2023-2024 Family Connection_English

Fostering Unbreakable Bonds

Forever friendship is a powerful thing. It's what gives Girl Scouts the confidence to be themselves, unapologetically. It's what makes them feel safe enough to try new things and cheer each other on in tough times. It's the support that can get them up on tough mornings, help them raise their hands in class, and even climb to the top of a mountain.

Let’s get started! >>>

It is an inspiring and transformative time for our Girl Scout council. We have been diligently reimagining how best to serve our Girl Scouts, families, and volunteers. We value the input from many of you, and we thank you for dreaming with us. There is much to look forward to in the coming years, and we are so thankful to have you by our side.

So many incredible things are happening throughout our communities because of Girl Scouts. They have been taking charge and making a real difference. From leading community service projects to advocating for important causes, they are stepping up and becoming change-makers. They are realizing their power and the significant impact they can have on the world around them. Through their dedication and hard work, they have shown us the true potential that lies within each and every Girl Scout.

We recognize and appreciate the countless hours our families and volunteers have dedicated to guiding, mentoring, and inspiring our Girl Scouts. Your dedication and passion are the backbone of our organization, and you play a pivotal role in shaping the Girl Scout experience.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey with us. We are grateful for your unwavering support and belief in the power of Girl Scouts. Together, we will continue to inspire and transform lives.

Where are we?

Girl Scout Offices

Central Girl Scout Center & Camp Del O'Claire

3607 Northwestern Avenue Wausau, WI 54403

East Girl Scout Center & Retail Shop

4693 N Lynndale Drive Appleton, WI 54913

Northeast Girl Scout Center & Camp Pow Low

911 E. Airfield Road Gwinn, MI 49841

West Girl Scout Center 4222 Oakwood Hills Pkwy Eau Claire, WI 54701

Locations Reimagined

Setting 'Sites' for Girl Scouts

Learn more at gsnwgl.org/ locationsreimagined.

When you see a QR code in this booklet, use your phone’s camera app to scan the box and follow the autopopulated link for more information.

Office & Retail Hours

Please visit gsnwgl.org for Girl Scout Center and Retail

Shop hours.

Property Rentals

Learn more about our facilities and rental opportunities.

gsnwgl.org/rentfacilities

Patti Shafto-Carlson

Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes CEO

Girl Scout Mission

Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.

I'M A GIRL SCOUT.

WHAT'S YOUR SUPER POWER?

Girl Scout Law

I will do my best to be honest and fair, friendly and helpful, considerate and caring, courageous and strong, and responsible for what I say and do, and to respect myself and others, respect authority, use resources wisely, make the world a better place, and be a sister to every Girl Scout.

BE STRONG! BE KIND!

BE YOU!

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. *Members

their

Why Girl Scouts?

You want a brighter, happier tomorrow for your child—and that’s exactly what we want too. Studies show that being a Girl Scout improves children’s confidence and prepares them to handle life’s challenges.

That’s because everything a Girl Scout does is based on:

Finding their people

Girl Scouts soon realize the remarkable strength they find within their community of friends, mentors, and advocates. These bonds empower Girl Scouts to embrace their true selves without hesitation. They create a secure environment where they can try new experiences and encourage one another to flourish. This unwavering support serves as a source of motivation for whatever may come their way.

Discovering their joy

Every Girl Scout has their own curiosity, dreams, and talents— so when they decide which of the thousands of Girl Scout activities to try, the sky’s the limit. Whether visiting an animal shelter, camping, hosting a dance-off, or directing a music video, they’re learning to take risks, trust their gut, and team up with others for good. But mostly? They’re figuring out the things that will bring happiness to their lives for years to come.

Knowing their power

From planting trees to stocking the local food pantry, Girl Scouts learn firsthand that they have the power to help. In these complicated times, knowing they can make a difference (and feeling the joy that comes from doing it!) may be more important than ever.

Building community

Groups of Girl Scouts from the same community, called troops, typically meet weekly or biweekly for an hour or two. Hand in hand with adult volunteers, Girl Scouts complete exciting activities and projects, explore their neighborhoods, and make new friends. Together, they earn badges to reflect the skills they’ve learned, the growing they’ve done, and the adventures they’ve had.

Living their best life

While we know being a Girl Scout helps kids earn better grades and make healthier decisions in the long run, everything a Girl Scout does is designed to make sure they feel seen, supported, and cared for—right here, right now. In a time when anxiety and depression are affecting young people in record numbers, we can’t think of anything more important.

Ways to Participate

Whether you're joining Girl Scouts with a group of friends or forging your path on your own as a Juliette, there are lots of fun and exciting things you can do with Girl Scouts.

Read on to discover all the ways to participate!

Troops

Most Girl Scouts gather in groups called troops and each troop has an identifying number. The most common troop structure is a group from the same school, in the same grade, who typically meet twice a month. Troops with Girl Scouts in multiple grades of all ages are known as multi-level troops.

