LINK
The Official Publication of Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council | Volume 46 Issue 7
November/December 2020
The Golden
Congrats National Gold Award Girl Scout Abigail
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President of the Council and Chair of the Board Marguerite Woung-Chapman Chief Executive Officer Mary Vitek Chief External Affairs Officer Connie Chavez Communications Director Sara Orsi Visual Brand Manager Joanne Pastalaniec
Troop #157006 had a socially distant friendship circle before going on a morning hike. See more photos on page 38.
Mission Statement GSSJC: Girl Scouts builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. Pluralism Statement Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council is a pluralistic movement, committed to understanding our similarities and differences, building relationships and promoting a dialogue of acceptance and respect. Each individual involved must uphold the tenet that Girl Scouting is for all girls. Circulation The Golden Link is published five times a year. It has a circulation of more than 44,000. The Golden Link is also available online at www.gssjc.org. The Golden Link reaches 26 Texas counties: Angelina, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Hardin, Harris, Houston, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Polk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Tyler, Walker, Waller and Wharton. To report address changes or if you have problems receiving The Golden Link call Customer Service at 713-292-0300. Deadlines Deadline for submitting items is the first of the month two months prior to publication. GSSJC does not accept responsibility for unsolicited materials. Send news and photographs and Scrapbook photos to communications@sjgs.org. Advertisements Advertising rates are available by calling 713-292-0314. Advertisements are accepted in good faith that all the information is correct. Acceptance of advertising does not reflect endorsement of services or goods by the Council. The Golden Link is published six times a year by Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council, 3110 Southwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77098 713-292-0300 The Golden Link is also available to read online at www.gssjc.org/publications Copyright Š2020. All rights reserved. Please recycle this publication. 2
Contents
November/December 2020 3 3
From the Top Shop News
Special Feature 4
Going for Gold
Features 7 8 11 12 13 15 15 16 18 19
Fall Product Program New STEM and Civic Badges Okay to Say Meet the Media Corps Tips to Hosting a Virtual Troop Meeting G.R.I.T. meets for shooting practice International Day of the Girl Honor Volunteers Girl Scouts Got Talent Troop pursues Bronze Award during pandemic
Learn about earning the Gold Award Page 4
Activities
20 General Activities 25 Backpacking 25 Environmental 26 Fine Arts 27 Health 27 Highest Awards 28 Sports 28 STEM 34 Travel
Columns
35 Adult Trainings 36 Philanthropy 37 Around Camp 38 Scrapbook 39 Gold Award Girl Scouts
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New STEM and Civic Badges Page 8
It's not too late to participate in the Fall Program Page 7
Welcome to a new Girl Scout year, we hope you and your family are safe and healthy. As we all continue to adjust to the new normal of life during a pandemic, please know you continue to be in our thoughts. Girl Scouts are strong and resilient, and we are a family. The challenges of 2020 have shown us that in the face of adversity, Marguerite WoungGirl Scouts step up to help their Chapman community and remain steadfastly Chair of the Board and President of the Council determined to make the world a better place. Our Gold Award Girl Scouts are shining examples of this and I hope you enjoy hearing their stories in this issue. We are particularly proud of Abigail Plunkett, who was recognized as one of 10 National Gold Award Girl Scouts this year. She took matters into her own hands when she saw an opportunity to make the world a better place and ultimately, that is what being a Girl Scout is all about. I am writing this letter at the end of October, shortly before the Presidential election and amidst growing concern that Covid-19 cases are rising across the nation. I do not know what the circumstances will be by the time you read this, but I can say that it is more important than ever to prepare the next generation of leaders. This is why GSUSA announced 24 new badges designed to help girls practice ambitious leadership in the crucial areas of automotive engineering, STEM career exploration, entrepreneurship, and civics. These new badges equip girls with a breadth of knowledge, skills, and experiences that will help them take charge and lead our country into the future. I encourage you to read more about them in this issue. Our council staff continue to work remotely and are focused on supporting our members through virtual programming and enabling safe, in-person Girl Scout gatherings. We recently updated our Covid-19 guidance with new rules and Safety Precautions for in-person gatherings and you’ll find tips for meeting safely with your troop in this issue. While Girl Scouting will continue to look different for the foreseeable future, girls can continue having fun, life-changing experiences that are safe and provide a sense of normalcy. We will wrap up our Fall Product program on November 15th. Unlike the Girl Scout Cookie Program, the Fall Product Program is a friends and family program designed to provide new troops revenue early in the year. Despite the scaled back nature of the Fall Product Program, its success depends on volunteers and parents – so thank you to everyone who has made this year a success. With the holidays just around the corner, I wish each of you and your families a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season and hope for the new year ahead.
From the
TOP
Curbside and Online Shopping Available!
Place your order via email to gssjcshop@sjgs.org or by calling the shop direct. Shops will offer retail orders with only curbside/lobby pickup through pre-arranged appointment/pickup times from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays and select stores* on Wednesdays. Hours can change due to emergencies, weather or other factors. Please call before driving long distances. Virtual shopping options also available. As always, online shopping is also available! Bay Area* 281-282-6077 1300 A Bay Area Blvd., Ste. 106 Houston, TX 77058
Lufkin 936-634-4688 1202 College Dr Lufkin, TX 75904
Beaumont 409-832-0556, Ext. 1500 700 North St. Suite F Beaumont, TX 77701
Stafford* 281-670-5982 12300 Parc Crest, Ste. 170 Stafford, TX 77477
Imperial Valley* 281-447-8870 15800 Imperial Valley Dr. Houston, TX 77060
Westside 281-822-4250
Houston* 713-292-0247 3000 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77098
531 FM 359 South Brookshire, TX 77423 Office and Resource Center Closures: All offices and camps are closed through Dec. 31 except for specific appointments or offerings.
New Leader Must-Knows!
Are you a new Girl Scout leader? Here are some things you need to know for the next few months.
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Troop cookie manager training opens in mid-December. The 2021 Cookie Program kicks off Feb. 6. Stay tuned to gssjc.org/cookies for training dates, additional program details and more. Giving Tuesday is Dec. 1. This is a day to give back to your favorite organizations. Did you know it costs $336 for a girl to experience a year of Girl Scouting in our council? Consider making a gift to GSSJC to ensure ALL girls have access to the premier leadership organization for them – visit gssjc.org/donate. GSSJC will be closed Dec. 24 – Jan. 1. During the time, you can use our contact form on the website at gssjc. org/contact or leave a voicemail if you need assistance. Messages will be returned in the order received when we resume normal business hours on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2020. Please note our activities system will be down and you will not be able to register for activities between Nov. 18 and Dec. 8.
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Special Feature
Go For Gold! When you earn the Gold Award, you are part of an elite group. Since a highest award was introduced 100 years ago in 1916,only one million girls – approximately two percent of all Girl Scout alumnae – have earned the Gold Award or its equivalent. When a girl answers the call to “go gold,” she isn’t just completing another service project or earning a pin. She’s making a meaningful and lasting change in her community. The Girl Scout Gold Award acknowledges the power behind each recipient’s dedication to not only empowering and bettering herself but also to making the world a better place for others. Earning Girl Scouts highest award can take up to two years to complete. Before a girl ever takes action on her idea, she must: spend time carefully researching issues to determine a project with a sustainable impact; create a detailed plan to address a root cause of an issue; present the plan for approval to a Gold Award Review Board; and recruit a team of volunteers to help make her plan happen. Then the work of the actual project happens and takes at least 80 service hours to complete. But it doesn’t end there. Once a project is complete, a girl is asked to tell the story of her project so others know how her leadership is making their community a better place. Add in a busy high school schedule, jobs and even the college application process, and you begin to see why Gold Award recipients are such an elite (and amazing!) group. Read on to learn more about what it takes to earn the Gold Award and meet the newest National Gold Award Girl Scout from our council!
Steps to earning the Gold Award
Earning the Gold Award starts with a Senior or Ambassador Girl Scout earning two Journeys OR having earned the Silver Award and one Journey. The following are just an overview of the steps required by GSSJC to earn the Gold Award. Attend Gold Award Orientation: This is offered by the Council online. Take at your own time and pace. The traning helps girls understand what earning the Gold Award requires. Choose an issue: Using your values and skills, choose a community issue you care about. Investigate: Learn everything you can about the issue you’ve identified. Zone in on the specific area you’d like to address – a more focused effort has a larger impact than a big idea that’s scattered. Get help: Invite others to join your team to support your efforts and help you take action. Classmates, teachers, friends and experts from area businesses are all great options. You’ll also need to choose a project advisor who has expertise in the area your project addresses. Create a plan: A Gold Award project addresses the root cause of an issue. Create a plan that outlines the best use of your time and talent. Present your plan and get feedback: Before the work of the project can begin, a Girl Scout must submit her Project Proposal to the Gold Award Review Board via GoGold Online. Approval is required before you can actually get started.
Celebrate Your Gold Award Project
Are you a Girl Scout alumna who earned the Gold Award or its equivalent? We’d love to hear your story! Send a short description of your project that helped you earn Girl Scouting’s highest award to communications@sjgs.org. (You do not have to have been a member of San Jacinto Council to submit your story.)
Take action: Lead your team and carry out your plan! Educate and inspire: Read over your notes and spend some time reflecting on your experiences. Then tell your story and share your results. Don’t forget, you must also submit your Final Report to the Review Board for approval via GoGold Online. Celebrate your accomplishment: Take a moment to celebrate your own success and thank your team. For complete guidelines, tools and more, visit gssjc.org/ goldaward or girlscouts.org/goldaward.
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Benefits of Going Gold
Gold Award recipients do well in life! They rate their general success in life significantly higher and report higher success in reaching their goals within many areas. Girls who earn the Gold Award distinguish themselves in the college admissions process as being able to take on and complete a large project. A Gold Award recipient is seen as a role model and distinguished leader, a master at time management skills and someone who has actively sought to make the world a better place. National Gold Award Girl Scouts This honor is given to Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors whose Gold Award projects demonstrated extraordinary leadership, had a measurable and sustainable impact and addressed a local challenge related to a national and/or global issue. These young women are taking matters into their own hands and being the change the world needs. The National Gold Award Girl Scout program perfectly reflects our mission of building girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place. The program provides these young women with the opportunity to be an inspiration to girls around the world and throughout the Girl Scout Movement. Did you know? • National Gold Award Girl Scouts represent GSUSA as speakers at a number of local and national events. • All selected National Gold Award Girl Scouts receive professional public speaking training. • National Gold Award Girl Scouts have the opportunity to reach a larger national audience while highlighting the importance and impact of their project. • National Gold Award Girl Scouts are awarded college scholarships and other opportunities to help sustain their Gold Award projects. This years' winners were awared $20,000. For more information, visit www.girlscouts.org/nywod.
Gold Award Fun Facts:
• Gold Award Girl Scouts spend between one and two years on their projects. However, some finish their projects as quick as a few months. • The average age of a Gold Award Girl Scout is 17. • In nearly 100 years, one million girls have earned the Gold Award or its equivalent. • You don’t have to earn the Bronze or Silver Award to earn the Gold Award. • Gold Award Girl Scouts are entitled to enlist at a higher pay grade when they join the military • Many colleges and universities offer scholarships to Gold Award Girl Scouts. • And, university research indicates that adding Gold Award to a college application is a critical element in the admissions-decision process.
Gold Award History
The Golden Eagle of Merit, the highest award in Girl Scouting from 1916 to 1919, marked the beginning of a long tradition of recognizing girls who make a difference in their communities with a prestigious award. The names have changed, but the meaning stays the same: 1916 – 1919: Golden Eagle of Merit 1919 – 1939: Golden Eaglet 1938 – 1940: First Class
1940 – 1963: Curved Bar 1963 – 1980: First Class 1980 – present: Gold Award
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Special Feature
Abigail Plunkett has been recognized as a 2020 National Gold Award Girl Scout Abigail is among 10 Gold Award Girl Scouts from across the country to be named a National Gold Award Girl Scout this year. National Gold Award Girl Scouts are nominated by their council and selected by Girl Scouts of the USA based on their Gold Award project. To be recognized, girls must demonstrate extraordinary leadership and create change with lasting impact that will benefit others for years to come. For her Gold Award project, Abigail first installed an ADA-approved wheelchair ramp so that mobility challenged actors could access the stage. She then consulted with a pediatric physical therapist and special education professionals, recruited and trained teen acting assistants, and produced a two-week summer theater camp program for children with cognitive and/or physical disabilities. “When I was at auditions for a play in junior high, a girl arrived who was deaf in one ear. She said she could never have a main role because she’d been told by other theater groups that nobody could accommodate her disability—but she still wanted to participate,” says Abigail. “That whole experience made me realize that lots of other kids don’t have the opportunity to act on stage—and that didn’t seem right. A big part of being a Girl Scout is being part of a sisterhood where everyone is included, supported and inspired by each other. Why shouldn’t the theater world be the same way? That was the inspiration for my Girl Scout Gold Award project—to make theater arts accessible to all kids who want to participate.” Abigail is a freshman at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin. Her academic focus is on exercise science and pre-physical therapy. She hopes to become a physical therapist. “The thing that means the most to me, of course, is all of the kids who went through the program, learned new skills and were able to perform for their loved ones,” says Abigail. “But I also know that my Girl Scout Gold Award helped me get accepted by the University of Texas of the Permian Basin, gave me connections with professionals who work with kids with cognitive and physical disabilities and earned me about $60,000 in scholarships!” Read about more Gold Award Girl Scouts on page 41. 6
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2020 Fall Product Program It's not too late to get started! Each fall registered Girl Scouts take orders from friends and family for delicious nuts and candies, as well as magazine subscriptions, as part of the Fall Product Program. Is your Girl Scout participating? Troops earn 25% of every nut and candy item sold and earn $2 per magazine subscription sold. The average troop proceeds are $300 - what could your girl's troop do with those funds? It's not too late to join! Here's how to get started: • Visit gsnutsandmags.com/gssjc and follow the prompts • Help your Girl Scout create her personalized storefront • Send emails to family and friends That's it! The online sale portion of the 2020 Fall Product Program runs through Sunday, Nov. 15.
Have you tried the Fruit Slices!
Are you almost there? Don't give up now. Sell 55 items to earn this cute sloth! Create your own avatar!
Don't miss out on this patch!
Girls earn this Fall Product/Cookie Program patch by participating in both programs. Here is what you need to do: • •
Participate in the 2020 Fall Product Program by creating your Me2 avatar and sending 15 or more emails before November 12, 2020 Selling 250 or more packages of cookies during the 2021 Cookie Program
Patches will be mailed directly to the Girl Scout after the 2021 Cookie Program ends in March.
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Brand new badges for all Girl Scout levels! GSUSA announced 24 new badges designed to help girls practice ambitious leadership in the crucial areas of automotive engineering, STEM career exploration, entrepreneurship and civics, many of which remain male-dominated. In a year of unprecedented global change, our country's need for strong, broad-minded and decisive leadership has never been greater. Through new and existing programming, Girl Scouts equips the next generation of female change-makers with the breadth of knowledge, skills and experiences they need to take charge and do good for the world, both now and in the future. Civics badges (grades K–12): Girls gain an in-depth understanding of how local, state, and federal government works, preparing them to be voters, activists, and, potentially, political leaders. They research laws and how they’re created, voting and the electoral college, the representation of women in government, and more. They also research their local government officials and are encouraged to meet them.
Find activities to help earn all the new badges at https://bit.ly/3ie2gQu. Below is an example of activities: Judge a Case - Ambassador badge activity
Learn more about the judicial branch by researching a Supreme Court case. Materials needed: Computer, tablet or phone with Internet access Setup: The judicial branch of the government is made up of courts and judges. The system ladders up to the highest court in the United States, the Supreme Court. You are going to dig into a case that was tried by the Supreme Court! Activity: The Supreme Court, which is sometimes called “the highest court in the land,” is made up of nine special judges called justices. These justices were all men until 1981, when the first woman, Sandra Day O’Connor, joined the court. (She was a Girl Scout too!) Today the court is a mixture of men and women. Justices are appointed, not elected, and they serve lifelong terms. That means they generally stay on the court until they pass away or retire, but the Constitution
gives Congress the power to impeach—or try to remove— justices for “Treason, Bribery or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors.” Go online and research important Supreme Court rulings. Choose one and find out everything you can about it. What was the process to get the case to the Supreme Court? What was the decision about the case by the Supreme Court? How close was the vote? Do you agree with the result? Share your thoughts with family or friends. Reflection: • Think about what you just did? • Why do you think it’s significant that Supreme Court justices serve lifelong terms? • Would you want to be a judge or member of the Supreme Court? Why or why not? • How can you share what you’ve learned with other girls?
