Spark Fall 2015/Winter 2016

A PUBLICATION OF THE GIRL SCOUTS OF EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA

TRAVEL THE GLOBE

WITH GIRL SCOUTS

MAKE AN IMPACT

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES EXPERIENCE SISTERHOOD:

SIGNATURE

EVENTS

Meet Melissa and 17 other inspirational Girl Scouts who are speaking up about causes they believe in.

FALL 2015 / WINTER 2016

Tours for Girl Scouts

速

SHOW YOUR GIRLS THE WORLD Give your girls a global perspective and take them on an all-inclusive international tour designed just for Girl Scouts.

From pinning ceremonies at a WAGGGS World Centre to fashion tours in Paris to meaningful service projects in Peru, girls return home more confident, with a wealth of new skills and a new perspective on the world.

EVERY ALL-INCLUSIVE TOUR COVERS: Full-time Tour Director Entrances Experiential learning Round-trip flights on major carriers Comfortable motorcoach Overnight stays in hotels

Download a free ebrochure at eftours.com/gsdiscover or call 800-457-9023.

Regional-style meals EF Travel Patch

eftours.com/girlscouts

fall 2015/winter 2016 issue Spark is a publication of the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania and is published twice yearly.

Natalye Paquin, Esq. CEO

Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania (GSEP) serves more than 40,000 girls ages 5–17 in Berks, Bucks, Carbon, Chester, Delaware, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, and Philadelphia counties. We are a volunteer-based, non-profit organization with close to 15,000 adult volunteers. Nationally, nearly 2.8 million girls and adult volunteers enjoy the Girl Scout experience.

Kim Fraites-Dow Chief Operating Officer Jennifer Richards Sr. Director of Communications & Customer Engagement Jenny Kontos Design Manager Angela Agosto Graphic Designer Elizabeth D’Angel Marketing & Communications Coordinator Jeff Kwait Production Coordinator CONTRIBUTORS

Ken Anderson, Diana Applegate, Nancy Bachrach, Michele Bement, Tracey Bunch, Stephanie Capello, Terri Dean, Nicole Frederick, Katrina Gable, Sonia Gonzalez, Joan Hannahoe, Amanda Harrity, Victoria Laird, Melissa Pepitone, Babette Racca, Megan Rich, Erin Vermeulen, Stefany Wilson, Danielle Yavorski GIRL CONTRIBUTORS

Ellie B. (Troop 4722), Vivian B. (Troop 6460), Annie C. (Troop 486), Erika C. (Troop 6011), Kayla D. (Troop 9997), Natalie D. (Troop 2733), Madelyn G. (Troop 1805), Ariel H. (Troop 21813), Isabella H. (Troop 41825), Alexa I. (Troop 635), Erin M. (Troop 53451), Julia M. (Troop 41246), Josie R. (Troop 1037), Sarah R., Shannon R. (Troop 81134), Avery S. (Troop 5539), Cyrena S. (Troop 21842), Ginny S. (Troop 6020), Melissa S., Sindura S. (Troop 1697), Chloe T. (Troop 5130), Caitlin W. (Troop 93483), Julia W. (Troop 1156), Morgan W. (Troop 4620), and Troops 26, 2725, 2811 and 9263 ADVERTISING & EDITORAL INQUIRIES

T: 215.564.2030, ext.1005 communications@gsep.org Thank you to our advertisers for supporting girls in Eastern Pennsylvania!

GSEP does not endorse or align itself with any advertisers. Advertisements are provided for the benefit of our members, and GSEP reserves the right to reject advertisements for any reason.

HEADQUARTERS

GSEP NEWS

Shelly Ridge Service Center 330 Manor Road Miquon, PA 19444

Would you like to receive our monthly e-newsletter and other GSEP updates via email? It’s a great way for you to stay up-to-date on upcoming events. Sign up at gsep.org by clicking on Contact Us at the top of the homepage. To address the problems of SPAM, many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and email systems now block or filter email that is not from a “safe sender.”

Please add communications@gsep.org to your accepted senders or contacts list if you wish to receive this information.

T: 888.564.4657 215.564.2030 F: 215.564.6953 REGIONAL OFFICES

Berks County Service Center 210 George Street Reading, PA 19605 T: 855.876.0761 484.866.4200 F: 610.796.7587 Delaware County Service Center 760 West Sproul Street, Suite 300 Springfield, PA 19064 T: 610.328.3100 F: 610.328.7961 Jane Seltzer Service Center 2020 Rhawn Street Philadelphia, PA 19152 T: 215.745.1717 F: 215.745.4947 Lehigh Valley Service Center 2633 Moravian Avenue Allentown, PA 18103 T: 888.664.9770 610.791.2411 F: 610.791.4401 Valley Forge Service Center 100 Juliette Low Way P.O. Box 814 Valley Forge, PA 19482 T: 800.355.3847 610.933.7555 F: 610.935.8167

FOLLOW US!

/GirlScoutsEPenn @GirlScoutsEPenn /GSEP /GirlScoutsEPenn /Girl_Scouts_E_Penn

from natalye THE POWER OF ONE. It’s something I think about a lot. The power of one girl to make a difference...The power of one day to change a life...The power of one moment that sparks a fire.

The last few months have been filled with moments that remind me of the power of one: The power of one girl who changes our perceptions.

Little League pitcher Mo’ne Davis, who joined us as a Keynote Speaker at #GirlPOP2015, showed the world what it means to “throw like a girl.”

The power of one event where all girls have the opportunity to push themselves and reach their goals.

We were all inspired by seven year-old Julia W., who competed in this year’s Girlz.Tri.Du.Rule despite a disability that makes it difficult for her to walk.

The power of one person who expands our horizons. I’m grateful to all of the volunteers and women leaders, like Kathy Killian of the Philadelphia Phillies, who generously give their time to mentor ambitious girls like Emma L., and help them see their potential.

The power of one day that brings us together. Spending the day with over 1,000 girls and women at #GirlPOP2015 gave me a jolt of Girl Power and was one of the highlights of the year.

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LEAD ERSH I P

The power of one project that improves the lives of others. Girl Scouts like Alexa I., who was recently named a National Young Woman of Distinction in recognition of her Gold Award project, are devoting thousands of hours to community service projects that have a direct impact on the community.

The power of one movement that can change the world. Like this “18 under 18” issue of Spark proves, it only takes one girl on a mission to make a difference. But together, as part of the Girl Scouts Movement, we can accomplish anything.

I hope you enjoy reading about all of the girls in our council who are doing amazing things. As we kick off the fall and dive back into the Girl Scout year, I encourage you to find your Power of One!

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Share Spark with a friend!

Go to gsep.org, fill out the form online and we will include her in our mailing list for the next edition.

A PUBLICATION OF

THE GIRL SCOUTS OF

EASTERN PENNSYLVAN

IA

Yours in Girl Scouting,

TRAVEL THE GLOBE

Natalye Paquin, Esq. CEO, Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania

WITH GIRL SCOUTS

MAKE AN IMPACT

SERVICE

OPPORTUNITIES

EXPERIENCE SISTERHO OD:

SIGNATURE

EVENTS

Meet Melissa and 17 other inspirational Girl Scouts who are speaking up about causes they believe in.

FALL 2015/WINTE R

2016

do you have an idea or photos to share in Spark?

Submit an article or email photos, comments, and suggestions to communications@gsep.org gsep.org • spark • fall 2015/winter 2016

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spark staples 4 leadership

Notes from Natalye

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impact investing

Shout Outs: Thank you to our generous donors who have made leadership investments in GSEP.

34 entrepreneurship

Get ready for Nuts About Reading and the 2016 cookie season!

43 your mind

Create an origami bookmark from old issues of Spark!

48 new horizons Take off with Girl Scouts Destinations and Council Travel opportunities.

on the cover Photograph by Chrissy Kafkalas Learn more about Girl Scout activist Melissa S. (who’s sporting her big sis’s vest) and our other “18 Under 18” girls in this doodle-filled issue of Spark!

p.18

11 year-old keynote speaker, Vivienne Harr, took the stage at #GirlPOP2015. Read more on pg.28.

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p.43 How to make a beautiful origami heart bookmark for your school textbooks!

discover

connect

take action

8 partner spotlight: girl scouts+global leadership academy

28 #GirlPOP2015

60 girl scouts highest honors

The Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards are the highest honors that can be earned by a Girl Scout. Hear from recent awardees and learn about the steps you can take towards earning an award.

Imagine a school where every girl is a Girl Scout!

Find out what went down at the biggest event of the year!

41 ready to run programs Hit the ground running with Ready to Run Programs and Awesome Opps!

11 gsep signature events Experience sisterhood. Our Signature Events are designed to bring together girls from all corners of the Council.

18 cover story: 18 under 18

1 8 Under 18 is back! Meet girls of all ages

from across our council who are making the world a better place.

61 Bronze Awards: Getting Active

42 wood haven 60th anniversary

62 Silver Awards: Girl Power and

64 Gold Awards: An Educational

Meet up with former campers and staff to celebrate Camp Wood Haven.

44 interest patrols

Find a fun alternative to the traditional troop format.

47 achievement ceremony Become a role model for younger Girl Scouts.

58 take the lead Save the dates for our upcoming Take the Lead events in Greater Philadelphia, Berks County, and the Lehigh Valley.

with Geocaches

Stools for God’s Littlest Angels Production

68 council scholarships & awards Get recognized! Girls in grades 9–12 can apply for scholarships and awards that are just for Girl Scouts.

69 in your community Find out how girls of all ages can take action and make a difference.

69 MLK Day 2016

70 Service Opportunities

72 support GSEP Inspired by the girls you see in Spark?

Consider making a donation to support girls in our community.

Global Leadership Academy See pg. 8 to read about how over 400 girls learned all about Girl Power.

program guide

Check out the enclosed Program Guide to see all the fun activities happening this Fall and Winter! a publication of the Girl

Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania

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discover | PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

What’s it like when every girl in your school is a Girl Scout?

Ask the students at Global Leadership Academy!

All of the girls at Global Leadership Academy (GLA) are now Girl Scouts! When GSEP reached out to the West Philadelphia Charter School’s CEO, Dr. Naomi Johnson Booker, who raised her daughters as Girl Scouts and is a former Troop Leader herself, she leapt at the chance and even said that she wanted her faculty and staff to embrace the partnership by assisting with program delivery.