Camp

Rooted in adventure, Girl Scout camp plants memories of resilience, capability, and friendship that stay with Girl Scouts at home, in the classroom, and wherever life takes them. Campers can sign up individually or with their friends to attend camp or go on a Wilderness Trip.

Camp registration opens this December! Our camp guide will be digital only this year. Watch your inbox in November and get ready to save your spot!

Juliettes

No troop? No problem! We get it—kids are busy. Between dance lessons, soccer practice, or school activities, you may be unable to make your Girl Scout troop meeting. Or maybe you can't find a troop in your community.

You can still say "yes" to Girl Scouts! If a Girl Scout is not part of a troop, they can be an independently registered Girl Scout—nicknamed "Juliettes," after our founder Juliette Gordon Low. Juliette Girl Scouts have countless opportunities to participate! They earn badges, give service to others, go to camp, and attend council programs and events.

Reaching Out

Reaching Out breaks down barriers to participation and brings the benefits of Girl Scouts to those outside of a traditional troop setting through in-school and after-school programs and partnerships with other youth-serving organizations.

Girl Scout staff work closely with these partners to adjust Girl Scout curriculum and content to meet the needs of the kids they serve at each individual site with positive, skill- and character-building programs.

Travel

You’re going places, Girl Scout. Girl Scouts love to travel— from the field trips they take as Brownies to their global adventures as teens. If you love exploring different places and cultures, Girl Scouts is the place for you. There are so many ways to travel with Girl Scouts. Learn more and read about upcoming travel opportunities.

Activities and Events

Badge-earning and challenge-seeking programs are organized by council staff to connect Girl Scouts to community experts and their resources. Closer to home, service area volunteers host service projects and team-building social events to keep Girl Scouts visible in the community. Girl Scouts can attend these events with their troop, or as Juliettes.

And the award goes to...

From protecting our environment and supporting communities to changing laws, we know you shine brightest when you're making the world a better place. That's why we have three separate awards—the Girl Scout Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards—to honor Girl Scouts who take their passions and turn them into actions in big ways.

Daisies and Brownies learn the basics of being a good neighbor and how they can be helpful.

Juniors can earn the Bronze Award by teaming up with other girls to make a difference in their communities.

Cadettes can earn the Silver Award by researching an issue, making a plan, and taking action to improve their communities.

Seniors and Ambassadors can earn the Gold Award by developing and carrying out lasting solutions to issues in their neighborhoods and beyond. Learn more about Girl Scout Awards & Honors and read about our latest awardees.

Photo courtesy of RP Photography.

When I'm a Gold Award Girl Scout

Gold Award Girl Scouts are rock stars, role models, and real-life heroes. How do they do it? By using everything they've learned as Girl Scouts to fix a problem in their communities and make a lasting change in their world. Use this space to draw, write, or make a collage about the problem you want to tackle to become a Gold Award Girl Scout—and how you'll feel once you've done it.

Already working toward your Gold Award? Incredible! Use this space to celebrate all you've already accomplished.

Help Make It Happen

Girl Scout Family and Supporters

We encourage families to find ways to contribute at least 5 hours to troop support each year.

Tell your Girl Scout’s troop leader exactly how you’d like to help. Offering “whatever you need” is nice, but troop leaders are often too busy to think up or assign roles to family members. Being specific about how you can contribute will be appreciated!

Ways your family can support your troop:

• Be a driver for field trips

• Return phone calls, emails, and paperwork in a timely manner

• Be on time for pick-up and drop-off at meetings and events

• Organize snacks

• Help plan a party

• Take pictures

• Babysit for other volunteers' children

• Teach a craft, song, game, or skill

• Share your skills and hobbies in outdoor, STEM, entrepreneurship, and life skills experiences

Ways to say thank you to the volunteers making a difference in your Girl Scout’s life:

• Just say it! Smile and say thank you when you see them and offer your support & encouragement.

• Send a thank you note—either from your Girl Scout or from your Girl Scout Family—or both!

• Nominate them for a Volunteer of Excellence Award. Find more details at gsnwgl.org.

• When your Girl Scout comes home happy from a Girl Scout meeting or event, send a text or photo to let the leader know.

• Organize a thank you gift from troop families.

• Lending a hand may be the most important way to say thanks!

Girl Scout Family Promise

On my honor, I will try: To support my Girl Scout and her troop, To help girls lead at all times, And to always keep it fun!

Girl Scouts are ready to go, and they can’t do it without you!

Sign up to become a Girl Scout volunteer today. gsnwgl.org/volunteer

Check out some of our training opportunities for volunteers and caregivers!

gsnwgl.org/eventssearch

Your Year of Volunteering

Volunteer with Girl Scouts

Your talents can help them shine.

When you become a volunteer, you’ll immediately start to feel and see the impact you can have on the lives of Girl Scouts. You’ll be with them as they experience new adventures and learn new skills. You’ll watch their confidence soar. You’ll experience the joy of creating a more fair, equal, and compassionate world where everyone has a seat at the table.

You’ll help them reach their potential while achieving your own.