Learn about this month's highlight, STEM and Civic badges on the next two pages. 8
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Civic Badges for grades K–12 Democracy for Daisies badge: Meet the people who work together in your government! Find out about local, state and national government. When you've earned this badge, you will have learned about the people who work together in your government. Democracy for Brownies badge: Find out how people in the government decide what rules are made and how they are followed. Find out about local and state government and about the legislative, executive and judicial branchs of the government. When you've earned this badge, you will know the three branches of government - and some of the things they are responsible for. Democracy for Juniors badge: Learn more about how your government works - from your town or city to the whole country. Find out about the ins and outs about our country's legislative, executive and judicial branchs of the government. When you've earned this badge, you will know more about how government works.
Democracy for Cadettes badge: If you want to make a difference, start by fully understanding how your government works. Informed citizens are change makers! When you've earned this badge, you will have learned new things about your government - how each branch works, how they work together and how each piece makes a difference in society.
Democracy for Seniors badge: Learn all about the three branches of government - and more.When you've earned this badge, you will have expanded your knowledge about how your local, state and national government works.
Democracy for Ambassadors badge: Become an expert on your government and the roles of the officials you'll help elect. When you've earned this badge, you will have learned more about your local, state and national government and you'll be ready to use that knowledge to inform your voting.
Troop Leaders: The instructions for all badge steps are available in the Volunteer Toolkit. November/December 2020 l The Golden Link 9
Features Features STEM Badges for grades 2-8
STEM Career Exploration badges (grades 2–8) Girls explore their career interests and connect them to STEM fields—particularly computer science, nature/environmental science, engineering, design, health, and agriculture—that can help them address the pressing issues of our time and change the world. Brownie STEM Career Exploration Badge: Find out how all the things you love - like camping, baking and walking your dog - can become a job that changes the world. Then, create a plan to turn your dreams into a reality! When you've earned this badge, you'll know how to use STEM to help others. 1. Explore your interests 2. Discover the possibilities 3. Learn about the day-to-day 4. Brainstorm your next steps 5. Share your goals
Junior STEM Career Exploration Badge Explore what you're interested in and what you care about. When you've earned this badge, you'll know about STEM careers that make the world a better place 1. Explore your interests 2. Discover the possibilities 3. Learn about the day-to-day 4. Brainstorm your next steps 5. Share your goals
Cadette STEM Career Exploration Badge Explore careers that make a difference. Then, map out how you'll help others and change the world! 1. Explore how you want to make a difference 2. Discover your career possibilities 3. Learn about the day-to-day 4. Brainstorm your next steps 5. Map your career path When you've earned this badge, you'll know about STEM careers and how you can make the world a better place.
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KELLY, BRITTANY
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Media Corps GSSJC is excited to announce the inaugural class of Media Corps for fall 2020! The Media Corps program prepares girls to be confident, camera-ready spokespeople for the Girl Scout brand through media training and workshops. Girls in the program learn the ins and outs of working with media, how to conduct effective interviews and practice public speaking skills with peers and professionals. Be on the lookout for these Girl Scouts on television, radio and social media! We will be refreshing the Media Corps program with 18 new girls in Spring 2021, so keep an eye out for application information!
Eberly K.
Aria F.
Trinity L.
Emma H.
Aria H.
Nicole M.
Domenica S.
Kinnedy W.
Become a Part of the Council Flag Ceremony Focus Troop You can represent Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council at events including: • The City of Houston’s July 4th Celebration • The Houston Texans Game • Council Ceremonies including Success2Significance and The Gold Award Ceremony Leadership opportunities include: • Leading workshops on Flag Ceremonies o Flag pole o Stage (a couple different types) o Girl Scout event vs non-Girl Scout events o Publicspeaking opportunities • Flag etiquette and table etiquette If you are interested, contact Janine Shipman at 832-294-9645 or janine@janinesmoment.com.
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Sara R.
Peyton L.
Eva D.
Lily R.
Aly S.
Kendall C.
Jessica H.
Soleil R.
Features
Virtual Girl Scout Meeting Tips & Tricks When in-person meetings are not possible, virtual meetings facilitate a sense of belonging and helps maintain social connections with other girls. This creates an environment that allows girls to get comfortable and tech savvy. Girls who don’t have access to troop or group meetings, either virtually or in-person, generally don’t remain engaged with Girl Scouts. It also allows a platform girls need to continue developing leadership opportunities. The most important thing is to ask yourself is what you want to be able to do, and then see which platform has the features you need. Do you want: • Video calling – Everyone in the meeting can see and hear each other. • Desktop sharing – Presenter is able to share their screen to show documents, PowerPoint slides or images. • File sharing – Upload handouts so that families can download them to read or print at home. • Text reminders – Send everyone a text message at the same time to remind them about upcoming meetings or send a materials list. • Private group app – A private space that only members can access which usually offers members the ability to create posts, upload pictures and engage in conversation. Things to remember: • Check GSSJC safety checkpoints and have the girls go over the Internet Safety Pledge. • Zoom safety guidelines. • Disable guest screensharing. • Require the host to be present. • Keep your personal meeting ID private. • Use a password. • Use the waiting room. • Do not record troop meetings. • Before taking attendance have girls change their names to show first names only. Other tips: • When screen sharing, the "optimize option" is especially useful when sharing YouTube and other online videos as it can prevent distortion, lagging and buffering issues. • Practice looking at the camera. • Don’t be afraid to move – don’t be a talking head. • Speak slower than you normally would. • Watch for visual cues. • Outline expectations and chat etiquette at the beginning of the meeting. • Ensure there are two registered adults volunteers. One to focus on interacting with the girls while the other monitors chat, takes attendance, provides tech support, etc. • Switch it up! • Encourage headphone use to block out noisy distractions. Scheduling and hosting a meeting: The first screen you will see reveals any meetings you already have scheduled. To set up a new meeting, click "schedule a new meeting" and a new screen will appear, in which you can name your meeting, add a description if you want and choose the date or time.
If this is a recurring meeting, like a troop meeting, click the "recurring meeting" checkbox under the time zone tab. If you select it, you can then choose how often the meeting needs to be repeated - whether daily, weekly and monthly. Or, you can set an end date. Once you have input these details, scroll down and click "save." The meeting is set, but how do I invite others? • You must do so manually. There are two ways to do this: through calendar invites or via your own email account. • If you wish to invite others through a calendar, links to Google Calendar, Outlook Calendar and Yahoo Calendar are displayed once your meeting has been saved. • Alternatively, next to the "join URL" link on this screen, there is an option to "copy this invitation." • Clicking on this page element brings up a screen with all of the important information required for the meeting, including the URL, of which the meeting ID is already embedded. Copy this to your clipboard, open your email client, paste the details into a new message and invite away. • So, in short, all participants need is the meeting URL, date and time and a password if applicable. What about Zoom crashers? When software is popular, scammers come out of the woodwork to try and find a way to capitalize. Zoom is no different. The appearance of scammers jumping into unprotected meetings and posting malicious links and pornography has given rise to the phrase "Zoom-bombing." The problem has become common enough for Zoom to publish a guide on how to prevent gatecrashers from disrupting your meetings, including pointers such as: • Keep your meeting links off social media. • Do not use your Personal Meeting ID (PMI) to host public events. Instead, generate a random ID. • Choose "only host" for screen sharing control during a meeting. • Only allow signed-in users to join a meeting. • Use the lock feature to prevent random users from joining in. You might also want to consider using the Waiting Room. • If you are gatecrashed, hover over the user's name in the Participants menu to bring up a "remove" option.
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Features How long should the meeting be? Daisies: Recommended length for online meetings: 30 minutes Average attention span is 12 -18 minutes, so change activities every 10 minutes. Parent involvement in offline activities and attendance during meetings is required. Brownies: Recommended length for online meetings: 45 - 60 minutes. Average attention span is 16 -24 minutes, so change activities every 10 to 15 minutes. Parent involvement in offline activities and attendance during meetings is strongly recommended or required as needed. Juniors: Recommended length for online meetings: 45 - 60 minutes Average attention span is 20 - 30 minutes, so change activities every 15 to 20 minutes. Parent involvement in offline activities is recommended, with assistance to get set up and started during meetings if needed.
Ideas for troop meeting games
Draw a comic Tally marks Digital escape ooms Factile Jeopardy games Dots and Boxes I Spy Games Any PDF board game Coloring sheets (can color together using annotate tools) Scavenger hunt Show amd tell Unexpected co-host Dress up party Host in different rooms every meeting Change up virtual backgrounds Sketchbook share Use whiteboard feature Take polls Have themed meetings Dance party Play a game Insert a turtle or sloth in your slides for girls to find Make silly faces
Cadettes: Recommended length for online meetings: 60 - 90 minutes Average attention span is 24 - 36 minutes, so change activities every 15 to 20 minutes. Parent involvement in offline activities and assistance logging in to meetings is optional and when needed. Seniors: Recommended length for online meetings: 60 - 90 minutes Average attention span is 28 - 42 minutes, so change activities every 15 to 25 minutes. Seniors can manage their online troop experiences, asking for assistance when needed. Ambassadors: Recommended length for online meetings: 60 - 90 minutes. Average attention span is 32 - 48 minutes, so change activities every 20 to 30 minutes. Ambassadors can manage their online troop experiences; however, they may be juggling competing priorities.
More Game Ideas
BOX OF LIES This game comes from Jimmy Fallon’s late night show. Here’s a clip so you’ve got an idea of how it works: youtube.com/watch?v=Md4QnipNYqM. The Zoom modification is that each person who comes to your Zoom meeting would bring a “weird” thing they can find in their house and keep it out of sight of their camera. Then, each person will take a turn describing their object (either lying or telling the truth – they decide). Everyone else holds up either a “thumbs up” for telling the truth or a “thumbs down” for lying. Then the person who was it shows their object, and you can keep points on how many people were right or wrong about the person lying or telling the truth. TRUE FACTS This is simple! Everyone privately messages the host a secret fact about themselves, and then the host shares them one by one. Everyone then has to vote who they think it belongs to. See if your girls can fool the others! This is great to learn about your group but also for your girls to feel connected to each other. PARTNERS IN PEN Have everyone grab a piece of paper, and also some random object from their house. (Nothing too familiar, but something that is mildly obscure.) Then each person takes a turn describing their hidden item while everyone else tries to draw it from their description they give. The person who is closest wins and gets to describe their hidden item next. REVERSE CHARADES One person is “it” while everyone else acts out a word. You can get the word to the large group by privately messaging everyone individually, OR by writing it down and showing it on your screen while the person who is “it” closes their eyes. Then, once they have guessed, you move to the next person. The way to make this competitive would be to time how long it takes each person individually to guess OR put people onto teams. If team A’s representative doesn’t guess within a minute, then the turn switches to team B. If team A does guess before a minute is up, then their team gets to go again. PICTIONARY This requires you to use the drawing feature on Zoom, which also requires quite a bit of set up beforehand (or just whenever you have very few girls in the Zoom meeting with you). Here’s how to set this up on a computer: Go into your “screen share” option at the bottom of Zoom, and select “whiteboard” and “share”. Then, when you’ve got your green bar with your ID, hover over it which will bring up a menu. Click on the three dots that say “more” underneath it. Then, “disable attendee annotation” so that no one else can draw. You can also “show names of annotators” instead to allow others to still draw, but that you’ll also know WHO is drawing WHAT.
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G.R.I.T. meets for shooting practice
The Special Interest Group, G.R.I.T. (Girls, Rifles, Instructions and Training) met in October. They meet monthly for in-person practice and have started meeting virtually once-per-month for this season to learn about rifle programs, hear from experts and manage their group. The group were able to shoot on the refurbished range at Misty Meadows Ranch which provides a bigger space for safe social distancing and future growth so more girls can participate. The girls are very happy with their new “home base” for rifle program!
International Day of the Girl
Girl Scouts around the council celebrated International Day of the Girl by decorating their communities in positive girl messages and how to join Girl Scouts.
Troop #121035 had a chalk explosion celebrating girls. Troop #109358 made a Girl Scout blitz on the walking trail around their community park. They also had someone come and talk to them about her daughter joining!
Girl Scout Blitz chalk drawings from Troop #128061.
Troop #118153 helped spread the Girl Scout cheer in their neighborhood.
The President’s Award is Still Relevant for 2020!
The 2019-20 membership year was a little more than unusual, but your efforts count! GSSJC would like to acknowledge the efforts of our Communities whose exemplary service supported delivering the GSLE by meeting or surpassing team goals, thereby contributing to the council’s overall goals. If you made your membership and retention goals for 2019-2020, then you are in the running. This national award has 10 criteria points and the accomplishments must have been achieved during the previous membership year. Documentation and materials supporting the nomination must be submitted between the following dates: August 15 - December 15. The GSSJC F-76 form is currently found in the new Volunteer Hub under Forms on gssjc.org. Your Community will be acknowledged at the Adult Recognition Event and presented with certificates and pins for each team member. The Community’s name will also be added to a plaque and displayed at the council in the Hall of Fame. If this sounds like your Community, submit the forms and celebrate reaching your goal. For more information contact Tracy Swanson at tswanson@sjgs.org or your Community's VEM.
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Adult Recognition Event April 17, 2021 Nominate Volunteers for National and Council Awards
Girl Scout volunteers participate in many ways. Celebrate them! Even though our volunteers believe passionately in the mission to empower girls, they appreciate being recognized for their hard work. Say thank you. GSSJC offers formal awards for volunteers who go above and beyond the expectations for their role and make significant contributions to our Girl Scout programs and council mission. Demonstrate your appreciation through one of the many opportunities below. Information about each award, the criteria, nomination and application forms, and procedures for nominating your deserving volunteers are provided in the next few pages as well as online in the Adult Recognitions Guide F-183 on the Forms Tab.
How to nominate a volunteer
Do you know an outstanding adult or community partner who is deserving of recognition? Use these easy steps below to get started.
1
Obtain the appropriate application form.
A complete nomination packet includes: • Nomination Application Form for individual, family or Community partner • Three letters of endorsement, one from you and two from other current members in good standing • Volunteer Service Record (F-122), one for each nominated adult. These forms should be found in Community files or with the individual volunteer Find forms on the Volunteer Hub tab at the top of our webpage. In navigation bar on the left you will find the Online Nomination Form at the bottom. Please plan to fill out the complete application form in one sitting.
2
Fill out form completely and accurately.
Make sure you include how long the nominee has given service to GSSJC, and highlight specific contributions. Incomplete packets will not be accepted. F-122 for nominee is required.
Helpful hints for completing award forms •
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Nominations are evaluated by what is written in the letters of endorsement and the candidate’s Volunteer Service Record. The nomination should clearly state why the person’s work is noteworthy and above that expected for the position. Include accomplishments, specifying the impact on the audience receiving the service. Provide details of accomplishments, not just a list of committees they are involved with. Provide specific examples. You may submit more than three letters of endorsement for one candidate, especially for the higher level awards. You may want to ask more than three people for endorsements to ensure you get three back in time for submittal. Nominations cannot be considered if candidates have not completed training for positions requiring training. Attend Thanks a Million course. Refer to Adult Recognition Guide F-183 for more tips.
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3
Obtain three letters of endorsement.
Write a letter of endorsement and identify two additional registered adults who are in good standing (one may be a staff member) who know the nominee and will agree to write a letter of endorsement. Hint: Make sure to include volunteers and staff whose endorsements will reflect each aspect of the nominee’s service (i.e. trainers, community volunteer, Council committee, etc.). The nominee’s volunteer supervisor is a great resource. Self nomination will not be accepted.
