GIRL SCOUTS
Alex Katz (American, born 1927), Ada, Late Summer (detail) , 1994, Oil on canvas
GIRL SCOUTS
News & Program Information from Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast
Board Chair
Carolyn Pittman
Vice Chair
Lu Ann Klevecz
Treasurer
Luis Estrada
Secretary
Cheran Ivery
Members at Large:
Dawn Brotherton
Dr. Leonard Brown, Jr.
Dr. Vera Combs Cambell
Amy Coyne
Amanda Howie
Dr. Sharon Jones
Sarah Linden-Brooks
Colleen Mollison
Laura Morgan
Christy Murphy
Kyle Price
Chief Executive Officer
Tracy Keller
Dr. Laura Sass, MD
Carletta Waddler
Dr. Michelle Woodhouse
Delegate Board Members
Leslie Atkins
Eileen Livick Girl Members
Jade Hawkins Lillian Johnson
Alexis “Lisa” Vann
Girl Scouts Julianne and Hannah Van Auken are members of Troop 94 in Virginia Beach, a troop of homeschooled members. They recently visited The Outback and explored the Fitness Trail!
Julianne, who also participates as a GSCCC Media Girl Scout, took time this summer to talk about her love for the outdoors and Girl Scouting on WAVY-TV’s Hampton Roads Show. She did a great job sharing how to make a s’mores using a pizza box solar oven!
If you’re a Girl Scout Cadette, Senior or Ambassador and would like to get involved as a Media Girl Scout, email marcomm@gsccc.org
Keeping up with all the goings-on at Girl Scouts doesn’t have to be a chore or a scavenger hunt. If you are opted in to communications from GSUSA as well as GSCCC, you’ll always be in the know and ready to go! If you’re not sure whether you’re receiving emails, walk through these 5 easy steps to double-check or make adjustments to your preferences.
If you go through these steps, opt in to email, and still do not receive any communications from GSUSA and GSCCC, please reach out to us at customercare@gsccc.org.
Tracy Keller Chief Executive Officer
A new Girl Scout year is always an exciting time, full of optimism and possibilities with sparks of positivity. Here at GSCCC we’re full of optimism for the future of the youth we serve and for our Movement. We will be celebrating 113 years of Girl Scouting in 2025 and as always, there’s a place for everyone in Girl Scouts. No matter what your interests are, you’ll find them — and opportunities to build new interests — in Girl Scouting.
This year, our new campaign, That’s Me!, will help us connect and reconnect with friends as we tell stories of how our members have found their place in Girl Scouts. Some would say they have found their tribe in Girl Scouts; people with similar values who share a desire for girl empowerment.
Science tells us that this sense of having “a tribe” is one of the most important aspects of a happy life. For example, one study found that closeness to one’s community was a strong predictor of personal happiness. Other studies have found that loneliness is as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day and is worse for your health than obesity. On the other hand, a sense of belonging reduces risk for depression, dementia, heart disease and early death. Plus, feeling understood and validated just feels good!
Girl Scouting creates an environment that encourages girls to develop close-knit bonds with each other. The troop system connects girls who may be different ages, attend different schools, live in different neighborhoods, or have different hobbies under one roof where they can get to know others and learn more about themselves, too. Teamwork, collaboration, and cooperation with close friends allows girls to grow with one another while boosting each other up.
When we give a friendship bracelet to a new Girl Scout at a Discover Girl Scouts event, we are not just saying “greetings to you,” but also “I see you, and value your presence.” That new member immediately feels a sense of community and belonging, united with others around the common experience we call Girl Scouting.
The experience of being human brings with it the need to be seen, understood, and validated by others; and to have a community, a tribe of like-minded people. This is Girl Scouts. We are so looking forward to being with you this year and sharing amazing Girl Scout experiences that form new memories and lasting relationships!
Sincerely,
Tracy Keller Chief Executive Officer, GSCCC
Seeking Adventure....That’s Me!