• Experience the confidence that comes with being a role model.

• Discover your leadership style as your Girl Scouts discover theirs.

• Meet new people and make friends in your community.

• Build new skills and have fun doing activities with your Girl Scouts.

What are the benefits of volunteering?

Through volunteering with Girl Scouts, troop leaders experience the following benefits:

• 90% feel they make a difference in the lives of Girl Scouts.

• 83% say they gain a sense of purpose volunteering with Girl Scouts.

• 76% make friends through their service as a troop leader.

• 74% become more involved in their communities.

• 62% feel energized all or most of the time they volunteer as a troop leader.

• 20% gain career or job opportunities through their Girl Scout volunteering.

GSUSA Girl Scout Research Institute

Troop volunteers are needed.

Volunteer in a troop role, spending quality time with Girl Scouts as the Troop Leader, Assistant Troop Leader, or Troop Helper. Teach business and entrepreneurship skills as the Troop Cookie Manager or Troop Treasurer. Whether you can give a few hours, a few weeks, or a few months, volunteering with Girl Scouts is flexible and fun.

Facilitated Outdoor Experiences

Need an outdoor expert? Arrange for Girl Scout staff to meet your troop or service area at a camp property. Facilitated Outdoor Experiences allow troops to participate in outdoor activities at GSNWGL properties with a certified staff member.

Niamh (pronounced 'NEEVE') Hourigan, AKA Parker, is from Ireland and will spend the next several months living at Camp Birch Trails and hosting Facilitated Outdoor Experiences for our Girl Scouts. Current programs include archery, low ropes, outdoor cooking, swimming, boating, and snowshoeing. We hope to continue to grow the opportunities we can offer through Facilitated Outdoor Experiences.

Groups renting GSNWGL properties can reserve experiences with a per-activity fee starting at $10 per person.

Facilitated Outdoor Experiences are offered at the following camps: Birch Trails (Irma, WI), Winnecomac (Kaukauna, WI), Del O’Claire (Wausau, WI), Sacajawea (Wisconsin Rapids, WI), Pow Low (Gwinn, MI); and at the Appleton Service Center.

Experiences are based on staff and property availability. Some activities are seasonal. Not all activities are available at all properties. All bookings are subject to staff availability.

To schedule Facilitated Outdoor Experiences, please contact Customer Care at info@gsnwgl.org or 888.747.6945.

Adventures on the Go

Getting Girl Scouts on the water, in the trees, and under the stars

Adventures on the Go brings adventures and outdoor experiences to our Girl Scouts near and far. The ability to experience an outdoor adventure is at their fingertips. Girls can take part in water activities like canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding or try their hand at archery, hiking, and rock climbing. Girl Scouts can experience a low ropes course, stargazing, and outdoor cooking, right in their community. Adventure is just around the corner.

Adventures on the Go is an incredible platform for experimenting and experiencing the outdoors. It helps Girl Scouts try something new, challenge themselves, and learn new skills. They’ll find their grit and be inspired to get outside. Maybe a passion they never knew existed is waiting for them with Adventures on the Go!

How does it work?

Coordinated by a full-time staff member, Adventures on the Go makes it easy for volunteers to bring outdoor experiences to Girl Scouts in their troop or service area. Staff are fully certified to offer all activities provided. Current Adventures on the Go programs include paddleboarding, archery, orienteering, campfire/camp-stove cooking, nonovernight outdoor badges, and more.

Who can take part?

Adventures on the Go is available to all current members, emphasizing reaching Girl Scouts in underserved areas without easy access to camp and outdoor experiences. Adventures on the Go works as a service to volunteers and service area groups, allowing us to bring outdoor experiences and programming to their communities.

Adventures on the Go is on the road now and and traveling throughout the council yearround, weather permitting. Every day is a day for adventure!

Troops and service areas can request Adventures on the Go programs. To make a request, email info@gsnwgl.org or call us at 888.747.6945, and include the program you are requesting, the date, location, and approximate number of Girl Scouts.

*Consider your requests tentative until you hear back with the program confirmation.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

What will you do next?

Sleep under the stars? Design your own app? Plant a community garden? As a Girl Scout there are hundreds of ways for you to discover something new or take your current passion to the next level. And badges, Journeys, and awards show the world your accomplishments. So what are you waiting for? Start exploring badges and awards—and a world of possibility.

New Girl Scout Badges and Patch Programs

New Girl Scout badges and patch programs are available for the 2023–2024 Girl Scout year. Consider adding these activities this year in Girl Scouts!

Art and Design (Daisy, Brownie, Junior)

Spark

Craft and Tinker (Daisy, Brownie, Junior

Create and Innovate (Daisy, Brownie, Junior)

Animal Observer (Daisy)

Animal Habitats (Junior)*

Animal Helpers (Cadette)*

your sense of wonder. And change the world along the way.

Girl Scouts Mental Wellness Patch Program

Take care of YOU—you got this.

