Winter 2021 Golden Link by GSSJC

Link The Golden

The official publication of Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council. | Volume 47 Issue 6| Winter 2021

Get ready to participate in one of our country’s most anticipated time of the yearGirl Scout Cookie Season!

President of the Council and Chair of the Board Marguerite Woung-Chapman Chief Executive Officer Mary Vitek

Troop #114068 has adopted the fire station Cypress Creek 23. The girls brought them pizza, salad, dessert and drinks. This is an ongoing Klein Trails community service project. See more Scrapbook photos on page 32.

Chief External Affairs Officer Connie Chavez Visual Brand Manager Joanne Pastalaniec Mission Statement GSSJC: Girl Scouts builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place.

Contents

DEIB Statement Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council fosters belonging and respect for all girls. We empower all girls, volunteers and staff to fulfill their potential and make the world a better place. Our Girl Scout Promise drives us to provide diverse, equitable and inclusive experiences where all girls, volunteers and staff are confident they belong.  We stand firm in these commitments and united by these ideals.

Circulation The Golden Link is published four times a year. It has a circulation of more than 25,000. 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.

Winter 2021

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From the Top Shop News

Special Feature 4

Cookie Program

Features

11 New Girl Scout Badges 12 Gold Award Girl Scouts

Activities 15 General Activities 22 Backpacking 23 Environmental 23 Fine Arts 27 Health 28 Highest Awards 28 Sports 29 Travel

Cookie Program Starts Soon! page 4

Cadette Event is back! Information on page 18

Columns 30 Philanthropy 32 Scrapbook

The Golden Link is published by Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council, 3110 Southwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77098 The Golden Link is also available to read online at www.gssjc.org/publications Copyright ©2021. All rights reserved.

28 New Badges Introduced! page 11

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When is a cookie not just a cookie? When it is a Girl Scout Cookie of course! We all know that the Cookie Program is about so much more than cookies. It’s about the girls and supporting their leadership journey. It’s about providing troops with funds to pay for activities or service Marguerite Woungprojects that make our world a Chapman better place. Chair of the Board and And for our council, it’s President of the Council about ensuring Girl Scouting continues to thrive in our community. Proceeds help maintain our camps and keep fees low and attainable for all members. And last but certainly not least, your participation in the Cookie Program makes Girl Scouting a reality for all girls, regardless of their ability to pay, by providing financial assistance and supporting our community outreach program, where staff bring the Girl Scout experience to girls in underserved communities- in schools, homeless shelters and detention centers, among others. So a big thank you to our volunteers! Because you have stepped up to be troop leaders and cookie volunteers, girls are ready to learn the five skills through the Cookie Program. Besides raising money to support our local programs, camps, troops and their communities and regions, girls get to be part of the largest girl-led business in the country. Thank you, parents too! You are a big part of the program from helping girls pick up cookies to helping them plan their business and going out with them to deliver. While cookies are only available in February and March of each year, the program is a major focus all year. Troops secure year-round funding for activities like a special trip, a weekend of camping or next year’s dues. This year as we celebrate 100 years of Girl Scouting in southeast Texas, we welcome a new cookie, Adventurefuls! I’m excited to see what adventures girls will take from the proceeds of this year’s cookie program. Before I sign off, I have even more thanks to give! Thank you for supporting our girls as they make memories they will fondly recall as adults. Thank you for giving your time and talent so they can be a part of this wonderful tradition. And thank you for entrusting us with your Girl Scout’s growth and development. Together, we can make her future brighter. I can’t wait to see what she will accomplish!

From the

TOP

Shop Hours PP for Girls 3000 Southwest Freeway, Houston 713-292-0247 Sun. & Mon. Close Tue. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Wed. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. TH. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Imperial Valley 15800 Imperial Valley Dr., Houston 281- 447-8870 Sat., Sun., Mon. Close Tue. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Wed. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. TH. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Lufkin 1202 College Drive, Lufkin 936-634-4688 Sat., Sun., Mon. Close Tue. & Th. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Beaumont 700 North Street, Suite F, Beaumont 409-832-0556 Ext. 1500 Sat., Sun., Mon. Close Tue. Wed., Th. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Westside (curbside pickup only) 531 FM 359 South, Brookshire 281- 822-4250 Wed. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Stafford 12300 Parc Crest, Ste 170, Stafford 281-670-5982 Sun. & Mon. Close Tue. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Wed. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. TH. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Bay Area 1300 A Bay Area Blvd., Ste. 106, Houston 281-282-6077 Sun. & Mon. Close Tue. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Wed. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. TH. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Cypress/Jersey Village 19708 Northwest Freeway, Suite 100, Jersey Village 346-818-3227 Sun. & Mon. Close Tue. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Wed. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. TH. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Shop online at gssjc.org.

Hours may alter due to weather. Call before traveling long distances.

New Leader Must-Knows!

Are you a new Girl Scout leader? Here are some things you need to know for the next few months.

Girl Scout Cookie Program kicks off Feb. 12 and runs through March 28. Get your troop involved! Select a troop cookie manager, take online training and you’re ready to go! For more info, visit gssjc.org/cookies.

World Thinking Day is Feb. 22. On this day, we celebrate the sisterhood of Girl Scouts and Girl Guides around the world. Visit girlscouts.org/worldthinkingday for activities for your troop level.

Get ready for: Girl Scout Week March 6-12! This week celebrates the founding of Girl Scouts on March 12, 1912 and troops are encouraged to celebrate Girl Scouting in the community.

Get ready for summer 2022! Yes it is getting cold outside, but think about fun summer nights by the campfire. The 2022 camp guide will be in the mail in January. Grab your spot for summer fun. Girl Scout shops and service centers will be closed December 24-January 2 and January 17.

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It's cookie time! Cookie Program participation: It’s about more than cookies

Mark Your Calendars: Important Cookie Dates January 12 February 3 February 12 February 18 March 31

Troops place orders Cookie Delivery starts It’s Cookie Time! Sale starts Cookie Booths start Cookie Sale ends

Did you know the Girl Scout Cookie Program is the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world? It’s true–and it’s pretty amazing! We are excited about this year’s program and we hope you are too. Let’s rock this cookie season! Are you ready to unleash that unstoppable Girl Scout shine and ingenuity to make amazing things happen and reach your goals? Great! Let’s do it. Learn super useful life skills, gain a ton of confidence, and find out what you’re capable of. And there’s more–selling cookies also means big fun, great friends, and a chance to change the world! Working as a team member with her troopmates to earn funds to do all the great things they have planned, from camping to service projects, from attending badge workshops to trips to local attractions. She’s paying it forward and making the Girl Scout experiences possible for ALL girls in our council. Proceeds also go toward maintaining camp properties, keeping activity fees affordable and helping girls in underserved areas participate in Girl Scouts.

The 5 skills at work in the Cookie Program Every package of Girl Scout Cookies contains so much more than cookies. For customers, the cookies provide a delicious way to support girls on their Girl Scout journey. For girls, every package includes new skills, fun, friendship, unforgettable experiences, and forever memories. When your Girl Scout takes part in the cookie program, she is learning and practicing 5 Skills she will use all her life. • Goal Setting: Girls learn how to set goals to meet deadlines, plan for how to achieve a goal, change actions when necessary and work with others to achieve goals in a group. • Decision Making: Girls learn how to think through different choices, explain reasons why they made a decision, decide between various options and consider others’ input when making group decisions. • Money Management: Girls learn how to count money and make change, create a plan to save their money, track their money so they know how much they have and distinguish the difference between wants and needs. • People Skills: Girls learn how to be respectful of others, take responsibility for what they say and do, keep their promises and to be accountable. • Business Ethics: Girls learn how to be comfortable talking to and being around new people, better communication skills to get their message across and share what they hope to achieve when working toward a goal.

COVID protocols for selling Girl Scout Cookies As the situation around COVID changes month to month, be sure to check online at gssjc.org before the start of the sale for the most up-to-date Girl Scout guidelines for safely selling cookies. As always, also monitor your county's health organization guidelines.

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Check all the boxes to support your Girl Scout’s Cookie Program success     

Make sure your Girl Scout is registered for the 2021-2022 membership year. Complete the Parent Permission and Responsibility form at https://form.jotform.com/202725448544054 . Review online Guide for parents and families at gssjc.org/2022cookieprogram Attend your troop’s cookie meeting. Get important information about the opportunities and responsibilities of the Cookie Program. Join the Cookie Program Team. Volunteer! Whether you can spare a little or a lot of time, there is a place for you. The Cookie Program couldn’t happen without the time and talent parents and other volunteers give to supporting girl success at the troop and council level. Visit gssjc.org/2022cookieprogram for more information on how to get started.

Tips for cookie-selling success Calling all Girl Scouts: Whether you are selling online, at a booth or in a Walkabout, these easy tips will help make your Cookie Program participation successful – and fun! Remember to follow all safety and COVID guidelines in all your interactions with customers. 1. Greet Your Customers. Meet them with a friendly but businesslike “Hello.” Be the confident Girl Scout #CookieBoss you are. 2. Make a Girl Scout Connection. Ask women customers if they are grown up Girl Scouts, Over 59% of women have been part of Girl Scouts since 1912 so chances are good the answer will be “yes.” 3. Share Your Goal. Talk about how your troop intends to use their proceeds from the Cookie Program. 4. Know your Products. Be prepared to tell customers what you have available. People are always interested in new items so, make sure you can describe this year’s scrumptious new cookie, Adventurefuls. 5. Share Your Own Girl Scout Story. People buy Girl Scout Cookies because they love the cookies. And they also like knowing they are supporting the dreams of girls like you.

Cookie cupboard updates

Overall the switch to contactless cupboard pick up last year got high marks. And this year, we are tweaking our procedures and guidelines to make it even better. For example, we want to reduce wait times for the volunteers picking up from cupboards. Please contribute to a smooth cupboard process for all troops by placing your starting inventory order in time to pick it up at cookie deliveries. With that in mind, some changes you will see this year are: • There will be fewer pick up slots per hour • There will be a max number of cases that can be picked up • Troops will only be able to schedule one pick up per day – i.e., multiple people from the same troop cannot pick up from the cupboards on the same day. 6

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6. Celebrate the council’s 100th Anniversary. If your troop reached the Starting Inventory Order goal, wear the limited edition GSSJC Anniversary Pin you received. For more information, check out the inside back cover of this edition of The Golden Link. 7. Say “Thank you.” Tell every customer you appreciate their support – and that you hope they enjoy their delicious Girl Scout Cookies.