It was a trip to remember for GSCCC Girl Scout teens Yasmeen Fann, Maureen Keller, and Elgin Raymond who joined other Girl Scouts from several other councils to travel to Italy in July as part of the Bell”Italia Destination. The vibrant culture came alive as they visited the Basilica of St. Francis, the Sistine Chapel, the Roman Forum and the Pompeii Roman Ruins, along with other stops. Interested in learning about Girl Scout Destinations? Visit the Destination page for details at www.girlscouts.org.
“Every Girl Scout deserves a chance to see the world and gain all of the incredible skills that travel can cultivate. I have loved every minute of my travels with Girl Scouts, especially being able to chaperone on the recent Italy excursion. Like everything in the Girl Scout program, travel is a progression – while a Daisy troop may not be ready for a two-week trek across Patagonia, an Ambassador troop that has successfully planned and executed trips throughout their Girl Scout experience could totally pull it off. We offer many different travel opportunities so Girl Scout can see new places, meet new people, and learn about different cultures and ideas.”
GSCCC Board Chair Carolyn Pittman
When moving up to the next step, consider each Girl Scout’s independence, ability to work well in groups, flexibility, and experience with cultures other than their own.
Yasmeen Fann, Carolyn Pittman, Maureen Keller and Elgin Raymond
Girl Scouts in Action! Leader
Care Packages for the USO
That’s Me!
A salute to Navy Captain Terra Gray who helps lead Girl Scout Troop 948 in Chesapeake. From earning GSCCC’s Explore Navy patch and visiting military bases to collecting donations for Care Packages for the USO service project, Terra has helped the Girl Scouts connect with the military. When asked about how Girl Scouting fits into her values and family needs, she said, “Every parent wants to watch their daughter grow into a strong, confident, and courageous woman.” Read the GSCCC blog article spotlighting Terra!
Girl Scout Daisies from Troop 1445 participated in Care Packages for the USO, a 2024 Council service project. They spent January and February collecting donations from family and friends and at their school, Walsingham Academy.
Girl Scout Daisy Troop 1445
Explore Our Military Patches
For more than 100 years, Girl Scouts has recognized the need to support and partner with the military community. No matter where a girl goes — no matter where YOU go — Girl Scouts is there.
The Military Explore Patch Program series was created to provide girls at any level a variety of activities and experiences that will help them learn about our military branches. We are proud to offer 5 explore patches for each branch of the United States military.
Girl Scouts Ride on the Nato Float
Many thanks to Girl Scout Troops 007, 310,816, 916, and 5114 for participating in the 75th anniversary of the NATO Parade. They represented North Macedonia and Luxembourg. In addition to creating floats, they also hosted three tents with exhibits. Norfolk is the National Headquarters for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization that was formed 75 years ago. Troop 310 has represented Luxembourg’s float for the past 12 years and the festival tent for 10 years. A special thank you to Girl Scout volunteer Mara Bates who makes this all happen each year!
Operation Comfort
Girl Scouts from Troop 499
Girl Scouts from Troop 499 in Chesapeake learned about the power of one, the power of team, and the power of community. They learned about animal emergency needs before taking action.
The girls made kennel mats, snuffle mats, and cat toys, along with how-to instruction sheets for each project. They also made digital and print posters that included pet adoption information.
Helping the Hungry
Girl Scouts from Troop 117 assisted in packing meals for Rise Against Hunger, a program hosted at Monumental Methodist Church. They helped pack 10,000 meals for those who are food insecure, including meals shipped to families in Uganda!
Girl Scout Daisy Olivia Lawrence
Troop Visits Suffolk Fire Department
Helper Friend That’s Me!
Girl Scouts from Troop 946 enjoyed a tour of Suffolk Fire Department Headquarters (Fire Station #6) to complete steps towards earning First Aid badges. Firefighters showed the troop their way around a fire engine, a ladder truck, how to don firefighting turnout gear, as well as where they eat, sleep, and work out between calls. They also learned about first aid on calls and toured the station’s museum.