Becoming a Girl Scout means tapping into a supportive group of people who uplift you every step of the way. When it comes to caring for your mental wellness, the new Girl Scouts Mental Wellness patch program reminds you that you’re never alone in facing challenges and further invites you to dive into and understand your emotions. You can do this by participating in activities, such as making art or writing poetry, that foster resilience and help you to better understand your world. No matter the season, never doubt your ability to rise up, and remember—you got this.

The Mental Wellness patch program was made possible by the HCA Healthcare Foundation and developed in collaboration with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Explore the program and our FREE activities for girls in grades 4–12.

New Mental Wellness Patch Programs

Knowing My Emotions

Showing Up for Me & You (Junior) (Cadette) (Ambassador)

Finding My Voice

Get started on your self-care journey with fun, grade-appropriate activities that help you discover and tap into your inner strength. Visit the Award and Badge Explorer for more details at girlscouts.org/badgeexplorer. Purchase items at girlscoutshop.com or in the Appleton Girl Scout Shop.

Your Year in Girl Scouts

Check out important dates, then add your own troop meetings and activities you can do as a family.

*Subject to change. Please check website for most up-to-date office closures.

October

Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept 15–Oct 15)

Latinas Making History Patch Program

1 | Welcome to the new membership year!

Have you renewed for this Girl Scout year?

11 | International Day of the Girl

15 | Fall Product Order Taking ends

31 | Founder’s Day & Juliette Gordon Low’s Birthday

February

Black History Month Patch Program

1 | Adult Award nominations due

17 | Random Acts of Kindness Day

16–18 | National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend

22 | World Thinking Day

24 | Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day

June

LGBTQ+ Pride Month Patch Program

8 | National Get Outdoors Day

19 | Juneteenth (offices closed for day of service)

Summer camp begins.

November

Native American Heritage Month Patch Program

8 | National STEM/STEAM Day

19 | Women’s Entrepreneurship Day

23–24 | Thanksgiving Break (offices closed)

March

Women’s History Month

1 | Highest Awards project forms due

10–16 | Girl Scout Week

10–16 | Girl Scouts Celebrate Faith

12 | Girl Scouting’s Birthday (112 years old!)

31 | Cookie Program ends

July

4–5 | Independence Day Break (offices closed)

Summer camp continues.

Add your own important

Girl Scouts of all levels can celebrate the cultural richness and diverse identities of all people in the U.S. and celebrate and acknowledge the contributions they have made across our nation.

Girl Scouts and leaders have plenty of activities to choose from to earn these fun patches, and we encourage individuals from all ethnic backgrounds and of all identities to participate.

December

15 | In-house Cookie Dough expires

25–29 | GSNWGL Winter Break (offices closed)

31 | Online Cookie Dough expires Camp registration opens.

April

Volunteer Appreciation Month

1 | Girl Scout membership renewal opens

22 | Girl Scout Leader’s Day

22 | Earth Day

Girl Scouts of Distinction Award Recognition events begin.

Girl Scout Voices Count online surveys are distributed.

August 10 | National S’mores Day

31 | Fall Bucks expire Summer camp concludes.

January

1 | Happy New Year! (offices closed)

16 | Martin Luther King Jr. Day (offices closed for day of service)

17 | Girl Scout Cookie Program begins

May

Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month Patch Program

4 | Annual Meeting

27 | Memorial Day (offices closed)

September

Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept 15–Oct 15) Patch Program

4 | Labor Day (offices closed)

14–15 | Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend

11 | National Day of Service and Remembrance

important dates too!

The Girl Scout Cookie Program

Toast-Yay!™

Cheesecake

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 cups Toast-Yay!™ Girl Scout Cookies, crushed

• 3 tbsp. butter, melted

• 14 oz. condensed milk

• 2 packages (8 oz. each) cream cheese, softened

• 3 eggs

• 3 tbsp. flour

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

• 3 sliced strawberries

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees.

2. Combine Toast-Yay! cookies with butter and press into bottom of a 9-inch pan.

3. In a bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy and gradually add condensed milk, eggs, flour, and vanilla.

4. Mix well, then pour into crust.

5. Bake for 55 minutes or until center is almost set.

6. Chill, then add sliced strawberries to the top.

The Girl Scout Cookie Program is the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world. When Girl Scouts participate in the Cookie Program, they build essential skills as they begin to think like entrepreneurs, help their troop earn proceeds to fund their Girl Scout adventures, and earn personal rewards.

It's a Family Affair!

The year-by-year Cookie Entrepreneur Family pin collection is the latest addition to the Girl Scout Cookie Program—and was inspired by and designed for families just like yours!

Support your Girl Scouts as they develop business skills, make amazing memories, and earn a uniform pin for each season of the Girl Scout Cookie Program. The simple, age-specific guidelines have been tailored for their developing skillset, making success a snap.

Resources for cookie families, including the Cookie Entrepreneur Family program

gsnwgl.org/cookiefamilies

Daisy Cadette

Brownie Senior

Junior Ambassador

How the cookie crumbles:

Here is how proceeds from the annual Girl Scout Cookie Program support our Girl Scouts.