4 1. 2. 3. 4.
Submit a complete nomination packet.
Online nomination form is available at gssjc.org/nomination Mail: GSSJC, Adult Recognition Committee, 3110 Southwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77098 Fax: 713-292-0340; if faxing, call volunteer development manager at 713-292-0254 to verify receipt of nomination packet Email: tswanson@sjgs.org; if you have any questions, contact volunteer development manager at 713-292-0254
Deadlines for Awards:
Deadline Award Presentation Aug. 15 – Dec. 15 President’s Award GSSJC Rec. Event February 15 Council/national awards GSSJC Rec. Event March 15 Council/national awards Community Event 12 weeks prior Council/national awards Other events
Submitting F-122s for Adult Recognitions:
The Adult Volunteer Record (F-122) is a REQUIRED document for any adult recognition award nomination. Ideally, volunteer records are collected and compiled by your Girl Scout Community service team. They may also be obtained from any council committee on which that volunteer sits (see the staff partner or chair for that committee), from a fellow volunteer, or if necessary, from the volunteer directly.
Features
National and Council Awards Appreciation Pin – For the candidate that has provided outstanding service to a geographic area or program delivery audience in a way that furthers the council’s goals. The service goes beyond the expectations for the position. (F-54) Volunteer of Excellence – Recognizes volunteers who have contributed outstanding service while partnering directly with girls in any pathway to implement the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE) through use of the National Program Portfolio or who have contributed outstanding service in support of the council’s mission delivery to girl and adult members. (F-54) Honor Pin – Candidate who has provided outstanding service in two or more geographic areas or program delivery audiences in a way that furthers the council’s goals. Candidate may have already received the Appreciation Pin, but it is not a criteria. The service goes beyond the expectations of the position. (F-54) Thanks Badge – This award is for the candidate who has provided outstanding service that benefits the total council or entire Girl Scout Movement. Candidate may have already received the Honor Pin or Appreciation Pin, but it is not a criteria. The service goes beyond the expectations of the position. (F-54) Thanks Badge II – For the candidate who has already received the Thanks Badge and has continued to perform at the same high level for an extended period of time, increased their sphere of influence or used their skills to move into another field of endeavor. The outstanding service benefits the total council or entire Girl Scout Movement. (F-54) Outstanding Leadership Team Pin This Community award recognizes the outstanding efforts of any troop, special interest group or pathway leadership team who meets the specific criteria listed on the GSSJC application form, F-335. Outstanding Volunteer Pin Intended to recognize contributions above and beyond expectations in Community, Region or special interest group for volunteer roles outside of troop leadership. This one-time award is reviewed by your local service team and fulfilled by council Volunteer Experience Department. President’s Award – Recognizes the Community who meets criteria points as outlined in the President’s Award Application form (F-76) within a geographic area or program delivery team. It demonstrates achievement of council goals during a membership year. Documentation and materials supporting the nomination must be included. Dec. 15 deadline. Ervan Chew Award – Recognizes individuals who demonstrate the values of the GSSJC Pluralism Statement within our community. For adult volunteer or community member or an 11-12 grade girl-member of Girl Scouts. (Not affiliated with the Ervan Chew Scholarship) (Deadline Feb. 15)
The Key Award – This award is for the candidate that has given distinguished service to girls and adults in GSSJC. This year the council would like to award volunteers who have exemplified innovation in providing Girl Scout programming during the pandemic. (F-54) Continuing Service – It is given to an outstanding volunteer who has already received the Thanks Badge and has continued to serve our council above and beyond the position(s) they hold. (F-54) Lifetime Achievement – For candidate who has received the Thanks Badge II and continued to perform at the same high level for an extended period of time. Candidate has given outstanding service to our council above and beyond the position(s) held for many years. (F-54) Family Award – Recognizes adult family members who have contributed above and beyond the expectations of the positions they hold. For example: wife and husband, mother and adult daughter(s), grandparent and adult daughter(s), sisters (adults). (F-57) Community Awards Certificate of Appreciation – For a community building, business, church or non-registered adult who has given service to the council/community for several years. (First level of Community Awards) Walnut Plaque – For a community building, business or non-registered adult who has given service to the council/community for many years. The candidate may have received the Certificate of Appreciation, but it is not a requirement. (Second level of Community Awards.) Laser Plaque – For a community building, business or non-registered adult who has given service to the Council/community for many years. The candidate may have received the Certificate of Appreciation and Walnut Plaque, but it is not a requirement. (Third level of Community Awards.)
Membership and Years of Service pins
Membership Numerals – Recognizes the years an adult has been a Girl Scout member (girl plus volunteer adult years). There is a nominal fee for these pins. (F-56) Years of Service – Recognizes the years an adult has been a registered, active member of Girl Scouts. Given in increments of 5 years. (F-61)
If you are eligible for a Membership Numeral or Years of Service pin, let the Community administrators or their designee know. Communities will submit orders for the Membership Numeral and Years of Service pins to be presented at a Community/Region event or meeting. Any pin of 25 years and higher may be received at the Adult Recognition Event with advanced notice, see deadlines. November/December 2020 l The Golden Link 17
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Girls of all ages, we want to see your talent!
Calling all Girl Scouts! We are excited to bring you our own rendition of the nationally syndicated show, America's Got Talent. Girl Scouts are super talented and now it is your chance to shine in the spotlight. We are looking for girls from GSSJC who would like to showcase their talent and compete to win a trip to Universal Studios Orlando or Los Angeles. Girls are asked to submit a two-minute video showcasing their amazing talent. Videos can be of girls singing, dancing, performing magic, painting, playing an instrument, etc. It is up to you! You could be the first-ever winner of Girl Scouts Got Talent and win the grand prize of a trip to Universal Studios and, of course, bragging rights!
Competition Structure: The winner of the Girl Scouts Got Talent competition will be selected over the course of six rounds: • •
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Round 1: Troop Level – Submit your video to troop leader and one winner decided by troop voting. Starting now! Troop voting should be finished by Dec. 7 and troop leaders should send in winner to Community by Dec. 8. Round 2: Community Level – All troop videos are submitted to a Community judge panel. They choose the top three that will then be voted on by all troops in the Community. Community judges by Dec. 14 and by Dec. 15 top three communicated to Community troops for voting. Dec. 21 is the deadline for troop voting to be returned to the Community judges. Round 3 Quadrants – Panel of local Houston talent will narrow Community winners down to five in each quadrant. Quadrants will be made of splitting our council into North, South, East and West. Dec. 29 - Judges scores are due at noon. Scores tallied and top 20 are contacted. Round 4: Top 20 – Top five in each quadrant will perform LIVE for a panel of judges, voting will be open to the general public with a top eight advancing. Jan. 12-15 - live competitions for Regions. Top eight selected and contacted. Round 5: Finals – Top eight vote perform LIVE on the air to compete for the GRAND PRIZE TRIP TO UNIVERSAL STUDIOS. A celebrity judge will be on the air to pick the winner of Girl Scouts Got Talent. Live event Jan. 21. Winner selected!
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Video Submission Rules: 1. For rounds 1-3 a short two-minute video will need to be submitted of you performing your talent. 2. Talent submissions can include, but not limited to; singing, dancing, variety acts, magic, speed painting etc. Whatever talent you choose must be able to be performed LIVE on the air. 3. There should be no more than two people in each video 4. Everyone in the video must be a current Girl Scout in the San Jacinto Council. 5. Videos need to be submitted on YOUTUBE. These videos need to be either “public” or “unlisted” when you submit your video. If the video is listed as “private” the link will not work. The “unlisted” option allows only those people with a link to see your video. 6. Your talent should be able to transfer to a LIVE (4-5 minute) performance if you are selected to move forward in the competition. 7. At the top of your video, please state your name, age, Girl Scout level and talent before you begin your performance. 8. If your video makes it to the TOP 20 live competitions, your talent needs to remain the same. Do not submit a singing video and change your talent to magic halfway through the competition. 9. This video will be used all the way until TOP 20 of the competition and will be seen by voters and guest judges. Please use good sound, lighting and video quality when submitting. 10. Girls do not need to wear their Girl Scout uniform in their video.
You could win a trip to Orlando or LA!
• First Place: A trip for two to visit Universal Studios in Orlando, FL or Los Angeles, CA, which includes round trip flights, two nights in a hotel and park hopper passes for both people to Universal Studios. *winner gets to choose destination* • Second Place: Four tickets to Houston Ballet with private tour • Third Place: Two tickets of your choice to a Broadway-style production in Houston
Features
Troop pursues Bronze Award during pandemic By: Jasmine Castillo – Troop #157173 In this uncertain and challenging times, we need to find new ways of doing things. Staying at home during the coronavirus pandemic has many pros and cons to it. We are all stuck in our homes with little to no access to public places. Some of you may want to go back to school, eat at your favorite restaurant, or visit your relative's house to chill together. Maybe you're bored and have no idea what to do because you feel like you've done everything a person can do. However, there are a lot of activities that we can do while staying at home, like drawing, learning how to cook new dishes and virtual Girl Scouting! Troop #157173 decided to pursue our goal to do our Bronze Award during the pandemic. We started doing online meetings as early as March 2020 to continue earning badges and to discuss our Bronze Award project ideas. Our original plan was to help restore a butterfly garden in the local community park, but due to the age restriction rule we were not able to do it. It is also challenging to meet outside in a group and work together due to the ongoing pandemic. As a solution, our troop decided to go online with a Bronze Award project. We decided to make online videos and classes that we can share with the community. We also built our own website to bring together our ideas and creativity. Using free and available internet resources, like Google Sites, allowed us to create and find new ways to help others. You can visit our website at gstroop157173.com to learn more about our project. We were divided into groups with different topics that we ourselves chose based on our interests. Archana and I worked on the STEM and the music page. We decided on the content and the design of the pages. We also created our own video and researched various resources to add to the web page. Other groups worked on their own topics and edited their own pages on the website. For the online classes, we were asked to volunteer for our favorite subject to teach. I like coding and digital arts, so I volunteered to teach basic animation using Scratch. Niha, Jessica and Sara like arts and crafts. Naimisha and Anvi teach basic math. Uma did basic animation, and Archana taught coding using Minecraft programming. We are planning to do more classes like these in the future. Wow - our troop is really talented! Our troop works really hard to build the website and research on the contents. All of this will not happen without the help and support of our troop leaders and parents. With my dad's help, who is our troop leader, we were able to address technical issues when we publish the website. He also helped us register our domain name, which is our website address. (Maybe he can get the Bronze Award too. Haha!) We came up with this project to give back to the community and help those kids who struggle to adapt to online learning. They probably feel sad and tired of quarantine, but sometimes we just need to try something new. Go for a walk. Start a new art studio using the resources we have. Spend time with our family members instead of watching tv or playing video games. If you don't feel ok, just remember that there are people out there who believe in you. And remember that there are only a few months left until 2020 is over. Don't worry, you'll be ok!
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Girl and Troop Activities Register for activities under the Activities tab in MyGS. Go to www.gssjc.org and select MyGS, log in to“Member Profile," then select Activities. If you have a question about your activity, contact 713-292-0370 or 1-800-392-4340. If you have a problem with your login, contact Customer Service at 713-292-0300 or registration@sjgs.org. Bring: For all events, bring Permission Slip F-204 and Medical Form F-185 for each girl and the Adult Emergency Form F-22 for each adult.
Attention Daisy Leaders! Look for the Daisy in this section for activities that Daisies can attend. Look for this symbol in indicate a virtual program offering.
Improvements are coming to how you register for GSSJC activities! In early December, we will be upgrading a number of our technology platforms. These changes will make it easier for you to sign your Girl Scout or troop up for activities.
Notable improvements include: • Easier search parameters: Moving forward, you can search for upcoming activities by ZIP code meaning you can find in-person events that are closer to home. • Multi-transaction purchases: Need to renew or purchase a new membership while registering for an activity? Instead of having to do multiple transactions, you’ll be able to do this all in one seamless purchase. • Single list of activity registrations: In MyAccount, the new name for MyGS, you will see all events that your Girl Scout is registered for, including those her troop leader registered her for. Troop leaders will be able to see events guardians registered their troop members for as well. • Better transparency: Keeping track of cancellations, refunds, waitlist status and balances due will be improved with this update. • View full details without a login: Members will be able to view full event details, such as registration deadlines or number of open spots, on activities without logging into their account. Changes to our activity registration will occur in late November/early December. As a result, registration for all events taking place through Dec. 13 will close on Nov. 15 and some deadlines may be shorter than normal. Registration for events taking place between Dec. 14 and Jan. 31, 2021 will temporarily close on Nov. 15 and reopen after system updates are completed by early December. Registration for activities taking place after February 1, 2021 will be opening for registration in the new system starting as early as mid-December. Please note our system will be down and you will not be able to register for activities between Nov. 16 and early December. For questions, please contact customerservice@sjgs.org.