Girl Scout Cadette Earns Her Silver with a Buddy Bench
Among the many things Girl Scouting promotes, respecting oneself and others are key to Girl Scout Cadette Gidget Schlossberg. For her Girl Scout Silver Award, she created a buddy bench for the Beach Manor Preschool, securing the bench from NexTrex Program, a company that recycles plastic. Gidget led the school in collecting 1,000 pounds of plastic film items in a year’s period! She also donated a children’s book to explain the use of a buddy bench to the school for teacher use. “A Buddy Bench is a non-verbal way for children to express needing a friend,” Gidget said when describing her project. “By sitting on the bench, it shows other kids that they need a friend to play with. Having something like this around for kids to use is really important. Hopefully, when other kids see someone sitting on the bench they will walk over and ask them to play.”
Girl Scout Brownies from Troop 1014 in Virginia Beach were invited by Providence Presbyterian Church to lead the community in the Pledge of Allegiance and sang the Star Spangled Banner during the Patriotic Spring Festival.
WHRO Event at MOCA Troop 1014 Patriotic Community Outreach
Girl Scouts were showcased as environmental advocates during WHRO’s local premiere viewings of the documentary, “Against the Current.” The documentary covers local effects of rising waters on daily lives of people living on the eastern shore and the impact on livelihoods. The premieres were offered at three locations: Williamsburg Library, Elizabeth River Ryan’s Lab and MOCA.
The Girl Scouts’ NEW Mental Wellness Patch Program provides tips and free activities to assist girls on their mental wellness journey! http://www.gsccc.org/family#mentalhealth Mental Wellness Matters
An all-day Journey event hosted by Gold Award Girl Scout alum
Wendy Scott was held at Virginia Wesleyan University. Girl Scouts took part in experiences that guided them on discovering their relationship to nature and how they can protect the environment. As an activity, they created butterflies that included images of how they personally connect with nature.
Members of Troop 81 in Portsmouth did activities throughout the year to learn about the environment and actions they can take to protect our Earth. They attended Defenders of the Sea, an event held at iFly in Virginia Beach and connected with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s work. In teams, they worked together to create action plans for projects about keeping plastics out of the sea. As part of the event, they did beach clean ups. They also attended an Earth Day celebration at Mt. Trashmore.
Explorer That’s Me! Adventurer
Girl Scouts from Troop 356 used cookie proceeds to explore Washington, D.C. They rode the Amtrak from Norfolk to Union Station, then they set off on their adventure that included visits to the White House, monuments, Natural History Museum, the Spy Museum, the Wharf and the National Mall. It was a fun and memorable experience for all!
Girl Scouts Shine at Harbor Park
GSCCC held another fun night out with the Tides at Harbor Park this year. Girl Scout Junior Sophia Hart, who holds the title for the 2024 Top Cookie Entrepreneur, selling 6,602 boxes of Girl Scout Cookies, was invited to throw the first pitch. Talented Girl Scout
Senior Bella Waite did an outstanding job singing the National Anthem — making time for some antics with baseball club mascots! Be sure to register for our 2025 Night With The Tides!
Busch Gardens Sleepover
For a second year, Girl Scouts were able to do a sleepover at Busch Gardens. Nearly 200 Girl Scouts and adult volunteers explored the park and enjoyed private Girl Scout time in the Das Festhaus Dining Hall after hours. The night ended with popcorn and a movie before lights out.
Keep watch for another Busch Gardens sleepover in the spring of 2025!
Troop Trip
Girl Scout Brownie Deborah Wright from Troop 740
Troop 81 – Environmental Advocates
Girl Scouts from Troop 81
It’s Your Planet Love It! Journey
Girl Scouts from Troop 81 celebrated Earth Day at Mt. Trashmore
2024 Fall Product Program!
2024 Fall Product FAQs!
Can my Girl Scout participate by selling online?
During the Fall Product Program, Girl Scouts participate in selling nuts, candies and magazines, all of which go a long way to help with troop start-up funds.
Yes, visit www.gsnutsandmags.com/gscolonialcoast to get started.
My Girl Scout is not in a troop, can she still participate?
Yes, contact customercare@gsccc.org to be put in touch with your service unit fall product coordinator who can get you started.
Important Fall Product Program Dates:
Program Begins ................................... September 13
In-person Orders End October 5
Online Girl Delivered Orders End ...... October 7
Program Ends November 10
Visit the Fall Product page www.gsccc.org/fall for more information.