52% Our council (programs for Girl Scouts, volunteer training, camps, operations, financial assistance, and more)

Five Essential Skills

The Girl Scout Cookie Program provides important ingredients for leadership by helping Girl Scouts develop five key skills:

Goal Setting

Girl Scouts learn how to set goals and create a plan to reach them.

Decision Making

Girl Scouts learn how to make decisions on their own and as a team.

Dates to keep in mind

Money Management

Girl Scouts learn to create a budget and handle money.

This year’s Girl Scout Cookie Program will kick off on January 17, 2024 and will run through March 31, 2024. All registered Girl Scouts, those in troops and individually registered, can participate in the Cookie Program.

January 17–January 31

Girl Scouts take orders

January 17–March 31

Girl Scouts take online orders with Digital Cookie

February 1–March 31

Girl Scouts take KeepGoaling orders

February 16–18

National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend

March 1–31

Troops participate in Cookie Booths and Walkabouts

People Skills

Girl Scouts find their voice and build confidence through customer interactions.

Business Ethics

Girl Scouts learn to act ethically, both in business and life.

The Girl Scout Cookie Lineup

Pictured and listed in order left to right

1. Adventurefuls™

2. Peanut Butter Sandwiches

3. Caramel Chocolate Chip (Gluten Free)

4. Trefoils

5. Peanut Butter Patties®

6. Toast-Yay!™

7. Lemonades®

8. Caramel deLites®

9. Thin Mint®

Sobre las Galletas Girl Scouts

girlscouts.org/es/sobre-las-galletas-girl-scouts.html

This year’s mascot is Lottie the Axolotl, and our theme is “Own Your Magic”!

Gear Up, Girl Scout!

All proceeds from the Girl Scout shop and girlscoutshop.com come right back to Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes to support Girl Scouts and troops here in our community! Visit

Why Uniforms Matter

For over a century, Girl Scouts have proudly worn distinctive, grade-specific uniforms that symbolize everything they can achieve through Girl Scouts. Girl Scouts from each grade level have one official uniform item (a sash, vest, or tunic) to display badges, pins, insignia, and awards. Girl Scout uniforms are required when participating in ceremonies or officially representing Girl Scouts. Financial Assistance for uniforms is available.

Wear It Where?

You’re earning badges, patches, and awards—but where do they belong? Here’s the rundown on what goes where on your tunic, sash, or vest. Need more help? Go to girlscoutshop.com/where-to-place.

Flag patch, council name patches, and troop numbers go on the front right, in that order, starting at the top.

Badges and Journey awards always go on the front, starting at the bottom. On a vest, badges go on the right and Journey awards on the left. On a sash, badges go below Journey awards. Girl Scout badges, awards, and other insignia should be presented, worn, and displayed only after Girl Scouts have completed the requirements outlined in official program materials.

Fun patches from trips and experiences always go on the back.

Girl Advisory Board

The Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes Girl Advisory Board (GAB) is a dedicated group of 8th–12th grade Girl Scouts from across the council. The GAB provides ideas, guidance, and girl-driven recommendations on projects and initiatives aligned to the council strategy to the GSNWGL staff and board of directors. Members of the GAB will provide critical insight into what programs should be offered, how to attract and retain members, and ideas about how to increase awareness of the Girl Scout Movement. The GAB exists to ensure that the voices of Girl Scouts are heard.

Girl Advisory Board members serve for up to two years or until their high school graduation, whichever comes first. After serving one year as a GAB member, Girl Scouts are eligible to serve on the board of directors as girl members. The board of director girl members will serve as the GAB chair and vice chair. If you meet the qualifications and can commit to the responsibilities and meeting schedule, please submit your application to the council.

Girl Scouts are encouraged to reach out to GirlAdvisory@gsnwgl.org to ensure their ideas and voices are heard.

“The Girl Advisory Board is a way to get girl voices heard and perspectives shared. Being on the Girl Advisory Board will give you the ability to develop programs and to meet the expectations of fellow Girl Scouts. This will give you the opportunity to share what activities you want to see in the council and help make your experience and that of others the best it can be.”

—Sandra Brierton, 2023 GAB Chair

Learn more and apply today!

gsnwgl.org/gab

Girl Scouts Honors Ashlee McGee with the Medal of Honor for Her Remarkable Lifesaving Act

We are proud to honor Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes Junior Girl Scout, Ashlee McGee, from Ashwaubenon, WI, for her exceptional display of quick thinking, decision-making, and heroism in a critical situation. Ashlee has been awarded the prestigious Medal of Honor, one of the highest accolades given to Girl Scouts who exhibit extraordinary bravery and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.

Dating back to 1913, the handbook titled How Girls Can Help Their Country listed two medals that Girl Scouts could earn for meritorious deeds involving saving lives: the Bronze Cross, presented when a Girl Scout had shown special heroism or had faced extraordinary risk of her own life to save another’s life, and the Silver Cross, presented for gallantry with considerable risk to a girl’s life. Even after 110 years, the tradition of recognizing the heroic efforts of Girl Scouts through Lifesaving Awards continues, with the Bronze Cross and the Medal of Honor now serving as the modern-day equivalents.