General Activities Daisy Money Counts Badge Workshop Daisies, you can use money to buy things. You can use it to help other people too. By attending this workshop, girls will find out more about money! Who: ⓓ Where: Virtual When: Nov. 13 or 20 Cost: $5 Contact: Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Daisy Toy Designer Badge Workshop
An entrepreneur is someone who comes up with new ways to solve problems and creates a business. They might improve something that already exists or make something new. Girls will learn all about what it takes to be an entrepreneur. After completing all course requirements, girls will earn the Daisy Toy Designer badge. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
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Virtual December 4, 11, 18 $10 Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
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Daisy Making Choices Badge Workshop There are things we want and things we need- figuring out the difference is the key to success! Come earn your Daisy "Making Choices" leaf! Who: ⓓ Where: Virtual When: Nov. 13 Cost: $5 Contact: Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Create Your Pitch Younger Girls
Lights, Camera, Action! Have you always wanted to make a video to get the word out about your Girl Scout Business? Are you super creative and innovative? Do you want to reach more people and promote your GS business? You're invited to channel your inner movie star by attending this fun workshop to get you prepared to be a top seller this year! Who: ⓓ ⓑⓙ Where: Virtual When: Nov. 14 or 21, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Cost: $9 Contact: Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Junior Business Jumpstart Badge Workshop
Every entrepreneur starts with an idea! Ideas can come from observing your surroundings and being curious how things work. After completing all course requirements, girls will earn the Junior Business Jumpstart Badge. Who: ⓑ Where: Virtual When: Nov. 13 or 20 Cost: $13 Contact: Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Brownie Philanthropist Badge Workshop
Girl Scouts make the works a better place. One way to do that is to make sure everyone's basic needs are met. After completing all the course, requirement's, girls will earn the Brownie Philanthropist Badge. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
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Virtual Nov. 13 or 20 $10 Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Brownie Budding Entrepreneur Badge Workshop An entrepreneur is someone who finds ways to help people and solve problems. They are curious about how things work and see each setback as a chance to make things better. After completing all course requirements girls will earn the Brownie Budding Entrepreneur Badge. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
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Virtual Dec. 4, 11 or 18 $13 Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Junior Business Owner Badge Workshop Do you have a passion for fashion? Are you kooky about cooking? Or maybe you're just wild about animals? With this badge, youll find out that its possible to turn something you love into a successful business! Who: ⓙ Where: Virtual When: Nov. 13 Cost: $10 Contact: Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
All activities are available NOW to register unless it is happening after Feb. 1. Note, our system will be down and you will not be able to register for any activities between Nov. 16 through early December ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Cadette Financing My Dreams Badge Workshop
What do you see yourself doing to earn a living? What type of things do you enjoy now that may help you build a career in the future? What subjects/classes would you want to continue to study in college? Join us for this fun workshop and earn your Financing My Dreams Badge. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
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Virtual Nov. 13 $10 Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Democracy for Cadettes
There is a big election in November, but what happens afterwards? That is when the real work of government starts! People at every level of government make decisions that impact your life and your community. Earn the new Democracy for Cadettes badge and learn about how government works with Holocaust Museum Houston. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
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Virtually, Hosted by Holocaust Museum Houston Dec. 6, 3 – 5 p.m. $14 Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
GSSJC Program Aide Training
Program Aide is a teen mentoring award for Cadettes. Program Aides work with younger girls in a variety of settings from day camps to Community or council events. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
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Virtual Nov. 14 – 15, 3 – 6 p.m. or Dec. 8, 9 and 10, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. $10 Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Cadette Babysitting Badge workshop
Cadettes are invited to join Region 13 to learn the ins and outs of taking care of younger children, how to play with them and keep them safe. Girls will also learn how to set up their babysitting business and how to generate leads. Who: ⓒ Where: Virtual When: Dec. 5, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Cost: $15 Contact: Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Democracy for Older Girls
Join Region 11 for a crash course in Civic Engagement. Girls will meet and write to legislators, learn about voting and lobbying, hold a mock trial and more at this fun workshop. Who: ⓒⓢⓐ Where: Virtual When: Nov. 15, 2 – 4:30 p.m. Cost: $5 Contact: Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org November/December 2020 l The Golden Link 21
Cadette World of Girls LiA
Take a journey around the world and earn your World of Girls' LiA. Girls will gain a basic understanding of Brownies learn and how to teach them. Girls will learn about basic class development, how to meet objectives of earning the journey badges and delivery of material to learners. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
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Virtual Nov. 21, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. $20 Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Brownie World of Girls Journey
Do your Brownies love learning about girls around the world? Do they enjoy storytelling? Then don’t miss this chance to work with older girls to explore the World of Girls! Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
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Virtual Nov. 21, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. $5 Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Cadette Business Creator badge Workshop
Entrepreneurs are innovative problem solvers. They know how to collaborate and get critical feedback to make their ideas even better. Girls will become business creators and learn the skills they need for success in life. Girls will earn the Cadette Business Creator badge. Who: ⓒ Where: Virtual When: Dec. 4, 11 or 18 Cost: $13 Contact: Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Keep Calm & Space On
Explore distant worlds right from home. Participating girls will get to explore outer space through virtual field trips, art and careers. The activity will end by girls being able to observe the night sky and maybe even a meteor shower! Who: ⓒⓢⓐ Where: Virtual When: Dec. 12, 7 – 9:30 p.m. Cost: $5 Contact: Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Council Flag Ceremony Focus Troop
Join GSSJC’s Flag Ceremony Troop and represent the council at events such as the City of Houston’s July 4th Celebration, Houston Texans games and council events such as the Gold Award ceremony and Success to Significance. Leadership opportunities include leading flag ceremony workshops, public speaking opportunities, learning flag etiquette and more. To join this troop, contact Janine Shipman at 832-294-9645 or janine@ janinesmoment.com. 22 November/December 2020 l The Golden Link
Senior Buying Power Badge Workshop It might be tomorrow. It might be a year from now. Or it could be 10 years away. someday, you'll want to make a big purchase that you'll end up paying for over time. By earning this badge girls will understand the long-term impact of making a big purchase and how you need to be prepared to keep paying for it long after you've started to use it. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
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Virtual Nov. 13 $10 Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Democracy for Seniors
What happens after a general election? How do newly elected officials respond to the needs of their constitutions and their community? Learn about the next steps while you earn the new Democracy for Seniors badge with Holocaust Museum Houston. Find out about the different levels of government, how they impact your life, and how you can get involved. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
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Virtually, Hosted by Holocaust Museum Houston Nov. 15, 3 – 5 p.m. $14 Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Ambassador on My Own Badge Workshop Knowing how to create and stick to a budget that will help you throughout every stage of your life, from graduating high school all the way trough your retirement years. Far too many people don't start thinking about creating a budget until they find themselves deep in debt. By earning this badge, girls will know how to avoid financial pitfalls while also helping girls learn to be independent and live their dreams Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
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Virtual Nov. 13 $10 Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
College 101 with the University of St. Thomas Houston
Let’s go to college! Join us virtually with the University of St. Thomas Houston to discuss how to navigate preparing for college. In this virtual workshop, Girl Scouts will be able to explore college options, learn about ways to pay for college and apply for scholarships, determine what a good fit college would be and more. Girls will be able to ask university staff about the admissions process and gain a better understanding on how to accomplish this next chapter in their life. There will also be an optional additional 30-minute presentation of the University of St. Thomas Houston which will begin at the end of the workshop. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
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Virtual Dec. 12, 10 – 11:30 a.m. $5/girl Megan Dodd, mdodd@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Outdoor Adventure Club
Are you a Senior or Ambassador looking for new ways to get outside, meet new friends, and make new memories? If so, the Outdoor Adventure Club is for you! Each month, this program will offer exciting opportunities to meet your need for adventure and exploration. Girls will participate in activities such as mountain biking, paddle sports, surfing and much more during day outings throughout the year. More information can be found under Activities at gssjc.org. Texas Treeventures Join us for a ziplining adventure through the trees! *Please note that there is a weight limit of 275 lbs for safety purposes. Who: When: Cost: Contact:
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Nov. 14, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. $55 Monique Stitts, 713-292-0233, customerservice@sjgs.org
Texas Rock Gym
Challenge yourself to reach new heights at an indoor rock-climbing gym. Who: When: Cost: Contact:
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Dec. 12, noon – 2 p.m. $30 Monique Stitts, 713-292-0233, customerservice@sjgs.org
GSSJC Gay Straight Alliance Interest Group
GSSJC's Gay-Straight Alliance serves to empower and educate scouts surrounding LGBTQ+ issues. We will lead inclusive, engaging, and educational programming in order to create Queer and allied leaders within Girl Scouts. This could include a History of Pride patch, troop leader training and teaching scouts how to confront homophobia. If this group interests you, we would love to have you! Creator, Gold Award Girl Scout Liv Rubenstein, has a wonderful vision for this new interest group and we would love for you to join. If you are interested please contact Olivia Rubenstein at orubenstein22@sjs.org or GSLE Manager Heather Vandivort at hvandivort@sjgs.org. We hope to see you at our next meeting.
Volunteer-In-Training (VIT)
This award is for girls who would like to mentor a Girl Scout Daisy, Brownie, Junior or Cadette group outside of the camp experience. If you’ve completed ninth grade, you’re eligible to earn this award. This leadership course completes one of the three requirements (1. Find an adult mentor, 2. VIT Training, 3. Create and implement a journey project) for this award. Who: Where: When: Cost: Max.: Contact:
ⓢⓐ grades 10 - 12
Virtual Dec. 12, 1 – 4 p.m. $10/girl 15 Megan Dodd, mdodd@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Holidays at Hogwarts
This holiday season are you longing to enjoy a feast amid the chattering echoes of the Great Hall, share a warm butterbeer with your friends in snowy Hogsmeade, and play a game of Exploding Snap by your House Common Room fire? Welcome to Region 1’s virtual Holidays at Hogwarts event! Let your imagination fly as you make traditional British holiday crafts and treats, socialize in your House Common Room, and learn about holiday traditions around the world. Girls will earn the WAGGGS International Friendship Badge. Who: When: Where: Cost: Contact:
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Dec. 19, 5 – 8:30 p.m. Online via Zoom $15/girl, $3/adult Dimonique Woods, dwoods@sjgs.org
Create Your Pitch Older Girls
Lights, Camera, Action!! Have you always wanted to make a video to get the word out about your Girl Scout Business? Are you super creative and innovative? Do you want to reach more people and promote your GS business? You're invited to channel your inner movie star by attending this fun workshop to get you prepared to be a top seller this year! Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
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Virtual Nov. 14 or 21, 11 a.m. – noon $9 Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org
Camp Creepy
You've heard of STEM, and maybe even STEAM? Get ready for SCREAM! Join the Virtual Camp team for one or more of this six-part series as we discover Science, Computers, Real effects, Engineering, Art, and Math skills to create our own horror movie! Who: ⓒⓢⓐ Where: Virtual When: Nov. 21, Dec. 5, Dec. 12, 10 a.m. – noon Cost: $15 Contact: Kathy Elliott, 713-292-0257, customerservice@sjgs.org
Camp, Crafts & Cookies
Join the Virtual Camp team to de-stress and get ready for the winter holidays! Learn some cool (and yummy!) cookie decorating tricks, create a mini-gingerbread house, and make some fun DIY crafts either for yourself or to gift. Plus, enjoy hanging out with other older Girl Scouts! Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
ⓒⓢⓐ
Virtual Nov. 21, Dec. 5, Dec. 12; 10 a.m. – noon $10 Kathy Elliott, 713-292-0257, customerservice@sjgs.org November/December 2020 l The Golden Link 23
Family Days + Family Camping
Join us for fishing, archery, crafts, hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, s’mores and singing around the campfire! Family Days allow your family to spend a day enjoying outdoor activities at camp and end just in time for you to head back home before dark. Family Camps offer both a day full of outdoor activities followed by an overnight at one of our camp sites. A list of standard Girl Scout guidelines (program rules, cooking and facility guidelines, etc.) and health and safety procedures will be included in the confirmation attachments. Families with more than one child under 5 years of age for Family Camps must have at least two adults in the group. Large families (more than 4 people) should consult with the outdoor experience department to determine ability to attend. Anyone under the age of 18 is a child. Families are responsible for the health, safety and supervision of their children at all times while at camp. We encourage entire families (even male siblings) to attend! Camp training is not required for these events. When registering your additional children, please disregard the automated gender categories. Bring: Suggested packing list available after registration. Families must bring and prepare their own meals. Contact: Monique Stitts, 713-292-0233, mstitts@sjgs.org Registrars, 713-292-0370, registration@sjgs.org Cost: $40 - $55/person depending on event (plus cabin fees, if applicable) Family Camps (Overnight) December 5 – 6, Camp Pryor Cost: $55/person); FREE for ages 5 & under For Family Camps, registration at Camp Robinwood includes accommodations in a platform tent, which sleeps up to four people or you may bring your own tent. Accommodations at Camp Pryor do not include accommodations, families must bring a tent. Families may also upgrade to a cabin at either camp for an additional fee of $20, if available. Family Days (Day Only) November 21 or November 22 at Misty Meadows Ranch Cost: $40/person) For Family Days, horseback riding is an additional fee of $25/ person with a minimum of two people (one child and one adult).
Junior Savvy Shopper Badge
Calling all Juniors, for this two-part workshop! Food and water, clean clothes, a place to live are things everyone needs. A closet full of shoes, a new desk, tickets to a movie are things people want. Juniors how can you figure out what you need and want? Girls will investigate why they want what they want, learn to decide what to buy and find out what makes people happy with that they buy. Participating girls will make a plan to buy something they need or want. Who: Where: Cost: Contact:
ⓙ
Virtual (registration opens Dec.8) $5 Karyn Smith at ksmith@sjgs.org
Choose from: When: Jan. 14 & 21, 4 – 5 p.m. or Jan. 19 & 26, 4 – 5 p.m. or Jan. 20 & 27, 6 – 7 p.m. 24 November/December 2020 l The Golden Link
Brownie Household Elf
Are you concerned about the environment? Maybe want to find ways to cut energy cost around your house? Learn some new household habits in this two-part workshop to help your family to save energy, water, and save the planet. Household Elf badge included and will be mailed upon completion of both sessions. Girls must attend both sessions in order to qualify for badge Who: Where: Cost: Contact:
ⓑ
Virtual $5 Regina Zaragoza, rzaragoza@sjgs.org
Choose from: When: Nov. 10 & 17, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. or When: Nov. 11 & 18, 5 – 6 p.m. or When: Nov. 12 & 19, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Brownie Meet My Customers
Have you sold Girl Scout Cookies before but would like to increase your cookie sale in order to earn a higher award or help your troop to reach their goal? Maybe this will be your first time to sell Girl Scout cookies. This is a fun way to learn about your customers by meeting and understanding your customers, learn about financial literacy, and help customers in buying Girl Scout Cookies in this two-part workshop. Girls must attend both sessions in order to qualify for badge. Who: ⓑ Where: Virtual Cost: $5 Contact: Regina Zaragoza, rzaragoza@sjgs.org Choose from: When: Jan. 12 & 19, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. or When: Jan. 13 & 20, 5 – 6 p.m. or When: Jan. 14 & 21, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Junior Staying Fit
Get ready to earn your Junior badge during this two- part workshop with GSSJC staff! Join us to learn all about the Staying Fit Badge and earn it in two virtual meetings! This badge teaches girls how to get fit and stay healthy. Includes: Guided webinar session, instructions, and a space for Girl Scouts to make new friends. Who: ⓙ Where: Virtual Cost: $5 Contact: Karyn Smith at ksmith@sjgs.org Choose from: Nov. 10 & 17, 4 – 5 p.m. or Nov. 11 & 18, 6 – 7 p.m. or Nov. 12 & 19, 4 – 5 p.m.
Daisy Virtual Program Count It UP Leaf This two-part workshop is just in time for cookies! When you've earned this leaf, you’ll know how your cookie money adds up. Who: ⓓ Where: Virtual (registration opens Dec.8) Cost: $5 Contact: Sandra Johnson, sjohnson@sjgs.org Choose from: When: Jan. 5 & Jan. 12, 4 – 4:45 p.m. or Jan. 7 & Jan. 14, 4 – 4:45 p.m. or Jan. 19 & Jan. 26, 4 – 4:45 p.m. ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Backpacking
Carousel
Join us for lots of fun as we go Back to the Future! The program will be provided over Zoom; just prepare your girls for the virtual experience and bring your own program supplies. (A supply list will be provided at least two weeks prior to camp, and will include simple, inexpensive items and/or items around the house). Carousels are a great introduction to events with other girls beyond your troop, and a great event to attend more than once as each Carousel is unique. Who: ⓓ ⓑⓙ Where: Virtual When: Nov. 14 Time: 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Cost: $15 Contact: Kathy Elliott, 713-292-0257, customerservice@sjgs.org
Environmental Nature Center Workshops
Spend some time learning about nature. Our Nature Specialist have create a fun interactive virtual programs on great nature topics! A GSSJC Nature Center fun patch will be sent out as well. There’s one for each program, so you can collect them all! Who: Where: Cost:
ⓑ ⓙ and their chaperones Virtually, Hosted by GSSJC Nature Specialist $10/girl, free to adults
Back to Bone: Back to the Bone is a fun and interesting workshop about animals with back bones (vertebrates). Learn all this fauna. When: Nov. 14 Bee Smart: Thanks to pollinators like bees, we have a variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers and plants. Without them, our plates and gardens would be dull and boring. Come find out about bees and why they’re so great! When: Dec. 5, 10 – 11 a.m. Birds R Us: Learn about birds in your area and what you can do to increase the bird population in your backyard. When: Dec. 5, 2 – 3 p.m. Going Buggy: Bugs help us in lots of cool ways. Explore the world of bugs and learn more about these little creatures that do so much! When: Nov. 14, 2 – 3 p.m.
Day Hikes with the Backpackers
Step out and enjoy a day in nature and get away from the city! Join and meet fellow Girl Scouts and explore a nearby forest or park. You will take a leisurely hike and start to learn some backpacking skills and tips along the way. Who: Junior, Cadette, Senior, Ambassador, Adults Cost: $15 per hike Contact: Kathy Elliott, 713-292-0257, customerservice@sjgs.org Where: When:
Brazos Bend State Park November 14, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: When:
Lake Houston Wilderness Park January 23, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: When:
Camp Mohawk County Park March 6, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. (registration opens early Dec.)
Houston Arboretum Where: Cost: Contact:
Online, with Arboretum $20 Julia Shank, 713-292-0338, jshank@sjgs.org
Brownie Outdoor Adventure: Learn some outdoor skills. Explore nighttime constellations, tie new kinds of knots and make a butterfly puddler. When: Dec. 5, 1 – 2 p.m. Brownie Outdoor Art Creator: Art is all around us - even in nature. Have fun dancing, making a leaf rubbing craft and designing your own Brownie Elf House. When: Dec. 5, 11 a.m. – noon Brownie Senses: Our five senses help us experience our world in unique ways. Learn how these senses work in a series of fun and easy experiments. When: Nov. 14, 11 a.m. – noon Junior Outdoor Art Explorer: Art and the outdoors go hand in hand. Let nature be your inspiration as you learn fun nature songs, design a terrarium, and learn some easy photography techniques. When: Nov. 14, 1 – 2 p.m.