Top 10 Cookie Entrepreneurs traveled to Kitty Hawk Kites in North Carolina for a kite clinic where they got to design their very own kites. Afterwards, the group heard from Billy Vaughn at the Kitty Hawk hang gliding school. They finished the day with a trip to the North Carolina Aquarium!
Cheddar Carmel Crunch
Garden Friends Holiday Tin
Girl Scouts Tin
Dill Pickle Peanuts
L to R: Girl Scouts Sceva Jenkins, Sophia Hart, Alexa Richardson, Kylie Bohrer, Elgin Raymond and Amiyah Snagg
Three versions of the Barkbox this year
New First Aid Badges!
If there was an emergency in your home or at a troop meeting or activity, would you know what to do? While it is best to prevent them from happening whenever possible, you should always be prepared and know how to respond — and respond swiftly!
As our motto says, Be Prepared! Girl Scouts have always been known as those who help others. Some have saved lives and been recognized by the Girl Scout Lifesaving Award. While taking a First Aid and CPR course and being certified is recommended for all volunteers, there are some basic steps you can take to prepare yourself and the Girl Scouts you lead.
“Being prepared was one of the first things I learned as a Girl Scout,” Marsh Riibner-Cady said, the owner of Cady CPR Solutions and a certified trainer of First Aid and CPR. “We learned basic first aid, but in my troop we also learned how to use a compass and what to do if we became lost in the woods.”
Marsha offers First Aid and CPR courses throughout our Council area. In her class, she offers hands-on trainings and tips to use each day, like knowing where the exits are at your school/workplace and where the AED is located. She also recommends that troops be prepared with a first-aid kit. “You don’t need to purchase an elaborate kit,” she said. “Have your troop create one using a lunch box or other secured container. Label everything in the kit, so that everyone who uses it will know exactly what it is and the use for the item. Remember that any situation requiring more than basic troop first aid, requires a call to 9-1-1 or refer to the designated event first-aid station.” Consider adding first-aid training and practice sessions into your Girl Scout year!
Girl Scouts of the USA recently updated all First Aid badges!
Troop Game
Choose one team to be the people in trouble and another team to be Girl Scouts ready to help. The leader calls out accidents. “Flames in the house!” or “This person feels faint.” Then, teams respond accordingly.
Change sides for each new situation. You can also set up game stations in a room where Girl Scouts visit each station and address an issue.
Saturday, October 19
Run to Girl Scout Fest!
Northwest River Park, 1733 Indian Creek Road, Chesapeake
Noon-4 p.m.; Cost: $12 plus $7 T-shirt (optional) Rain Date: is next day or following weekend. Lapsed members and members must renew online by October 1.
Overnight option: $35-$40 per group of 3 (this will be reserved directly through the Parks & Rec website)
• Biking
• Canoeing
• Kayaking
• Horseshoes
• Activity Tables
• Nature Walks
• Putt Putt Golf
• Healthy Cooking ideas
Bring a picnic lunch; carpooling is recommended. See you soon!
Park information:
Located on the banks of the Northwest River in Southeastern Chesapeake, this 763-acre park is the perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Year-round boating, fishing, hiking, and other programs are just the beginning. There’s an 18-hole disc golf course, miniature golf course, horseshoes, volleyball nets, and so much more.
GSUSA Activity Zone
Participate in online events in real time or watch past events on demand offered by GSUSA.
Explore activities that feature stepby-step videos hosted by real Girl Scout volunteers and troop leaders on GSUSA’s Activity Zone!
Check these outMake a Bug House, Knots to Know, Create a Happy Place, and lots more!
GSCCC also has virtual events! Most can be started and finished at any time! Check these out –
• Financial Literacy
• Think Like A Programmer
• Photography Badge
• Entrepreneur’s Food Truck Design
September 15, 5-6 p.m.
Location: Online (Zoom); Level: Juniors
Cost: $25; Register by: 9/14
Girl Scout Juniors are invited to design their own food truck! Learn design concepts to sketch a food truck and use color to make your image come alive!
