver Award. Earning the Girl Scout Silver Award—the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette can earn—gives girls the chance to show that they are a leader who is organized, determined, and dedicated to improving their community. Girls may earn this award individually or as a small team. Earning the Silver Award puts girls among an exceptional group of Girl Scouts who have used their knowledge and leadership skills to make a difference in the world. After completing your Cadette Journey, 50 hours is the suggested minimum amount of time spent to earn the Silver Award. Sixth, seventh, and eighth grade registered Girl Scout Cadettes that have completed a Cadette Journey are eligible to earn their Silver Award.
The Gold Award: Become a Gold Award Girl Scout! The Girl Scout Gold Award is the most prestigious award that Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors can earn. After fulfilling the Journey(s) requirement, 80 hours is the suggested minimum amount of time for completing the steps: identifying an issue, investigating it thoroughly, getting help and building a team, creating a plan, presenting the plan, gathering feedback, taking action, and educating and inspiring others. Ninth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth grade registered Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors that have completed two Senior or Ambassador Journeys OR that have completed one Journey and have earned the Silver Award are eligible to earn their Gold Award.
Start on the Path to Gold Today! Want to learn more, but need a little help? We are now offering on-request Highest Awards workshops! We are available to work with volunteers, girls, or a whole troop interested in knowing more. To request a workshop, complete the Highest Awards Workshop Request form to start the process!
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Wrapping Up Your Year Now more than ever, it is important to take some time to share memories and celebrate successes with your girls as the school and troop year winds down in May. Many troops choose to wrap up their year with a Bridging Ceremony or plan a fun, safe celebration to recognize girls’ achievements.
Host a Court of Awards Court of Awards can be used as a closing ceremony for a project the whole troop has worked hard on, with girls receiving patches, badges, pins, certificates, or her highest award, depending on what they earned. Volunteers may also be recognized during the ceremony. There are many creative ways to present girls (and volunteers) with recognitions. Girls may wish to include activities like a Promise and Law candle lighting ceremony or just singing fun Girl Scout songs. It can be as elaborate or simple as the troop wants it to be, just remember to keep it girl-led! Ask them how they would like to celebrate their Girl Scout year. We know your Court of Awards this year may look a bit different, but you can still celebrate your troop's accomplishments. Remember to keep in mind current COVID-19 Guidelines, and do not be afraid to reach out to us with any questions. No matter what your Court of Awards looks like, it should be an opportunity for girls and volunteers to feel proud of their accomplishments.
Host a Bridging Ceremony Bridging is a wonderful transition in a Girl Scout’s journey. A bridging ceremony allows each Girl Scout to look back on her accomplishments from the year and look forward to all the new adventures that await. Bridging to the next step in their Girl Scout journey is exciting for girls, but be sure to take the right steps before the ceremony to prepare! Remember to keep in mind current COVID-19 Guidelines and do not be afraid to reach out to us with any questions.
Keep in mind—all your celebrations can be hosted virtually to ensure everyone’s safety during COVID-19.
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End-of-Year: What do I need to do? •
• •
Thank your parents, fellow volunteers, and anyone else who has supported the troop this year. Don’t forget to thank your meeting facility friends! Assess troop supplies. Trade or donate anything you no longer need. Plan summer troop activities! Keep in mind current COVID-19 Guidelines and your local health department directives.
End of the Year: Important Dates • • • • •
Submit Cookie Program Uncollected Funds Reports by April 2. Renew all troop members! Register for Spring Renewal by May 30 or on-time by September 30, 2021. Submit a Volunteer Self-Appraisal by July 1. Resolve all cookie recognition issues by September 30. Complete a Troop Financial Report by July 1.
GREAT IDEAS
Tips and Tricks • Practice ahead of time so everyone knows their roles. • If inviting family and friends, make sure to distribute invitations. • Get creative! Check out girlscouts.org. • Most importantly— have fun!
Click this button for great ideas! Spring/Summer
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POWER
OUR
PROMISE Donate Today
Corporate Giving Corporate Giving is a key component in ensuring our programs remain affordable, noteworthy, and accessible. We welcome gifts from corporations, small businesses, and anything in between. Employee matching gift programs are also a great way to double your own impact!
Support Local Girl Scouts Your Way! Y
ou know that Girl Scouts prepares girls to take the lead, explore their passions, and make the world a better place for generations to come. We have many ways to help us ensure we can fulfill our mission for future generations. Check out a few of the unique opportunities to support our girls. All support remains local and ensures girls' access to our programs, regardless of background, geography, or financial situation.
Family Giving Family Giving is an opportunity for our Girl Scout Families to make a financial investment to support local Girl Scouts. Families know firsthand the value of Girl Scouts and the leadership program that helps a daughter become her best possible self.
The Girl Scout Network All adult members are invited to join The Girl Scout Network and help us build a culture of philanthropy and engagement through your volunteer service and financial support.
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United Way We are a proud United Way member and partner with various United Way agencies in order to strengthen our communities.
Tributes, Memorials, and Planned Giving A tribute or memorial gift is a lasting way to honor the people who have touched your life and the lives of Girl Scouts. As any dedicated Girl Scout considers the legacy they wish to leave, we also welcome planned gifts.
Stay connected. Volunteer Connections Newsletter
Retail Hours of Operation
A monthly newsletter sent to all volunteers— the Volunteer Connections is your lifeline to all things going on at GSMH. Whether it’s recruitment or renewal season—we’ve got you covered with all the information you need to succeed!
Our retail stores and offices are open for appointment 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. on the days listed below for each service center.
Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland
@girlscouts_mh
gsmoheartland
@girlscouts_mh
Springfield & Jefferson City: Monday - Thursday Joplin: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday Dexter: Monday and Tuesday Cape: Wednesday and Thursday
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