Nature Rocks!: Learn about the rock cycle how rocks are made in fun, delicious way! When: Dec. 19, 2 – 3 p.m. (registration opens Dec. 8) Really, Radical Reptiles Snakes, turtles, and lizard… What do they all have in common? Why, they’re all reptiles, of course. Come and learn more about these animals in this really radical workshop. When: Nov. 21, 10 – 11a.m. ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
All activities are available NOW to register unless it is happening after Feb. 1. Note, our system will be down and you will not be able to register for any activities between Nov. 16 through early December.
November/December 2020 l The Golden Link 25
Activities
Fine Arts Fine Arts Workshops
Do you have a zest for art? Do you enjoy playing with clay, making your own jewelry, painting, drawing or fancy some photography? Explore the world of visual arts in these workshops. Create original artwork and earn badges! Who: D-S Contact: Heather Vandivort, Hvandivort@sjgs.org Workshop Date Time Level Price Daisy Outdoor Art Nov. 12 4 p.m. ⓓ $21 Brownie Painter Nov. 12 4 p.m. ⓑ $13 Cadette Screen Writer Nov. 14 11 a.m. ⓒ $13 Cadette Comic Art Nov. 14 1 p.m. ⓒ $21 Junior Drawing Nov. 17 5 p.m. ⓙ $21 Brownie Outdoor Art Nov. 18 4 p.m. ⓑ $21 Brownie Dancer Nov. 21 11 a.m. ⓑ $13 Brownie Painter Nov. 21 2 p.m. ⓑ $13 Brownie My Family Story Nov. 29 2 p.m. ⓑ $13 Junior Scribe Nov. 29 4 p.m. ⓙ $13 Junior Drawing Dec. 1 5 p.m. ⓙ $21 Brownie Outdoor Art Dec. 2 4 p.m. ⓑ $21
Junior Outdoor Art Dec. 5 Senior Collage Art Dec. 5 Cadette Comic Art Dec. 5 Senior Troupe Perf. Dec. 5 Senior Room Makeover Dec. 6 Daisy Outdoor Art Dec. 10 Junior Outdoor Art Dec. 12 Daisy Holiday Arts/Crafts Dec. 12 Br and Jr Holiday Arts/Crafts Dec. 12 Brownie My Family Story Dec. 13 Junior Scribe Dec. 13 Junior Drawing Dec. 15 Brownie Outdoor Art Dec. 16 Daisy Outdoor Art Dec. 17 Brownie Holiday Cooking Dec. 19 Junior Holiday Cooking Dec. 19 Brownie Outdoor Art Jan. 6 Junior Outdoor Art Jan. 9 Daisy Outdoor Art Jan. 14 Cadette Comic Art Jan. 16 Junior Drawing Jan. 19 Brownie Outdoor Art Jan. 20 Junior Outdoor Art Jan. 23 Daisy Outdoor Art Jan. 28 Cadette Comic Art Jan. 30
11 a.m. 11 a.m. 1 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 4 p.m. 11 a.m. 11 a.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 4 p.m. 5 p.m. 4 p.m. 4 p.m. 11 a.m. 2 p.m. 4 p.m. 11 a.m. 4 p.m. 1 p.m. 5 p.m. 4 p.m. 11 a.m. 4 p.m. 1 p.m.
ⓙ $21 ⓢ $13 ⓒ $21 ⓢ $13 ⓢ $13 ⓓ $21 ⓙ $21 ⓓ $13 ⓑⓙ $13 ⓑ $13 ⓙ $13 ⓙ $21 ⓑ $21 ⓓ $21 ⓑ $13 ⓙ $13 ⓑ $21 ⓙ $21 ⓓ $21 ⓒ $21 ⓙ $21 ⓑ $21 ⓙ $21 ⓓ $21 ⓒ $21
Outdoor Art Badges– (Daisies- Juniors) Explore the outdoors and use what you see and hear to make different kinds of art projects. Brownie “My Family Story” Badge- Families are rich in traditions and each have a story of their own. In this workshop we will share and discuss family stories and traditions, girls will create a family story tree and family crest. Brownie Painting Badge – Artists take what they see and make it beautiful. Learn to paint and color your world in super strokes and see what your imagination can do. Junior Drawing Badge- Experiment with different materials and learn techniques to make your own drawings even better! Junior Scribe Badge – Your writing is powerful. Create characters, plots and settings for your very own story. Learn about different story techniques and exercise your imagination by putting your thoughts down on paper. Cadette Comic Artist Badge– Delve into the world of comics! Learn the history of comic books and why this type of storytelling is so effective. Then tell your own story by creating a comic of your own! Cadette Public Speaker Badge – Work on your stage presence and develop your onstage skills. Find your inner performer and be unafraid to speak up! Cadette Screenwriter Badge – Are you ready for the big screen? Let’s explore what makes great scripts and how you can create your very own. You have what it takes to be a great screenwriter, so let’s get started! Senior Collage Artist Badge- Create a collage using textile art and make a project of your very own! Senior Room Makeover- Bring out your inner interior designer in this fun makeover workshop. Holiday Arts and Crafts- Learn how to make fun fall and winter crafts around the holidays!
Snap Happy Juniors
Calling all Juniors! The Houston Center of Photography is offering online photography workshops to fulfill the Digital Photographer badge. The workshops will take place in the afternoons on select Sundays in August and September 2020 via the online platform of Zoom. Each session will consist of three weeks with one hour of instruction taking place each week. For these workshops, an HCP instructor will guide the students through the various steps needed to achieve the badge, and the instructor will provide assignments for the Girl Scouts to practice photography skills in between sessions. Session I Time: Format: Cost: Contact:
(Nov. 8, 15, 22); Session II (December 6, 13, 20) Sign up now. Spots are limited. Sundays, 2 – 3 p.m. Each session will consist of one hour per week for three weeks (3 hours total per session) Online, Zoom $40 each session (each session consists of three Sunday classes) Heather Vandivort, hvandivort@sjgs.org
26 November/December 2020 l The Golden Link
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Health Dr. Girl Scout
Calling all Girl Scout Daisies and Brownies to play doctor for a day with the Little Medical School. During this activity, girls will learn the ins-and-outs of what it takes to care for their bodies. Daisies will earn their Gloria petal while Brownies earn their My Best Self badge. Who: ⓓⓑ When: Dec. 5, 10 – 11 a.m. Cost: $13 Contact: Julia Shank, 713-292-0338, jshank@sjgs.org
Pet Vet Workshop
Whether they are cute and cuddly or slimy and scaly, pets are so much fun. If you hope to have a pet someday, this badge workshop will help you make sure it stays happy and healthy. Learn all about an animals’ body language, sleeping habits, feeding schedules and more. Brownies will earn the Pets badge with the Little Veterinarian School. Who: ⓓⓑ When: Dec. 5, 11 a.m. – noon Where: Online Cost: $13 Contact: Julia Shank, 713-292-0338, jshank@sjgs.org
First Aid Badge Workshops
It’s Girl Scout tradition to always be prepared - and earning your first aid badge is an important piece of being prepared for any situation. These workshops will prepare girls to understand what to do in an emergency and give them an understanding of what is in a first aid kit. (These are not first aid certifications.) When/Level: Jan. 9– Juniors Jan. 16– Cadettes Registration opens early Dec. for below Feb. 6– Brownies Feb. 21– Seniors Where: Virtual, hosted by Rice University EMS Cost: $10 Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271
My Best Self - Laughter Yoga
Laughter is the best medicine! We invite Brownies to virtually experience a new way to exercise. Laughter yoga is an activity that lets girls have fun while learning ways to live stress-free. Brownies will earn their My Best Self badge. Who: ⓑ When: Nov. 14 or Dec. 12, 9:30 – 11 a.m. Where: Online Cost: $16 Contact: Julia Shank, 713-292-0338, jshank@sjgs.org
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Highest Awards Earn a Highest Award!
Bronze. Silver. Gold. These represent the highest honors a Girl Scout can earn. All three awards give you the chance to do big things while supporting an issue you care about. You might plant a community garden at your school or inspire others to eat healthy foods for your Bronze, advocate for animal rights for your Silver, or build a career network that encourages girls to become scientists and engineers for your Gold. Whatever you choose, you’ll inspire others (and yourself). As you earn one of Girl Scouts’ highest awards, you’ll change your corner of the world–and beyond. The possibilities are endless. Who: ⓙⓒⓢⓐ Learn More: Review the GSSJC project guides for more information at gssjc.org/highestawards Contact: bronzeaward@sjgs.org, silveraward@sjgs.org or goldaward@sjgs.org
Silver Award Training
This virtual webinar training is designed for troop leaders, advisors, and parents who are looking to support Cadettes through the Silver Award process. Topics to be covered include project guidelines, submission deadlines, coaching tips, and how to navigate pursuing the Silver Award despite the impacts of COVID-19. The webinar will be facilitated by two trainers and will include a presentation, an activity, and time for Q&A. Who: Adults Where: Online When: Nov. 21, Jan. 9, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Cost: $5/person Max.: 50 Contact: Megan Dodd, silveraward@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209
Ready, Set, GOLD!
Are you a Senior or Ambassador wondering what it takes to be a Gold Award Girl Scout? If so, this virtual workshop is for you! Learn what makes a Gold Award worthy project, how to navigate the step-by-step process for approval, and meet the supporting team of Mentors. A panel of recent GSSJC Gold Award Girl Scouts will host a question and answer session and share their tips on developing a successful project. Don't miss this opportunity to discover all the benefits of going Gold! NOTE: This workshop is meant as an introduction to the Gold Award process and does NOT replace the required Gold Award Orientation. Who: ⓢⓐor girls in grades 9 – 12 Where: Virtual When: Feb. 7, 2 – 3 p.m. (registration opens early Dec.) Cost: $5/girl Contact: Megan Dodd, goldaward@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209
All activities are available NOW to register unless it is happening after Feb. 1. Note, our system will be down and you will not be able to register for any activities between Nov. 16 through early December. November/December 2020 l The Golden Link 27
Activities
Gold Award Orientation
This self-directed Online Gold Award Orientation will give girls and adults a comprehensive overview of the Gold Award steps and forms, tools for identifying and developing Gold Award projects that fall within the national guidelines, and GSSJC’s processes for Gold Award applicants. The Gold Award Orientation is required for girls pursuing their Gold Award and can be taken at any time! The online orientation is broken into sections and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete but does not need to be finished in one sitting. Girls may also refer back to it after it’s been completed. Girls are encouraged to complete one Senior or Ambassador Journey before attending orientation. Who: ⓢⓐor girls in grades 9 – 12 andActivities adults Where/When: Online Cost: $5/person Contact: Megan Dodd, goldaward@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209
The Next Step: A Workshop on How to Proceed after Gold Award Orientation
Now that you've completed Gold Award Orientation, you might be wondering what to do next. Come join GSSJC Gold Award Girl Scouts and Mentors to hear about successful projects, brainstorm project ideas, and get all your questions answered so you can take your next step in your Gold Award journey. NOTE: This workshop is optional intended for girls who have already completed the required Gold Award Orientation and does NOT replace it. Who: ⓢⓐor girls in grades 9 – 12 Where: Virtual When: Feb. 21, 2 – 3:30 p.m. (registration opens early Dec.) Cost: $5/girl Max: 50 Contact: Megan Dodd, goldaward@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209
Sports Green Starlettes Spring Registration
The Green Starlettes Dance Team is offering the opportunity to check out the program without the cost of purchasing the uniform and performance fees. You would have the opportunity to participate in the annual dance recital with the division in your area! Girls will start practice in January and attend the division weekly practices through the beginning of May. All participants would be required to attend the weekly practices and work on the dance at home during the week. If you have questions about the time commitment, please contact; Theresa Alexander at green_ starlettes@yahoo.com. Registration is open to 4th graders and above who are not already registered for the Green Starlettes. Who: ⓙⓒⓢⓐ When: Registration period is Nov. 1 – Dec. 31 Cost: $20/girl Contact: Heather Vandivort at hvandivort@sjgs.org OR Theresa Alexander at green_starlettes@yahoo.com You can also visit greenstarlettes.com for more information. 28 November/December 2020 l The Golden Link
Advanced Archery
Girls who wish to participate in advanced archery may join the Archers In Motion Special Interest Group and register for monthly coaching and challenge sessions. Girls who aren’t sure about joining the special interest group may join us for On Target sessions when camps are re-opened for larger groups. Who: ⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Where: Camp Robinwood Contact: Dejah Covick, 713-292-0312, dcovick@sjgs.org Note: Girls should wear closed toed shoes with socks that cover the ankle. Girls who have not registered and paid for Girl Scout membership and Special Interest Group membership may not participate in AIM.
On Target Sessions
Currently on hold due to council camp re-opening strategies, our On Target sessions are for girls who have tried archery before but aren’t sure if they want to join the special interest group. As camps begin reopening to troops and larger groups, these sessions will be available. Cost is $10 per session and includes more time with advanced archery coaching and all equipment is provided for the class.
Archers In Motion (AIM)
Archers In Motion (AIM) is a Special Interest Group for girls ages 8 and older. To participate in the monthly AIM program, girls must be a current Girl Scout member, register for the annual Special Interest Group membership and select/register the monthly dates they wish to attend shooting practice. The club meets virtually once per month to learn a new skill and manage group business and meets in-person for practice sessions once a month so that members may shoot 36 arrows, attempting specific JOAD and GSSJC shooting levels. Levels are based on age and distance. There is also instruction on the JOAD Xperience program each month. Space is limited to 8 girls per time block. Cost: Dates: Time:
Annual SIG Membership $15; Monthly Sessions $10 each Dec. 6 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m.
Coming soon
Archery Aide Training!
Girls ages 15+ who love archery can become USA Archery Level 1 Instructors with this training coming up on Dec. 19. Details are being finalized, but if you’d like more information about this opportunity, email Dejah Covick at dcovick@sjgs.org.
All activities are available NOW to register unless it is happening after Feb. 1. Note, our system will be down and you will not be able to register for any activities between Nov. 16 through early December. ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Activities
Rifle
To accommodate all girls who are ready to jump right in while capacities are still low, we have split our practice sessions to accommodate girls who want to join and get the Introduction to Rifle and Rifle Marskmanship completed and be part of the Special Interest Group right away. The G.R.I.T. special interest group meets in-person for practice once per month and virtually once per month for enrichment and group development. Our 11 a.m. sessions are for girls new to G.R.I.T. and will complete the requirements to progress into more advanced rifle techniques. You will receive safety glasses to be kept for future practice sessions. Our 9 a.m. sessions are for girls who have progressed past Intro and Marksmanship. You will learn more about how to use the rifle, how to improve your accuracy through shooting position form and how to work within a team. Inter-group and individual competitions could be a part of your session. The group at each session will help decide on the day’s activities. Remember to bring your safety glasses. Girls must register and pay the additional special interest group annual dues as well as the monthly participation registration for G.R.I.T. practice or new member sessions. Registration for G.R.I.T. available in MyGS Activities. Girls who aren’t sure about joining the special interest group may join us for Introduction to Rifle and Rifle Marksmanship without the commitment to G.R.I.T. when camps are reopened for larger groups. Who: ⓒⓢⓐ 12 and up Where: Misty Meadows Ranch When: Nov. 14, Dec. 12 Time: 9 – 10:45 a.m. (G.R.I.T. Practice); 11 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. (New Members) Cost: $15 annual G.R.I.T. fee; $10 per in-person practice session Contact: Dejah Covick, 713-292-0312, dcovick@sjgs.org
STEM Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271
Designing Robots Badge Workshops
Hosted by Children’s Museum of Houston Cadettes: Robots can do so much! They can aid in anything from helping you with your chores to exploring the ocean or Mars. Every day, they are used for amazing things and in these workshops, you will find out how. Robots are built and programmed in different ways to meet a goal. Seniors: Researchers often build robot prototypes to test ideas. In this workshop, come up with ideas for a new kind of robot that replaces people who work in difficult or dangerous situations. Explore this topic in a workshop hosted from the Children’s Museum Maker Annex.