Register on our Events page for Badge-ina-Box programs! Each kit comes with directions and materials needed to earn a badge for your Girl Scout level. Kits are $15 each and may be picked up from APFG, or can be mailed for an additional $10/kit. (Kits include all badges)
• Entrepreneurship
• Robotics Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Automotive Engineering
• Think Like A Programmer Journey
• Think Like A Citizen Scientist Journey
• Think Like An Engineer Journey
• All Art Creator Badge Kits
Program Events ~ September 2024-September 2025
It’s Your Story, Tell It!
September 21; 9:30 a.m.-Noon D/B/J
1-4 p.m. C/S/A
Location: Virginia Wesleyan University
Cost: $30; Register by: 9/3
This Journey series gives girls the opportunity to tell their stories through a range of creative approaches. It’s designed to strengthen a Girl Scout’s sense of self and boost her capacity to seek and meet challenges in the world.
Meet and Greet with the Drone Club
September 22; 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Levels: C/S/A; Location: APFG; Cost: Free Register by: 9/11
Help us get this new club off the ground! Be part of the first-ever Drone Club at GSCCC. From learning to fly them to investigating related careers, together we will explore the full range of fun and innovative machines known as drones.
Meet and Greet with the Star Club
September 22; 2-3 p.m.; Levels: C/S/A
Location: APFG; Cost: Free; Register by: 9/11
The GSCCC Star Club is searching for new members! Are you interested in the stars, constellations, and all things outer space? Join us for a fun ice cream social and learn about the kinds of activities we do.
Meet Daisy the SmartFlower
October 5; 10 a.m.-Noon; Levels: D/B
Location: APFG; Cost $5; Register by: 9/18
Come meet Daisy, our SmartFlower, and learn the basics of solar energy, how sunlight can be converted into electricity, and all about other sustainable energy sources.
Mental Health Matters
October 6; 10 a.m.-Noon; Levels: J/C/S/A
Location: Sadler Center, William and Mary, Williamsburg
Cost: $15; Register by: 9/18
The Alpha Pi Chapter of Kappa Delta, working with the GSUSA Mental Wellness patch program, will provide tips and activities to assist Girl Scouts on their mental wellness journey.
TheNatureBus.com
757-288-9595
Nature Bus offers discounted programs for Girl Scouts!
Design one of your own based on a Girl Scout badge or book one that is already planned.
The bus seats 16 people. Fun local trips to explore nature with guides!
Email info@TheNatureBus.com
Owner and educator Susanne Moss
Explore Southampton County October 12; 10-11:30 a.m. D/B/J
10 a.m.-2 p.m. C/S/A
Location: Main Street Courthouse, Courtland, VA. Parking lot across the street beside Mahone’s Tavern; Cost: $5
Register by: 9/24
Kick off our new Exploration series and earn a fun patch! We will enjoy a historic walking tour of Southampton County, Virginia and complete patch requirements along the way.
Learn the Basics of an Aerialist
October 13; 10-11:30 a.m. Cadettes Noon-1:30 p.m. S/A
Location: Railroad Aerial Arts
Cost: $50; Register by: 10/4
Try out new poses and movements with the hoop and slings in this introductory session. Together we’ll get in the air, be creative and get some exercise.
Girl Scout Fest: Celebrating Wellness
Outdoors - A Tribute to Juliette Gordon Low’s Birthday
October 19; Noon-4 p.m. Levels: All
Location: Northwest River Park, Chesapeake
Cost: $12 plus $7 T-shirt (optional)
Register by: 9/18
Join us for a day filled with activities promoting well-being and joy in the great outdoors. From yoga sessions and nature walks to healthy cooking ideas and meditation workshops, there will be plenty for everyone to enjoy!
Uncle Wiggily and the Haunted Woods October 26; 2-3 p.m.; Levels: All
Location: Zeiders American Dream Theater, VA Beach; Cost: $15; Register by: 10/20
Presented by the Children’s Theatre of Hampton Roads. Something spooky is going on in the woods and it’s up to Uncle Wiggily and his forest friends to get to the bottom of it! Girl Scouts can enjoy a Q&A session with the performers and a reception following the show.