Ashlee’s courageous actions unfolded when she was at home with her sister and mother, who suddenly began experiencing symptoms of a stroke. In the midst of the emergency, Ashlee exhibited remarkable composure and took charge of the situation. Recognizing her mother's irregular facial features and impaired speech, she immediately alerted her older sister, and together they contacted emergency services. Despite the high-pressure circumstances, Ashlee assumed responsibility for the 911 call. With unwavering calmness, she relayed crucial information to the dispatcher, accurately described her mother's condition, performed necessary tests as directed, and provided vital details to ensure prompt and efficient help arrived. Throughout the ordeal, Ashlee remained attentive to her mother's well-being, embodying the true spirit of heroism.

Spotlight On: Diane Ford She Holds a Handful of Stars

By Emily Bowles

My Girl Scout Story is simple.

Born and raised in Green Bay as the oldest of eight children, my parents did not have much money, so we each got to pick one outside activity to participate in. I wisely chose to be a Girl Scout from first grade all through my senior year of high school, and it set me up well for my future.

After graduating high school with honors, I received an accounting degree from UW-Green Bay and an MBA from UW-Oshkosh—in which I am proud to say I paid my own way. I was hired as the first woman with a college degree in 1975 at Wisconsin Public Service and eventually the first female Vice President and Corporate Controller for Integrys Energy Group. My professional role and involvement on national leadership committees were interesting as there were not a lot of women serving as Controllers at that time. I was able to make a presentation to the Securities and Exchange Commission, and to lead meetings with Financial Accounting Standards Board.

As both Girl Scouts and WPS/Integrys were teachers of how to be a person of service and be involved in the community, I was also able to serve on numerous nonprofit community boards and committees and capital campaigns over the years. These included the YMCA, Neville Public Museum, American Foundation of Counseling Services, Woman’s Fund of Green Bay, and more. I even served on the Lac-Baie Girl Scout Board before the council merger, and I was on the new GSNWGL Audit Committee for years in collaboration with former CEO and friend Gail McNutt.

For all of my devotion to philanthropy, I have been graciously honored with numerous awards, such as the Esther Bie Community Service Award from Girl Scouts, Athena Award from the Green Bay Chamber, Distinguished Alumni Award from UW-Green Bay, Distinguished Business Alumni for UW-Oshkosh, AAUW Dreamers and Doers Award, National 30 Outstanding Women in Finance Award from Treasury & Risk Management Magazine. And in 2021, I was a proud recipient of the Outstanding Lifetime Philanthropy Award from the Northeastern Wisconsin Chapter of Fundraising Professionals. I was shocked and honored to be on that list! In retirement, I continue to be very involved in the community. I was recently invited to join Diane Roundy, this year’s GSNWGL Community Champion for the east region, at the Women of Influence Event to support her in receiving a deserving award for her masterful mentorship skills. During that event, I witnessed Sandy Brierton, GSNWGL Girl Advisory Board Chair, speak. What an impressive young woman of courage, confidence, and character. It reminded me of my Girl Scout experience, which I always keep close to my heart, and my two daughters, who participated in Girl Scouting throughout their younger years. Girl Scouts will always stay with me, and I will always be a supporter in some way. As a philanthropist, I have directed my donation to Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes Financial Assistance Program. Last year, GSNWGL gave $210,000 in financial assistance to Girl Scouts throughout the council. This funding helped ensure that Girl Scouts who may not have the means to cover the costs of membership, programs, camps, or uniforms can experience all the benefits of this invaluable movement. I would be remiss not to ask for your continued support as a volunteer, philanthropic partner, and advocate of an organization that gives girls a lifetime of leadership opportunities, adventure, and the unforgettable laughter shared with friends.

—Diane Ford

It begins when she discovers that ember at the center of a campfire, that flame at the base of a Bunsen burner:

a moment of brightening, a moment of brilliance

that disappears, leaving behind a trace of dust; she hears: “you must…”

You must be small, polite, docile, acquiescent.

You must not be anything at all, the world will say,

and yet the World tells her differently too when she touches it and learns about her world, about herself.

The luster is not lost for her—and she learns how dust forms her, or rather she learns how dust forms for her, in her hands, through her work, it becomes something more.

She begins when she discovers she has what it takes to make that star.

2023 Community Champions

When you support Girl Scouts, you help a Girl Scout find their sparkle, you help a Girl Scout discover their shine, and you help a Girl Scout brighten the world! You are an inspirational spark of light in a Girl Scout's journey and amongst the many who profoundly influence their potential. We proudly feature this year’s Community Champions, inspirational Guiding Lights for Girl Scouts.

As a former Girl Scout, troop leader, proud mother of a Girl Scout, and a GSNWGL Board Member for eight years, Diane Roundy is a genuine advocate for our mission and our 2023 Eastern Community Champion. Diane is the Director of Executive Search at Truity Partners, serves on the Board of Directors for the Green Bay Packers, and has an esteemed reputation for helping Brown County develop into what it is today.