ⓒ Jan. 8 ⓢ Nov. 14, Jan. 16
10 a.m. – noon 10 a.m. – noon Registration opens early Dec. ⓢ March 6 10 a.m. – noon ⓒ Feb. 20 10 a.m. – noon
Virtual Virtual
$15 $15
Virtual Virtual
$15 $15
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Automotive Design Badge Workshops
Hosted by Idea Lab Daises: Imagine riding in a cool new car that can park itself and doesn’t pollute our air! Now, imagine it actually driving on the street—that’s what automotive designers do! Automotive design is thinking of new cars and other vehicles. Explore how automotive designers imagine and make plans for a new vehicle, then design your own! Brownies: What’s the difference between riding on a unicorn and in a car? You can imagine either, but you can only drive one on the road! Find out how automotive designers come up with ideas for new vehicles, then design your own! Juniors: Vehicles, like cars, trucks, and motorcycles, move people and things from place to place. They can be designed to work in all types of conditions, from snow to mud or even in water! Do you want to take a ride in your dream car? Before you can do that, you need to design it! Discover how to create vehicles by sketching and sculpting a model. Registration opens early Dec.
ⓓ March 6 ⓑ February 21 ⓙ March 7
9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Virtual $18 10 a.m. – noon
Virtual $18
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Virtual, $18
Automotive Engineering Badge Workshops
Hosted by Idea Lab Daises: After automotive designers have an idea for a vehicle, automotive engineers figure out how to make it. They use science and math to choose the best materials and build a model of the vehicle. Then, they test it to see if it works and find ways to make it better. Find out how automotive engineers turn ideas into real cars! Brownies: Once designers have an idea for a new vehicle, it’s up to automotive engineers to figure out how to build it. They make a plan, build a working model, and test it to see if the vehicle works. They look for ways to fix the vehicle until it’s safe to drive and works just the way they want it to. Explore how to engineer your own model of an emergency vehicle! Juniors: If designers imagine it, engineers build it! After designers come up with an idea for a vehicle, automotive engineers use what they know about math and science to build and test a working vehicle. Find out how to turn a list of criteria into your own working model of a vehicle that’s powered by an alternative fuel! Registration opens early Dec.
ⓓ March 13 ⓑ February 28 ⓙ March 14
9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Virtual $18 10 a.m. – noon
Virtual $18
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Virtual $18
November/December 2020 l The Golden Link 29
Activities
Cybersecurity Basics Badge Workshops
Hosted by Idea Lab Daises: Find out how computers work and what it means to be connected to other people. Girls will add "layers of security" when they wrap a treasure box that they will take home with them and discover how safety relates to using a computer. Brownies: We use digital devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones to work, shop, and play. Technology is such a big part of our lives that we don’t usually stop to think about it. Find out more about how you use technology, what it can do, and how you can keep your technology safe. For instance, girls will learn about layers of security, real-life online safety rules, and how messages travel on the internet. Juniors: We use digital devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones to work, shop, and play. Technology is such a big part of our lives that we don’t usually stop to think about it. Find out more about how you use technology, what it can do, and how you can keep your technology safe - like layers of security, real-life online safety rules, and how messages travel on the internet. Registration opens early Dec.
ⓓ February 21 ⓙ February 6 ⓑ March 6
10 a.m. – noon
Virtual $18
10 a.m. – noon
Virtual $18
9:30 a.m. – noon Virtual $18
Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271
Digital Game Design Badge Workshops
Hosted by Microsoft Daises: Playing video games is fun. They can also help you learn new things or make the world a better place. Programmers use algorithms and sequences to make games for computers. Once they design a game, they test it and look for ways to make it even better. Explore the world of digital game design and design your own maze game. Brownies: Did you ever wonder how your favorite video game was created? At this workshop, you will create a mazebased game and learn how people create new games while finding out how games can also help people to learn new skills and experience new things.
ⓓ January 10
noon – 2 p.m. Registration opens early Dec.
ⓑ February 13
10 a.m. – noon
Virtual, $18 Virtual $18
All activities are available NOW to register unless it is happening after Feb. 1. Note, our system will be down and you will not be able to register for any activities between Nov. 16 through early December. 30 November/December 2020 l The Golden Link
Coding Basics Badge Workshops
Daises: Computers are all around us. They help us every day. When you know how computers work, you can use them to help people. Find out how people tell computers what to do, create your own instructions for a computer, and learn about the first person to ever write directions for a computer. Brownies: Laptops, tablets, and smartphones are all computers. We use computers every day, and they help us in lots of ways. What makes all those computers work? People write instructions telling the computer what to do. By exploring how computer scientists write programs, you’ll learn how computers work, too! Juniors: From tablets and laptops to microwave ovens, cars, and even stoplights, we use computers every day to help up in all sorts of ways. But how do the computers know what to do? People write instructions for them! When you learn to “talk to computers” by writing code, you’ll be able to tell computers what to do, too! (This is a 2-part workshop) Cadettes: Have you ever wondered how a smartphone keeps track of all your phone calls or how the computer in a stoplight tells it when to change? A computer programmer wrote step-by-step instructions for the computer in a language it understands. By learning about how computers work and how people write code for them, you’ll understand what computer programmers do and be able to do it, too. (This is a 2-part workshop) All workshops are virtual. Cost: $5/workshop
ⓓ Nov. 14 ⓑ Dec. 5 ⓙ Dec. 5 and 12 ⓒ Dec. 5 and 12
10 a.m. – noon Hosted by Microsoft 1 – 3 p.m.
10 – 11:30 a.m. Hosted by BP
1 – 2:30 p.m. Registration opens early Dec.
ⓓ Feb. 7
Hosted by Microsoft
noon – 2 p.m.
Hosted by BP Hosted by Microsoft
STEM Career Exploration Badge Workshops, Engineering
Brownies: Have you ever wanted to invent something new? Create a video game? Help pets stay healthy? Engineers, programmers, and veterinarians get to do those things every day as their jobs. Find out how all the things you love can become a job that helps you change the world! Then create a plan to turn your dreams into a reality. This workshop will focus on the many fields within engineering. Cadettes: Imagine yourself 15 or 50 years from now: What are you doing? Have you gone to space? Invented an app? Traveled the world? Whatever it is, you can find a job that helps you do it! In this workshop, explore careers that make a difference. Then, map out how you’ll help others and change the world! All workshops are virtual. Registration opens early Dec. ⓑ Feb.27 10 a.m. – noon Hosted by Houston SWE $5
ⓒ Feb. 13 10 a.m. – noon Hosted by Rice SWE
$10
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Activities
Think Like an Engineer Journeys
Hosted by Idea Lab All levels: To complete the Journey, girls will complete the Take Action Project component on their own after this workshop. Daises: Learn what engineers are and what they do. Girls get the chance to build a fairy house, puff mobile, and use critical thinking to span a "canyon." Brownies: Learn how engineers use the design thinking process to solve problems in this hands-on workshop. Some of the activities include building a water collection tool and a device that will launch a small ball toward a target. Juniors: Join other Juniors and learn how to utilize your construction skills as you work to solve engineering challenges like a building that can withstand an earthquake, a structure made entirely of paper, or an emergency shelter. Registration opens early Dec. ⓓ Feb. 20 10 a.m. – noon Virtual $18 ⓙ Jan. 17 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Virtual $18
Think Like a Programmer Journeys
Hosted by Idea Lab All levels: To complete the Journey, girls will complete the Take Action Project component on their own after this workshop. Daises: Discover how creativity can help you solve a difficult problem. During this workshop, you will find out how to persist and think about things in a new way; you'll even discover what coding and algorithms are. Find out how every-day problems are resolved by programmers - and try it out yourself. Brownies: Computers use codes called programs to do their job; and programmers create those codes. You will see how codes are put together and use those patterns to build a suncatcher. You will also get the chance to come up with your own pattern or code through prototyping, or practicing. Juniors: Find out how programmers solve problems in this hands-on workshop by addressing everyday problems and trying things our yourself. You will discover computational thinking through tangrams, mad libs, and suncatchers while they learn more about algorithms and variables present in cybersecurity. Also, create a personal innovation to discover rapid prototyping. (registration opens early Dec.) ⓓ March 7 10 a.m. – noon Virtual ⓑ Jan. 16 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Virtual ⓙ Feb. 13 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Virtual
$18 $18 $18
Model Car Badge Workshop
Designing and testing is the name of the game in this workshop where Daisies earn the Model Car Design Challenge badge through this workshop. Girls explore engineering, friction and more when they build and test a model car. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓓ
Jan. 17, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. (registration opens early Dec.) Virtual, Hosted by Idea Lab $18
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Space Science Explorer
Get ready to blast off on an adventure. This badge is out of this world and while earning it, Daisies explore the sun, observe the moon, and meet the stars. Girls will participate in hands-on activities at home while being guided by programming experts at Idea Lab. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓓ
(registration opens early Dec.) Feb. 13, 10 a.m. – noon Virtual, Hosted by Idea Lab $18
Board Game Badge Workshop
Go on an adventure to learn about inventors. You’ll discover who inventors are and what they do. Along the way, you will try your own hand at inventing when you create your own board game! Earn the Board Game Design Challenge badge with this workshop. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓓ
Feb. 6, 10 a.m. – noon (registration opens early Dec.) Virtual, Hosted by Idea Lab $18
Roller Coaster Badge Workshop
Put engineering in motion with the Roller Coaster Design Challenge badge. In this workshop, Daisies dive into engineering and motion by building and testing a roller coaster. Girls will explore how roller coasters work and how to design, build, and test a new construction as well! Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓓ
Nov. 21, 10 a.m. – noon Feb. 27, 10 a.m. – noon (registration opens early Dec.) Virtual, Hosted by Idea Lab $18
Computer Expert Badge
Computers help you do so much. Brownies who sign up for this workshop will be able to learn about the basics of using a computer - including how to make art, share information and find incredible facts. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓑ
Feb. 6, noon – 2 p.m. (registration opens early Dec.) Virtual, Hosted by Microsoft $5
Race Car Badge Workshop
Picture Yourself behind the wheel while you test a car of your own construction. You will be challenged to design a car that can speed past the others. Brownies will earn their Race Car Design Challenge badge through this workshop. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓑ
Nov. 21, 1 – 3 p.m Feb. 20, 10 a.m. – noon (registration opens early Dec.) Virtual, Hosted by Idea Lab $18 November/December 2020 l The Golden Link 31
Activities
Fling Flyer Badge Workshop
Brownies will learn about the forces that affect flight as they design, build, and test a fling flyer. Through this workshop, girls learn how to design, investigate, and revise after each assessment. Brownies will earn their Fling Flyer Design Challenge badge through this workshop. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓑ
Jan. 10, 10 a.m. – noon (registration opens early Dec.) Virtual, Hosted by Idea Lab $18
Senses Badge Workshop
You have five senses that work together to let you see, hear, smell, taste, and touch the world around you. At this workshop, you will get to try out all five senses by looking around, listening to the world, putting your nose to work, taking a taste test and feeling different textures. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓑ
Feb. 27, 10 – 11 a.m. (registration opens early Dec.) Virtual, Hosted by Mad Science $18
Home Scientist Badge Workshop
You’re a scientist every time you do an experiment. In this workshop, you’ll find out where science has been hiding in your home through density, static electricity and more. Be a kitchen chemist and play with home science at Mad Science. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓑ
Jan. 23 (registration open now) or March 7, 10 – 11 a.m. (registration opens early Dec.) Virtual, hosted by Mad Science $18
Leap Bot Badge Workshop
Discover engineering, gravity and force by building and testing a leap bot. Brownies will learn to think critically about how designs are put together and how they can be improved. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓑ
Nov. 15, 10 a.m. – noon Virtual, Hosted by Idea Lab $18
Space Science Adventurer Badge Workshop
Whether you’ve searched for shooting stars or found shapes in the clouds, you’ve probably already spent some time looking at the sky. Now’s your chance to see the sky in a new way–like a space scientist does! Girls will investigate the moon, learn about the stars, explore the universe, and more! Who: Where: When: Cost:
ⓑ
Virtual, hosted by LPI Nov. 18; 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. $5
32 November/December 2020 l The Golden Link
Inventor Badge Workshop
Do you ever wonder what it takes to come up with a new kind of phone or a new way to power a lightbulb? Would you like an invention that would help you tie your shoes faster or one to make elevators record your singing while you ride? Find our how inventors make stuff – and become an inventor yourself! Who: ⓑ When: Jan. 9, 10 a.m. – noon (registration opens early Dec.) Where: Virtual, Hosted by Idea Lab
Entertainment Technology Badge Workshop
Get your Halloween started with some extra fun! Connect with your favorite entertainment by exploring the technology behind it. Technology isn’t always computers and screens – it is also how things are made and tested. Discover a hands-on approach to technology through constructing an animation, experimenting with centrifugal course and making 3D glasses. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓙ
Jan. 23, 10 a.m. – noon (registration opens early Dec.) Virtual, Hosted by Children’s Museum of Houston $15
Product Designer Badge Workshop
Explore and create innovations in the Children’s Museum Maker Annex! You will get the chance to investigate what makes products great, how to improve products already on the market, and more. The best part is that you will be able to be an innovator yourself and troubleshoot your solution. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓙ
Nov. 21, 10 a.m. – noon Jan. 9, 10 a.m. – noon (registration opens early Dec.) Virtual, Hosted by Children’s Museum of Houston $15
Balloon Car Badge Workshop
Get blown away by this new Junior badge. Energy surrounds you every day. In this workshop, learn to harness potential and kinetic energy. Also, learn how air interacts with objects and how you can use it to your advantage. After designing a power source for a car, you will get to test it out. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓙ
Nov. 15, 10 a.m. – noon Feb. 7, 2 – 4 p.m. (registration opens early Dec.) Virtual, Hosted by Idea Lab $18
All activities are available NOW to register unless it is happening after Feb. 1. Note, our system will be down and you will not be able to register for any activities between Nov. 16 through early December.
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Activities
Paddle Boat Badge Workshop
Engineer your way through designing, building, and testing a boat that floats in this workshop. You will also get a chance to explore a way to make your boat move through the water and assess how well it works. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓙ
Nov. 21, 10 a.m. – noon Feb. 27, 9:30 a.m. – noon (registration opens early Dec. ) Virtual, hosted by Idea Lab $18
Detective Badge Workshop
Utilize your detective skills on this sleuthing adventure. Girls will discover the power of observation, code communications, fingerprinting, and more. Stories, movies, and television are full of amazing detectives solving mysteries. Their jobs are important, exciting, and take serious skills - skills you can try at this workshop. Who: When: Where: Cost:
All activities are available NOW to register unless it is happening after Feb. 1. Note, our system will be down and you will not be able to register for any activities between Nov. 16 through early December.