This spring, 408 GLA girls in grades K-8 experienced age-appropriate Girl Scout programming. Girls in Kindergarten through 3rd grade participated in “Friendship Circle”, a fourpart Series teaching the girls the importance of being a sister to every Girl Scout. Girls

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in 4th through 6th grades learned how to improve self-esteem, body confidence, and stand up to social pressure through the “Free Being Me” four-part Series. Lastly, girls in 7th and 8th grades developed skills for healthy relationships and learned how to prevent bullying through the four-part “Be A Friend First” Series.

Dr. Booker has invited Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania back this fall to start school-based troops because as she put it, “the girls and the staff LOVE what Girl Scouting is all about!” This is the first time that GSEP has served every girl in one school and we can’t wait to return in the fall to help the girls discover, connect and take action as they make the world a better place!

The girls and the staff LOVE what Girl Scouting is all about!

T U O H S

S T U O

A special shout out to our generous donors whose investment will help us bring the Girl Scout Leadership Experience to more girls, enabling them to discover what’s important to them, connect with their community, and take action to make the world a better place! Help us say thank you to these contributors of $5,000 and above* whose investment helps Girl Scouts’ commitment to ensuring every girl reaches her fullest potential.

I MPAC T I NVEST I NG

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Lenfest Foundation Leo Niessen, Jr. Charitable Trust

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Lockheed Martin Lockton Companies Lutron Electronics Co., Inc. Mattel, Inc. Maurice Seltzer Trust Montgomery County District Attorney/ Risa Vetri Ferman The Nelson Foundation The Patrick O’Connor Family Foundation PECO The Pew Charitable Trusts Philadelphia Phillies Pond Lehocky Stren Giordano, LP PPL Corporation Ms. Catherine A. Pullen

The Adelman Family

CRW Graphics

Air Products

Pam and Dave DeCampli

Aldridge Electric, Inc.

The Donley Foundation

AmeriHealth Caritas Services LLC

Dove/Unilever US, Inc.

Bank of America

East Penn Manufacturing Co., Inc.

Becker & Frondorf

Equal Measure

Better World Fund

Ann Thornton Field, Esq.

BioClinica, Inc.

Firstrust Bank

Boscov’s, Inc.

Girl Scouts of the USA

Capital BlueCross

Independence Blue Cross

Carpenter Technology Corporation

IronPigs Charities

Century Fund

Jerlyn Foundation, In Memory of Gertrude K. McGonigle

Chevrolet

JAMS, The Resolution Experts

Priscilla Payne Hurd Foundation Dianne and Jeffrey Rotwitt Saint-Gobain Corporation The Ethel Sergeant Clark Smith Memorial Fund Stradley Ronon Stevens & Young, LLP TD Charitable Foundation Tierney Toyota Financial Services Estate of Samuel D. Trauger US Airways/American Airlines United Way of Berks County United Way of Bucks County United Way of Greater Philadelphia & Southern New Jersey

Citizens Bank Charitable Foundation

John Templeton Foundation

Citizens Bank-Plymouth Meeting

Kenny Construction Company

Comcast Family of Companies

Kline & Specter, P.C.

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley

Comcast I Telemundo 62 I Comcast – Spectacor

Lehigh Valley Business Education Partnership

University of Pennsylvania Health System

Console Law Offices, LLC

Lehigh Valley Community Foundation

UPS

Crayola

* October 2014 – April 2015

Just Born, Inc.

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

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Stars on the Move Portable PLANETARIUM Live Astronomy Shows

starsonthemove.com Girl Scout Raft Rally on the Lehigh River 554 800-443-8 Poconos, PA

610-715-6853

Friendly, Fun & Educational for all ages The Philadelphia Catholic Committee for Girl Scouts and Camp Fire We are your local link to the National Catholic Committee for Girl Scouts USA and Camp Fire USA. Serving Catholic youth and adults through quality faith-based programs.

You can learn more about these programs at www.philaccgscf.org or for more information, email us at philaccgscf@gmail.com

- Jr. Geocacher & Junior Cave Explorer (10/3/15 – 10/4/15) - Jr. Ghosts & Goblins Party with Animal Habitats (10/24/15 – 10/25/15) - Teen Ghosts & Goblins Party with Directions Matter (10/31/15 – 11/1/15) - Jr. Geocacher & Geology Rocks (11/7/15 – 11/8/15) - Brownie Letterboxer & Cave Explorer (11/14/15 – 11/15/15) - Teen Going Batty & Geology Rocks (11/20/15 – 11/22/15) - Brownie & Junior Going Batty (12/5/15) - Brownie WOW – Wonders of Water (12/5/15 – 12/6/15) - Teen Going Batty & Geology Rocks (2/26/16 – 2/28/16) - Jr. Animal Habitats & Geocacher (3/5/15 – 3/6/16) - Brownie WOW – Wonders of Water (3/12/16 – 3/13/16) - Brownie & Junior Geology Rocks (4/2/16) - Jr. Cave Explorer & Animal Habitats (4/2/16 – 4/3/16) - Brownie Letterboxer & Going Batty (4/9/16 – 4/10/16)

Visit our website for additional spring program dates Individual troop programs also available…year round

GIRL SCOUT NIGHT - JAN. 16 Other opportunities available, including: Group nights, Fanboni rides, Color Guard and more!

Call Nick Michael at 484-273-4551 for more information.

phantomshockey.com

You + Exciting Events x Potential= Amazing! (or an equally awesome equation that ends in fun!)

Explore the (sometimes spooky) wonders of camp. Brainstorm ways to make an impact and create sustainable change in your community.

Tap into the power of the global sisterhood of Girl Scouts and Girl Guides. There’s no limit to the amazing things you can do!

We can’t wait to help you connect with new friends and watch as you realize your potential.

Brainstorm ways to make an impact and create sustainable change in your community.

Discover the magic of science, technology, engineering, and math, and learn how to harness its power to change the world. When you work together in this lifelong sisterhood of Girl Scouts, there’s no limit to the amazing things you can do!

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discover | SIG NATURE EVENTS Camp Wood Haven 60th Anniversary

ALL AGES

FORMER STAFF, FRIDAY – SUNDAY

$50

$75

CHILD

ADULT

SATURDAY & SUNDAY

$45

$60

CHILD

ADULT

Come one, come all! Wood Haven is celebrating its 60th anniversary! Past staff members, campers, troop leaders, parents, or grandparents—come party with us. This funfilled weekend includes opportunities to enjoy camp fires, field games, the climbing wall, horse rides, and other great camp activities. Join us for the festivities during the day on Saturday, and then spend the night making new memories.

Former staff members, start the celebration early with a reunion for you and your families on Friday night. This is a family camping opportunity; at least one member of each family attending must be a currently registered Girl Scout.

Overnight participants will sleep in platform tents and Adirondack shelters with their family.

Saturday, October 10, 7AM – Sunday, October 11, 10AM

Celebrate all that is fall at Camp Laughing Waters! Come together with other Daisies and Brownies at the all-camp fire circle for a rousing camp sing-a-long. You’ll hike around camp to different activities like pumpkin decorating, nature explorations, and a rockin’ dance party. Get to see how far apples can fly when you go “apple chunking.” Enjoy a thrilling game of Gaga along with face painting and even temporary tattoos! Event is rain or shine. All troops must bring Safety Activity Checkpoints adults. Individual girls must be accompanied by an adult. This event is “scare free.“ For Halloween fun with a spooky atmosphere, Brownies may register for Spooky Waters later in the day. Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors interested in helping to plan and run Autumn Adventures must register for and attend Sundae Sunday.

Saturday, October 24, 11AM–3PM

Camp Wood Haven, Pine Grove Includes food, accommodations & anniversary pin.

SATURDAY ONLY

$20

$30

CHILD

ADULT

Autumn Adventure

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GRADES: K–3

$13

$7

GIRL

ADULT

gsep.org • spark • fall 2015/winter 2016

Camp Laughing Waters, Gilbertsville Includes lunch & event patch.

SI GNAT U RE EVENT S

TAKE ACTION! Conference

GRADES: 6–12

$10 GIRL

Spooky Waters

GRADES: 2–5

$13

$7

GIRL

ADULT

Free to Be Me

GRADES: 6–10

$15

$9

GIRL

ADULT

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Rally with sister Girl Scouts to go for Silver and Gold! In hands-on workshops, you’ll learn all about the Silver or Gold Award, from brainstorming project ideas to recruiting an allstar team of volunteers and filling out your paperwork like a pro. Get inspired by hearing from young women just like you who’ve used their vision to change their communities. Learn what it means to TAKE ACTION! Now is your time to change the world! This is a girl-only program. Time at this program can count towards your Silver or Gold Award hours if you have completed the Journey prerequisites.

Saturday, October 24, 1PM–5PM

Prepare to be spooked at GSEP’s annual Halloween festival at Camp Laughing Waters! Enjoy a thrilling evening of Girl Scout fun. Bring your flashlight for a walk along the dark trails to campsites haunted by older Girl Scouts performing spooky skits just for you! Get to see how far apples can fly when you go “apple chunking.” You’ll also enjoy other activities including: decorating a pumpkin, glow-in-the-dark Gaga, and face painting. Event is rain or shine. All troops must bring Safety Activity Checkpoints adults. Individual girls must be accompanied by an adult. This event will be a bit scary.

For Halloween fun without the spooky atmosphere, Brownies should register for Autumn Adventures earlier in the day.

Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors interested in helping to plan and run Spooky Waters must register for and attend Sundae Sunday.

Saturday, October 24, 5PM–8:30PM

Become inspired to see your own true beauty and the beauty in others around you. Play games, create art, and have fun with other hands-on activities all about confidence, appreciating your own unique qualities, and knowing what makes you beautiful inside and out! Explore the museum and record your message of positivity in the It’s Your Story booth.

Leave feeling empowered to Take Action and spread body confidence messages. All troops must bring Safety Activity Checkpoints adults. Individual girls must be accompanied by an adult.

Sunday, November 8, 9AM–12:15PM

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Holy Family University 9801 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia Includes snack & event patch.

Camp Laughing Waters, Gilbertsville Includes dinner & event patch.

National Museum of American Jewish History 101 S. Independence Mall E., Philadelphia Includes snack, admission to museum, & Free Being Me patch.

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discover | SIG NATURE EVENTS Free to Be Me

GRADES: 6–10

$15 GIRL

Cookie Conference

GRADES: 6–12

$15 GIRL

Cookie Rallies

GRADES: K–5

$10 GIRL

Become inspired to see your own true beauty and the beauty in others around you. Play games, create art, and have fun with other hands-on activities all about confidence, appreciating your own unique qualities, and knowing what makes you beautiful inside and out! Leave feeling empowered to Take Action and spread body confidence messages. All troops must bring Safety Activity Checkpoints adults. Individual girls must be accompanied by an adult.

