SUBJECT: Adult Retreat 2023 Post Event Summary Hello friends! A few short months ago Volunteer Learning executed a massive, community building, adult volunteer weekend at Camp Bette Perot and hosted 200 of our closest friends. It was a year of new beginnings, focused on establishing the foundation for a mostly new planning team. We welcomed a new event chair and expanded from 12 to 24 team members. Fortunately, we had a solid foundation built by the team that came before. Here are some of our successes and learnings from Adult Retreat 2023:
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We offered a choice of more than 80 enrichment classes, spread across 4 class blocks, taught by 42 different volunteer instructors. Take a look at the faces and the places in nearly 700 photos uploaded in our event rally photo gallery! As a service project to the camp, we upgraded the seating at the outdoor stage by replacing all the bench tops and sealing the wood. Big thank you to Lisa Sypherd who led the project.
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We pulled a whopping 90 on the Net Promoter Score!
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Adult Retreat 2023 Post Event Survey Feedback & NPS Score So, what is NPS? A Net Promoter Score is a customer experience metric that measures loyalty (How likely are you to recommend X to another?) and is predictive of growth. NPS is calculated by asking an initial survey question on a 0–10 rating scale. Then, the accumulated ratings are graded as one number between -100 and +100.
Tell me about Promoters, Passives, and Detractors: •
A Promoter found an enjoyable experience with something of value they can apply to their life. They are enthusiastic about the experience and are likely to speak positively about the Adult Retreat to others and spread positive word of mouth.
• A Passive was satisfied, but perhaps did not find everything they were looking for in the experience. Their ratings are not included in the formulation of the final score.
• A Detractor means that the guest was not fully satisfied with the experience. Perhaps they were expecting something different than they received, were mismatched to the environment, or were unintentionally offended in some way. You can learn from sunshine, and you can learn from rain. How can you modify the experience next time to remove the dissatisfying elements?
What is considered a good NPS by GSNETX Volunteer Learning Dept. Standards? •
Anything above 50 is good.
•
Anything above 60 is very good.
•
Anything above 70 is excellent.
•
Anything above 80 is exceptional. 2
Results: 217 Registrations 197 Onsite Guests 101 survey respondents = 52% of attendees 93 Promoters (91%) / 8 Passives (8%) / 1 Detractor (1%) = 90 NPS.
Girl Scout Outcomes: How closely do you resonate with the below statements? These are some of the questions the Girl Scout Research Institute asks girls on the girl version of the Voices Count Survey to measure how girls are participating in the Outdoor Leadership Pillar and experiencing the program. We thought it would be interesting to see how adults at our event measure up, too.
I was excited about being outdoors and in nature. Strongly agree
Agree
Neither agree nor disagree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
90
10
2
0
0
88%
10%
2%
98% I built friendships with other volunteers. Strongly agree
Agree
Neither agree nor disagree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
74
24
4
0
0
73%
24%
3%
(up from 68% last year)
97% 3
I felt like I belonged. Strongly agree
Agree
Neither agree nor disagree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
69
30
2
0
0
69%
30%
2%
99% (up from 94% last year) I interacted with people different from me. Strongly agree
Agree
Neither agree nor disagree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
78
23
1
0
0
77%
22%
1%
99% I learned to do something new or better than before. Strongly agree
Agree
Neither agree nor disagree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
86
13
1
0
0
86%
13%
1%
99% I helped another person do something new or better than before. Strongly agree
Agree
Neither agree nor disagree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
52
33
14
1
0
52%
33%
14%
1%
85% 4
I worked with others as a team. Strongly agree
Agree
Neither agree nor disagree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
76
22
2
0
0
76%
22%
2%
98% (up from 92% last year) I connected with role models who helped me grow. Strongly agree
Agree
Neither agree nor disagree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
58
28
12
2
0
58%
28%
12%
2%
86%
Based on your weekend experience, how likely are you to... Recommend troop camping at Camp Bette Perot to another GS Volunteer Highly Likely
Likely
Somewhat likely
Unlikely
89
9
3
1
88%
9%
3%
1%
97%
5
Highly unlikely
Guest Feedback Summary We ran the post event survey data through ChatCPT3 (Open AI). Here is how artificial intelligence summarized our guest input and feedback: 1. Positive Teamwork Atmosphere: • Participants loved the willingness of everyone to work together and make things run smoothly. • People readily assisted each other, even in challenging situations, fostering a creative and supportive environment. Examples: “I loved how everyone was willing to work together to make everything run smoothly. People jumped in and helped wherever needed. Even when hiccups arose, we all made it work and didn't complain. This is not a retreat where I would go home and think "that was a nightmare" because of how everyone was creative and willing to keep the ball rolling and help each other out.” “I really loved how the "Retreat Team" handled the various issues that always crop up when camping. From overflowing commodes to food coming out slowly, etc. I watched you and really liked what I saw. I hope others were as observant. Not one time did I see or hear negative comments. You are to be commended.”