Help! How many cookies should our troop order? To help troops set a target for how many cases to order initially, a Starting Inventory Order (SIO) level is set for each Cookie Program season. For the 2022 sale, troops with an initial order averaging at least 150 packages per girl will earn two great awards: a koala themed mini backpack keychain and a limited edition GSSJC 100th Anniversary Pin (see photos on back inside cover of this edition of The Golden Link.) These awards will be included in the troop’s initial delivery so they can be distributed to girls immediately. Below is chart to help Troop Cookie Managers calculate how many total cookies to order: Girls in your troop 10 girls 12 girls 15 girls 20 girls 150 packages/girl 125 cases 150 cases 188 cases 250 cases Special Notes: • There are 12 packages of cookies in a case of Girl Scout Cookies • If you are a returning troop and this calculation results in an initial starting inventory that is less than 80% of your previous year’s final sales, you may want to increase your starting inventory order to 80% of your previous year’s final sales to reduce trips to the cookie cupboards • If your troop includes a different number of girls than the example, use this formula to calculate your Starting Order: • Number of girls in troop X 150 per girl = Number of packages. Divide the number of packages by 12 to get the number of cases. • Round up to the nearest case when ordering.

Ways to sell cookies in 2022 However you choose to participate in the Cookie Program, mark you calendars for National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend which is scheduled for Feb. 18-20. People will be on the lookout for Girl Scout Cookies that weekend so it is an especially great time for booth sales and Walkabouts. Below is a list of different ways to sell cookies in 2022. For more information, go to gssjc.org/cookies Contactless selling. Technology provides contactless options for participation in the Cookie Program, including a girl’s Smart Cookie Online Store, other online platforms such as Zoom and Virtual Cookie Booths. Booths–both Traditional and Troop Secured - and Lemonade Stands are allowed, subject to all safety guidelines and GSSJC’s COVID-19 protocols being followed. For the complete list of the council’s COVID-19 protocols, see gssjc.org.

Door-to-door – Did you know that door-to-door sales remains one of the most effective ways to sell cookies? In a recent national study, 78% of those customers who were not approached during a cookie sale stated they would have purchased two to four boxes if asked. Be sure to follow the safety and COVID guidelines specifically for in-person/door-to-door sales. Walkabouts – This is an organized version of door-to-door sales in which Girl Scouts go through a specific neighborhood to sell cookies. It’s an especially fun way for troops to sell together, with different pairs of girls taking different streets, etc. If everyone participating wears a Girl Scout tee shirt or vest, Walkabouts can create a lot of good energy and visibility.

How to use troop proceeds? The girls decide!

Where does the cookie revenue go?

Girl Scouts in each troop decide how to use the proceeds earned from participating in the cookie program. Below is a sample of how a troop of 12 Girl Scouts who reach the 2022 GSSJC Starting Inventory Order goal of 150 packages in the initial order might budget the $1,350 they earn in troop proceeds:

The support parents and other volunteers give to the Cookie Program means the majority of revenue from every package of Girl Scout cookies purchased can go toward girl programs and experiences at the council, community, and troop levels. All proceeds after the cost of the cookies stay local. After paying for the cookies, this is how GSSJC Cookie Program proceeds are spent:

• Attend Carousel camping weekend ($30/girl or adult) $360 • Attend a Cybersecurity badge workshop ($23 per girl) $276 • Hike with Henry at Camp Agnes Arnold ($6 per girl) $72 • Renew all girls’ memberships during Early Bird to earn an exclusive patch ($25 per girl) - $300 • Service project benefiting a local animal shelter $200 • Add to travel fund for trip next year $142

74% - Girl Scout Program 20% - Troop and Community Proceeds 3% - Recognitions for Girls 3% - Other Fall 2021 l The Golden Link 7

Volunteer at a cookie cupboard

Safety tips while selling cookies

Are you looking for a guilt-free way to skip the gym? Join Girl Scout parents and guardians, their family members and friends who volunteer at cookie cupboards. Volunteers should be • at least 18 • like being active • enjoy being around fun people • interested in being part of a “Great American Tradition.”

Since its founding in 1912, girl safety has always been a primary focus in every aspect of Girl Scouts. Following the tips below can help assure the Cookie Program is both a safe and a fun experience for the Girl Scouts who participate.

Cupboard volunteers help to reduce wait times to pick up cookies so troop cookie managers can get back to their day. Opportunities exist across the council during February and March. For more information send an email with your contact information to cookies@sjgs.org Safety First: The contactless cupboard procedures GSSJC developed last year have become a model for other councils across the country. For 2022, we will continue to offer curbside pickup at cupboards and will follow local guidelines as well as GSSJC COVID protocols during the cookie season.

Be streetwise: Become familiar with the areas and neighborhoods where you will be selling your Girl Scout Cookies.

Troop cookie manager: Short term role with big impact Girls in troops with a TCM tend to have a more successful experience in the cookie program than those in troops where the troop leader tries to cover both jobs. And when both positions are filled, the troop can continue with core Girl Scout activities as well as participating in the cookie program. Want to step up and help out? Talk to your Girl Scout’s troop leader. For more information go to gssjc.org/2022cookieprogram

Cookies4Heroes/CookieShare: A sweet way to say thank you! Our council calls our CookieShare Program: Cookies for Heroes. Girls can encourage customers who don’t want cookies for themselves to select this option when ordering online or in-person. (If buying online, there is a $1.25 processing fee.) All monies received as donations are considered Cookies4Heroes donations. For example, if someone says, "Keep the change," the change goes toward Cookies4Heroes cookies. Girls who sell 15 packages for Cookies4Heroes earn a special patch. And those who sell to the 50 package level also receive a pair of koala-themed socks, in addition the girl’s troop is eligible to help deliver the cookies. After the Cookie Program ends, Cookies4Heroes orders are sent by the council and/or troops to local first responders and organizations that support the military. Eligible troops participate in some deliveries. In 2021, our council provided 39,012 packages of Girl Scout Cookies to Cookies4Heroes recipients. We hope to surpass that number in 2022. 8

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Show you are a Girl Scout: Wear the Girl Scout membership pin, vest or sash or other Girl Scout clothing (e.g., Girl Scout T-Shirt) to identify yourself as a Girl Scout. Buddy up: Always use the buddy system. Not only is it safe, it’s more fun.

Partner with adults: If you are a Daisy, Brownie or Junior, only take or deliver orders when you are accompanied by an adult family member. If you are a Cadette, Senior or Ambassador, go door-to-door only with a buddy and parental approval. At troop cookie booths, one of the two supervising adults must have a current background check and always be present at a cookie booth with the girls. Do not enter: While selling or delivering cookies, never enter anyone’s home, not even if they are friends or neighbors you know. Plan ahead: Be prepared for emergencies, and always have a plan for safeguarding money. Give money to your troop cookie manager to deposit as soon as possible. Don’t forget to get a receipt. Sell in the daytime: Sell only during daylight hours, unless accompanied by an adult. Be internet savvy: Read and sign the Internet Safety Pledge at www.girlscouts.org/en/help/help/internet-safety-pledge.html. Make sure you have adult permission and supervision for online activities. Detailed social media guidelines can be found in the family guide. Protect privacy: Girls’ names, addresses and email addresses should never be given out to customers. Instead, a designated adult’s phone number and/or group email address overseen by an adult should be given for re-orders or complaints. Be safe on the road: Always follow safe pedestrian practices, especially when crossing at intersections or walking along roadways. Be aware of traffic when unloading cookies and passengers from vehicles.

Find information on these badges and pins in the Volunteer Tool-kit and badge books. Fall 2021 l The Golden Link 9

Get all your cookie selling needs at the Girl Scout Shop! Patches

Shirts Variety available Yard Signs

Cookie Carts Money Envelopes

Tablecloths

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New Girl Scout badges Presenting 28 new badges that spark her imagination. They’re here: 28 new ways for Girl Scouts of all ages to explore their world, whether online or unplugged! The newest class of badges take on even more topics that Girl Scouts and their families care about, like getting outside, using technology to run girls’ cookie businesses, and growing girls’ digital leadership skills to make the world a better place. Earning the badges is also easier than ever: based on feedback from girls, volunteers, and families, the new badge booklets now include a volunteer guide and printable activity pages for girls, as well as new badge overviews in the Volunteer Toolkit and fun and fast badge introductions in gsLearn.

Meet the badges:

Math in Nature (Daisies through Juniors) After a year of learning inside, it’s time to get outdoors! The new Math in Nature badges build on one another as Girl Scouts learn about shapes, numbers, and design in nature. They’ll plan a hiking adventure, create trail maps, and design a bird feeder–all while learning math concepts and how they apply outside the classroom. The new Math in Nature badges also boost girls’ interest and confidence in STEM (PDF); they’re more likely to connect with STEM concepts when they’re linked to things they love, such as outdoor time and helping others. Cookie Business (Daisies through Ambassadors) With more and more consumers shopping online, girls learn to think beyond the storefront and meet their cookie customers where they are through the Digital Cookie® platform. The 13 new Cookie Business badges are packed with activities to support every Girl Scout as they work collaboratively, set goals for themselves, and finesse their digital marketing campaigns. Girl Scouts of all ages will be ready to take their cookie business to the next level! Digital Leadership (Daisies through Ambassadors) Technology can help girls empower themselves and others–and by earning Digital Leadership badges, Girl Scouts of every age can do just that! They’ll learn about digital literacy and wellness and use what they’ve learned to raise awareness on a topic or cause they care about. Girl Scouts are already digital leaders. These future-forward badges will support them in using technology to connect with others and create a digital product that makes a positive impact and inspires others to action. Look in the Volunteer Toolkit for badge requirements.

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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. Leyli Akhmedov taught English to children in Azerbaijan. Together with NGO You Will Speak, she created her own Conversation Club, an immersion curriculum that focused on teaching and learning English to students in these regions. Leyli notes the importance of knowing English and the myriad of opportunities that it opens to students overseas for higher education and career opportunities.