Sunday, November 15, 9AM–12:15PM

This is a girl-only event! Join Lehigh University’s Women in Business Club for a fun-filled afternoon at the inaugural Cookie Conference! Spend the afternoon learning how to act like a professional businesswoman in the cookie business world. Work in teams to brush up on the 5 skills of the cookie sale: goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills, and business ethics as you participate in a hands-on case competition and win awesome prizes!

All troops must bring Safety Activity Checkpoints adults.

Individual girls must be accompanied by an adult.

Sunday, November 15, 1PM–4PM

Let’s get ready for cookies!!! Gather with sister Girl Scouts in anticipation of the 2016 cookie sale! Learn how to talk with customers, get a peek at the cookie recognitions, taste test your favorite cookies, and take part in other fun activities designed to give you the skills to be a Cookie Boss. This is a girl-only event.

Weekend of December 5–6

New this year!

Cedar Crest College 100 College Drive, Allentown Includes snack & Free Being Me patch.

Lehigh University 27 Memorial Drive W., Bethlehem Includes snack & event patch.

Exact dates, times and locations coming soon!

Includes snack & event patch.

Want to host your own Cookie Rally? This fall, we will be adding a “Ready-to-Run Cookie Rally Activity Guide” on gsep.org which will include detailed instructions for planning and hosting your own rally— just like ours! Be on the lookout for further details coming Fall 2015.

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SI GNAT U RE EVENT S

Winter Camp

GRADES: 1–12

$130 GIRL

Maple Sugaring Day Program Leaders

GRADES: 6–12

$20 GIRL

Real Girls Take on the World

GRADES: 6–12

$20 GIRL

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This is a girl-only event! Leave your parents and leaders behind as you make new friends and meet up with summer camp buddies. GSEP summer camp staff treats you to the traditional camp experience with a winter twist. Activities include crafts, campfires, hiking and – weather permitting – ice skating and snow shoeing. You will stay in heated cabins and enjoy meals served in the Dining Hall.

Sunday, December 27, 1:30PM – Wednesday, December 30, 7PM

Put your leadership skills into action! Older girl presenters are needed for the beloved Maple Sugaring Day at its new location, Camp Laughing Waters, as well as the brand new program Maple Saplings! Whether you enjoy acting, writing scripts, making crafts, or working with younger girls, there is something for everyone! Commitment includes the overnight training at Laughing Waters January 29-30, as well as the rehearsal and events on February 26-27. You will have the option of staying overnight on the Saturday of the event. If staying over the Saturday night of the event you will need to provide your own Sunday breakfast.

Friday, January 29, 7PM – Saturday, January 30, 2PM

Calling all girls from around the world! Did you know that we are part of a global sisterhood that is 146 countries strong?

The World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts is the largest girl serving organization in the entire world! Learn about WAGGGS and our World Centers, located in Mexico, England, Switzerland, and India. Experience different cultures from Girl Scouts and Girl Guides as you sample foods, learn songs and dances, and try other fun activities from their native countries. Get ready to take on the world as you discuss global issues that affect girls everywhere.

End the day with a traditional World Thinking Day ceremony, something that girls all over the world celebrate! This is a girl-only program.

Saturday, February 20, 1–4pm

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Camp Mosey Wood, Lake Harmony Includes accommodations, all meals & snacks.

Camp Laughing Waters, Gilbertsville Includes all accommodatons in heated cabins, food for training & February event.

Holy Family University 9801 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia Includes Global Action Award, World Thinking Day Award, event patch & snack.

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discover | SIG NATURE EVENTS Maple Saplings GRADES: K–1

$10

$5

GIRL

ADULT

Maple Sugaring Day Program

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GRADES: 2–5

$15

$10

GIRL

ADULT

Maple sugar sure is sweet! Learn all about the history of maple sugaring from older Girl Scouts. Discover how maple sugar was made years ago and how you can make it today with an evaporator. You’ll even get to taste test the results!

Program has staggered start times from 8:00AM–3:30PM. You will select your start time when registering for the event. All troops must bring Safety Activity Checkpoints adults. Individual girls must be accompanied by an adult.

Saturday, February 27, 8AM–3:30PM

Older girls will lead you on a sweet three-hour adventure!

Tour Camp Laughing Waters as you learn the history of maple sugaring: how it was discovered, how it was made years ago, and how you can make it today. Watch an evaporator turn sap into maple syrup and taste test the results. Program has staggered start times from 8:00AM–3:30PM. You will select your start time when registering for the event. All troops must bring Safety Activity Checkpoints adults.

Individual girls must be accompanied by an adult.

Saturday, February 27, 8AM–3:30PM

gsep.org • spark • fall 2015/winter 2016

Camp Laughing Waters, Gilbertsville Includes snack, drink & event patch.

Camp Laughing Waters, Gilbertsville Includes snack, drink & event patch.

AD SPACE

Ready to take a stand?

Meet 18 Girl Scouts of all ages who are passionate about making a difference.

Cover Girl Melissa S. might only be in sixth grade, but she is a powerful advocate for disability rights. Last year, she started a viral petition for American Girl, her favorite doll company, to release a Girl of the Year with a disability. The petition was featured in national and international news outlets and received over 140,000 signatures. Melissa went on to give a TEDx talk, speak at the United Nations, and introduce Malala Yousafzai at the National Constitution Center. Melissa recently served as the emcee of #GirlPOP2015 alongside her older sister, Eva, and she is working on a book titled Wheeling Through Middle School about a girl in a wheelchair who just wants to fit in.

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melissa s.

TREDYFFRIN-EASTTOWN MIDDLE SCHOOL What issue or cause do you feel passionate about?

Since I have a disability myself, I’m passionate about making the world a better place for kids with disabilities.

Who inspires you and why? Kids with disabilities are my inspiration because it must be as hard for them as it is for me that there are not any toys that represent kids with disabilities.

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts? Leader, friendship, and fun.

  Melissa with her sister, Eva, and fellow activist Shiza Shahid, co-founder and global ambassador for the Malala fund, at #GirlPOP2015.

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discover | COVER STOR Y

kayla d.

TROOP 9997 FREIRE CHARTER MIDDLE SCHOOL What issue or cause do you feel passionate about?

Something that I feel strongly about is the equality of all human beings. I feel this way because I believe that everyone is equal no matter their race, gender, social status, etc.

Who inspires you and why? My step-mom inspires me because she is hard working and kind to others.

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts?

Social, educational & fun

julia m.

TROOP 41246 NEW EAGLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL What issue or cause do you feel passionate about? I really like nature and think it is important to do everything we can to protect our environment.

Who inspires you and why?

My mom because she is really fun.

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts? Exciting, fun & friendly

annie c.

TROOP 486 MARY C. HOWSE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL What issue or cause do you feel passionate about?

I am passionate about sea turtles after I got my pet turtle named Doug and our class tortoise named Stella. I already wanted to be a marine biologist but after seeing turtles at a real-life rescue center, I want to be one even more!

Who inspires you and why? My mom is my role model because she used to be a Girl Scout and now she is now an awesome Girl Scout leader.

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts?

Exciting, inspirational & compassionate

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avery s.

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TROOP 5539 PENN WOOD SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL What issue or cause do you feel passionate about?

I am very passionate about the treatment of children with disabilities. I have witnessed kids being teased just because they are different. They are people too and deserve respect.

Who inspires you and why? My mother inspires me because she gets things done. She can handle all types of situations.

She is very determined and makes me strive to be a better person. My mother is a Girl Scout Leader and I too one day want to help the betterment of young girls.

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts?

Educational, constructive & trustworthy

shannon r.

TROOP 81134 NOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL What issue or cause do you feel passionate about?

I am very passionate about raising awareness for childhood cancer. I devoted my Silver Award Project to it. I created a coloring story book to help educate children about childhood cancer that will soon be published.

Who inspires you and why?

My brother Allen is my inspiration because he’s an Eagle Scout with autism.

He made such an impact that a former Boy Scout rejoined after hearing of Allen’s story and earned the Eagle rank.

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts? Empowering, encouraging & adventurous

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sindura s.

TROOP 1697 CORNWALL TERRACE ELEMENTARY What issue or cause do you feel passionate about?

Bullying in class. I feel passionate about the issue of meanness between classmates. When my friends argue with their friends, I do not like it. They might get jealous, angry or they won’t talk to each other. I don’t like to see someone’s feelings hurt. Try to help your friends when they need you, even if they don’t tell you.

Who inspires you and why? Vincent Van Gogh inspires me. When he was a kid, he was really shy and nervous. He tried his best and his father was proud of that. Vincent liked to try new things with his colors. Once he was arguing with a friend and got so angry he cut off his own ear! Vincent went to the hospital. When he was there, he drew pictures of his feelings. When he felt better, Vincent didn’t want to leave. The hospital was so beautiful. He drew pictures of the people he saw and sent them to his brother. Many artists were inspired by his work. Vincent Van Gogh was very brave.

I want to be brave too.

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts? Helpful, inspiring & exciting

chloe t.

TROOP 5130 HIGHLAND PARK What issue or cause do you feel passionate about? Animal conservation. I collected loose change for several months and adopted a tiger via the World Wildlife Fund Who inspires you and why?

My Mommy because she is strong in her heart.

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts? Fun, cool & interesting

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I SSU ES

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erika c.

TROOP 6011 WHITEHALL COPLAY MIDDLE SCHOOL What issue or cause do you feel passionate about? The one issue I feel passionate about is bullying. I feel more time and resources could be spent on bullying prevention.

morgan w.

TROOP 4620 BAYARD RUSTIN HIGH SCHOOL What issue or cause do you feel passionate about? There is a lack of girls in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields. Through Girl Scouts, I have attended Engineering programs at DuPont, Villanova University and Drexel University, and I am now on the GSEP Robotics team, the Tin Mints.

We design, build and program a robot to compete in FIRST Robotics Competitions.This year we qualified to compete at the FIRST World Championships in St. Louis, MO! I think if girls knew how much fun STEM careers are, more would be involved.

Who inspires you and why? A person who inspires me is Dean Kamen, an inventor and entrepreneur who founded the Segway company, DEKA, and FIRST Robotics. Mr. Kamen invests in projects like the Slingshot, a water purification system that can save lives in developing countries where water contamination is a problem. His company DEKA is also working on solar power. He is helping to make the world a better place!

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts?

ANYTHING is possible!