2. Outdoor Experience: • Many enjoyed being outdoors and considered the retreat their favorite weekend of the year. • The beautiful camp setting, outdoor experiences, and the general ambiance of Camp Bette Perot were appreciated. Examples: “I loved being outside!” “Getting to connect with other leaders and being in nature. I used to camp often through and after high school and don't get the opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and just enjoy the stars anymore. It was such a nice little getaway. I shared lots of laughs with many people.”
3. Classes and Learning: • Positive feedback on various classes, such as charcuterie, wood burning, ukelele, the color spa, outdoor cooking classes, and mindfulness. • Connecting with Girl Scouts of all ages, learning new songs, and discovering traditions were appreciated. Examples: “I loved the psychedelic pour class, beaded bracelet class, and bandana wreath class. These are all something I can add to my craft list to use when making gifts for others.” “I really enjoyed the classes that I took and how they went with the theme of Color My World. I did stuff that I had never done before like alcohol ink and acrylic pour. I even colored my hair blue! I learned some great new recipes in the cooking class that I took - Tex Mex Fiesta and it was fun cooking the meal together with others. We talked and shared about our Girl Scout experiences.” “I loved the variety of class choices, that each class was long enough so that we got to really dig in, and the moments of down time to explore the grounds a bit.”
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4. Connection and Networking: • Participants valued meeting and connecting with women from diverse backgrounds. • Sharing ideas, experiences, and fostering a sense of sisterhood were significant highlights. Examples: “I got to have a more personal connection with some of my fellow service unit volunteers, who I have seen at many SU events over the years but hadn't had a lot of opportunities to really socialize with until now.” “Meeting new Instructors and learning new crafts. Meeting people from all walks of life and feeling the sisterhood.”
5. Inclusivity and Diversity: • The retreat was praised for its inclusivity and encouragement of diverse activities. • Newcomers felt welcomed, and the variety of people and activities was celebrated. Examples: “So inclusive and welcoming!” “I loved the feeling of always being welcome wherever I was at camp. It never felt like "what are you doing here" but rather "welcome friend". I am shy and have never attended adult retreat because I wasn't sure how I would fit in not knowing many people. Now I feel like I have to go back, or I will miss seeing my new friends. How did that happen in 2 days?”
6. Personal Growth and Empowerment: • Many appreciated the opportunity for personal growth, learning new skills, and feeling empowered. • The positive impact on mental health and well-being was acknowledged. Examples: “I love connecting with mentors and mentees in Girl Scouts, being outdoors with my fellow adult Girl Scouts, getting the mental health boost I need before heading into a busy holiday season, trying new things, and all the love & laughter we share.” “It was such an empowering experience. I learned so much and was able to have new experiences.”
7. Logistical and Organizational Feedback: • Some logistical challenges were mentioned, such as class slots filling up quickly the morning registration opened and limited space for certain activities. • Positive comments on the welcoming committee, event organization, and the overall enjoyable weekend. Examples: “The class selection was unfortunate in most cases because the slots filled up so fast that the general population missed out on the hot classes before it ever went live.” “The welcoming committee at the unit shelter was outstanding. The snacks, coffee and comradery made me feel welcome from the moment that I walked in the door.” “Everything was well planned and thought out. Having our class choices on name tags was very convenient and having a printed camp map was key to getting around!” “Great organization and cohesiveness. Great variety and meals.” 7
“The cabin signup was great and made things a lot easier.”
8. Service Project and Giving Back: • Participants loved engaging in the service project and the sense of community achieved through teamwork. Examples: “The service project was amazing this year!” “EVERYONE at the service project did an amazing job!! Great team of Girl Scouts signed up for this one.” “I volunteered for the service project, and I really loved coming to camp early, meeting new friends, and giving back to camp. Please include a service project again next year. Everyone worked together so well, and we surpassed the goal.”