Isabella Cantone provided resources to her female peer swimmers on how to safely and comfortably navigate menstrual cycles while remaining athletes. Additionally, Isabella launched a website with additional information she researched through pediatricians and nutritionists, and even held two national webinars. Together with her volunteers, Isabella also installed a cabinet in her school’s locker room so that her peers would have a place to store their products.

Alexandria Alvarez started R.I.T.E– Reach, Inspire, Thrive, Educate–a program that focused on addressing the issue of helping human trafficking victims. Alexandria noted that these same victims often do not have the proper tools or resources to help them integrate back into society. She aimed to provide them with proper guidance on how to acquire jobs and employment through mentorship and training

Neha Chandran helped educate others on how to safely navigate blackouts in times of emergency after having experienced a blackout with her family. Neha noted that there were very few centralized resources where people could go to find information, and that in times of emergency, battery conservation is important. She created a website and held seminars for soon-to-be college students.

Chloe Barrientes raised awareness on the importance of mental health as it pertains to her peers and student athletes in her school after her own personal struggles with anxiety. Chloe was able to create a pamphlet with important information and resources that student athletes could use to help find relief and learn about how to care for their mental health.

Grace Dehner started her project, entitled WOMUN–Women’s Outreach through Model United Nations, to help address the underrepresentation of women’s issues in Model United Nations committees. She focused primarily on women’s issues from around the world and put the spotlight on the struggles women face. Grace invited guest speakers from the US Department of State and others to attend her WOMUN sessions.

Haley Benefield wanted to work on the crisis of homeless animals. Together with Houston PetSet, Haley created informational resources on the importance of spading and neutering animals, as well as fostering or adopting pets. Additionally, Haley created an informational video for Houston PetSet to help them spread the word of their mission.

Caroline Desrosiers raised awareness and created resources for the homeless population of Houston. Together with her high school club, she educated teens on how to interact with the homeless safely. She also taught them how to create bags with necessities that they could donate instead of money. Caroline notes that the homeless population is growing and that many people feel at loss on how to TakeAction that will help them.

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Jennifer Dodgen wanted to raise awareness of flooding after witnessing a damaging flood in her community. Jennifer designed, built, and installed a sign with a map of hiking trails at her local YMCA. Additionally, she included information on the importance of environmental health and the importance of flood-prevention and safety.

Koral Hairgrove created a blue room and butterfly mural at Mainland Community Church in Texas City. Koral wanted to create a safe space for others to be able to unwind, relax, de-stress, and feel at ease in times of anxiety. Koral created the mural that honored and raised awareness to those who ended their lives through suicide. Koral felt their stories would help shine a light on the importance of mental health and would help them not be forgotten.

Kennede Earle started the STAR project aimed at raising awareness of sex trafficking in the Houston area. Together with her team of volunteers, Kennede created and distributed a brochure with resources and statistics on sex trafficking in Houston. Additionally, she hosted five informative STAR presentations during the month of August in which she invited key speakers and guests.

Chloe Houy worked with volunteers and the Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Center to teach people the harmful effects urbanization has on wildlife in Houston. She was able to provide simple crafts and activities people could do on their own to reduce the effects of urbanization. Chloe also created YouTube tutorials, curriculum, and activities to help provide information on how to aid injured animals in a safe manner.

Mariam Elsharkawy created the Plastic Pollution Solution to make the public aware of just how dangerous plastic is to the health of our environment. Together with her volunteers, Mariam held five presentations on the harms and solutions of plastic pollution. Additionally, she provided resources on how to repurpose plastic through art, and currently has an installment for display at the Goodykoontz Museum of Girl Scout History.

Hannah Hubbard established three mini food pantries at local elementary schools. Together with her volunteers, Hannah also held a food drive for nonperishable foods that she used to stock the pantries. Hannah aimed to relieve hunger in the communities while also promoting the philosophy of giving back to your community.

Taylor Franklin raised awareness for the hearing-impaired community at her high school. Together with her volunteers, Taylor was able to start an American Sign Language club at her school and held meetings with guest speakers who helped share additional information. Her club members were also able to sign the US National Anthem for her school’s homecoming game.

Emily Jackson was motivated by her own experiences after having lost four peers to suicide to raise awareness on the importance of mental health. Emily built a Canva page that could be accessed by all of the students in her local school where she provided information and resources on coping mechanisms, tips on asking for help, and methods of support for friends who may be struggling with mental illnesses.

Isabella Griffo used her Gold Award project to help Hope’s Path in Spring, Texas. She was able to build a working garden and compost area, and even wrote her own how-to guide for gardening. Additionally, Isabella provided resources and online information for others to learn how to grow their own food from home using easy-to-follow steps and video guides.

Madelyn Kaelin created a presentation and informational pamphlet for Saint Agnes Academy College Prep to provided information on the importance of pollinators to the ecosystem. With volunteers, she also installed a pollinator garden aimed at helping monarch butterflies, an endangered pollinator she wanted to highlight.

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Nirali Patel built a community trellis for her local temple grounds as part of Gold Award project. Nirali noted that her community needed help in combating social isolation, anxiety, and stress during the pandemic. Together with her team of volunteers, Nirali was able to complete the trellis as a way to help bring people together and spread positivity throughout her community.

Rediate Sanders started her Gold Award project focused on providing information and resources to young students about the different paths and occupations available in the medical field. She presented this information to local elementary schools and provided presentations for teachers to use.

Minla Philips addressed the issue of lack of professionalism amongst teens in the Houston area. Through a virtual ZOOM workshop, teens were able to attend and learn about resume building tips, interview guidance, and received guidance on critical skills to help in the workplace.

Ariana Morales Vavilala started a project called “I Woke Up Like This,” aimed at providing information and resources on teen sleeping patterns and the importance of sleep as it pertains to mental health. To tackle the growing need for resources surrounding mental health, she worked with volunteers and The American Red Cross to create presentations and a website.

Angela Pickert helped her high school’s band department by creating a system to store, sort, and locate sheet music and musical equipment. This efficient system let the school provide more valuable practice and rehearsal time to students in her school’s band.

Hannah Vo promoted safety awareness and precautions at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic church. Together with her team of volunteers and church staff, Hannah identified key locations on the church grounds that needed safety precautions enforced. This included cross walks, stop signs, speed limit signs, and “do not enter” signs to create a safe environment for her community.

Olivia Predmore helped to inform others how to safely interact with adults and seniors who have learning disabilities. Olivia held BINGO created coloring books and puzzles for residents to use while they interacted with new volunteers, and created an informational video teaching new volunteers what to expect when they visit the Brookwood Community.

Amber Richards started Eat, Clean and Green Affordably, to teach others how they could grow and eat their own foods at affordable costs. Together with her local community garden, Mustard Seed Farm and Market, she was able to create instructional videos and informational booklets on healthy eating, easy-tomake recipes, and how those watching could grow their own affordable foods at home.

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Sydney Winkler educated others on the importance of second-hand fashion and how to reuse clothing articles to help combat the potential dangers that fast fashion presents to the environment and workforce. Together with her team of volunteers, Sydney was able to hold workshops on what fast fashion was and how it impacted others. Additionally, Sydney held clothing swaps and collected 50 bags of leftovers to be donated.

Happy Birthday GSSJC! Our council turns 100 in 2022. Stay tuned for exciting activities throughout the year and special patch program.

Girl and Troop Activities

Register for events under the My Events tab in my Account. Go to gssjc.org and select MyGS, log in at the top right corner, next click My Events in the left-hand menu. 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.

General Activities

Scan me and go directly to the events page!

Community Service

Are you and your troop eager to find ways to better your community? Whether you are looking to earn your Community Service Bar or just looking to give back, there are numerous ways to contribute meaningful efforts to your community. While you are at it, community service can also help sharpen your problemsolving skills and expand your definition of philanthropy. If you would like a list of community service opportunities and organizations, please contact gscommserv@sjgs.org.

Sensational Saturdays

This program will be a great way for girls of all levels to discover and explore fun topics while making new friends. Participants will earn and receive the badge. • • • •

Daisy Promise Center, Sister to every Girl Scout Brownie Girl Scout Way Junior Playing the Past Cadettes Screenwriter

ⓓⓑⓙⓒ Who: When: Daisies and Brownies: Jan. 29, 10 a.m. – noon Juniors and Cadettes: June 29 1 – 4 p.m. Cost: $15/girl Contact: Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org, 713-292-0338 Badge workshops at the Holocaust Museum Houston Would you and your troop like to attend a badge workshop at the Holocaust Museum Houston? Schedule a private event just for your troop! • Junior Inside Government • Cadette Finding Common Ground • Cadette Science of Happiness • Senior Social Innovator • Ambassador Public Policy Who: ⓙⓒⓢⓐ When: Set your date at least three weeks before your wanted date. Where: Holocaust Museum Houston Price: $15/girl Contact: Julia Shank, jshank@jsgs.org, 713-292-0338

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Spark Events

Is your troop new to camping? Let us Spark your troop’s joy for the outdoors! Bring your troop for a day or overnight at camp and let us plan some of your Saturday activities and meals. Trained staff will facilitate up to three troop-choice events and provide two meals so you can focus on creating a great first troop camping experience for your girls. Price is per person. Lunch and dinner Saturday are included. Groups must register at least eight participants. How to get started: • Have one or two troop volunteers complete Camping and Overnight Basics (COB) online training • Register online for your troop’s preferred Spark date and location • Decide with your girls if you want to do day-only or overnight camping • Book your camping with Customer Service (steps provided in COB training) Who: Troops who have little or no camping experience Where: Camp Agnes Arnold, Camp Robinwood Cost: $55/girl, $25/adult Note: Overnight accommodations (campsite) not included with your event registration. At least one Camping and Overnight Basics (COB) trained adult and one First Aider must accompany your troop at this event. Camp Agnes Arnold Jan. 15: Wacky Winter Wizards Feb. 19: World Thinking Day Camp Robinwood Jan. 22: Wacky Winter Wizards Feb. 26: World Thinking Day Contact: customerservice@sjgs.org

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Democracy Badge Workshops

These workshops are self-paced. They are available to girls beginning on Friday morning at 9 a.m. and close at midnight on Sunday. Girls should complete it at their convenience. The workshop should take approximately 60-90 minutes to complete. Who: All Levels

Contact: Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org

Workshop Democracy for Daisies Badge Workshop Democracy for Brownies Badge Workshop Democracy for Juniors Badge Workshop Democracy for Cadettes Badge Workshop Democracy for Seniors Badge Workshop Democracy for Ambassadors Badge Workshop

Cost: $12/per session

Where: Virtual

Date Jan. 14 – 16, Jan 28 – 30, or Feb. 11 – 13, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Jan. 14 – 16, Jan 28 – 30, or Feb. 11 – 13, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Jan. 14 – 16, Jan 28 – 30, or Feb. 11 – 13, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Jan. 14 – 16, Jan 28 – 30, or Feb. 11 – 13, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Jan. 14 – 16, Jan 28 – 30, or Feb. 11 – 13, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Jan. 14 – 16, Jan 28 – 30, or Feb. 11 – 13, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m.