Who inspires you and why? One person who truly inspires me is my grandmother. My grandmother has a lot of wisdom and, besides being diagnosed with leukemia, is one of the most positive, upbeat, inspiring people that I know. She’s a great role model and also was a Girl Scout!

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts? Fun, friends & trips

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ginny s.

TROOP 6020 LEHIGH CHRISTIAN ACADEMY What issue or cause do you feel passionate about? I’d like to learn more about how to help save the rainforests in the world because a lot of animals live there.

Who inspires you and why? Jesus inspires me because when he was on Earth, he did lots of miracles and helped people.

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts? Kind, friendly & helpful

isabella h.

TROOP 41825 GREENWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL What issue or cause do you feel passionate about?

Two years ago, I was fortunate enough to see an endangered Black Rhino while on safari in Namibia.

I have since dedicated my time and passion to raising awareness and funding to save the Black Rhino.

Who inspires you and why?

Marie Curie is my role model because she was an innovator and she was smart. Like Marie Curie, I want to show intelligence and strength and do my part to remove barriers for women scientists.

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts?

Exciting, adventurous & noble

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erin m.

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TROOP 53451 RIDLEY HIGH SCHOOL What issue or cause do you feel passionate about? I am passionate about getting girls to believe they can succeed in STEM related activities!

I work with girls at every level of scouting to share robotics and the joy of learning and discovery!

Who inspires you and why? I am inspired everyday by the girls in the GSEP Robotics patrol, where I am a founding member. I work with our younger girls and their excitement with science and robotics keeps me excited, and wanting to share the feeling. Every meeting and every event I am inspired to reach more girls and encourage girls to stick with it, so they can be the leaders of tomorrow and reach their full potential.

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts? Leadership! Friendship! Discovery!

ellie b.

TROOP: 4722 PATTON MIDDLE SCHOOL What issue or cause do you feel passionate about?

Deforestation is a devastating global issue that takes the homes of innocent animals. I believe that we need to take action to prevent endangered species from going extinct.

Who inspires you and why? Marie Curie inspires me because she discovered two chemical elements and was the first woman to win the Nobel Prize! She shows perseverance, dedication, and girl power!

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts? Fun, adventurous & unforgettable

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julia w.

TROOP 1156 AMITY ELEMENTARY CENTER What issue or cause do you feel passionate about? I like going to CrossFit classes with my brother Colin and my Mom. She is a CrossFit instructor for kid’s classes. CrossFit makes me stronger every day and gives me the confidence to do anything.

Who inspires you and why? My Mom and Dad inspire me every day because they do whatever they can to help me succeed. I can’t talk or walk, but they don’t set limitations for me. They let me try everything! I play Buddy Ball and ride horses for hippotherapy. I have gone family camping to Camp Mosey Wood since I was 6 months old. We go paddle boating, hiking, rock climbing at Boulder Field, and make arts & crafts. It’s fun!

ariel h.

TROOP 21813 CENTRAL BUCKS HIGH SCHOOL SOUTH What issue or cause do you feel passionate about?

I am passionate about learning as I believe that every individual deserves a quality education. In the United States many children are reading below their grade level and perform below average in science and math as compared to other countries. Within my community, I work to promote education. For the past six years, I volunteered for a Science in the Summer program, assisting elementary school students while they are doing science-related activities. For my Silver and Gold Awards, I partnered with the library to create an educational and fun series of children’s programs. I also collected books from the community to help schools establish their classroom and school libraries. At my high school, I started a math tutoring program for students who need help with a variety of subjects from Algebra through Calculus.

Who inspires you and why? William Butler Yeats who said “education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.”

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts? Inspirational, friendships & community

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts? Fun, friends & selling Girl Scout cookies

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cyrena s.

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TROOP 21842 COUNCIL ROCK HIGH SCHOOL SOUTH What issue or cause do you feel passionate about?

One issue that I feel passionate about is education for girls all around the world. I feel passionate about this because I believe that girls all over the world deserve an education no matter what.

Who inspires you and why? The person who inspires me is my Aunt Dede because she is an amazing woman. She is a married mother of three who realized one of her goals by completing her college education. She then started her own children’s clothing company. She’s a true entrepreneur and a great role model!

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts? Courageous, empowering & experience

madelyn g.

TROOP 1805 GREEN VALLEY ELEMENTARY What issue or cause do you feel passionate about?

Helping people with special needs because they are figuring life out just like us, only they need extra help doing it.

Every school day, I go to the autistic support room to work with two students for about 20 minutes. I love this because I have really bonded with the two kids I work with. Some people may think that people with special needs aren’t as good as us, but I think they are the same.

Who inspires you and why? My mom, our troop leader, because she is funny, creative and hard-working.

What three words would you use to describe Girl Scouts? Fun, inspiring & creative

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GI RL POP

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ONE AWESOME DAY #GIRLPOP2015 On May 16, 2015, over 1,000 girls took over the Pennsylvania Convention Center for #GirlPOP2015. This non-stop celebration of girl power featured inspiring speakers, interactive workshops, exciting performers, and hands-on exhibitors.

Here are just a few highlights from one unforgettable day: • J enna Bush telling us a deep, dark secret (and how it led to her current job as a journalist!)

• T he Franklin Institute making things explode in front of our eyes • S hiza Shahid recalling how she first met Malala when the Nobel Prize winner was just a precocious 12 year-old • C amp counselors bringing the Girl Scout camp experience indoors (tents and canoes included) • Little League phenom Mo’ne Davis signing copies of her book • A prille Ericsson from NASA inspiring girls to shoot for the moon (literally!)

• G irls rocking out on electric guitars and practicing their tennis skills on an indoor court • T ween activist Vivienne Harr broadcasting her speech around the world • P LUS, there was also a conga line, a sing-along, an impromptu dance party, and much more!

Thank you to all the girls, parents, and volunteers who attended. We are also grateful to the speakers, presenters, exhibitors, and sponsors that helped make the day possible.

Left: NASA’s Aprille Ericsson had everyone on their feet. Opposite Page: (clockwise) Girls practiced “soft archery” in the Hall of Experiences, Jenna Bush Hager invited a brave Girl Scout to sing with her on stage, the Franklin Institute made science come to life, Mo’Ne Davis signed copies of her book, Shiza Shahid talked about helping girls around the world get the education they deserve, a giant conga line broke out, girls practiced guitar with the School of Rock, Top Cookie Seller Rachel T. posed with Cheryl LuQuire, and girls from Troop 2496 smiled alongside keynote speaker Vivienne Harr.

want to see more?

Check out gsep.org/girlpop to view photos and videos from the day! gsep.org • spark • fall 2015/winter 2016

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#GIRLPOP2015 GIRL CORRESPONDENT

BY VIVIAN B., TROOP 6460

Strength. Love. Empowerment.

Those are the words I would use to describe #GirlPOP2015, which took place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on May 16, 2015.

This was truly a day packed with fun times, laughter, and incredible girl power. #GirlPOP2015, you rocked!

Opposite Page: (clockwise) Superstar athlete Mo’ne Davis posed with her fans, Girl Scouts modeled vintage Girl Scouts uniforms, Jenna Bush Hager’s keynote speech inspired us, girls got a taste of camp life, and Matthew Shuler and Audra McLaughlin from “The Voice” entertained us.

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This Girl Scout-organized event was open to all girls, and featured tons of speakers and sessions for girls with all kinds of interests – ranging from science to fashion to learning how to love yourself just the way you are.

The day started with an energyfilled opening ceremony. The emcees for the day, Eva and Melissa, are great examples of how girls of all ages can do anything. (Learn more about Melissa on page 18).

One of my favorite speakers of the day, and probably one of the most inspirational people I have ever met, is Vivienne Harr. Vivienne had a dream to help end childhood slavery, and at the age of eight, started selling lemonade to raise money for that cause. That little lemonade stand is now a company called Make a Stand Lemon-aid.

I had a chance to meet Vivienne and this adorable young woman is so poised that you forget she’s only eleven! When I asked her why she does all of this, she said, “Not a lot of people get a chance to inspire; I want the world to be better for future generations.”

One of the best parts of #GirlPOP2015 was reconnecting with old friends and making plenty of new ones. I was very happy to spend some time catching up with my mentor and friend, Tracy Davidson of NBC10 News, who was one of the session speakers. Every hour, a new session of workshops began.

One of my favorite sessions was “ResLife: What’s College Really Like?” where three women who work at colleges spoke about how to get involved in different clubs, leadership activities, and internships in college.

As the girls filed into the ballroom for closing ceremonies, the excitement started to build.

Shiza Shahid, the co-founder and Global Ambassador of the Malala Fund, gave a speech that I’ll never forget. Her story about growing up in Pakistan, following her dreams to attend college in the United States, and then going back to Pakistan to help girls who have been forced out of school get an education encouraged me to make changes in my life: to better the world in any way possible.

This was truly a day packed with fun times, laughter, and incredible girl power. #GirlPOP2015, you rocked!

LEADERS WANTED Become a troop leader!

Troop leaders come in all shapes and sizes! You don’t have to be a parent to volunteer with Girl Scouts. College students, senior citizens, and women professionals make marvelous mentors.

To learn more contact volunteer@gsep.org.

WE HAVE FUN DOWN TO A SCIENCE! CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR

SCOUT DAY AND SPECIAL ALL GIRL CAMP-IN DATES! www.fi.edu • 215.448.1200 Spend the day or night and wor k toward the requirements for Journeys!

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spark | E N TREPRENEURSHIP

with Nuts About Reading!

WHAT’S NUTS ABOUT READING? It’s one of two product

programs offered by GSEP. By participating in the fall sale, troops get a jump start on earning proceeds early in the year! Girls can sell nuts, candy and magazine subscriptions. Girls will even be able to sell these great products online! coming this fall for the NAR program:

Meet your 2015 Nuts About Reading Mascot, Cutie the Giraffe! Cutie was named by girls at #GirlPOP2015!

A Super Fun Kick-Off

Added Resources for Troop Leaders and Parents

Cool Recognition Items for Girls

need more information? Contact nutsaboutreading@gsep.org.

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This fall, businesses will have the opportunity to order gift tins for employees and/or customers.

Choose from a selection of five gift tins with nuts and chocolates ranging from $15 to $35, all delivered directly to your business or customers.

Just another great way to support Girl Scouting and provide wonderful gifts around the holidays and throughout the year.

Pista

Blen

d

C

hews

s

C h o c o l at e

Jumbo

as

io

ch

Gour m

et

Tu r tl

es

Go

urmet Ca

r

am

el Corn

For more deta ils, contact nutsaboutrea ding@gsep.or g or your local Girl Scout.