Known by their camp names “Murphy” & “Stretch,” Linda Levin & Kay MacGregor have a long history of leadership and devotion to GSNWGL. Through their roles as camp director, committee member, troop leader, or outdoor adventure trainer, Linda & Kay are excited to be our 2023 Northeastern Community Champions. Learn more about their GSNWGL story in the latest issue of Powering Our Promise.

Husband and wife Nikki & Josh Dhein are teaming up to serve as our 2023 Central Community Champions! From proud parents of Girl Scouts to active GSNWGL volunteers and beyond, Nikki & Josh have dedicated their time and talent to our council for years. Outside of their service to GSNWGL, Nikki is a Radio Personality at Midwest Communications, and Josh is a Senior Systems Analyst at ERCO Worldwide.

Also known as “Peaks,” Jenn Thompson began her Girl Scout journey as a Brownie and continued through her senior year. Jenn is representing GSNWGL as our 2023 Western Community Champion, where she has made her mark as a troop leader, camp weather expert, lifeguard, Camp Nawakwa host, service area volunteer, and former GSNWGL Board Member. Jenn is also a CPA, CFE, and CIDA.

What is the Pearl Challenge?

The Pearl Challenge was a new initiative started in 2022 for Junior, Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scouts to follow Juliette Gordon Low's charitable footsteps, and we are excited to launch the 2023 Pearl Challenge this fall!

Girl Scouts who accept the challenge can learn from Girl Scout alum and staff through webinars and exclusive communications. Learn what it means to be a philanthropist, why it's important to be charitable in our communities, and creative ways to raise $115 to support their fellow Girl Scouts. Funds raised will provide financial assistance to our economically less fortunate Girl Scouts. Whether Girl Scouts complete the Pearl Challenge individually or collaborate with their troop is up to them! However, if one Girl Scout bravely completes the challenge by January 5, 2024, on their own, they will represent their troop, and all troop members will receive the exclusive Pearl Challenge patch. Learn more at gsnwgl.org/pearlchallenge and join today!

Spotlight On: Troop 2253

Is there anything you wish you had done differently during your time as a Girl Scout?

“I wouldn't change anything for the world. Troop 2253 forever and always, these individuals are my people and I love them all so dearly. We made the best memories together and I cannot wait to watch them thrive at their universities. I know that each individual will do great things in their future, and I am so excited for this next chapter of our lives.” —Jade

How has being a Girl Scout influenced your life and personal growth?

“Girl Scouts has let me become a more passionate woman and gave me a better sense of independence. I have felt that I have a community around me that represents what girls can be and what they can do.” —Lara

“Girl Scouts has definitely played a significant role in developing my leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking skills! I learned a lot about who I am and my personal and career aspirations through the guidance of mentors. Now more than ever, I am certain that I want to dedicate a significant portion of my professional life to making a positive impact on those around me!” —Isabella

“I’ve learned many skills that have shaped me and will shape my future, but one of the most meaningful parts of Girl Scouts was the people. Individually, my troop is in different friend groups and activities at school, but Girl Scouts brought us together and allowed us to remain friends despite different interests. These friendships are so important to me and because of the many experiences we’ve had and the memories we’ve made in Girl Scouts, I know they will last a lifetime.” —Tessa

What skills have you developed through your participation in Girl Scouts?

How have these skills helped you in other areas of your life (e.g., school, community, family)?

“A big skill I have developed through my participation in Girl Scouts is patience. From working with my troop to working with kindergarteners, patience is such a helpful skill to have. It has helped me in every aspect of my life. In school it's super helpful, because you can't always avoid working with people, same with working in the community.” —Becca

“Girl Scouts instilled in me courage to try new things, curiosity and the urge to learn more, confidence to stand up for myself and others, empathy towards those in different situations, and a desire to make a difference in my community and world. I know that all of these traits have and will impact me, allowing me to lead and inspire.” —Tessa

“Confidence, empathy, communication, and leadership skills are the skills that I use most frequently. These skills have helped me succeed academically, contribute positively to my community, and build strong bonds with my family and friends. I'm grateful for the invaluable experiences and personal growth that being a Girl Scout has provided me.” —Isabella

What are your overall thoughts and feelings about your Girl Scout journey?