Democracy for Daisies: Do you know what the word “government” means? It’s a big word for something important! When a group of people live together–in a town, city, state, or country–they follow rules. These rules, and the people who make the rules, are called the government. By completing this badge, girls will learn about the different types of government.  Democracy for Brownies: Did you know that the president of the United States is only one part of the government? In this country, lots of people work together to decide what rules are made and how they are followed. All those people make up our government. By completing this badge, girls will learn about the different types of government and the three branches of government.   Democracy for Juniors: What do you think of when you hear the word “government”? Do you think of the president? The Supreme Court? Congress? All of these are part of the United States government–but your city or town has a government too. Your city, state, and country government all work together. By completing this badge, girls will know more about how their government works–from their town or city to the whole country.

GS Level D B J C S A

Democracy for Cadettes: Whether you realize it or not, you probably have some political issues you’re passionate about. Maybe you’re determined to spread the word about climate change, or maybe you want to improve the lives of your city’s homeless veterans. If you want to make a difference, start by fully understanding how your government works. Informed citizens are change makers! By completing this badge, girls will learn how each branch works and how they work together. Democracy for Seniors: How much do you know about how your government works? In one 2019 survey, only 39 percent of adults were able to name all three branches of government. By completing this badge, you’ll learn all about those branches–and more! Democracy for Ambassadors: As a Girl Scout Ambassador, you’re so close to being old enough to vote–if you’re not there already! The right to vote is one of the most important rights given to American citizens, and it’s now extra important for you to be informed about your government and the officials you’ll help elect. Find out everything you can in this badge– then get out there and vote!

Older Girl Take-Action Workshop

Juniors Take-Action Workshop

Who: ⓒⓢⓐ Adults Where: Online When: Jan. 30, 2 – 3:30 p.m. Cost: $5/person Contact: jforde@sjgs.org

Who: ⓙ Adults Where: Online When: Feb. 13, 2 – 3:30 p.m. Cost: $5/person Contact: jforde@sjgs.org

Curious about how to start a Silver or Gold Award project or complete a Girl Scout Journey? Join us for a take-action workshop where we’ll cover the differences between community service and take-action and how to best plan a take-action project. We’ll also learn from each other by sharing examples and ideas! Come ready to brainstorm!

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Curious about how to start a Bronze Award project or complete a Girl Scout Journey? Join us for a take-action workshop where we’ll cover the differences between community service and take-action and how to best plan a take-action project. We’ll also learn from each other by sharing examples and ideas! Come ready to brainstorm!

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Volunteer-In-Training (VIT)

This award is for girls who would like to mentor a 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 requirements of this award. Who: ⓢⓐ, grades 10 - 12 Where: Virtual When: Jan. 8, 1 – 5 p.m. Cost: $7/girl Contact: jforde@sjgs.org

Program Aide training

Program Aide is a teen mentoring award for Cadettes, and Program Aides are in high demand. Program Aides work with younger girls in a variety of settings from day camps to Community or council events. If you are interested in a leadership experience specifically designed for working with younger Girls Scouts, this is for you!

Songs and Games in the online community!

https://community.gssjc.org/Community/home?tid=30&pid=296 Songs and games have been a part of Girl Scouting for over a century. Did you know you can find a collection of some favorite songs and games in the Online Community, including the GSSJC camp songs! This site includes more than just the lyrics; be sure to click on the song titles to hear the song being sung - or, in some cases, to watch a video with the hand motions! Any Requests? Trying to remember the words to that song you learned at camp a few years ago? Or that game you played at Adult Weekend? If you would like us to add any particular songs or games to this page, or if you (or your troop) are interested in recording songs, drop a note on the discussion page, or email customerservice@sjgs.org!

GSSJC Gay Straight Alliance Interest Group for Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors

GSSJC's Gay-Straight Alliance serves to empower and educate scouts surrounding LGBTQ+ issues. We will lead inclusive, engaging, and educational programming to support LGBTQ+ Girl Scouts as well as girls and leaders who want to learn more about being allies. This could include a History of Pride patch, troop leader training and teaching Girl Scouts how to confront homophobia. If this group interests you, we would love to have you! Gold Award Girl Scout Liv Rubenstein, the program’s creator, has a wonderful vision for this new interest group and we would love for you to join. If you are interested please contact jforde@sjgs.org. We hope to see you at our next meeting. Sensitive issue permission form is required from parent.

Cookie College

Date and Time January 22, 10 a.m. – noon January 22, 1 – 3 p.m. January 23, 10 a.m. – noon January 23, 2 – 3 p.m.

GS Level ⓓⓑ ⓓⓑ ⓙⓒ All Levels

Price $12 $12 $12 $12

Location PP PP PP Virtual

Cookie College: Use your entrepreneurial skills to set yourself up for success during the upcoming cookie season. Cookie College Rally in Box-Virtual: Calling all registered Girl Scouts! Troops and IRGs are invited to participate in our Cookie College-In-A-Box Rally! It’s time to get excited about cookies! Use your entrepreneurial skills to set yourself up for success during the upcoming cookie season. Attend the virtual livestream of the Cookie College Rally where girls will get the chance to complete two activities virtually while getting pumped to sell cookies in the upcoming cookie season.

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Region facilitated events

Regions are the foundation for locally delivered Girl Scout programs that support and serve Cadette, Senior and Ambassador girls, both those currently engaged as well as new girls looking for an opportunity to connect into the amazing experiences Girl Scouts has to offer. Who: Contact:

ⓒⓢⓐ

Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org

Activity Title

Activity Description

Where

When

Cadette Business Plan Badge Workshop

Learn the steps to creating your own business plan and how to write an effective business plan for your business

Virtual

Jan 25, 6:30 – 4 8:30 p.m.

$6/girl, free for adults

Cadette Financing My Dreams Badge Workshop

Find out how to research and brainstorm your dream job. Girls will then use what they learned to present their plan for their dream future.

Virtual

Jan 25, 6:30 – 4 8:30 p.m.

$6/girl, free for adults

Mission Sisterhood Journey Workshop for Seniors

Girls will learn the importance of sisterhood in their lives. Topics including friendships, self-esteem, body image, nurturing themselves and each other, the importance of diversity in friendships and networking will be covered. The girls will do fun activities, crafts, make food and watch a movie!

Kirksey Architecture, Houston

Jan 22, 1 – 9 p.m.

$25/ S girl, $8/ adult

Cadette Screenwriter and Senior Novelist Badge Workshop

Are you ready to write the new great American novel or script for the latest blockbuster movie? Learn about what it takes to be a great writer from a local professional.

Spring Creek Jan 22, BBQ, Humble 3 – 6 p.m.

$10/ girl, free for adults

Senior Financing My Future Badge Workshop

Get ready to plan your future by learning about finances while earning the Senior Financing My Future badge! Girls will find out how to research and brainstorm personal goals and dreams. Then girls will use what they learned to present their plan for a dream continued educational experience.

Virtual

Jan 25, 6:30 – 4 8:30 p.m.

$6/girl, free for adults

Cadette Media Journey

Cadettes are invited to join Region 3 to participate in discussion, activities, and view videos related to media. Girls will learn how the media can be an influence in their everyday lives.

Virtual

March 26, 2 – 8 p.m.

$15/ girl, free for adults

Senior Science of Style Badge Workshop

Seniors are invited to join Region 3 to learn the science behind make-up, perfume, fashion fabrics, moisturizers, and body lotion. Girls will then get to create a sample of their own products

Cornerstone United Methodist Church, Houston

April 23, 10 a.m. – noon

$15/ girl, free for adults

Volunteer-InTraining (VIT)

This award is for girls who would like to mentor a Daisy, Brownie, Junior or Cadette group outside of the camp experience. This virtual leadership course completes one of three requirements of this award: 1. Find an adult Mentor 2. VIT Training 3. Create and implement a journey project

Virtual

March 20, 1 – 5 p.m.

$7/girl, free for adults

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Host Cost Region

Level

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Activities

Financial Literacy workshops

Are you interested in learning how money works? Do you enjoy learning about what money can be used for, what budgets are and how to make more money? You’re invited to dive into the world of financial literacy through completion of these workshops. Create your own budget and earn badges! Except for the First National Girl Scout Bank**, these workshops are self-paced. They are available to girls beginning on Friday morning at 9 a.m. and close at midnight on Sunday. Girls should complete it at their convenience. The workshop should take approximately 60-90 minutes to complete. Contact: Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org Workshop First National Girl Scout Bank Brownie Philanthropist Badge Workshop Daisy Money Counts Leaf Workshop Cadette Comparison Shopping Badge Workshop Junior Savvy Shopper Badge Workshop Brownie Money Manager Badge Workshop Daisy Making Choices Leaf Workshop Junior Business Owner Badge Workshop Senior Buying Power Badge Workshop

Date and Time Jan. 19 – Feb. 9, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. March 4 – 6, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. March 4 – 6, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. March 4 – 6, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. March 4 – 6, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. March 4 – 6, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. March 4 – 6, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. March 4 – 6, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. March 4 – 6, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m.