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Operation Cookies from Home gives customers the chance to purchase cookies and donate them to military men and women.

How many will you collect in 2016?

In 2015, girls collected over 6,000 cases of cookies for Operation Cookies from Home – that’s over 72,000 boxes!

Service men and women at Ft. Dix in New Jersey were recipients of cookies you collected!

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Girls, get ready!

Last year, the girls of GSEP sold over 3.7 million packages of Girl Scout Cookies! The sky is the limit in 2016! Here are three things you can do NOW to get ready!

1. Dust off your cookie booth decorations 2. Download the COCOmobile app for your online sales 3. Tell all your friends and family that you’ll be selling cookies this year!

Take it to the Bank Get financial literacy lessons from experts at the Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs! The PICPA’s “Take it to the Bank” programs are presented by local CPAs and complement the work your troop is doing to earn their financial literacy badges. Programs are free and available for all levels of Scouts.

8751/15

For more information, contact Colleen Kuczynski at ckuczynski@picpa.org, call (888) 272-2001, or visit www.picpa.org/scouts.

Once a Girl Scout...Always a Girl Scout JOIN GSEP’S ALUMNAE GROUP TODAY!

Whether your Girl Scout experience spanned one year or one decade as a girl, leader, or volunteer, you are a Girl Scout alumna! Join the GSEP Alumnae Group today to:

RE-DISCOVER your passion for Girl Scouts RE-CONNECT with other alumnae in your community TAKE ACTION to help spread the mission of Girl Scouting and the impact it is having on our girls, your community, and the world!

To learn more about joining, visit gsep.org/our-council/alumnae, call 267-428-7540 or email alumassoc@gsep.org.

plan your science adventure!

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is where scouts discover the FUN of science! Join us for three fun-filled science adventure days and work towards journey and badge requirements.

SCOUTING FOR SCIENCE DAYS Reptile and Amphibian Day NOVEMBER 14, 2015

Insects and Spiders Day FEBRUARY 27, 2016

Watery Worlds Day APRIL 9, 2016

VISIT ANSP.ORG/SCOUTING FOR DETAILS AND OTHER OPPORTUNITIES, OR CALL 215-299-1060

Photo: Meredith Dolan/ANS

Calling all Girl Scouts!

*Book and purchase your Scout Rate Group Tickets online only for $16.00 + tax per person. Troop tax ID# required when booking (can be acquired from scout leader / headquarters). Visit sesameplace.com for available dates.

Offer subject to change. TM/Š Sesame Workshop

To kick off Philly Spring Clean up in April, Troop 9263 and Troop 9997 spent a day with SEPTA beautifying the city.

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what’s missing from spark?

Want to see you and your troop in the pages of Spark and our other communications? Send us your photos! We love sharing all the amazing things you are doing throughout council.

e the Richland Servic in 11 8 2 op ro T Ambassadors from Easter Baskets to donate to the 0 Unit put together 5 Quakertown this past Easter. in St. Isidore Parish

Girls from across coun cil enjoyed the Free Being Me series at area colle Girls created art, played ges in the winter. gam hands on activities abou es, and enjoyed t self- confidence.

communications@gsep.org •

/GirlScoutsEPenn •

@GirlScoutsEPenn •

/Girl_Scouts_E_Penn

READY TO RU N PROGRAMS

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ready to run programs

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Looking for something different to do with girls? Out of ideas for troop meeting activities? Try out GSEP’s Ready to Run Programs!

Designed to be used by volunteers with girls, these programs are available at gsep. org under Volunteer Resources.

Ready to Run Programs include facilitator guides, along with suggested timelines and a list of materials needed. Some of the programs even have supplemental handouts for girls!

Available Ready to Run Programs: • Free Being Me Series • Friendship Circle Series • Daisy Jam • I t’s Your Planet-Love It! Series with Healthy Habits • Science and Engineering Samplers • Be A Friend First Series • U p All Night: Media Journey in a Day • Imagineer

ing m o c n! soo

ready to camp!

The outdoor experience is unique and important to Girl Scouts. We’re developing a special toolkit to help make it easier for troop leaders and girls to enjoy our camp properties.

awesome opportunities We love bringing exciting and engaging programs to girls across Eastern Pennsylvania, but it can be tough to wait until the next issue of Spark to share a new program with you. With Awesome Opportunities, the waiting is over! Awesome Opportunities are held to the same standards you’ve come to expect of any GSEP program—rich in the Girl Scout Leadership Experience and full of fun and sisterhood.

These programs can be available in the online registration system for as long as 3 months or as little as 8 weeks, allowing newly registered girls a chance to start enjoying events immediately. We’ll announce available Awesome Opportunities via our monthly GSEP News and in social media posts.

Follow us to stay informed! /GirlScoutsEPenn @GirlScoutsEPenn

check back often We are adding new and exciting programs. Have ideas for a program?

Email girlprogram@gsep.org. gsep.org • spark • fall 2015/winter 2016

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connect | WOOD HAVEN 6 0TH AN NI VERS AR Y

1955

2015

CAMP W OOD HAVEN

Join Us for Our

60th Anniversary Celebration Weekend!

mark your calendars!

Camp Wood Haven 60th Anniversary SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10, 7PM – SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 10AM Camp Wood Haven, Pine Grove Grades: All Ages Cost: Former Staff, Friday–Sunday: $50 / child; $75 / adult Saturday–Sunday: $45 / child; $60 / adult Saturday Only: $25 / child; $35 / adult *Includes food, accommodations and anniversary pin.

Come one, come all! Wood Haven is celebrating its 60th anniversary! Past staff members, campers, troop leaders, parents, or grandparents—come party with us.

This fun-filled weekend includes opportunities to enjoy camp fires, field games, the climbing wall, horse rides, and other great camp activities.

Join us for the festivities during the day on Saturday, and then spend the night making new memories. Former staff members, start the celebration early with a reunion for you and your families on Friday night.

This is a family camping opportunity; at least one member of each family attending must be a currently registered Girl Scout. Overnight

participants will sleep in platform tents and Adirondack shelters with their family.

This fun-filled weekend includes opportunities to enjoy camp fires, field games, the climbing wall, horse rides, and other great camp activities.

Did you know? Camp Wood Haven is GSEP’s only camp with alpacas!

register online Get all the details and register via Online Registration.

We can’t wait to see you in October!

YOU R MI ND

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origami heart bookmark Ready for Back to School? Here’s an easy-tomake, beautiful heart bookmark tutorial that you can use to mark your textbooks! They’re simple and fast so you can make extra for your friends and family too! supplies Old Spark Magazines • Scissors • A Ruler

how to make it Cut out a square section from your magazine (we did 5”x 5”) and follow these folding directions:

Send us pictures of your origami heart bookmark! /GirlScoutsEPenn

@GirlScoutsEPenn

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The Berks County Museum Patrol GRADES: 7–12

Do what you love and love what you do! GSEP’s older girl Interest Patrols let you do just that and give you the chance to try something new and different. So, if you’re looking for new ways to expand your Girl Scout horizons, a patrol is the place for you! Join a patrol and learn how to build a robot, become a fashion designer, celebrate the past, and preserve local history.

How does an Interest Patrol work?

Patrols act as special interest troops. The patrol leader is a troop leader, and the girls are all Girl Scouts with a common interest in the theme of the patrol. All of the same rules governing troops apply to patrols, which means it’s easy to get started once you have two adults and some excited girls!

Who can join an Interest Patrol?

Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors! Interest Patrols give older girls another way to participate in Girl Scouts beyond the traditional troop. Joining a patrol is a great way to combine your love of Girl Scouts with your newest passion! Because of the nature of the robotics programming in which the patrols participate, an exception has been made so younger girls may join.

All newly forming Interest Patrols will be solely for girls in grades 6–12.

the following patrols are currently accepting new members

The Berks County Museum Patrol is an interest patrol that has something for girls of all ages! The patrol is made up of girls who are in 7th through 12th grade. Girls in the patrol gain leadership experience while they work with younger girls by leading activities, singing songs, and helping to plan the overnight. Our patrol members also have the opportunity to make new friends from around the council and have a ton of fun! The patrol runs overnight programs for girls who are Daisy, Brownie and Junior Girl Scouts, where they can have fun, make cool projects, and learn something new, all while sleeping over in a museum.

If you’re interested in learning more, please email us at museumpatrol@yahoo.com.

CONTACT

Sue Frederick museumpatrol@yahoo.com

Fashion Patrol GRADES: 6–12

Fashionistas! Find your style and friends that share your passion for fashion and join the Fashion Patrol.

Pick from workshops such as: cosplay, accessories, jean couture, fibers, illustration, recycle, and embellishments. Get ready to sparkle, glimmer and shine on our own Fashion Patrol’s “Project Runway”.

CONTACT

Karen Zimmerman 610.760.1887 or kzsews@rcn.com

I NT EREST PAT ROLS

Heritage Patrol GRADES: 6–12

Respect your heritage! The Heritage Patrol works with community groups that are committed to preserving and sharing every aspect of their Lehigh Valley history. The patrol is open to girls entering 6th – 12th grades. Patrol members organize and implement special events for Brownie and Junior Girl Scouts periodically throughout the year.

CONTACT

on Wednesday nights from 6-8pm and Sunday evenings as needed during the competition season. FRC runs all year long, but on a reduced schedule from May till September. All teams are now taking new members. Join us now to get started and learn all the basics!

Our Motto is “We Can Do It!” and so can you! Come learn and have fun in a Girl Scout environment that promotes courage, confidence, and character!

CONTACT

CONTACT

Barbara Curtin 610.896.7365 curtinbarb@aol.com

GsepRoboticsPatrol@yahoo.com

Robotics Patrol

Mean Green Canoe Team

GRADES: 1–12

Join one of the most established interest groups in the country! For nearly 40 years, the Mean Green Canoe Team has helped young women become great paddlers.

No experience necessary – just an interest in flat-water canoe racing and a weekly commitment to teamwork with the goal of participating in the General Clinton Canoe Regatta in Bainbridge, NY over Memorial Day weekend (May 27-30, 2016). Interest in the Mean Greens has steadily increased over the years, and we now must prioritize everyone based on commitment and attendance as well as capability and skills compatibility.

A final decision about which girls will

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compete in the Regatta will be made by mid-May. Team members must attend rain-or-shine practices every Sunday afternoon (except Easter Sunday) from mid-March through mid-May, on the Schuylkill River in Linfield, PA. An organizational meeting will be held in March. Then weekly practice begins. A $100 fee covers the pool practice, overnight, and all but 2 meals at the Regatta.