“Girl Scouts was a fun experience for me and I enjoyed it! It's not only to do volunteer but I built up inside jokes and relationships with all of the members of my group. I felt like a valued member and could always know that if I need a community I would have them.” —Lara

“Girl Scouts has and will continue to hold a very special place in my heart. I have made lifelong friendships with some of the most caring people I will ever meet. I also gained one of the best mentors I ever could have asked for.” —Becca

“It was an amazing experience that shaped a large part of my personality. There were of course struggles, but they always taught me a lesson or helped me gain a different perspective! I would not trade it for the world.” —Jade

Tessa Whitcomb

Isabella Sylvia

Leo Ebben

Lara Funnell

Becca Wolf

Jade Laibly

“

Troop #2253 will always have a special place in my heart. These six girls have been together in a troop since they were five. They supported each other while going through all the highs and lows of middle and high school. They have cheered each other on through their achievements outside Girl Scouts in music, sports, forensic competitions, and academics. They also lifted each other when life got tough, which it inevitably does for everyone at some point. Girl Scouts provided a haven of friends who always had each other's backs and a place to land when they needed support. Girl Scouts also challenged them to go outside their comfort zone and explore the world. The unique thing about Girl Scouts is that your troop can stay together for your entire childhood—and these six girls treasure all those memories they made camping, volunteering, creating, and exploring.

What advice would you give to younger Girl Scouts who are just starting their journey?

“Stick with it. Being a Girl Scout becomes more and more rare as you get older, and you will cherish each moment you get with your troop. While your troop size may shrink, but you will form lifelong friendships with those who decide to stay. You will all grow, fail, succeed, laugh, and cry together and you will always be ‘becoming’ together.” —Jade

“Be curious, embrace the journey, and celebrate the special moments! There is no other place in the world where you can gain the community and skills that you do in Girl Scouts. It is truly an amazing experience, so take advantage of all it can offer.” —Isabella “See it through. There were definitely times that it was a struggle to go to all of our meetings, but I would have regretted it if I had quit.” —Becca

“Make sure to build up those relationships don't be afraid to talk to other girls scouts and be your true self. Being your true self will open up so many roads for you because you'll find what you're good at and who appreciates those talents!” —Lara

“Stick with it! While most girls don’t continue into middle or high school, it was during these years that I made the best memories and learned the most. The experiences you’ll have and things you’ll achieve are worth it.” —Tessa

Being their troop leader enriched my life. Yes, being a troop leader is a time commitment. Still, it enables you to build relationships with girls excited to take on new adventures and make our community a better place. Being a leader makes your life fuller and more meaningful—and these girls taught me many lessons about the strength of a group Doing Good in our community. Since fifth grade, their motto has been ‘Do Good.’ These girls were unwavering in their commitment to making Oshkosh shine. Three Gold Awards, one Silver Award, and one Bronze Award later, many kids and their families in the 920 benefited from the troop's determination to help others. Never have you met so many teenagers who love to bag rice to feed the community!

As a Girl Scout leader of three troops for the past 18 years, I have learned that time is the most valuable gift you can give your troop and your community. As Troop 2253 moves into its next chapter of attending colleges across Wisconsin, I know we will all look back and be grateful for our time together. And we look forward to the next time we get together as Lifetime Girl Scouts to hear about life as a college student!

—Deb Laibly Troop Leader for Troop 2253

Photos courtesy of RP Photography.

Girl Scouts is better with friends!

Tell your friends about the Girl Scout Activity Zone. It's a great place to learn about what Girl Scouts do. You and your friends can try something new or dive into subjects you're already passionate about—all free of cost or obligation. Want to make nachos outside, figure out why the moon seems to change shape, or learn first aid that could help in an emergency? How about preparing for camp, designing a car, or connecting with your community? It’s all here in the Girl Scout Activity Zone. Explore activities that feature step-by-step videos hosted by real Girl Scout volunteers and troop leaders. Or check out virtual events that take Girl Scout activities to the next level. There’s something for every age or interest, whether you enjoy getting outdoors, exploring science, gaining life and business skills, or just having fun.

Explore on your own or with friends.

Make a Bug Box

Knots to Know

Let’s go!

Build a box to observe bugs and learn how they move before releasing them. Prepare

Learn a special skill that might come in handy at camp: knot tying!

Badge Sampler

Explore fun hands-on activities for all grade levels in the New Badges Activity Sampler.

Girl Scouts

Share your story!

We know Girl Scouts do awesome stuff! Girl Scouts are go-getters, innovators, risk-takers, and leaders, and we want to hear all about the things you do!

• Did you do an amazing community service project? Tell us about it!

• Did your troop go on an awesome outing? Tell us about it!

• Did a Girl Scout experience shape your life? Tell us about it!

Your stories are important to us and we want to hear from you. Complete the form at gsnwgl.org/shareyourstory to tell us all about your Girl Scout experiences, adventures, and memories. Oh, and we love pictures—share those too (with parent permission)!

Media Girls

We are always on the lookout for Girl Scouts to feature in our photos, videos, and stories. If you’re interested in being a Media Girl, visit our website to see our current call for submissions.

Plus, you can earn a Media Girls patch to proudly display on the back of your uniform!

gsnwgl.org/mediagirls

Be sure to visit our Events page to find all of our council-run activities, events, and camps! Whether your Girl Scout is looking for troop trips, badgeearning programs, or wanting to get started on a highest

award project, you’ll find fun and engaging ways to expand their experience.

There’s still time! Fun with friends. New adventures. Make a difference. You’re ready to go and Girl Scouts is ready for you!