Daisy Making Choices: There are things we need and there are things we want. Both cost money! Lets find out the difference. Daisy Money Counts: Daisies, did you know that you can use money to buy things such as a new toy or new books? Did you also know that you can use money to help people too? Find out all about money. Earn your Daisy "Money Count's" leaf. Brownie Philanthropist Badge Workshop: Girl Scouts make the world a better place. One way to do that is to make sure everyone's basic needs are met. In this badge, girls will explore basic human needs and how they can be philanthropists. Brownie Money Manager: Money helps us buy things we need, like food and clothes. Money also helps us buy things that we want like video games and movie tickers! Learn the difference between wants and needs in this badge. Junior Business Owner: Do you have a passion for fashion? Are you kooky about cooking? Or maybe you’re just wild about animals. With this badge, you'll find out that it’s possible to turn something you love into a successful business! Junior Savvy Shopper Badge 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. 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.

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GS Level

ⓙⓒ ⓑ ⓓ ⓒ ⓙ ⓑ ⓓ ⓙ ⓢ

Price Location $49 Virtual** $10 Virtual $5 Virtual $10 Virtual $10 Virtual $10 Virtual $5 Virtual $10 Virtual $10 Virtual

First National Girl Scout Bank for Juniors and Cadettes: Girls will serve on the Board of Directors of First National Girl Scout Bank. Working together virtually, Girl Scouts will create a virtual community and work together to run the bank. As members of the Directorate, Girl Scouts will also learn how to run a business successfully. **This session meets for one hour a week for 4 weeks. Cadette Comparison Shopping Badge Workshop: From cardigans to cars, you can buy just about everything online these days. Although online shopping is convenient, there are certain things to know so you can make sure that you’re paying a fair price and don’t fall victim to fraud. Senior Buying Power: It might be tomorrow, it might be a year from now, someday you will want to make a big purchase that you’ll end up paying for over time. By earning this badge, you'll 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. Senior Financing My Future Badge Workshop: High School graduation may seem a long way off, but this is actually the perfect time to start thinking about what kind of further education you want. Why? Because whether you want to go to a university, community college, or vocational school, your education will cost money.

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Activities

Entrepreneurship badge workshops

Are you interested in entrepreneurship? Are you thinking of creating your own business in the future? Do you have a creative and exciting business idea that you’d like to bring to life? You’re invited to dive into the world of entrepreneurship through completion of these workshops. Create your own business plan and get started on your way to entrepreneurship and earn a badge while you’re at it! These workshops are self-paced. They are available to girls beginning on Friday morning at 9 a.m. and close at midnight on Sunday. Girls should complete it at their convenience. The workshop should take approximately 60-90 minutes to complete. Contact: Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org Workshop Date and Time Daisy Cookie Goal Setter Badge Workshop Jan 7 – 9, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Brownie My Cookie Customers Badge Workshop Jan 7 – 9, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Junior My Cookie Team Badge Workshop Jan 7 – 9, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Cadette My Cookie Venture Badge Workshop Jan 7 – 9, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Senior My Cookie Network Badge Workshop Jan 7 – 9, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Cadette Business Creator Feb 18 – 20, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Brownie Budding Entrepreneur Feb 18 – 20, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Daisy Toy Business Designer Feb 18 – 20, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Junior Business Jumpstart Feb 18 – 20, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Senior Business Startup Feb 18 – 20, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. Ambassador Entrepreneur Accelerator Feb 18 – 20, 9 a.m. – 11:59 p.m.

GS Level ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓒ ⓑ ⓓ ⓙ ⓢ ⓐ

Price Location $12 Virtual $12 Virtual $12 Virtual $12 Virtual $12 Virtual $13 Virtual $13 Virtual $10 Virtual $13 Virtual $13 Virtual $13 Virtual

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.

Cadette My Cookie Venture: It takes a lot of planning to run your Girl Scout Cookie business. First things first, you’ll have to start by expanding your knowledge of your business resources and customers. By completing this badge girls will think about how much time they can devote to their sales goals. Girls will create a business plan that will guide them to their most successful cookie season ever!

Daisy Cookie Goal Setter: Daises did you know that when you sell Girl Scout Cookies, you are running your own business? Through your participation in the cookie sales, you get to work with your Girl Scout troop to decide how you will use your money. By completing all the requirements of this badge, girls will learn how to set goals that they can share with real customers.

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.

Brownie My Cookie Customers: Brownies did you know that part of your cookie business is meeting customers? In this badge workshop, girls will learn about the various girl scout cookies, handling money, how to get new customers and keep them coming back!

Senior My Cookie Network: Your network consists of the connections you make through your Girl Scout Cookie business. It includes your team, your customers, and the people around you who support your business. By completing this badge, girls will find out how to use their network to strengthen their customer base and take their business to the next level.

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.

Senior Business Startup: Do you have an idea for a product, service, or technology that you can turn into a business? Even if you do not, you can learn the skills to find and develop an idea. Entrepreneurs start with a process that explores the possibilities of their idea. They often fail before they succeed and use failure as an important tool to learn and improve.

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.

Ambassador Entrepreneur Accelerator Badge Workshop: What makes an entrepreneur successful? Vision, passion, flexibility and a willingness to rake risks. Perhaps every entrepreneur sees every setback as an opportunity for improvement. In this badge, girls will think and act like an entrepreneur as they bring their business vision to life, learn to work as part of a team and motivate people to take a chance on them. After completing all the badge steps, girls will earn the Entrepreneur Accelerator badge.

Junior My Cookie Team: Juniors do you know the secret to a successful business? Its Teamwork! Everyone on a team has different skills and ideas to offer. By completing all the steps to this badge, girls will learn how to work with their Girl Scout group to meet their goals and most importantly, have fun!

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Virtual Journeys

Join our virtual camp counselor, Julia Noble, as she guides you through these virtual Journeys. These Journeys will be earned over one weekend, six hours total. Badge will be earned but not included. Cost: $35 Where: Virtual Contact: jforde@sjgs.org Journey: aMUSE (Junior) When: Jan. 29 – 30; 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. In this virtual Journey, you will explore the different roles you play in your life and try on new ones. You'll plan a Take-Action Project, such as putting on a performance that creatively urges an end to stereotyping. You'll work towards earning three leadership awards! This Journey focuses on breaking stereotypes, creating real friendships, building confidence, and exploring new skills and strengths! Journey: Agent of Change (Junior) When: Feb. 26 – 27; 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. In this virtual Journey, we'll explore how powerful individual women have been throughout history, how your own individual powers can be linked together to create a powerful team, and how your team power can become community power. Then you'll plan a Take-Action project that helps others and work on earning three leadership awards! This Journey emphasizes confidence, teamwork and cooperation as the girls focus on bettering their community.

Celebrate MLK Day with GSSJC Join us for the 44th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade with the Black Heritage Society. We continue to keep Dr. King's Dream alive by engaging the community to celebrate his life, legacy, and teaching. The parade is open to Girl Scout members of all ages and will be held in downtown Houston, Monday, January 17, 2022. Please check our online Activities page to register and for more details.

Backpacking Backpacking orientation

This is a prerequisite to join the Backpacking Special Interest Group. This training covers all the basic knowledge required for troops and individuals wishing to go backpacking. Don’t worry if you might be the only girl in your troop or an individually registered girl who might be interested in backpacking. You won’t be the only one! You will be in a group of new friends for the weekend. You will learn how to pack a backpack, care for a tent, and cook on your own personal stove. You will transfer your camping gear to your backpack, hike two miles to the campsite and set up your tent, where you will spend the evening on a mini backpacking adventure! Enjoy the campfire, savor dinner on your own stove, and settle in for the night in your tent on the ground under the stars. After packing up your gear the next morning, you will hike two miles back to the main part of camp, say goodbye to your new friends and count down the days until your first weekend backpacking trip! Note: Upon arrival, you will meet near the ranger station at the camp entrance. When: March 5 – 6 10:30 a.m. Saturday – 11:15 a.m. Sunday Adult Requirements: This is a drop-off event, adults do not need to stay unless they also wish to take the training. Contact: customerservice@sjgs.org

Backpacking: Trail Adventure badge workshop

Are you ready to learn how to tackle a trail and go hiking? Join experienced hikers and backpackers as we explore gear, skills, tips and tricks to plan hikes and safely venture out on the trail. Girls will complete the Trail Adventure badge requirements for their level. Please bring a sack lunch, water, and wear comfortable shoes for walking. Badge will be provided. Girls will complete badge activities at Podville and then hike around camp. Who: ⓙⓒⓢⓐAdults Where: Podville at Treelake Complex When: April 30 Time: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Cost: $10

Weekend camp activities Is your troop camping at one of our GSSJC properties this spring? Are you interested in doing some fun camp activities (or “Camptivities”) while you’re there? Check out the activities section to see what is available at camp on your weekend.

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Environmental What’s bugging you?

Join the Fort Bend Master Gardeners for this fun and interactive workshop. Girls will learn more about pollination, pests, and habitats. They will understand how insects affect our lives and the environment. “What’s Bugging You” fun patch and a snack is included.

ⓑⓙ Who: When: March 26; 9 a.m. – noon Where: Bud O’Shieles Community Center Cost: $10/girl Contact: Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org, 713-292-0338 Wild About Wolves

Fine Arts In-person Junior PhotographerSnap Happy

Calling all Juniors! The Houston Center of Photography is offering photography workshops back at their space to help girls earn the Junior Photographer badge. For these workshops, an HCP instructor will guide the students through the various steps needed to achieve the badge, and work along side the girls to teach them professional photography skills. Sign up now! Spots are limited to six girls. When: Dec. 12, Jan. 30, March. 27 noon- 3 pm Cost: $56 each session Contact: jforde@sjgs.org

Juniors can complete the Animal Habitats badge and Seniors can complete the Voice for Animals. This facility is a volunteer-run nonprofit that cares for non-releasable wolves and wolf-hybrids in a safe, loving environment. The sanctuary is also committed to educating the public on conservation efforts and the downside to owning exotic pets. This session includes a facility tour to meet the animals that call this place home as well as the badge workshop with a unique twist and focus on these majestic creatures. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:

ⓙ ⓢ and their chaperones St. Francis Wolf Sanctuary, Montgomery Juniors – Dec. 8 Seniors – Dec. 1 $22/girl, $11/adult, badges included for girls Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org 713-292-0338

Houston Arboretum badge workshops

Girl Scouts can work towards a variety of badges or journeys while they investigate the fascinating ecosystems at the Houston Arboretum. Badge workshops are conducted by staff naturalists and use our nature sanctuary as a field laboratory for hands-on experience! Brownie Outdoor Adventurer: Junior Geocacher: Brownie Hiker: Brownie Outdoor Adventurer: Brownie Bugs: Junior Geocache: Brownie Outdoor Adventurer: Junior Geocache: Brownie Bug: Junior Flowers:

Dec. 4; 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Dec. 4; 1 – 4 p.m. Jan. 22; 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Jan. 22; 1 – 3 p.m. Feb. 5; 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Feb. 5; 1 – 4 p.m. Feb. 26; 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Feb. 26; 1 – 4 p.m. March 5; 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. March 5; 1 – 4 p.m.