Betsy Cutler 610.395.2721 betsy2955@gmail.com www.gsepheritagepatrol.com

GRADES: 8–12

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BERKS COUNTY GRADES: 4–8

DELAWARE COUNTY

K–3 Junior FIRST Lego League R

R

4–8 FIRSTR LegoR League 9–12 FIRSTR Robotics Competition Do you have an interest in science and technology, or are you struggling with science and technology? The Robotics Patrol is the place for you!

Gain skills in computers, research, problem solving, public speaking, team building, and so much more!

This Interest Patrol is focused on the FIRST Robotics competitions and competes throughout the Philadelphia area and it also helps run technology events for GSEP. Jr FLL meets August thru January FLL Meetings run June through February.

Jr FLL and FLL meets

Do you think you can build the strongest and most agile robot?

Can your robot win a head-tohead combat mission? Come learn basic strategies for building sturdy structures, then apply that knowledge to build a robot for friendly competition! Work in teams to build and program a robot using LEGO® Mindstorms NXT technology, with working motors and sensors. Program and modify your robot to complete various challenges and use your new skills to solve real-world problems.

New to robotics? Don’t worry— beginners are welcome.

CONTACT

Michelle Koch 610.587.9272 troop1091@gmail.com

want to start an interest patrol?

Find an exciting topic, a group of interested girls, and two adults ready to lead the charge!

Then email us at girlprogram@gsep.org, and we’ll get you started on your next adventure.

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AC H I EVEMENT C EREMONY

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GIRL SCOUT

achievement ceremony

In April, 120 girls were recognized at the Girl Scout Achievement Ceremony. These girls earned one or more of the following awards: Gold Award, Scholarships, Good Citizenship Awards, Top Cookie Achievers, and graduating Ambassadors.

We also recognized a Girl Scout Brownie with the lifesaving award—the Medal of Honor! More than 450 family and friends attended the celebration at the Radisson Hotel Valley Forge in King of Prussia.

Every aspect of the event was inspiring—from CEO Natalye Paquin’s opening remarks, to the message from the guest speaker Jillian Cardamone, a past Gold Awardee, and to the candle-lighting closing ceremony. The huge smiles from every girl on stage and on the faces of their families lit up the room!

We are grateful to all of the volunteers who made this event such a wonderful tribute to the girls who were honored. To all of the parents, troop leaders, and volunteers throughout the Council who support the girls, we appreciate what you do every day to help build girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place!

For graduating Ambassadors like Nia G., the Achievement Ceremony is one last chance to show off those awesome patches! gsep.org • spark • fall 2015/winter 2016

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spark | N E W HORIZONS

Swim with turtles, repel down a mountain side, train like an astronaut, chill with pandas in a Chinese conservation center. On a Girl Scout Destination, you’ll visit exciting places, experience new things, and make friends that will last a lifetime.

Whether you’re a high adventurer seeking a new thrill, a future scientist ready to help the environment, a photographer wanting to capture once-in-alifetime shots, or a travel guru looking for their next great adventure, there is a Destination for everyone.

The possibilities are limitless—

just like you! Destinations are open to registered Girl Scouts ages 14-17. You can even fund your Destinations through your cookie sales! Earn credit through the Older Girl Travel Plan by selling Girl Scout Cookies, then apply it toward the cost of your Destination.

Girl Scouts Destinations fall into six categories:

1.

International

2. Outdoors 3. Science 4. People 5. Apprenticeships 6. Getaways You pick the trip that appeals to you!

we want to hear from you!

Has your troop taken a trip regionally, nationally, or internationally? Send us your stories, pictures, and videos to travel@gsep.org so that you can inspire more Girl Scouts to travel!

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destination: adventure!

Select your TOP 4 TRIP CHOICES at http://forgirls.girlscouts.org/travel/.

Complete an APPLICATION FORM for each event you want to attend.

Print out two copies of the REFERENCE FORM and ask two people who know you well to fill them out. Bonus: you can use the same letters of reference for all your applications!

SEND YOUR APPLICATION to GSEP by November 7, 2015 to be considered for early acceptance.

Applications are also accepted throughout the year until the Destination is full. We mail your application to the Destination sponsor. Applications should be sent via email to travel@gsep.org or mailed to Attn: Victoria Laird, P.O. Box 814, Valley Forge, PA 19482.

venture & volu n COSTA RICAteer

BY JO SI E R. , TR

Over winter break from school, I travelled to Costa Rica on a Girl Scout Destination. We experienced all the great things Costa Rica has to offer in the best way possible—and all in 10 days!

We stayed in the small village of Soki in Talamanca, Costa Rica. Soki didn’t have electricity or running water. Part of the goal of our trip was service. We spent five days building new floors in the village’s one-room school. We accomplished the build, all while having the best time of our lives!

One of my favorite experiences was celebrating the New Year in the village with the residents. Before dinner on New Year’s Eve, the local men in the town taught us a dance they do on that night every year, and the women in the village worked together to cook dinner (rice and beans of course!) for everyone in the village. The mayor of the town shared a speech with us, which inspired me to help people in any way possible, that no project is too big, and to follow your dreams.

OO P 10 37

When we returned to base camp in San Jose, we were ready for adventure! We zip lined over the Canopy, white water rafted on the Sarapiqui River, shopped at an Artisan market, and met great friends that will last a lifetime.

This trip opened my eyes to the things we often take for granted, like running water, electricity, and a good education system. But I also realized that you don’t need those things to be happy, because the people of Soki are some of the happiest people I’ve ever met! If you ever get an opportunity like this, take it. It will be an experience of a lifetime and change your views on life forever.

If you ever get an opportunity like this, take it. It will be an experience of a lifetime and change your views on life forever.

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spark | N E W HORIZONS

Calling all girls from around the world!

Every year on February 22, we celebrate World Thinking Day, a time to honor our international friendship with our sister Girl Scouts and Girl Guides. Have you or your troop visited a WAGGGS World Centre? Did you celebrate World Thinking Day? Share your stories with us at travel@gsep.org!

We are part of a global sisterhood that is 146 countries strong! The World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts is the largest girl serving organization in the entire world! Girls from all corners of the globe can gather together at the four WAGGGS World Centres:

1. Pax Lodge in England 2. Our Cabana in Mexico 3. Our Chalet in Switzerland

4. Sangam in India

Troop 26 and 2725 pose at Pax Lodge with their sister Scouts from Canada and the UK.

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JOURNEY THROUGH LONDON WITH PAX LODGE

BY TROOPS 26 AND 2725

In April 2015, our troops traveled together to London and stayed at Pax Lodge, the WAGGGS World Centre in England. When we arrived at Pax Lodge, volunteers welcomed us with cheery smiles. They taught us the World Song, which we sang with other girls each morning at the flag ceremony.

The week was jam-packed with fun and exciting activities. Pax Lodge offers two challenge tours of the city: the Harry Potter Challenge Across London or the Monopoly Challenge Across London. We divided and conquered so that we could experience both! Our guides from Pax Lodge allowed us to lead the way on the challenges while ensuring we didn’t get lost. A visit to London isn’t complete without sightseeing. While in the city we saw the London Eye, Big Ben, and Kensington Palace and Gardens, and shopped in Covent Garden and Camden Town Market. We even went to the Apollo Victoria theatre for a West End show!

Did you know that Queen Elizabeth II was a Girl Guide? England has great respect for Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. When we visited Buckingham Palace, we were allowed to enter the palace gates to witness the Changing of the Guard because we were Girl Scouts! The Grenadier Guards even came over to talk to us.

Everywhere we went people were interested in talking to us, all because we were wearing our Girl Scout uniforms.

You can’t be a Girl Scout without helping others!

One of our last activities in London was spent cleaning a former work boat that had been converted into a passenger-carrying community boat used for rides down Regents Canal. We scrubbed down the inside of the “narrowboat,” including a kitchen, bathroom, bunks, and windows. After our service project, we enjoyed a relaxing 30 minute cruise down the canal.

Our trip was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Visiting Pax Lodge, meeting Girl Scouts and Girl Guides from all around the world, and exploring the best parts of London was something we will never forget!

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spark | N E W HORIZONS

gateway to the world around you Whether it’s exploring a local city using their own navigation skills, or flying across the world to visit another country, girls are always expanding their horizons. GSEP’s Travel Pathway offers girls the opportunities to explore new places, learn about different cultures, and meet new people. Put your courage, confidence, and character to the test as you develop skills in goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills, and ethics. Adventure is waiting for you!

upcoming council travel opportunities PHILLY MYSTERY TOUR–DECEMBER 12, 2015 Join Girl Scouts from around GSEP on a day trip to exciting Philadelphia, and learn to navigate the City of Brotherly Love! Explore fun neighborhoods, take in street art and dazzling architecture, window shop, sample famous Philly foods, and make new friends as you discover Philly together on an urban scavenger hunt.

You’ll get to know your way around town with walking maps as well as public transportation. Bring lunch money and your camera to capture the highlights! This is a girl only program. *Includes SEPTA all-day pass and event patch. Register to attend using the Online Registration System.

COSTA RICA—JULY 7–15, 2016 Service tours provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture in a unique and meaningful way. In addition to your service learning activities, you’ll enjoy the biodiversity of this beautiful country from every angle by visiting the hot springs of the Arenal region, hiking to La Fortuna Waterfall, visiting INBioparque, taking an exciting canopy tour, and even going kayaking. For information on how to register, please contact travel@gsep.org.

mark your calendars!

Travel Information Meeting SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 11AM–12PM Valley Forge Program Center 100 Juliette Low Way Valley Forge Grades: 4–12 Cost: FREE Pack your bags and get your passport ready, it’s time for an adventure!

Come learn about GSEP’s Travel Pathway and all the amazing travel opportunities available for girls.

Hear about this summer’s trip to Costa Rica, and other upcoming council trips. Learn all about Girl Scout Destinations – from how to apply, to why you should go. Get the chance to learn about WAGGGS and the incredible global travel opportunities at our World Centers!

You’ll also hear about how to earn money to fund your trip with the Older Girl Travel Plan Cookie Credits.

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Questions?

Send an email to travel@gsep.org!

don’t forget Funding for your travel begins with you! Earn credit through the Older Girl Travel Plan by selling Girls Scout cookies, then apply it toward the cost of your council-sponsored trip.

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NEW H ORI ZONS

| spark

our girls get hyped for

The girls craft homemade piñatas (complete with candy inside), as they learn about Our Cabaña, the World Centre in Mexico.

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In July 2015, 13 girls from across GSEP travelled together to London and Paris.