9. Memorable Experiences: • The Saturday night campfire, connecting with long-time Girl Scout volunteers, and the positive atmosphere were memorable experiences. Examples: “I look forward to Retreat every year. It is my favorite weekend of the year. I loved the service project, campfire, and skits.” “I absolutely loved meeting fellow leaders and volunteers who had been with the organization for decades - to see our legacy in person is pretty amazing!” “The Saturday evening ceremony fire, skits, and songs was the scouts / camp experience I remember from my childhood. I am soooo excited to take the ashes back to my new young scouts and share the ASH ceremony with them.”
10. Family and Friend Connections: • Enjoyment of spending time with family and friends, both old and new, was a recurring theme. • The bonding with fellow troop leaders and the variety of activities were mentioned positively. Examples: “I loved reuniting with my Raccoon Ridge family but most importantly I loved that I got to share this experience with my daughter.” “Having my best friend and my mom with me! Seeing all the new leaders come and grow! And getting to see old friends too!” “Getting to spend time with Mom/ Sister; seeing old friends; making new friends; escaping from the world for a bit.” “Being back at camp BP with my daughter who attended there for a number of years and is now an adult as well, great memories.”
11. Overall Positivity and Excitement: • General enthusiasm and love for the retreat were expressed across various aspects, from classes to friendships and the overall atmosphere. Examples: 8
“I loved being welcomed in as an out of council leader and in return would gladly offer leadership skills toward future events in return. Coming from a plain vanilla Council being affirmed that Girl Scouting encourages a rainbow of activities was a refreshing and renewing outcome of this year’s retreat.” “We are so Blessed. I really had a good time when I was with a small group in my classes. I was teaching but it was fun to share with such nice people. The comradery, joking around, laughing, sharing ways to do what we were doing, because we can all do things a little differently and still get it done. I was feeling the sisterhood".
12. Reflection and Nostalgia: • Reflection on personal growth, nostalgia for childhood experiences, and the joy of passing down traditions were noted. Examples: “As someone who is new to Girl Scouts all around it was really cool to see and hear the traditions.”
“I loved how us adults had the elder adult GS teach and show us all the old tricks and songs!! I loved that there were a ton of like-minded people! All the things were wonderful, and I will be back.” “Meeting women who have been with scouts since childhood and seeing their passion for keeping it alive and thriving.” “I used to camp often through and after high school and don't get the opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and just enjoy the stars anymore. It was such a nice little getaway. I shared lots of laughs with many people.” “As a day use guest, I enjoyed the opportunity to be a hopper at lunch time and help chip in with a camp kaper even though I didn't stay overnight in a unit. I love getting to reminisce about going to summer camp as a girl and experiencing family style dining together.”
13. Positive Committee and Team Recognition: • Positive remarks for the retreat team's handling of challenges, organizational skills, and creating a cohesive experience. Examples: “Big shout out to the new committee for a great job. Can't wait until next year. I hope to come teach and participate again.”
“The committee always does an outstanding job! Thank you!” 14. Expressed Gratitude: • Several expressed gratitude for the opportunity, the positive impact on mental well-being, and the overall magic of the weekend. Examples: “I had a wonderful time! Thank you so much for this opportunity. It was amazing and just what I needed after a stressful few months.” “I would have loved to spend the entire weekend at camp but really appreciate the Saturday Day Use option. Thanks for a wonderful experience.” 9
“From meet and greet team at the gate, to the closing song, thank you!” “This was such a great and restorative event, and the thoughtfulness and detailed planning was very evident. Thank you to everyone that makes this a fun weekend for us leaders to enjoy being campers instead of leading.” “I love my housing and Laird West the ladies made me feel like I was at home especially the hostess it was just a magical time at camp this year.” “The ARCH unit leaders did a wonderful job making the campers feel welcomed!” “Doreen was the BEST hostess!”
15. Suggestions for Improvement: • Suggestions for better maintenance of facilities, including better beds. • Feedback on the need for clearer schedules, especially regarding mealtimes. • Requests for better communication on class locations before signing up for a class. • Concerns about accessibility and safety, including the need for handrails at the dining hall steps. • Improved processes for meal service and clean up in the dining hall. • Need for a better sound system in the dining hall. Examples: “Better mattress support.” “The metal cots in Laird West were awful. My back and body are still hurting. Next year I'll either bring my tent or be a day camper. “ “I was confused about the mealtimes on the schedule. Seeing 7:30am-9am for breakfast led me to believe it was more come and go but luckily someone told me otherwise! (In hindsight the information about hoppers and family style meals should have given me a clue, but the schedule could have been more clear.)” “I don't know what the issue was with dinner in the mess hall, but with so many eating in unit sessions, it was an awkward gap. We were there at 7:15 for a 7:30 start and at 7:45 we were told it wasn't supposed to start until 8.” “It would really help next year to have a map/locations for the classes at registration so I could make sure I'm not needing to hike across the property in less time than I'm able.” “When selecting classes figure out the class location sites so that you are not having to run from one end of the camp to the other side. It does take some time to get around.” “A way to email in health histories beforehand.” “A personal experience that I had was not feeling super welcome to sit at certain tables. I approached a few tables on Saturday for a seat and was told the seats were saved. I found it a little like being the new kid in elementary or middle school and not knowing who to sit with at lunch. Luckily, at dinner on Saturday, a friend from my SU realized they had "lost" me and made sure I had a seat with familiar faces.”