Cost: $20/girl Contact: Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org, 713-292-0338

ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors

Photography workshops

Learn how to capture your vision of the world in photographs. This course is designed to be hands-on while including video instruction that is fun and engaging. Students will watch a short video introducing a new photography technique or skill, watch a demonstration, and then complete a photo challenge using the new skill learned. Once the course starts, you will be given access to learning modules and challenges designed by real photographers! You will have 30 days to complete the modules at your own pace. All badge steps are completed during the workshop, but because this is a virtual activity, a badge will not be provided and may be purchased from the Girl Scout Shop. Who: ⓙⓐ When: Available on your own time Cost: $18 per girl Contact: jforde@sjgs.org

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Performance workshops

Join one of Houston’s youngest and most innovative theatres as they bring you fun workshops to bring out your inner performer. The artFACTORY is a 100-seat theatre located near University of Houston Downtown. Professional actors, singers and dancers will guide you through these fun workshops and help you shine like the star you are! Price: $25/girl Where: artFACTORY- 1125 Providence St. Houston Contact: jforde@sjgs.org Create Your Own Musical Be guided through your Senior Troupe Performer badge. Girls will work together to create a musical of their very own. Work with actors, choreographers, and music directors to bring your creation to life. Seniors will earn and receive their Troupe Performer badge. Who: When:

ⓢ

Dec. 11 (Holiday themed) and March 19 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Musical Theatre Dance Be guided through your Brownie Dancer badge. Work with artFACTORY resident choreographer, Luke Hamilton, as he teaches you the basics of Musical Theatre dance. Brownies will earn and receive their Dancer badge. Who: When:

ⓑ

Jan. 8 (Jazz) and March 26; 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Improv Comedy Workshop Join this fun improvisation workshop! Girl will learn improv games, put together a fun skit and learn the basics of improv comedy. Who: When:

ⓓⓑⓙ

Jan. 15; 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Musical Theatre Singing Workshop Be guided through your Junior Musician Badge. Girls will learn what it takes to sing like their favorite Broadway stars and earn their Junior Musician badge. Who: When:

ⓙ

Jan.22; 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cadette Public Speaker Be guided through your Cadette Public Speaker badge. Learn how to be the performer you are as you work through the badge steps to become a great Public Speaker. This is your opportunity to work with actors and performers and learn the tricks of the trade. Earn the Public Speaker badge. Who: When:

ⓒ

Feb. 19; 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

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Aerial workshops

Come fly with The ARTZ with an aerial workshop taught by a professional aerialist. Have your choice of Fabric, Hammock, Trapeze or Lyra workshops or try all four. These workshops are a great way for Girl Scouts with no experience to learn the world of circus artz. Workshops are focused on both skill development and creative play! These workshops are a great way for Girl Scouts to gain strength, flexibility, confidence, and body awareness. Not to mention have fun! COVID procedures are in effect to assure the safety of the girls and teachers. Cost: $29 Contact: jforde@sjgs.org Who/Time: ⓓ ⓑ 2 – 3 p.m.; ⓙ ⓒ 3:15 – 4:15 p.m.; ⓢ ⓐ 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Aerial Hammock Workshop When: Feb. 5 or May 14 Aerial Hammock Drops Workshop When: Feb. 26 or May 28 Aerial Tricks & Flips When: March 12 Aerial Lyra Workshop When: March 26 or June 25 Aerial Trapeze Workshop When: March 26 or June 25 Aerial Fabric Workshop When: Jan. 8 or Jan. 22 or April 9 or April 23 Aerial Tricks & Flips Workshop When: March 12 or June 11 Theatre Camp Have you ever been interested in performing on the stage or learning all the backstage secrets to running a show? Well, here is your chance! Join us for a five-month program where girls will learn everything it takes to put on a show including acting, costumes, lights and directing. During this program, Girl Scouts will learn how to write a play, put on a performance, design a set, create costumes and all the skills needed to be an actor and technician. Girls will meet every Saturday from Feb. – June. Register under the events tab when you search “THEATRE CAMP.” Theatre Camp will be taught by professional actor and theatre teacher, Ms. Brennan. Who: ⓒⓢⓐ Where: Rehearsals will be Saturday afternoons at the PP for Girls Cost: $500/girl Contact: jforde@sjgs.org ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors

Activities

Fine Arts virtual 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–A Contact: jforde@sjgs.org Workshop (All Virtual) Daisy Outdoor Art Cadette Comic Artist Brownie Outdoor Art Junior Outdoor Art Junior Scribe - Holiday Edition! Junior Scribe - Holiday Edition! Junior Scribe Brownie My Family Story Junior Drawing Brownie Making Friends Daisy Outdoor Art Cadette Comic Artist Junior Social Butterfly Brownie Outdoor Art Daisy Outdoor Art Junior Outdoor Art Junior Musician Junior Scribe Junior Drawing Brownie Outdoor Art Brownie Girl Scout Way Brownie My Family Story Brownie Making Friends Junior Social Butterfly Brownie Girl Scout Way Junior Drawing Daisy Outdoor Art Junior Drawing Brownie Outdoor Art Junior Musician Junior Scribe: V-Day! Junior Scribe: V-Day! Cadette Comic Artist Brownie My Family Story Cadette Comic Artist Brownie Girl Scout Way Junior Outdoor Art Junior Musician

Date Dec. 7 Dec. 8 Dec. 11 Dec. 13 Dec. 15 Dec. 18 Jan. 2 Jan. 3 Jan. 8 Jan. 10 Jan. 15 Jan. 16 Jan. 17 Jan. 18 Jan. 20 Jan. 22 Jan. 23 Jan. 24 Jan. 25 Jan. 26 Jan. 29 Jan. 30 Jan 31 Feb. 5 Feb. 6 Feb. 7 Feb. 9 Feb. 12 Feb. 12 Feb. 12 Feb. 13 Feb. 14 Feb. 16 Feb. 20 Feb. 21 Feb. 21 Feb 24 Feb. 28

Time Level 4 – 6 p.m. D 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. C 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. B 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. J 5 – 7 p.m. J 10 a.m. – noon J 10 a.m. – noon J 5 – 7 p.m. B 1 – 3 p.m. J 5 – 7 p.m. B 11 a.m. – 1p.m. D 1 – 3 p.m. C 5 – 7 p.m. J 4 – 6 p.m. B 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. D 11a.m. – 1 p.m. J 10a.m. – noon J 5 – 7 p.m. J 4 – 6 p.m. J 4 – 6 p.m. B 10 a.m. – noon B 10 a.m. – noon B 5 – 7p.m. B 10 a.m. – noon J 10 a.m. – noon B 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. J 4 – 6 p.m. D 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. J 1 – 3 p.m. B 10 a.m. – noon J 10 a.m. – noon J 5 – 7 p.m. J 5:30 – 7:30p.m. C 10 a.m. – noon B 4 – 6 p.m. C 5 – 7 p.m. B 4 – 6 p.m. J 5 – 7 p.m. J

Price/girl $21 $21 $21 $21 $15 $15 $15 $15 $21 $15 $21 $21 $15 $21 $21 $21 $15 $15 $21 $21 $15 $15 $15 $15 $15 $21 $21 $21 $21 $15 $15 $15 $21 $15 $21 $15 $21 $21

Location Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual Virtual

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Activities

Fine Art workshop descriptions

Outdoor Art Badges– (Daisies- Juniors) Explore the outdoors and use what you see and hear to make different kinds of art projects. 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 Workshop– 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 crest. Brownie Girl Scout Way– In this workshop, you'll earn your badge by finding out how you can share the Girl Scout legacy. Enjoy Girl Scout traditions by singing, celebrating Juliette Low, sharing sisterhood, and leaving a place better than you found it.

Junior Social Butterfly– In this workshop we’ll be exploring all the fun, exciting, and potentially nerve-wracking aspects of socializing! Junior Drawing Badge Workshop- Experiment with different materials and learn techniques to make your own drawings even better! Junior Musician– Calling all music lovers! In this badge, we'll explore how music is made. Travel around the world of music to learn about all different styles, check out the music in your life, then make and perform your own music. Junior Scribe Badge Workshop– 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 Workshop– 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.

In-person workshops at our Girl Scout locations

Join Izzie’s Jewels at our Girl Scout Locations for these fun, in-person workshops. Badge is included so do not miss out on all the fun. Cost: $25 Contact: jforde@sjgs.org Workshop Date Brownie Potter Jan. 15 Brownie Painter Jan. 15 Junior Jeweler Jan. 22 Junior Scribe Jan. 22 Cadette Screenwriter Jan. 29 Cadette Public Speaking Jan. 29 Brownie Potter Feb. 5 Brownie Painter Feb. 5 Brownie Valentine’s Arts Crafts Feb. 12

Time 10 a.m. – noon 1 – 3 p.m. 10 a.m. – noon 1 – 3 p.m. 10 a.m. – noon 1 – 3 p.m. 10 a.m. – noon 1 – 3 p.m. 10 a.m. – noon

Location Katy Katy PP PP Katy Katy PP PP PP

Brownie Painting Badge Workshop– Learn to paint and color your world in super strokes and see what your imagination can do. Brownie Potter Badge Workshop– Crafts made with clay have been around for thousands of years. Work your way through this badge to become a clay artist yourself. Junior Jeweler– Learn all about designing and creating custommade jewelry and earn your Jeweler badge. Junior Scribe Badge Workshop– 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 Workshop– 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.