ⓙ
Dec. 5, 10 a.m. – noon Feb. 20, 10 a.m. – noon (registration opens early Dec.) Virtual, hosted by Mad Science $18
See It, Be It: STEM SpeakHERS, Geology and Earth Science
In this workshop, girls will explore the geology field - it’s more than just rocks! Houston Acis a magnet for the oil and gas industry, which means we have some of the best geologists in the world! Learn about volcanoes, earthquakes, watersheds, and other topics that make up the world of geology and related earth sciences from professionals at three of the largest energy companies - ExxonMobil, bp, and Chevron. (Of course you’ll learn some awesome things about rocks, too.) Finally, girls get the opportunity to ask questions and have meaningful discussion with experts. Who: ⓒⓢⓐ When: Nov. 21, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Where: Virtual, hosted by GSSJC Cost: Free
Digital Photographer Badge Workshop
It seems like almost every gadget can take a digital photograph – from phones to laptops, to (of course) digital cameras. But do you know how to get the most out of your digital device and what it takes to capture an amazing photo? Learn all that and more in this Digital Photographer workshop! Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓙ
Nov. 22, noon – 2 p.m. Jan. 23, 10 a.m. – noon Virtual, hosted by Microsoft $5
Crane Design Badge Workshop
Construct some fun with this new Junior badge! Explore simple machines and then use your knowledge to build a crane prototype that you will test with household items like batteries, pennies, marbles, and more. Then expand your design and make it even better! Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓙ
Jan. 16, 9 a.m. – noon Virtual, Hosted by Idea Lab $18
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Special Agent Challenge
Put on your sleuthing shoes! This unique challenge will be kicked off with a workshop facilitated by the Houston Forensic Science Center. Then, girls will solve clues and complete activities to check off their special agent training. Eventually your mission, should you choose to accept it, will lead you to your Special Agent Badge. Along the way, you will investigate investigation itself, reveal reality, try science for yourself, decode body language, and practice the art of detection. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓒ
Dec. 1 – 13 (workshop on Dec. 5) Virtual, hosted by GSSJC and the Houston Forensic Science Center $10
Digital Movie Maker Badge Workshop
Movies tell stories, and this workshop will help you tell your own tale. This is your chance to show others how you see the world while you utilize fun and innovative software and your own videos. This workshop is intended as a unique and fun way to complete editing processes where girls edit footage to create a movie. Who: When: Cost: Where:
ⓒ
Jan. 24 noon – 2 p.m. or Feb. 27, 10 a.m. – noon (registration opens early Dec.) $5 Virtual, Hosted by Microsoft
Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271 November/December 2020 l The Golden Link 33
Activities
Rube Goldberg Challenge
This is the perfect way to challenge yourself while staying at home! Rube Goldberg Machines are a fun and challenging way to accomplish a task. These machines use systems of levers, movements, gravity, creativity, and more to make something happen. Check out the listed website to learn more! These machines are a fun way to become a Maker and Tinkerer and build your building skills. Participants submit a video to enter and those that submit will be mailed an event patch. There will be a prize to crown the winner who develops the most creative Rube Goldberg Machine! Who: ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ When: Dec 1 – Jan 31 (registration deadline is Nov. 15) Cost: $10 Reference: https://tinkerlab.com/engineering-kids-rube goldberg-machine/
Travel Troop Travel Information
All Girl Scout troop/group travel is suspended through December 31, 2020. No Girl Scout overnight travel will be reviewed or approved at this time and no overnight travel should be planned earlier than 2021. All participants in overnight travel will need to wait until both their home and destination locations are cleared for overnight travel and then plan at least 60-90 days in the future to ensure the locations do not regress and provide time for the planning and approval process.
Savannah, GA 2021 Council Trip Interest Meeting
Want to visit the birthplace and travel to beautiful Savannah, GA? Juniors and up are invited to join us on this council trip to the stunning Savannah, GA. Trip will take place June 22-26 of 2021. Cost estimate to be in the $900 range per person. Girls can attend the trip alone, with friends, with a parent or as a troop! Please join us if you are interested in going with other girls from GSSJC. Girls will play a big part in planning the trip. There will be free time on this trip for you to add a stop or two on your own. Who: ⓙⓒⓢⓐ Adults Where: Online via Zoom When: Thursday, November 5 at 7 p.m. Cost: Free Contact: Heather Vandivort at hvandivort@sjgs.org Note: This is an information session to learn about the council trip. The trip itself will be June 2021.
ScienceScout Challenge
Get ready for the ultimate Science Fair! We know San Jacinto has some of the most impressive girl members and it’s time to let everyone know. We will be launching our very own Girl Scout science fair – the ScienceScout Challenge. Girls will get the chance to show their super science skills through a traditional science fair format, with a Girl Scout twist. Girls will have the opportunity to win out of this world prizes and follow the footsteps of inspiring women in STEM. Stay tuned for more information launching in 2021.
All activities are available NOW to register unless it is happening after Feb. 1. Note, our system will be down and you will not be able to register for any activities between Nov. 16 through early December.
Costa Rica Council Trip Virtual Interest Meeting
Calling all Seniors and Ambassadors! If you would like to take a high adventure trip with other girls from your council, here is your chance! The Council trip to Costa Rica is a 10-day travel opportunity for registered Girl Scout Seniors and older at the time of the trip. Please join us for an interest meeting on November 29th where we answer all your questions, and you get to meet the leaders of the trip. The trip will be in June or July of 2021. Sign up today! Search “Costa Rica” under the activities tab! Who: ⓙⓒⓢⓐAdults Where: Online via Zoom When: Sunday, November 29 from 2-3 pm Cost: Free Contact: Heather Vandivort at hvandivort@sjgs.org. Note: This is an information session to learn about the council trip. Depending on travel restrictions, the Costa Rica trip will be scheduled for either summer of 2021 or 2022.
Austin TX Council Trip interest meeting
Are you interested in traveling to Austin TX with other girls from your council! Well, here is your chance! Juniors and up are invited to join us on our 2021 council trip to Austin. These two trips will take place in June or July 2021. Girls can attend the trip alone, with friends, with a parent or as a troop depending on age! Please join us if you are interested in going with other girls from GSSJC. Girls will play a big part in planning the trip. There will be free time on this trip for you to add a stop or two on your own. Who: ⓙⓒⓢⓐAdults Where: Online via Zoom When: Nov. 9, 7 p.m. Cost: Free Contact: Heather Vandivort at hvandivort@sjgs.org Note: This is an information session to learn about the council trips. The trips will take place in Summer of 2021.
34 November/December 2020 l The Golden Link
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Columns
Adult Trainings
Fall Training Calender
The training schedule below shows courses being offered through the end of the year. Courses will be offered in a virtual format via Zoom or Webinar (GoToMeeting) so that we can provide training through the uncertainties we are experiencing with COVID-19.
November 5 7 7 13-14 21 21
Thurs Sat Sat Fri-Sun Sat Sat
Daisy Brownie Program Leadership Training Community/Region Treasurer Community Financial Specialist Fall Volunteer Conference First Aid/CPR/AED Standard Volunteer Camp Certification
Zoom Webinar Webinar Zoom GSC ATC
9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. See Course Info 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
December 3 5 6 15
Thurs Sat Sun Tues
Thanks a Million First Aid/CPR/AED Blended The Many Faces of Mentoring First Aid/CPR/AED Blended
Webinar GSC ZOOM GSC
7 – 8:30 p.m. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. noon –3 p.m.
January 16 28 31
Sat Thurs Sun
First Aid/CPR/AED Blended (tentative) Partnering with Juniors Daisy Brownie Program Leadership Training
Daisy Brownie Program Leadership: This is an interactive course designed for leaders who are NEW to the troop leadership role working with girls K-3. Leaders will learn how to work with girls in a girl-led, learning by doing environment that will incorporate Daisy and Brownie levels. Participants can see the progression in characteristics of each age group and learn about earned awards, troop government, field trip and service project readiness, ceremonies and more with the use of available program resources. This course includes information about the National Program Portfolio presented in Getting Started with the Girl Guides and Journeys. Partnering with Girl Scout Juniors: Adults NEW to the troop leadership role or who are moving from the Brownie level are encouraged to attend this course. This interactive classroom course designated for the Junior leader will provide specifics on working with girls in grades 4-5 and includes various forms of troop government,
GSC Zoom Zoom
characteristics of the girls, the girl/adult partnership, tips on girl planning and more. Information on the National Program Portfolio is presented in the course Getting Started with the Girl's Guides and Journeys and is NOT included. The Many Faces of Mentoring: Mentoring can take many forms or "faces" and is key to retaining troop leaders. Explore the different mentoring programs and assess which one will be the most effective in your Community. Learn about the resources available to support your chosen mentoring style and how to enhance the organic mentoring that naturally happens when leaders get together. Thanks a Million: Appreciation is an ongoing, everyday process for anyone, anywhere, anytime. This course will provide you with information on Council and National recognitions and the responsibilities of the adult recognitions committee. You will also receive tips on record keeping and ideas on how to say “Thanks a Million” for a job well done.
1 – 4 p.m. 7 – 9 p.m. 1 – 4:30 p.m.
$6 $6 $6 $10 $55 $30
$6 $55 $6 $55
$55 $6 $6
This workshop is designed for volunteers in the Community or Region recognition team lead roles, but any volunteer interested in recognizing volunteers is welcome. Volunteer Camper Certification: Join us for a fun filled day of hands on learning. Participate in four different outdoor cooking methods, outdoor ceremonies, campfire basics and more. This self-empowering workshop will give you the confidence to teach your Girl Scouts how to build fires efficiently and safely. The training is geared toward getting your girls outdoors and is filled with helpful tips and tricks from experienced Girl Scout leaders. Required for open fires while troop camping. Prerequisite: Camping and Overnight Basics. First Aid/CPR/AED Blended: Become a Girl Scout First Aider! This adult-only blended learning First Aid/CPR/AED is a combination of online study and in person skills demonstration (required) Participants must complete both parts in order to receive their Red Cross certification.
November/December 2020 l The Golden Link 35
Columns
Planned Giving and the Juliette Gordon Low Society
Philanthropy
Making a planned gift can be very simple. You can name Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council as a partial beneficiary in your will. You can opt to leave a flat amount or a percentage of a specific asset, and there is NO minimum requirement. And everyone who makes a planned gift to GSSJC is automatically a member of the Juliette Gordon Low Society. To make your planned gift intention known, contact Nancy Hall at nhall@sjgs.org or 713-292-0282. We are not asking you to communicate to us the size of your gift. Every planned gift, no matter the amount, will have a positive impact on our girls, for generations to come.
End of Year Giving As we approach the holiday season, we reflect on 2020 with its unprecedented challenges and uncertainty. We are hopeful that 2021 will be a fresh start - a year of hope, health and prosperity for all. In this extraordinary chapter in history, Girl Scouting is more important than ever. Being a Girl Scout provides girls with a sense of normalcy and a safe place to make friends, have fun, and gain critical life skills. In addition to being a touch point with other girls during an uncertain time, our one-of-a-kind leadership development program for girls has proven results. Every activity we offer is based on time-tested methods and research-backed programming that help girls take the lead – in their own lives and in the world. The experiences girls have in Girl Scouting are proven to cultivate values, social conscience, self-esteem, resiliency and much more. In times like these, a sense of community is more important than ever. Girl Scouts offers that sense of community, whether in person or virtually. We know that many families are facing financial uncertainty right now, and that the demand for financial aid will be greater than ever this year. We believe that every girl deserves the opportunity to be a Girl Scout. As you thoughtfully consider your year-end giving, we hope you will make a gift to Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council. If you believe in building girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place, and who can weather every storm, please consider giving now. Visit gssjc.org/donate or contact Nancy Hall at nhall@sjgs.org or 713-292-0282.
United Way of Greater Houston STEM Camp GSSJC was thrilled to receive a grant from United Way of Greater Houston to provide a weeklong virtual STEM camp for underserved girls in the community, in collaboration with the Wesley Community Center and the Children’s Museum of Houston. 35 girls took part in a week of fun, interactive, hands-on projects and experiments. The girls had a blast making slime, learning about the constellations, and even designing new science projects to pitch to their camp counselors. Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) is an essential part of Girl Scout programming because it is a great way for girls to learn and explore new skills while helping them see how they can have an impact on the world. Each session was filled with exciting, hands-on experiences using science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Our GSSJC staff even included programming in Entrepreneurship, giving girls the opportunity to invent something, then present it to their counselors, classmates and parents during a special Saturday final celebration. The curiosity and creativity of the girls was on full display throughout the entire camp! This experience allowed them to strengthen and develop their scientific and social skills, but most importantly spark an interest in future STEM related studies. These girls left inspired for the future and excited to build on their experiences. None of this would have been possible without the support of United Way of Greater Houston. Thank you, United Way, for bringing the exploration, fun and learning of Girl Scouts to life for these girls!
Thank You, GSSJC Donors! Aug. 1 - Aug. 31, 2020
$10,000-$24,999 - Senior ConocoPhillips Company Kathryn Sanders $5,000-$9,999 - Cadette Sandy A. Judson Michele McNichol Robert & Pearl Knox Charitable Foundation TC Energy $1,000-$4,999 - Junior Erin Abbey Amegy Bank of Texas Challenger, Gray & Christmas
Anna B. Charlton Chevron Phillips Chemical Company Sarah Clark D.E. Harvey Builders Ann E. Deaton Deloitte Ellen R. DeSanctis ExxonMobil Honeywell Foundation Betsy and Danny Kamin Karen M. Matlock Nacogdoches County United Way
36 November/December 2020 l The Golden Link
For any questions about the donor list, contact Diane Likeness at dlikeness@sjgs.org. Honorariums listed are $25 and above.
Dorothy and Malcolm Paterson Hilary Tyson $250-$999 - Brownie Accenture Mary and Michael T. Bass Brysch Family Limited Partnership Pamela R. Lippert Terrie Bean-Minero Sara Blackburn-Ortiz Michelle and Joseph Raab Safeway Inc. Peter Vonder Haar Genevieve and John M. Walls
Memorials In Memory of Margaret Ayers Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo In Memory of James Taute Gerald Shepherd In Memory of Cindy Latham Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund
Columns
Around Camp
New welcome center at Treelake
Did you know that we’re building a new welcome center at Treelake? When it’s completed, you’ll be able to check-in at a drive-thru window! How cool is that? In early September we started clearing trees near the main entrance for this new building. Planning for this project started in 2018. The council formed a task force to develop a long-range property strategy to guide our investment strategy over the next 10+ years for facilities, camps and programs. The welcome center is one of the first planned capital projects. Other planned projects include an Adventure Center and Target Sports facility. The Treelake camp complex in Conroe is currently compriised of three separate camps - Camp Agnes Arnold, Camp Silver Springs and Misty Meadows Ranch. As part of our Ten-Year Property Strategy, we will be merging Camps Agnes Arnold and Camp Silver Springs into one functional camp - Camp Agnes Arnold - with separate villages that include Legacy Village, Central Village, Lake Village, Silver Springs Village and in the future we will add Adventure Village and Community Village. Camp Agnes Arnold is a 597-acre property and launch point for troops and resident campers to gain basic skills and then propel girls to explore other site throughout the GSSJC camp system. The adjacent camp, Misty Meadows Ranch, is a “Center of Excellence” and a premiere destination for equitation and agriculture. This 320-acre site houses the Robert and Janice McNaire Equestrian Center and a herd of 38 horses that form the core of the GSSJC equestrian program. Planned additions to this property are community gardens and a small animal husbandry program. The new Hamill Welcome Center is a launch pad for the two connected camp sites, Agnes Arnold and Misty Meadows Ranch. The 2,659 SF facility includes the reserve rangers’ quarters and check-in area for visitors that prefer to park and talk to a reserve ranger about camp or check-out camp equipment. There is a breezeway that connects to our future retail shop to provide Girl Scout supplies for campers and adjoining space for meetings. In the meantime, we plan to use this space for a large cookie cupboard. Restrooms are available in the breezeway and nearby Podville for use after the drive from Houston. So, the next time you visit Treelake, look for the new Hamill Welcome Center. It is your gateway to FUN!
Nature Trivia
Do you know the name of our largest horse in the herd? The biggest horse in the Misty Meadows Ranch herd is Olive. She is a 16-year-old Percheron mare that was purchased by our council in May of 2019. Olive is gentle giant standing 17.2 hands (about 5’9”) and weighs about 1,600 lbs.! Her favorite activities include trail riding and vaulting (gymnastics on horseback). You might spot Olive in the pasture hanging out with either Sunny or Romeo. Here’s a question for next time: We’ve asked you what the State of Texas official animals are like the mockingbird, armadillo and blue Lacy dog. Also, the state tree and flower. Here’s one that most people don’t know about. What is the official state shell?
Olive getting love on by the upper level SPURS after vaulting.
Olive enjoying time off.
Erin S. after a lesson on Olive. November/December 2020 l The Golden Link 37
Scrapbook
Send your photos to ions@ communicat ude cl In sjgs.org. the in # p oo tr your e. lin t ec subj
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Troop #134009 had an outdoor end of year meeting and participated in Monument Community drive through bridging ceremony.