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“The campfire was fun, but very few of the songs chosen were actually current campfire songs that participants knew. It might be time to recruit the next younger generation of campfire leaders to make it a more meaningful experience for everyone. Especially if the goal of adult retreat is to learn new things to bring back to our troops.” “I signed up a few days in and just chalked the lack of the classes I was looking forward to being filled because of my tardiness... but upon chatting with some others I learned most of the classes were filled up because of a glitch allowing people to enroll sooner which was honestly a little heartbreaking to hear that people did and were allowed to take advantage of this glitch and enroll before others patiently awaiting till the official opening.” “Handrails at the steps at the dining hall!!!” “I noticed many of those with difficulty walking, etc. struggled getting up and down the stairs at the dining hall due to the not being any handrails. There was also one lady in a wheelchair and no ramp access. A ramp works also before those with a walker.” “Less chaos in the dining hall, it seemed to be a struggle as food was delayed and service was slow.” “More food at meals.” “Better sound system for dining hall - could never hear what was being said.” “Hearing announcements in the dining hall was very difficult.... You need more than one speaker... with only having one; you could only point it in one direction....”
In summary, the survey responses reflect a highly positive and enjoyable experience, with a strong emphasis on camaraderie, learning, and the overall sense of belonging to the Girl Scout community.
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Rallyhood Event Guest Rally - Building Community in the Digital Space before and after the Event
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During the month of October our rally made the top 5 rallies in place #4 with 190 activity counts. During the month of November our rally made the top 5 rallies in place #1 with 871 activity counts.
Adult Retreat 2023 Guest Rally, GSNETX Weekly Stats - Oct 01, 2023, thru Nov 30, 2023 MESSAGE WALL - WEEKLY Number of messages posted during timeframe Date
Total
Community Total
10/08/2023
3
0
10/15/2023
4
0
10/22/2023
3
0
10/29/2023
7
0
11/05/2023
11
0
11/12/2023
11
0
11/19/2023
2
0
12
TOTAL MESSAGES - CULMULATIVE Total Number of messages Date
Total
Community Total
10/08/2023
37
0
10/15/2023
41
0
10/22/2023
44
0
10/29/2023
51
0
11/05/2023
62
0
11/12/2023
71
0
11/19/2023
73
0
COMMENTS - WEEKLY Number of comments during the timeframe Date
Total
Community Total
10/08/2023
15
0
10/15/2023
15
0
10/22/2023
19
0
10/29/2023
28
0
11/05/2023
45
0
11/12/2023
31
0
11/19/2023
3
0
TOTAL COMMENTS - CULMULATIVE Total Number of comments Date
Total
Community Total
10/08/2023
56
0
10/15/2023
71
0 13
10/22/2023
88
0
10/29/2023
116
0
11/05/2023
161
0
11/12/2023
192
0
11/19/2023
195
0
FILES Number of of files uploaded during the timeframe Date
Total
Community Total
10/08/2023
5
0
10/15/2023
3
0
10/22/2023
3
0
10/29/2023
11
0
11/05/2023
2
0
11/12/2023
54
0
11/19/2023
4
0
TOTAL FILES Total Number of of files uploaded Date
Total
Community Total
10/08/2023
77
0
10/15/2023
80
0
10/22/2023
83
0
10/29/2023
94
0
11/05/2023
96
0
11/12/2023
150
0
11/19/2023
154
0
14
PHOTOS Number of photos uploaded during timeframe Date
Total
Community Total
10/08/2023
1
0
10/29/2023
1
0
11/05/2023
25
0
11/12/2023
663
0
11/19/2023
2
0
TOTAL PHOTOS Total Number of photos uploaded Date
Total
Community Total
10/08/2023
2
0
10/15/2023
2
0
10/22/2023
2
0
10/29/2023
3
0
11/05/2023
28
0
11/12/2023
689
0
11/19/2023
691
0
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