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Workshop Date Junior Valentine’s Arts Crafts Feb. 12 Cadette Comic Art Feb. 26 Cadette Public Speaking Feb. 26 Senior Collage Art March 5 Senior Room Makeover March 5 Cadette Screenwriter March 19 Cadette Public Speaking March 19 Junior Jeweler March 26 Junior Scribe March 26

Time 1 – 3 p.m. 10 a.m. – noon 1 – 3 p.m. 10 a.m. – noon 1 – 3 p.m. 10 a.m. – noon 1 – 3 p.m. 10 a.m. – noon 1 – 3 p.m.

Location PP PP PP PP PP PP PP PP PP

Cadette Public Speaker Badge Workshop– Work on your stage presence and develop your onstage skills. Find your inner performer and be unafraid to speak up. Cadette Screenwriter Badge Workshop– 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 Badge Workshop– Create a collage using textile art and make a project of your very own. Senior Room Makeover Badge Workshop– Bring out your inner interior designer in this fun makeover workshop. Arts and Crafts Workshops– Learn how to make fun fall and winter crafts around the holidays.

Jewelry workshops

Join the Jewelry Instructor inc, as they work through the steps to making your very own jewelry. Classes are two hours and include all of the materials needed. Learn from the best in these fun, hands on, creative jewelry making workshops. Cost: $27 Contact: Heather Vandivort, hvandivort@sjgs.org Where: 1824 Spring Street Studio #105, Houston Junior Jeweler badge workshop (workshop includes badge) Join the Jewelry Instructor and learn the basic tools of the jewelry trade. Make a bracelet, with colorful beads, and metal charms. Who: When:

ⓙ

Jan. 13, Jan. 27, Feb. 10, Feb. 24, March 10, March 24; 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Macrame Friendship Bracelet Workshop Learn the basic techniques of making your very own friendship bracelet. This class is for all ages and works through the steps to create different types of friendship bracelets all on your own. Who: When:

All levels Jan. 11, Jan. 25, Feb. 8, Feb. 22, March 8, March 22; 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Collage Art Classes Join the Jewelry Instructor to make fun collage art pieces to take home to your family and friends. Get creative and join the fun in this hands-on collage art workshop! Who: When:

All levels Jan. 15, Jan. 29, Feb. 12, Feb. 26, March 12, March 26; 10 a.m. – noon

Health Pet Vet

Whether they’re 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 and receive the Pets badge with the Little Veterinarian School. Who: ⓑ and their chaperones When: Dec. 11, Jan. 22, Feb. 26, March 26 Time: 1 – 3 p.m. Where: PP for Girls, Houston Cost: $18/girl Contact: Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org, 713-292-0338

Babysitting Training

You might not yet be ready for a career, but you may want to start your own business, get a part time job, apply for a leadership position, college interviews or summer job in the near future, Its important that you promote yourself in the best possible light. One way to do that is to be prepared. Girls will earn Red Cross Babysitter certification. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:

ⓒ

Girl Scout Center, Houston Jan. 8, Feb. 12 or March 12; 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. $45 Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org Activities

Kumihimo Friendship Bracelet workshop Japanese braiding technique Discover the meaning of Kumihimo and its history, then learn how to make a beautiful friendship bracelet with buttons, and beads. Who: When:

All levels Jan. 18, Feb. 1, Feb. 15, March 1, March 15, March 29; 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Beaded Charm Bracelets Learn the basic techniques of making your very own beaded charm bracelet. This class is for all ages and works through the steps to create a beaded bracelet to take home to your friends! Who: When:

All levels Jan. 15, Jan. 29, Feb. 12, Feb. 26, March 12, March 26; 1 – 3 p.m.

Dr. Girl Scout

Pretend you are a 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 the Gloria petal while Brownies earn the My Best Self badge. Daisy petals are not included as they are sold in a set. Daisies will receive a fun patch instead. Brownies will receive their My Best Self badge. Who: ⓓⓑ and their chaperones Where: PP for Girls, Houston When: Dec. 11, Jan 22, Feb. 26, March 26 Time: 10 a.m. – noon Cost: $18/girl Min/Max: 10/20 Contact: Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org, 713-292-0338 Fall 2021 l The Golden Link 27

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

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. 27, June 5, or Oct. 2, 2 – 3 p.m. Cost: $5/girl Contact: goldaward@sjgs.org

Gold Award Orientation

The self-directed Online Gold Award Orientation provides girls and adults with 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 process for Gold Award applicants. Orientation is required for all girls who plan to earn their Gold Award and must be completed prior to submitting their Gold Award Project Proposal. The online orientation is broken into sections, 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. Who: ⓢⓐor girls in grades 9 – 12 and adults Where/When: Online Cost: $5/person Contact: goldaward@sjgs.org

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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 include a presentation, service vs. Take-Action activity and Q&A. Who: Adults Where: Virtual When: Jan. 29, Mar. 26, or June 4, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Cost: $5/person Max.: 50 Contact: silveraward@sjgs.org

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. 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.

ⓢⓐor girls in grades 9 – 12 Who: Where: Virtual When: March 27, July 17, Oct. 30, 2 – 3:30 p.m. Cost: $5/girl Max: 50 Contact: goldaward@sjgs.org

Activities

Sports Green Starlettes Drill Team Spring Registration

If you love to dance, this team is for you! You’ve seen them perform at Rockets’ games, parades and several public events and now it’s your chance to join this award-winning dance team. Spring registration is offered at a discounted rate and a chance to join the team later in the year. You will be able to perform in the Spring Show and catch up on all the fun the team has to offer. The Green Starlettes do not require previous dance experience and do not have tryouts. All girls, grades 4-12, who are interested can be a part of the team. The Green Starlettes creates a non-competitive atmosphere for the girls to practice dance techniques, team spirit and valuable leadership skills. We have 11 divisions to choose from, so find one near you! Teams meet once a week to practice for parades and events. Who: Juniors- Ambassadors Cost: $20/girl Contact: jforde@sjgs.org, OR Theresa Alexander at green_starlettes@yahoo.com you can also visit www.greenstarlettes.com for more information. ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors

Travel Contact: Heather Vandivort, hvandivort@sjgs.org Savannah council trip

Are you interested in traveling to Savannah with girls from our council? Well, you’re in luck. Our trip to Savannah has moved to 2022. We hope you join us as we visit the Juliette Gordon Low birthplace, visit the beach and so much more. Pay your down payment today to reserve your spot on this amazing council trip. Final cost may fluctuate based on airfare and hotel rates at the time of booking. Who: When: Cost:

ⓙⓒⓢⓐ adults

June 14-19, 2022 $950 Down payment: $100

Council trip to New York City

Are you interested in traveling to New York City with girls from our council? Well, join us as the explore the city that never sleeps! Explore Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, the Fashion district and so much more! Your trip also includes Broadway shows and a week stay at one of our Girl Scout camps just 35 minutes from Manhattan. Final cost may fluctuate based on airfare and hotel rates at the time of booking.

ⓒⓢⓐ adults Who: Cost: $1,900 Down payment: $100 Dates: June 12 – 18, 2022 Contact: travel@sjgs.org Short Troop Trip forms have gone DIGITAL!

A Short Troop Trip consists of in-state (or surrounding states) and under four days. Fill out this form at least three weeks before your trip: http://gssjc.me/shorttripform. You must follow the COVID travel guidelines in order to travel with your group. If you have any question please reach out to travel@sjgs.org. GSSJC now requires all short and extended trip drivers to be screened volunteers with a membership, volunteer role and an annual Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) screening. MVR screening can take up to 2-3 weeks to complete, so please be sure you have submitted all paperwork at least 3-4 weeks in advance of travel and consider submitting extra potential drivers in case they are needed. Advise drivers to respond timely to the follow up email they receive from Asurint, our screening vendor. Trip requests that are not submitted in time for complete screening may not be approved. Advertisement

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Philanthropy Thank you to our campership donors! Campers and staff alike were delighted to return to resident camp this summer after it was closed last year due to COVID. 116 girls were able to attend, thanks to our generous donors who gave to our campership fund. Camperships cover some or all of the cost of resident camp, so that more girls have the opportunity to experience the joy and benefits of being in the outdoors. Here are some of the comments we received from our campership recipients: "I had so much fun at camp. We went on a hike to a different campsite. It was a long walk through the forest. When we got there we made dinner and dessert. We gathered sticks to make a fire to cook our dinner. The dessert was kind of like banana boats. We slept at our new campsite. The cabin was as big as a living room. It was one of the most fun things ever." "It was fun to let everyone know it's ok to be themselves." "I had an amazing time, everyone was nice and funny plus I felt safe. Everything was amazing." "I learned to make better connections with other people, and I learned how to do riflery." "Something I learned was how to challenge yourself." "I learned that you don't stand on a soccer ball without holding onto something stable."

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Letter lost at camp

This summer 1,073 girls enjoyed resident camp, having fun while gaining a sense of confidence and independence. This letter was simply addressed to “Mom”, but our dedicated camp counselors quickly identified this lucky lady and made sure she received it!

How your support helps all Girl Scouts

Every gift makes an impact on the lives of our girls, no matter the size. Here are just a few examples of what your donation to Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council can do! $100 per year provides: The opportunity for 20 girls to attend our Ask the Experts panel on investments. Girls learn about careers in private banking, wealth management and investing, learn some of the steps our panelists took to achieve their goals and learn how they can start preparing for these careers today. $260 per year provides: 14 girls with the opportunity to attend a virtual Automotive Engineering badge workshop. Girls learn how cars are built and the role an Automotive Engineer plays in the process. They learn how designers come up with a vehicle concept and how engineers make those concepts a reality. $1,040 per year provides: 13 girls in underserved communities with Girl Scouting delivered through a schoolbased, staff-led, educational community outreach program with curriculum designed to combat negative peer pressure, teen pregnancy, sexual harassment and dating violence. This program empowers girls to become self-aware, develop positive self-esteem, engage in healthy relationships, set goals for their future and make a difference in their community. $2,600 per year provides: Girl Scouting to seven girls at-risk, at no cost to their families, for one year. It costs $352 per girl to make Girl Scouting a reality. Thank you for your support at gssjc.org/donate.

Thank You, GSSJC Donors! For any questions about the donor list, contact Ruth Delaunay at rdelaunay@sjgs.org. Honorariums listed are $25 and above.