Learn the Basics of an Aerialist October 27; 10-11:30 a.m. Cadettes Noon-1:30 p.m. S/A
Location: Railroad Aerial Arts, Norfolk Cost: $50; Register by: 10/18
Try out new poses and movements with the hoop and slings in this introductory session. Together we’ll get in the air, be creative and get some exercise.
The Case of Missing Mr. Teddy November 2; 10-11:30 a.m.; Location: APFG Levels: D/B/J; Cost: $12; Register by: 10/16 GSCCC in partnership with the Chesapeake Police Department present a whodunit mystery! Document the scene, process shoe prints, and analyze evidence to help solve the case.
The Case of the Purloined Pearls November 2; 1-3 p.m.; Location: APFG Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $15; Register by: 10/16 GSCCC in partnership with the Chesapeake Police Department present a whodunit mystery! Document the scene, process fingerprints, and analyze trace evidence to help solve the case.
Holiday Glass Ornaments
November 3; 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Location: Happy Hours Glass Works, Suffolk; Levels: D/B/J; Cost: $30; Register by: 10/25
Calling all aspiring artists! Learn how to use frit and resin to create your masterpiece on a glass ornament. Have fun making a unique holiday treasure that you can keep or give to someone special.
International Girls’ Day Out November 9; 10 a.m.-Noon Location: College of William and Mary, Williamsburg; Levels: All; Cost: $17 Register by: 11/1
Let’s have some fun with the sisters of Kappa Delta learning how to build our own businesses. Go over the basics, work on original designs and more; Entrepreneurship kit and badge included!
The House That She Built
November 9; 10-11:30 a.m. D/B/J 12:30-2 p.m. C/S/A; Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg; Cost: $17; Register by: 11/1 Women are drastically underrepresented in STEM fields, including construction and other trades. Girl Scouts will learn about how homes are built and maintained from skilled tradeswomen in our community through Q&A sessions and hands-on activities.
Chippy Trees
November 10; 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Location: Happy Hours Glass Works Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $30; Register by: 10/25
Discover the fun and science of glass art, and learn how to chip glass to make a Chippy Tree. Your unique creation may be made into a votive or a night light.
International Girls’ Day Out
November 10; 11 a.m.- 1 p.m.
Location: Webb University Center at ODU Levels: D/B/J; Cost: $10; Register by: 10/27
The Theta Eta Chapter of Kappa Delta invites all Girl Scouts to participate in this amazing day! Let’s talk about girlhood and confidence as we learn to lift each other up, make a friendship craft, and more!
It’s Your World, Change It!
November 16; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Virginia Wesleyan University, Virginia Beach Levels: All; Cost: $30; Register by: 10/30
Whether it’s planting a garden, painting a mural, or launching a letter-writing campaign, this Journey helps girls understand what it means to be a leader who makes a difference in the world through unique leadership and advocacy challenges.
A World Beyond the Stars
November 16
6 p.m. Saturday to 10 a.m. Sunday Location: Virginia Air & Space Science Center, Hampton; Levels: All Cost: $60 per Girl Scout, $40.00 per caregiver Register by: 9/16
What could be more fun than a sleepover in a museum? Enjoy a space freeze demonstration, an IMAX film, creative STEM stations, snacks and more!
Spread Kindness to our Four-Legged Friends!
November 23; 1-2:30 p.m.; Location: APFG Levels: All; Cost: $5; Register by: 11/8
Come learn how to help animals in your community by baking treats, making toys, and maybe even meeting a four-legged friend in person! Bring a new item to donate to a local shelter. More details and dates will be announced.
Explore Suffolk
December 15; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: TBD; Levels: All; Cost: $TBD Register by: 11/27
Come along on our Exploration series by completing several Explore Our Council patches throughout the year. Let’s get to know Suffolk, The Peanut Capital of the World!
Explore Newport News
January 11; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: Lee Hall Depot, Newport New Levels: All; Cost: $25; Register by: 12/20
Earn the next Explore patch in our series as we travel to Newport News and enjoy some fun hands-on activities, community service to help wildlife, and a picnic in the park!