Before leaving, the girls spent time getting to know each other, as they come from all different parts of our council, and some had never met each other before signing up for the trip! In March, they came together for a sleepover. They spent the evening learning all about WAGGGS and the World Centres, brushing up on their French, and watching a British teen movie. The consensus? They couldn’t wait to share in this adventure together and build friendships to last a lifetime!

my travel surprise!

BY HALLE B., GIRL SCOUT AMBASSADOR

My parents surprised me with a London and Paris birthday party.

They decorated our house with the countries’ flags and a huge Eiffel Tower! We had English and French food and instead of American money, my family gave me

Pounds and Euros. I also got a suitcase and other travel related gifts! I am so excited to take my new bright orange suitcase to see the real Eiffel Tower and just explore and witness daily life in these countries!

there’s more to come!

Check the spring issue for their story of visiting Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower, and Pax Lodge, and meeting Girl Scouts from all around the world! gsep.org • spark • fall 2015/winter 2016

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GOOD FUNdraising

Goodwill Donation Drives

Support your troop by collecting donations for Goodwill Help fund job training services for people in your community Keep clothing & household goods out of landfills Get a patch for your participation

We look forward to partnering with you! Contact us for details. drives@yourgoodwill.org • 1.877.585.0135 • yourgoodwill.org

AD SPACE

COMING SOON!

Ready to take your camping trip to the next level?

Add an Adventure Package when you reserve a GSEP campsite!

Facilitators will be provided to run each of the adventure activities.

Check out these Adventures!

Low Challenge – 4 locations Climbing Wall – 2 locations Laughing Waters High Challenge Course Laughing Waters High Team Challenge Mosey Wood High Challenge Level I Mosey Wood High Challenge Level II Mosey Wood High Challenge Level III For more information, visit www.gsep.org/camp/rent-a-campsite.

TAKE THE LEAD 2016 LEAD WITH COURAGE

CONFIDENCE & CHARACTER

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Take the Lead 2015 honoree, Im Ja P. Choi, with presenter Lamis A.

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TAK E T H E LEAD

| connect

WHAT IS TAKE THE LEAD? Take the Lead honors the community’s most distinguished

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women, whose leadership and achievements have made the world a better place. Girl Scouts of all ages produce this unique leadership awards program from start to finish—developing public speaking, networking, and presentation skills—as they serve as masters of ceremonies, award presenters, and hosts for the event. Many participating girls cite this experience as a true highlight of their Girl Scout career, as they are able to forge long-lasting mentorships with honorees and connect directly with their community.

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BE A LEADER Apply using the Online Registration System to be an Emcee, Presenter, Color Guard, Host, or a member of the Take the Lead Chorus.

TAKE THE LEAD 2016

EVENT DATES

& VENUES GREATER PHILADELPHIA* Tuesday, March 8, 2016

GIRL LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: EMCEE Narrator of the event PRESENTER Conducts honoree interview and presents award at event HOST Greeters, raffle sales, and ushers, Color Guard (flag ceremony) CHORUS Sing opening & closing songs (Troop Leaders encouraged to sign up entire troops)

BERKS COUNTY Tuesday, April 12, 2016

LEHIGH VALLEY Tuesday, April 26, 2016

*Includes Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties.

mark your calendar For more information on how you can participate in Take the Lead 2016, please visit gsep.org or call 215.564.2030, ext.1070. gsep.org • spark • fall 2015/winter 2016

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confidence character courage confide acter courage confidence character co character courage confidence GIRL SCOUT HIGHEST AWARDSconfidenc ter courage confidence character cou The Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards are your opportunity to courage confidence fidence character Take Action to make the world a better place and leave a lasting impact in your community! character courage courage confidence The Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards—the highest honor that character courage confidence charact a Girl Scout can earn—recognize girls who demonstrate leadership by carrying out projects that meet character con age confidence extraordinary a need in the community. Girl Scouts ofcourage Eastern Pennsylvania is proud to highlight some of the awe-inspiring Bronze, Silver, confidence character character courage and Gold Award projects carried out by Girl Scouts who are making a real difference throughout our Council. confidence character courage confide award recipients courage confidence character co acter 2014-2015 confidence character courage confidenc SILVER AWARDS BRONZE AWARDS GRADES 6–8 GIRLS GRADES 4–5 confidenceGIRLScharacter cou ter courage character courage fidence 149 GIRL SCOUTconfidence CADETTES MORE THAN THE SILVER AWARD character courage courage 1,573confidence EARNED THAN 7,450HOURS GIRL SCOUT courage MORE character confidence charact TOWARDS THEIR COMMUNITY confidence character courage con age JUNIORS EARNED THE BRONZE AWARD GOLD AWARDS CONTRIBUTING character courage confidence GIRLS GRADES 9-12 character MORE THAN confidence character GIRL courage SCOUT SENIORSconfide & 31,460 AMBASSADORS character co acter courage confidence EARNED THE GOLD AWARD HOURS character courage confidenc confidenceTOWARDS THEIR MORE THAN 6,308HOURS TOWARDS THEIR COMMUNITY COMMUNITY confidence character cou ter courage fidence character courage confidence courage confidence character courage CHANGING THE WORLD, ONE GIRL AT A TIME

CONTRIBUTING

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CONTRIBUTING

H I GH EST AWARD S : B RONZ E

BY SA RA H R., JU

| take action

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LIE TT E

what is the bronze award?

A leadership adventure to the highest honor a Girl Scout Junior can achieve! As you and your team plan and complete your Take Action project, you’ll develop more confidence, meet new people, and have the kind of fun that happens when you work with other Girl Scouts to make a difference.

boldly go for bronze!

Geoaching was the focus of my Bronze Award Take Action project!

Using my leadership skills, I taught members of the community how to use a GPS to find coordinates and locate a geocache. To share my expertise, I connected with the local municipal office, local hikers, geocaching enthusiasts, and local children in my community. I have hid five geocaches and am working on my sixth now! The geocaches have been found over 300 times so far!

Some geocaches placed along the trail by other people were in disrepair or damaged, so I helped to clean

up and fix them. People became interested in geocaching because of my Bronze Award project, and they developed a healthy new hobby to enjoy with their friends and family.

I love being able to provide a fun, free outdoor activity that gets people active!

I hope this inspires other to clean up and help maintain the trails in our area.

need more information?

Visit gsep.org or email us at bronzeaward@gsep.org for more information on Bronze Award requirements.

1 2

3 4 5 6

Complete a Junior Journey.

Build your team. Work with your troop, a small group, or go solo.

Explore your community and identify a need.

Choose your Bronze Award project. A minimum of 20 hours is required.

Put your project into action!

Reflect, share your story, and celebrate!

The Bronze Award is now leaderapproved! Visit gsep.org under “What Girls Do – Awards” for more information.

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what is the silver award?

The Girl Scout Silver Award is the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette can earn. It gives you the chance to show that you are a leader who is organized, determined, and dedicated to improving your community.

strive for silver!

1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8

Complete a Cadette Journey.

Identify issues that you care about.

Build your team.

Explore your community.

Choose your Silver Award project.

Develop your project plan and submit it to the council for feedback.

Make a plan and put it in motion.

Reflect, share your story, and celebrate.

The deadline for current 8th graders to submit a Silver Award proposal is May 1, 2016. The final report is due September 30, 2016.

BY CAIT LIN W., TRO OP 9348 3

Have you ever wanted to do something that would make a difference? For my Silver Award, I aspired to do something that would benefit young girls in my area. So, I created a program for 40 girls at the Lawncrest Branch Library in Philadelphia to provide a safe place for girls to share their thoughts and have fun while being educated on important issues.

My program, “Girl Power,” focused on various themes which included: selfesteem, respect, love your planet, antibullying, problem solving, cooperation, friendship, and confidence. During each of the eight sessions, I led the girls in an icebreaker activity, a team building activity, and a hands-on activity relating to the week’s topic.

One of my favorite activities was signing anti-bullying contracts where we all made the pact to “stand up, and speak out” against bullying and to “make the world a better place.”

My goal for the project was to positively influence girls in my community by demonstrating and encouraging necessary life skills, so that they may go on to use them in the future for the improvement of our society. Girls in the program expressed an excitement to teach their friends the skills and activities they learned through the program. I feel I accomplished my goal and hope to see the positive effects in the community.

I am really glad that I planned a program to empower girls, as it makes me feel so good when I see young girls eager to be the best they can be. Not only did I have the opportunity to teach such wonderful girls, but it was also a fantastic learning experience for me. In the words of Arnold Schwarzenegger, “Help others and give something back.

I guarantee you will discover that while public service improves the lives and the world around you, its greatest reward is the enrichment and new meaning it will bring your own life.”

H I GH EST AWARD S : SI LVER

| take action

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BY NATALI E D., TROOP 2733

My Silver Award project involved designing and building 12 step stools for God’s Littlest Angels (GLA) in Haiti. My cousin, Nadege, was adopted from this orphanage when she was four years old. I knew the staff there care for many children waiting for a forever home, and I wanted to help make that easier.

One challenge we encountered was creating a design for our two-step stools, because the stool needed to be sturdy without being too heavy to lift or too difficult to build. I researched designs on line, and found a basic twostep stool. My dad, an engineer, had given me good advice to follow: Keep it simple!

To ensure the job is done precisely, it helps to respond with contructive criticism and positive feedback.

Together, we reached the goal of making twelve step stools, six single step stools and six double step stools.

The stools were packaged and shipped to GLA’s Colorado office before being sent on to Haiti. Now the toddlers will be able to reach the sinks, freeing the nannies’ arms for smaller children.

Every child who enters the orphanage will be able to use these stools to become a little more independent.

Working with my team helped me to grow as a leader. I learned to give detailed instructions and a concrete example of what you want accomplished. To ensure the job is done precisely, it also helps to respond with constructive criticism and positive feedback. We learned construction and tool use, and had fun colorfully decorating the stools.

need more information?

Email us at girlawards@gsep.org for more information on Silver Award requirements.

Visit gsep.org to register for an optional information session. gsep.org • spark • fall 2015/winter 2016

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take action | HIG HEST AWARDS : GOLD

BY ALEXA I., TROOP 635

Crimes Unit, a Chief Deputy District Attorney, a Judge in the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas, a psychologist who treats both the victims and perpetrators of these crimes, and the Vice President and COO of the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). In addition to interviewing these professionals, I conducted research so that I could present my documentary in the most factual way possible.

Growing up, my father, a former Pennsylvania State Trooper, taught me about the dangers of the internet, and he made me aware of the magnitude of the issue of child pornography.