Troop #114171 made solar s’mores
For Netanya D.'s Silver Award, she partnered with Memorial Hermann to create handmade cards for patients for every occasion. By doing so she hoped to put smiles on their faces.
Tall Pines Hill Community held a drive-thru Bridging/ Rededication Snow Cone Celebration. About 150 snow cones were served to almost 90 girls and their families. 38 November/December 2020 l The Golden Link
Scrapbook Cathy R. was a member of hte Undercover Science Squad and for her science activity she created her own "no covid" spray disguised as an air freshener.
Savannah D from Troop 122023 participated in the Council Camp-in/ Camp Out by setting up "camp" in her room."
Sarah P. created a bubbling volcano scene for her science activity.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, girls from Troop #143101 made cards and collected treats to bring sunshine to the residents of Trinity Oaks in Pearland.
Ria P. and Zaniya P. earned the Silver Award by helping elders to learn English. They made a bilingual guide that incorporated two languages, Farsi and English with the basics: colors, numbers, question words etc. Then later on it gradually became more challenging and it went to basic sentence structure and everyday questions. It helped them by being able to go to the grocery store and ask questions and how to have a decent conversation with others.
Rimsha A., from Troop #883 earned her Silver Award Project by creating an instructional video on how to make weighted blankets. She also created a website for a non profit organization, called, Weighted Wonders. Many people do not know this, but, weighted blankets help people with autism, ADHD, anxiety and many more calm down. This organization gives these blankets to people who may need them.
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Scrapbook
Troop #106023 created Covid care packages for residents at a senior living facility for their Bronze Award project. They spent their cookie program earnings to purchase the supplies. Naina M. decided to hold a blood drive for cancer patient for her Silver Award Project. She partnered with MD Anderson Cancer Center and The Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board. She had 80 people show up and 44 were able to donate blood which saved 132 patients lives.
Troop #127099 received their Bronze Award by making Friendship Supply Bags. The hours consisted of planning, budgeting, shopping, writing and illustrating a letter, assembling the bags and presenting them to Wolman Elementary in Katy ISD. They made 55 bags of school supplies, complete with a Girl Scout SWAP and a letter the co-wrote and illustrated welcoming new students to the school so that everyone will have a friend from day one. The girls are Brooke B., Charlotte H., Mia K., Kendyll L., Chloe M. and Addison S.
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Nysa N. of Troop #883 made an instructional video showing how to make your own hand sanitizer at home Silver Award project. She researched on how to make handgel using athome products. She shared it amongst family, friends and the community.
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Troop #21314 held a Pet Palooza photo booth at the Pearland Town Center in September 2019 to earn their Silver Award. They also addressed the issues of pet health and pet adoptions.
Congratulations Gold Award Girl Scouts The Girl Scout Gold Award represents the highest achievement in Girl Scouting; it recognizes girls in grades 9-12 who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through sustainable and measurable Take Action projects. Since 1916, girls have successfully pursued the highest award, an act that indelibly marks them as accomplished members of their communities and the world.
Brenna C. started a club at her high school for her Gold Award Project. She aimed to increase awareness and educate others about childhood illness. Together with 23 volunteers, Brenna developed and led multiple service projects benefitting Texas Children Hospital. Brenna believes education and knowledge will provide purpose to lives around the world.
Mary-Ellen A. was motivated by her love of cooking to use her project as a way to educate others about the importance of healthy eating. Together with her volunteers, Mary-Ellen created three online workshops for those in the Port of Houston community. She also raised funds to provide each participant with their own Chromebook so that they could attend the workshops and learn about healthy eating.
Avnika D. focused on tackling the issues of human trafficking in Houston by creating educational curriculum for refugees and young women, as well as seminars on preventative measures to increase awareness. Additional, Avnika spoken with students in at-risk schools regarding issues surrounding human trafficking, as well as how to identify signs of trafficking in their area.
Simin A. created classes and online workshops for immigrants who weren’t proficient in English to provide them with information on how to become American citizens. Simin held 22 classes that included reviewing each portion of the American Citizenry test at length. Simin understood the importance of becoming an American citizen herself and wanted to use her project as a means to educate others and provide them with resources to become US citizens.
Elizabeth E. taught kids in her community basic sewing skills such as threading needles, sewing a button and how to use a sewing machine. With her team of volunteers, Elizabeth also developed and created a YouTube tutorial to help reach a larger audience. In the end, she and her team worked to collect fabric donations and made over 90 pillowcases that were donated to The Moses Closet Organization.
Sarah A. helped benefit the Sugar Land Sharks Swim Team of 200 athletes. Previously, the storage facility had become susceptible to mold, grimy floors and other health hazards. Together with her volunteers, Sarah helped clean and refurbish the facility–including re-painting the floors and walls, installing new shelves and organizing existing supplies. Sadaka A. self-published a book entitled “The Little Girl With ADHD”, which chronicled her own experiences. Sadaka hoped to encourage positive discussions surrounding ADHD, as well as build empathy in classrooms among peers. Sadaka also created free YouTube videos for viewers in which she read the book for troops, libraries and anyone looking to learn more information. Morgan C. created a book cart for the St. Luke’s Methodist Church Gethsemane Campus to help address the lack of reading materials available for the impoverished children who live near and attend the church. Through her project, Morgan shared her love of reading and increase access to literary tools for enrichment.
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Taylor E. helped educate her family and community on the importance of preventing childhood obesity, as well as using that as a means to prevent future chronic illnesses in adulthood. Together with four volunteers, Taylor was able to develop and lead different events in the community. Kaleigh F. used her Gold Award Project to help improve the library at the Harmony School of Enrichment. Kaleigh noticed that the library that was available to students was not organized and offered little books. Together with her team of volunteers, Kaleigh was able to donate and organize books by creating a check-out system for students. She also created a relaxing and safe reading area in the library for students to utilize during the school year.
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Jillian G. created organizational equipment and materials for SIRE, a local non-profit that provides horse therapy for people with special needs. Her project consisted of designing, building and installing a ground pole organizer and storage units. Additionally, Jillian created online tutorials for baking horse treats and led informational sessions educating others about SIRE in hopes to increase awareness and support for the organization.
Hannah K. was motivated by her dad and grandmother’s passion for gardening in creating a sensory garden at Cinco Ranch High School. Hannah provided special education students with a place to enjoy nature in a multi-sensory environment. She hopes that the happiness she and her family get when gardening can be shared with others in her project as they learned to grow and maintain a garden of their own.
Ainsley G. educated others about the importance of conversation and preservation for endangered animal species. She created two brochures for the Science Resource Center of CFISD–one about prairie dogs and one about bees. Ainsley also built an enclosure and activity center for prairie dogs and two additional bee houses for the Miniature Prairie.
Amanda K. tried to tackle issues of literacy and writing skills at a Title 1 school. Together with her volunteers, she created and led an after-school poetry and writing club for 24 second grade students. Activities included writing exercises and collaborative writing that emphasized how literature is exciting and school can be fun. In addition, she donated nearly 700 books to the school to help teachers build their own classroom libraries.
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Caitlyn H. wanted to celebrate diversity and the differences that make each person individual and special. Together with Attack Poverty, she created four weekly camp sessions, and a “Diversity and Inclusion Day.” Caitlyn also produced a stop-motion film that tackled themes of diversity and prejudice that she showcased at her workshops.
Trisha K. helped reduce food waste by creating and implementing a compost system at her local temple. Together with her volunteers, Trisha was able to install and maintain and compost system, hold an informative booth at local events, and distribute information and resources on the importance of environmentally friendly alternatives for food disposal.
Kiley H. created healthy and easy-to-make recipes using foods readily available at her local food pantry, Second Mile. Together with her volunteers, Kiley created multiple recipe cards that educated patrons of the food pantry on health meals they could create using ingredients and foods regularly available at the food pantry. She also created cooking demonstration videos that others could use to follow along. Lois H. created a safe space and environment for teens who are struggling with anxiety and depression. Motivated by her own experience with anxiety and panic attacks, Lois understood the importance of tackling issues like mental health and creating a support group for like-minded individuals. Her support group, called “Teen Tea Talk”, met twice a week at The Vineyard Women’s Ministries. Anusha K. conducted several STEMbased workshops and lessons at a local daycare center run by SEWA, a non-profit organization that educated immigrant children. She aimed to give these kids an opportunity to learn concepts and material that they would otherwise not have access to. She found that many of the children had gained a newfound interest in STEM fields!
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Ashleigh L. noticed upkeep in her neighborhood was not what it used to be, so she worked with her HOA to hold educational seminars on gardening basics, as well as coordinated a Yard of the Month program. She also promoted a Trash Bash to encourage neighbors to clean their yards and gutters. Ashleigh also improved common spaces by pruning neglected trees and installing new planting beds at her local pool.
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Hrishika M. was driven by her love of speech and debate to create a project centered on addressing the alarming and increasing gender disparities in speech and debate. Hrishika was able to create a speech and debate team at Fort Settlement Middle School and encouraged girls to join. She has learned through Girl Scouts the importance of developing leadership skills, confidence, and public speaking. Alisha M. re-organized a section of the resale shop to increase traffic flow. Not only did this directly impact the shop with increased sales, but it also proved quite essential during COVID-19 when sales were being impacted. Alisha also raised awareness about the need for volunteering with the Ministry and through various other organizations by putting on presentations for others.
Kate M. created more than 20 puppets and a table-top theater for an underprivileged school in her local community. Not only did the puppets help spark creativity for students, but they also aided the children in public speaking and performance skills. Kate hopes her project continues to inspire children at Stevens Elementary so that they, too, can find the same joys in her passions. Angela N. understood the pressures and stress-causers that she herself was impacted by, and wanted to use her project to educate others. With her volunteers, she recorded survey data from teenage participants and created a comprehensive website with information and resources about stress-relief and mental health. Lauren O. used her project to replant, refurbish and maintain the rooftop garden at Bellaire High School. Through donations she received through her project and partnerships, she was able to raise enough money to completely refurbish the more than 1,600 square-foot garden. Her project included “Open Fridays” for students to enjoy the garden, and even had teachers lead classes outdoors on the garden patio. Lenzy O. helped entertain children at Family Promise, a homeless shelter, while the parents attended long classes at the center. She installed an art classroom where children could entertain themselves through artistic expression while parents took the admission classes.
Maddy P. focused on helping educate and aid others before, during and after a hurricane or natural disaster, especially in areas that are in natural disaster zones. Maddy’s project includes information on how to evacuate properly and safely, what items to take, how to properly prepare and stock food items, as well as hurricane relief information. Anyone can visit and learn from her Gold Award Project at www. GalvestonPrepares.com. Mackenzie P. built a “Buddy Bench” for Pecan Grove Elementary. In addition, Mackenzie also developed and created a documentary to the local elementary school that addressed the issue of bullying that many students face. Mackenzie noted that students were touched by the documentary and hopes her project continues to help students who feel left out find positive friendships in school.
Sia R. created an after-school club that provided service and musical events at a local retirement community in her area, Village on the Park. Sia’s intentions on creating the school club was to help assist the elderly community, who she noted are often overlooked. Together with her 50 volunteers, she was able to lead various events for residents at the retirement community. Ariah R. started gardens in low-income areas and donated the fresh produce from these gardens to St. Monica Food Pantry. Produce from the gardens were given to local families in need during the COVID-19 pandemic, along with information on how to properly maintain a produce garden to help ensure that fresh produce was being donated. Ariah also hosted an online ZOOM class and YouTube video that taught people how to properly maintain a garden. Grace R. wanted to improve access to cello lessons by removing barriers to getting help outside of the classroom. This include lack of financial resources, time constraints, lack of transportation and limited number of private instructors. Students who participated in “Cello Made Easy” also hosted a bringa-friend event where they invited friends to learn cello basics. Grace also created YouTube tutorials and transitioned to FaceTime and Zoom due to COVID-19. Eve R. educated others about the responsibilities of being a pet owner. Originally, Eve planned on holding a Pet Care Carnival with Citizens for Animal Protection, but due to COVID-19, adapted her project to fit a digital landscape. She soon created educational YouTube videos that were able to share the information she had gathered and shared those with her community. Nicole R. created a sensory wall for clients at Center for Pursuit, a local non-profit that promotes the pursuit of choice, growth, and independence for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Together with her volunteers, Nicole built and installed the wall over the summer so that future clients of the Center for Pursuit could benefit from the project once operations return to normal. Ramsey R. taught high school-aged students and parents about the dangers of drunk driving and distracted driving. In conjunction with St. Anne church and the Duchesne Academy, she created a pamphlet and social media campaign that helped reach approximately 250 people. Ramsey was motivated to undertake this project after her cousin was left paralyzed after a car accident. November/December 2020 l The Golden Link 43
Allison S. partnered with the General Society of Mayflower DescendantsHouston Colony to recognize the 400th 400th anniversary of the Mayflower sailing to America. Allison re-created games for children to play reminiscent of ones played by pilgrims. She also created an essay competition online where entrants could submit their own essays revolving around what they were thankful for. Pratishta S. educated students and citizens of rural parts of northern India about the importance of hygiene and proper healthcare. Together with her volunteers, she led workshops and informative sessions on how to properly administer first-aid, as well as how to incorporate basic hygiene and healthy practices into their daily lives.
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Kristi S. built a butterfly garden at Mandolin Garden Parks. Kristi was motivated to take on this project by her own love of gardening and knowledge of butterflies. She aimed to solve the local endangerment of butterfly species by creating a sustainable garden. She hopes her project educates others about the importance of maintaining eco-friendly systems for animal preservation and others to enjoy. Claire S. hosted a blood drive with the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center at Grand Lakes Presbyterian. Through donations, Claire was able to save 138 lives through blood donations. Additionally, Claire produced a video interview with a blood recipient to help showcase their story and educate others about the importance of blood donations. Hannah V. used her project to reach 7th and 8th graders from St. Cecilia Catholic School with information and resources about the importance of self care, stress relief and mental health. Driven by her own experiences and desire for this relevant information at that age, Hannah presented to middle schoolers as she believes that it is the optimal time to build a strong foundation of mental health. Katie W. helped those who are affected by cystic fibrosis for her project. Katie noted that patients who were undergoing medical treatment for the disease suffered from depression, anxiety and boredom. Her project provided patients and parents a form of relief and “escape� during difficult treatments. The Sunshine Bags contained items that recipients could use to occupy their time and take their mind off of stressful situations.
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Kylee W. used her project to show her love for sailing and the GSSJC Mariners Special Interest Group by helping maintenance at Casa Mare. Together with her volunteers, Kylee was able to create a refurbishing system and maintenance log for other Girl Scouts who come after her to utilize in maintaining sailboats and camp property. Kennedy W. held a series of online and virtual anti-bullying workshops. Together with volunteers and professional guest speakers, Kennedy was able to host and lead various workshops that tackled information such as bullying, how to seek for help, the importance of mental health, and provided a safe environment for others to share their personal stories on how they overcame their own challenges and obstacles. Jessica W. had to transition her project to a digital platform at the beginning of COVID-19. Her project focused on provided resources and information to participants about the importance of physical and mental health, especially as it pertained to quarantining during the pandemic. Together with her volunteers, Jessica developed several online workshops, videos and presentations that helped address these issues in underprivileged communities. Caroline W. tackled the issue surrounding healthier eating options for local soup kitchens in the Beaumont area. With her team, Caroline created her own cookbook that showcased recipes using fresh produce. Her team also created signs for Giving Fields to use in their gardens. She later presented her project to a younger Girl Scout troop to educate them on the importance of healthy eating. Alishba Z. tackled the issue of lack of resources for elderly immigrants seeking to gain American citizenship. With her volunteers, Alishba hosted classes that taught elderly participants about American history and provided them with the proper resources and information about how to get an American citizenship. Rahmeen Z. addressed the lack of knowledge and comfort that senior citizens had when it came to using everyday technology. After conducting a survey, Rahmeen was able to provide information workshops and videos on how to send text messages, use GPS maps, download apps and other processes. Rahmeen noted that after her project, many of the senior citizens had learn many different skills that they were putting to use.