$25,000-$49,999 - Ambassador United Way of Beaumont and North Jefferson County $10,000-$24,999 - Senior Anna B. Charlton Comerica Bank H-E-B H. H. & Edna Houseman Charitable Trust National Oilwell Varco Texas Children's Hospital ThompsonKnight Foundation United Way Galveston County Mainland Zorich Family Foundation $5,000-$9,999 - Cadette Blank Rome LLP Callon Petroleum Shelly deZevallos Brian and Mary Gedelian Jean T. Janssen and Stephen P. Pate Memorial Hermann Karen Saltiel TC Energy The Papa John's Foundation, Inc. $1,000-$4,999 - Junior Allegiance Bank Amegy Bank of Texas Ashdon Farms Sue Burnett Ellen Chin Craig & Heidt, Inc. Cy-Fair Women's Club Deloitte Kim K. Denney Jane K. Gasdaska K. Daniel and Delores James Hinkle C. Susan Howes Sandy A. Judson Betsy and Danny Kamin Candice E. Koederitz KPMG LLP Bette B. Lehmberg

Karen M. Matlock Dorothy and Malcolm Paterson Roy & M Permenter Charitable Trust Shell Oil Company Elizabeth L. Shuler Nancy and E.C. Simpson Anne Speed TAM International, Inc. The AWTY International School The Lubrizol Corporation Hilary Tyson Union Pacific Foundation Amanda S. Vavilala Jamie L. Vazquez Mary Zappone $250-$999 - Brownie Amazon Smile Foundation Jo Blackburn Meg Britton Crum & Forster Insurance Morven S. Edwards Loyola V. Gressot Claudia W. Hayslip Honeywell Foundation Linda Humphries Annette Kreuz Janet McMasters Nacogdoches Area United Way Darleen M. Schauer Brenda Schroeder Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board The Kroger Company Joyce Victory Genevieve and John M. Walls Memorial In Memory of Ann Clark Friends and Family of Ann Clark Honorarium In Honor of Audrey Paterson Dorothy S. Paterson

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Columns

Scrapbook Send your photos to communications@sjgs.org.

Sujana M. of Troop #157117 completed her Silver Award. Missouri city recreation center has created a sensory garden, and it’s a unique area that evokes all five senses. Sujana provided an ADA compliant L-shaped bench along with flower beds to improve the area.

Lily G. and Freddie V. completed their Bronze Award by supporting the Bellaire Pound. After working with Bellaire Animal Control Officer Perez and members of the ‘Friends of the Bellaire Pound’, they decided a picnic bench was needed for when potential adopters come to visit and for volunteers to have a space to use while taking care of the dogs. They also held a treat, leash and dog collar donation drive to stock up on necessary items.

Cheyenne P. from Troop #22266 has earned her Silver Award. For her project, she built a Free Little Library and placed it at Sheldon Early Learning Center. A plaque will be placed on it honoring Cheyenne.

Anita A. from Troop #157008 earned her Silver Award. Her project was on The benefits of pet fostering in partnership with The Fort Bend County Animal Shelter. She raised awareness in her community through social media posts and an informative video. Morgan M. of Troop #16355 earned her Silver Award. For her project, she built and installed hand washing stations in areas highly populated by the homeless community to help stop the spread of Covid. She reached out to Bread of Life, Inc. to sponsor her project.

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Troop #150189 earned their Bronze Award by making tiny hats for preemies, newborns, and angel babies. For angel babies, hats can go along with the burial outfit provided to hospitals. They made 213 hats in three sizes.

Cheyenne J., a Junior in Troop #131098, helped box books at Kirbyville Public Library for the Friends of the Library book sale.

Kaylee K., of Troop #131098, gathered and donated items to Lakes Area Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation for their garage sale.

Valerie S. of Troop #131098, goes out of her way to help her neighbors. She helped them clean out some brush on their property and helped carry in their groceries.

Troop #19190 held a food drive for the East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry. The group also collected backpacks filled with school supplies.

Bela from Troop #123072 earned her Silver Award by working with Texas Advocacy Project. Texas Advocacy Project 's mission is to end dating and domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking in Texas. Through training and education, Bela became a Teen Ambassador and created a brochure and provided an information session to her middle school and high school peers about Teen Dating Violence. These brochures are currently in the counselors office at both schools for students.

Girls from Troop #21160 earned their Silver Awards. Katelyn N., Clarissa C., and Winston J. worked with their alma mater, Mandarin Immersion Magnet School, to build a soccer field complete with goals and soccer lines, develop a game table with a lending library for games, and create a Gaga ball pit for the new Spark Park area that caters to middle schoolers. They even held a Gaga ball tournament for teachers and admin. They wanted to develop an area for middle schoolers to hang out and attract more students to the school. Chloe P. and Victoria L. worked with the Houston Humane Society to make 18 instructional videos for new dog, cat, rabbit, and guinea pig pet owners. The Houston Humane Society can use these videos on their YouTube channel and social media outlets.

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Troop #18372 had a great time camping at Camp Arnold and horseback riding at Misty Meadows Ranch learning the theories and hands-on skills needed to join the SPURS (Super People Using Riding Skills).

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Sophia C. and Isabella F. of Troop #20027 completed their Silver Awards by making an interactive sensory outdoor space at TH Rogers School. The outdoor interactive space sensory components had to be able to bear the extreme climatic conditions and must also need no maintenance and be safe. Sophia made a wooden metal gong and mallet from scratch and Isabella made metal wind chimes from scratch and installed them in the pavilion and play area where children eat lunch and relax together.

Starting Inventory Incentives Earn pin and keychain before you start! If your troop’s up front cookie order averages at least 150 packages per the total number of registered girls (regardless of whether all are selling), then every registered girl member of the troop will receive these two special recognitions. See inside for more SIO information.

Good News! Both the Koala theme minikeychain and the limited edition 100th Anniversary pin will be distributed at delivery when the troop picks up its cookies.

New cookie announced: Adventurefuls! The newest cookie to the Girl Scouts lineup is this indulgent brownie-inspired cookie with caramel flavored crème and a hint of sea salt that will leave you wanting more! Plus, all your favorites are back: Thin Mints, Caramel deLites, Shortbread, Peanut Butter Sandwich, Lemonades, Peanut Butter Patties, Toast Yay! and gluten-free Caramel Chocolate Chip.

Raising Awesome Girls Raise Your Girl to Be a Boss and Think Like an Entrepreneur According to a recent study by the Girl Scout Research Institute, a whopping 92 percent of girls think they’re smart enough to be entrepreneurs and nearly 80 percent say they’re interested in careers in the business world. Love. This! What we don’t love so much is that one in three girls feels the stress or risk of failure involved in entrepreneurship makes it not worth the effort. Another bummer? The majority of girls think their gender would make it harder for them to succeed as entrepreneurs. If you’re wondering why any of this matters, think of it this way: there’s a lot of power (and money!) in the business world, and if girls are too intimidated to even give their entrepreneurial skills a shot, they’re getting locked out of a lot of amazing opportunities. And even if your girl isn’t interested in calling the shots someday at her own business, having an entrepreneurial spirit will be important when she’s doing everything from writing a resume and negotiating her salary to making smart household purchases. Luckily, it’s easier than you think to give your girl a business mindset and confidence in her entrepreneurial abilities. Borrow these five simple tips to get started. 1. Let her fail. Resist the urge to step up and help her finish her science project at the 11th hour. Let her suffer the consequences of forgetting her homework at home. It may sound harsh, but learning from her mistakes will also teach her that she has the ability to bounce back and do better next time. The more often this cycle of failure and recovery happens in her life, the more comfortable and resilient she’ll be when faced with challenges and disappointments in the professional world. 2. Teach her to bargain with you. If she’s angling for a bit more freedom and wants to stay up later than usual or go to a party you normally wouldn’t agree to, don’t just say no–ask her to explain her side and outline why she thinks you should say yes. Has she been super responsible and shown that she can handle that freedom? Is she offering to do extra chores around the house in exchange for this one-time treat? Hearing her out doesn’t always mean she’ll get her way, but it can help you understand her thinking a bit better and will definitely help her gain solid negotiation skills that will come in handy sooner than you think. 3. Play “Ten New Ways.” The next time you’re stumped for a dinner conversation topic or are killing time in the car, play a round of Ten New Ways,

where each person in your group is challenged to think of ten different uses for an everyday household item, like a rubber band or a yogurt cup. It’ll make the time fly by and strengthen her abilities of imagination, resourcefulness, and innovation– qualities all entrepreneurs need in abundance. 4. Have her spread the word. The next time you host a yard sale or stoop sale, make her your advertising executive in charge of getting the word out. What does she think will be the best way to advertise? How can she make your sale seem different or better than other sales that might be happening in the neighborhood? In business, no one can buy what you’re selling if they don’t know about it in the first place. The sooner your girl learns this lesson, the better she’ll be at running her own business and convincing others of her worth in the marketplace. 5. Talk to her about the things she buys. It’s always a good idea to make sure your girl gets an allowance (even a small one) so she can make financial decisions on her own. Take that a step further, though, and actually talk to your girl about the things she buys with her own money. If she chose a name-brand over generic or vice versa, is she still happy with that decision? Did she compare prices of similar items? Is she saving up for something exciting down the road? The more your girl talks about money and financial decisions, the more comfortable she’ll be dealing with these topics and navigating that world when she’s older!

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We want every girl to succeed. That’s why GSSJC is happy to bring you Girl Scouts of the U.S.A.’s Raising Awesome Girls, an online publication to help you and your Girl Scout answer questions, face challenges and find solutions to daily life. For more articles like this, visit www.girlscouts.org and find Raising Awesome Girls under the “For Adults” tab.

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Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council 3110 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77098-4508

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GIRL SCOUTS Save up to $6 on Tickets NRG STADIUM FREE Pit Party Pass and Commemorative Patch with Purchase of Each Scout Ticket For orders of 8 or less, visit Ticketmaster.com and use code SCOUT6. Restrictions, exclusions and additional charges may apply. Subject to availability. Tickets at market pricing. For more information or to order a group of 9 or more, call 281-367-9717 or email christina@texasgrouptickets.com. Contact Christina for patches and pit party passes. Deadline to purchase group tickets: One week prior to event date.

Winter 2021 Golden Link

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Gold Award Girl Scouts

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New Girl Scout Badges

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