Unfortunately, not many people understand the scope and depth of child pornography because the issue is so new. That lack of awareness in our society causes widespread misconceptions. So for my Gold Award project, I decided to create a documentary on child pornography featuring members of the law enforcement and other experts who address the issue with their careers.

I interviewed five professionals to create my documentary— a PA State Police Trooper from the Cyber

After my editing crew was on board, I conducted and filmed the five interviews with my professionals. I carefully formulated questions that would elicit information from each professional that would best highlight their experiences with the issue of child pornography. Once the filming was finished, I recruited the girls in my Girl Scout troop to help me with the simple yet tedious process of transcribing each of the interview videos. This step was crucial for me to decide which pieces of my interviews would make it into the final documentary. Devon and Miss Julia helped me to cut and splice all of those pieces together to create my final project!

and figures discovered in my research about the issue of child pornography. I wanted to use the powerful tool of my documentary to spread awareness and to educate others, especially college criminal justice students, who will likely encounter criminal cases regarding child pornography. I presented this information five times through my Gold Award process: to Social Work students at Marywood University, to Criminal Justice students at DeSales and Drexel Universities, to the Bar Association of Lehigh Valley for their Continuing Legal Education Credits, and to the Southeast PA Cyber Crimes Taskforce, which encompasses various law enforcement members from 10 counties including the US Department of Homeland Security.

Once I completed the video documentary, I created a complimentary PowerPoint to the video, which presented facts

need more information?

Email us at mygoldaward@gsep.org for more information on Gold Award requirements.

Visit gsep.org to register for an optional information session.

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I did not fully understand the impact my work would make until I saw it on the faces of the people that I touched through my Gold Award project. Each of my audiences completed evaluation forms, and one hundred percent responded that they learned something new from my presentation. Especially surprising was the discovery that the various members of law enforcement were very receptive to the information that I presented. I was thrilled to know that I could even teach them something new about a field in which they are already working! When I presented my documentary to my audiences, I knew that I was placing this critical information into the right hands.

My Girl Scout Gold Award has taught me the importance of keeping the end goal in sight. Although it was sometimes difficult for me to visualize my end goal, it was so rewarding once I got there. Plus, this experience has prepared me for the type of issues that I will take on in my college research. In the fall, I will begin my education at American University in Washington, DC studying International Relations and Political Science. I know that I will take the lessons and skills that I cultivated through my Gold Award project and apply them to my future endeavors of making the world a better place!

Requirements to complete before starting the Gold Award:

what is the gold award?

The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest achievement in Girl Scouting. It recognizes girls in grades 9–12 who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through remarkable Take Action projects that have sustainable impact in their communities and beyond.

Since 1916, girls have successfully answered the call to “Go Gold!,” an action that indelibly marks them as accomplished members of not only their communities but the world.

go for the gold!

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2 3 4 5 6

AMBASSADOR JOURNEY

OR

SENIOR JOURNEY

OR

7 GIRL SCOUT SILVER AWARD

SENIOR OR AMBASSADOR JOURNEY

hoose an issue: Use your values and C skills to identify a community issue you care about.

I nvestigate: Research everything you can about the issue.

Get Help: Invite others to support and take action with you. reate a Plan: Create a project C plan that achieves sustainable and measurable impact.

Present Your Plan & Get Feedback: Sum up your project plan for your Girl Scout Council.

Take Action: Take the lead to carry out your plan.

Educate & Inspire: Share what you have experienced with others.

The deadline for current 12th graders to submit a Gold Award proposal is May 1, 2016. The final report is due two weeks before starting college courses or by September 15, 2016.

WHERE BEING A GIRL SCOUT MEANS BECOMING A LEADER GIRL SCOUT PROGRAMS AT FROST VALLEY YMCA When a girl becomes a Girl Scout she embarks on a journey that is a commitment to herself, her community, her world, and her fellow Girl Scouts—her sisters. Here at Frost Valley YMCA, we want to help your troop pave the way for a multi-faceted journey rich with leadership, personal growth, and the formation of strong, lifelong bonds. Our eight core values—Caring, Community, Diversity, Honesty, Inclusiveness, Respect, Responsibility, and Stewardship—are the foundation of the comprehensive programming we offer Girl Scout troops so they may continue to build girls of courage, confidence, and character.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR WITH OUR UPCOMING SCOUT WEEKENDS: September 11-13, 2015 September 25-27,2015 October 23-25, 2015 November 6-8, 2015 December 4-6, 2015 December 18-20, 2015 January 8-10,2016 January 29-31, 2016

February 5-7, 2016 February 19-21,2016 February 26-28, 2016 March 11-13, 2016 March 18-20, 2016 April 1-3, 2016 April 8-10, 2016

April 15-17, 2016 April 22-24, 2016 April 29-May 1, 2016 May 6-8, 2016 May 13-15, 2016 May 20-22, 2016 June 10-12, 2016

BOOK YOUR TROOP TODAY! EMAIL: info@frostvalley.org CALL: 845-985-2291 VISIT: frostvalley.org

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take action | SC HOL ARSHIPS

COUNCIL AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIPS Registered Girl Scouts in grades 9–12 are eligible to apply for 15 council scholarships and awards.

Scholarship applications are posted on gsep.org.

Some of the awards are scholarships for continuing education, while others are awarded for recognition of contributions to the community.

Each award has different criteria, requirements, and applications.

This application process is open to all members who meet the criteria of the awards that are offered. Please note the timeline below to participate in the process.

Award Highlight GSEP can nominate approximately 16 high school juniors for the Union League of Philadelphia Good Citizenship Award. Girls recognized with this award attend an all-day Youth Citizen Day in the spring at the Union League’s headquarters building in Philadelphia and are eligible to apply for a $28,000 scholarship during their senior year of high school.

JANUARY 15, 2016 Applications must be received at one of the GSEP Service Centers or girlawards@gsep.org.

MARCH 2016 Notification letters sent to applicants SPRING 2016 Achievement Ceremony

questions?

Contact Joan Hannahoe at 610.933.7555, ext. 1509.

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UTS

GIRL SCO

Grades 9–12

Scholarship applications can be found at gsep.org under ‘What Girls Can Do > Scholarships.’

On the same page you can find “A Scholarship and Award Guide,” which provides a list of colleges that provide scholarships to girls who earned the Girl Scout Gold Award, as well as other state and national scholarship and award information. Scholarship applications can be sent to girlawards@gsep.org.

Sarah R. and Alexandra A. at the 2015 Achievement Ceremony.

I N YOU R C OMMU NI T Y

MLK Day of Service Join thousands of Girl Scouts across our council on Monday, January 18, 2016 to celebrate the 20th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service.

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PLAN A DAY OF SERVICE Consider the needs of both your community and GSEP.

Choose a project.

Start planning your project and determining details, such as: Every year, Girl Scouts like you strengthen their communities and help create solutions through service.

Whether you volunteer at a local food bank, spend quality time doing crafts with the elderly, or collect and sort books for your school library, you can make a difference. You can partner with schools, civic organizations, communities of faith, local businesses, and many other groups that could use your help.

No project is too small! GSEP keeps track of the number of service hours completed council-wide. Register your project early and receive a t-shirt from the Global Citizen for the Greater Philadelphia Martin Luther King Day of Service!

More information and registration details are available at gsep.org under ‘What Girls Do>Leadership and Service.’

share your project stories and photos ell us about your Day of Service! Send your MLK Day T photos and stories to girlprogram@gsep.org.

WHERE? Decide where you will carry out your project.

WHAT? Determine what kind of tasks are involved.

WHO? Choose the number of volunteers you will need to complete the project.

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take action | IN YOUR COMMUNIT Y

service opportunities for girl scout cadettes, seniors, and ambassadors

Community Service Bars When you earn a Community Service Bar, you’re making a difference in your community—and practicing values of the Girl Scout Law. It’s also a great way to get involved with a cause that’s important to you!

Choose one organization where you would like to volunteer OR choose to help Girl Scouts.

Get GSEP approval, then start serving!

Tell us what you did!

Service to Girl Scouting Bar If you choose to volunteer at least 20 hours to the Girl Scouts organization, you can receive a Service to Girl Scouting Bar. WAYS TO

SERVE

Volunteer your time at troop meetings for younger girls.

Volunteer at a special event for younger girls.

Be an office assistant for your service unit or council.

Help with special projects.

20 HOURS

check it out online Applications for both Service Bars can be found on our website under ‘For Girls > Leadership & Service Opportunities.’ Send your completed application to girlawards@gsep.org.

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Volunteer-In-Training (VIT) Are you a Senior or Ambassador who can’t wait to lead a troop? Become a Volunteer-In-Training and learn what it takes to be a leader and build girls of courage, confidence, and character!

Find a mentor who is the current adult volunteer for a troop of Daisies, Brownies, Juniors, or Cadettes.

Complete a Step 3: Grade Level Essentials Leader Training.

Create and implement a thoughtful program based on a Journey or badge that lasts over four or more sessions.

Tell us what you did and receive your VIT pin!

For questions about VIT, please contact vlaird@gsep.org.

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take action | SUPPORT GSEP

Support the GSEP Giving Tree and Circle of Friends!

To join the GSEP Giving Tree and Circle of Friends or for more information please contact annualfund@gsep.org

Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania (GSEP) continues to be a catalyst for girls to Discover what is important to them, provide them with opportunities to Connect with their communities, build lifelong friendships, and empower girls all across the region to Take Action to make the world a better place.

By supporting the GSEP Giving Tree or becoming a Circle of Friends Member you are making an investment in future world leaders; so your support means the world to us!

Join our community’s most trusted & influential leaders. GSEP Circle of Friends and Giving Tree Members are passionate about providing the resources to financially assist girls in need, recruit and train qualified leaders and volunteers, maintain camp properties for outdoor programming, and provide affordable programs that help more girls discover the keys to leadership.

Make a gift to the GSEP Giving Tree Annual Fund or Circle of Friends today!

YOU have the power to change a girl’s life!

make the girls in your community a priority today!

To make a donation to the GSEP Giving Tree Annual Fund, visit gsep.org.

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FPO - CRW

Nonprofit U.S. Postage

PAID

Phila., PA Permit No. 1607

330 Manor Road Miquon, PA 19444 gsep.org

Go nuts this fall! Participate in the Nuts About Reading product sale.

Check it out at gsep.org/nuts-about-reading

FPO

Š Copyright Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania, 2015. All rights reserved. May be reproduced only with permission.

 C ountry music artist Cheryl LuQuire and Girl Scouts from Service Unit 631 on stage at #GirlPOP2015.