Plan B Kids Comedy Show
January 11; 2-3 p.m.
Location: Zeiders American Dream Theater, Virginia Beach; Levels: All Cost: $15; Register by: 1/3
This family-friendly show offers a delightful mix of laughter, creativity, and memorable moments for everyone in an interactive setting. Our talented comedians create hilarious scenes on the spot based on your suggestions.
Learn the Basics of an Aerialist
January 12; 10-11:30 a.m. Cadette Noon - 1:30 p.m. Senior/Ambassador
January 19; 10-11:30 a.m. Cadette Noon - 1:30 p.m. Senior/Ambassador
Location: Railroad Aerial Arts, Norfolk Cost: $50; Register by: 1/3
Try out new poses and movements with the hoop and slings in this introductory session. Together we’ll get in the air, be creative and get some exercise.
It’s Your Planet, Love It!
February 8; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: Virginia Wesleyan University, Virginia Beach; Levels: All; Cost: $30 Register by: 1/22
Learn about how and where food is grown, harvested, processed, distributed, and consumed, and why that matters. Tidewater Collegiate Academy staff will be on hand to teach girls the importance of caring for our planet from earth to sky!
Craft and Tinker
February 16; 10-Noon
Location: The College of William and Mary, Williamsburg; Levels: D/B/J
Cost: $20; Register by: 1/29
When makers tap into their creativity, they can craft objects that help others. Then, they ask others for feedback to modify and improve their creation. The Girl Scout Craft and Tinker badge will teach you how your crafts can help out your friends, family and even the world. You’ll have the chance to use different tools and materials, make a craft for someone you know, and brainstorm ways to make it even better.
Let the Sky Tell Its Story
March 1; 10-11:30 a.m.
Location: Michael and Kimthanh Lê Digital Theater and Planetarium
Old Dominion University, Norfolk Levels: All; Cost: $8; Register by: 2/14
Experience what a pristine night sky, unspoiled by light pollution, really looks like. See thousands of stars, marvel at how the Milky Way glows, hear stories behind some of the most popular constellations, and more!
Outdoor Adventures!
Rock Wall
October 5; 9-11:30 a.m.
Location: Camp Darden, Courtland
Levels: B/J; Cost: $16; Register by: 9/26
Challenge yourself to see how high — and how fast — you can climb our outdoor rock wall! Explore your limits and reach new heights.
Daisy/Brownie Challenge Course
October 5; 1-3 p.m.
Location: Camp Darden, Courtland
Cost: $16; Register by: 9/26
Whether you are traversing a low ropes course or tackling a ground-based obstacle, you will challenge yourself and gain some new skills!
Low Ropes Challenge
October 5; 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Location: Camp Darden, Courtland
Levels: C/S/A
Cost: $16; Register by: 9/26
Participate in some fun team building games and traverse tricky obstacles with your team. Challenge yourself and gain some new skills!
Hanging Out
October 6; 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Location: The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium, Virginia Beach; Levels: B/J/C/S/A
Cost: $42; Register by: 10/5
With 17 treetop trails to explore, The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium offers challenges for beginners as well as experienced climbers. Bring a piece of your Girl Scout uniform and receive a special patch!
AIM
October 20; 9-11 a.m. Brownies
Noon-2 p.m. Juniors; 2:30-4:30 p.m. C/S/A
Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg
Cost: $16; Register by: 10/10
Aim for your archery patch: line up your bow and arrow, stand straight and shoot! With some practice and instructor’s coaching, you may become the next archery champion.
Brownie First Aid
November 2; 9-10:30 a.m.
Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Cost: $15; Register by: 10/24
Be prepared for the unexpected with basic skills and important information, roleplay what to do in emergencies and how to talk to 9-1-1, and make your own first aid kit.
Junior First Aid
November 2; 11-12:30 pm.
Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Cost: $15; Register by: 10/24
Be prepared for the unexpected with some basic first aid skills. Learn how to help people when they’re ill or injured and understand how to respond during an emergency.
Advanced First Aid
November 2; 2-4 p.m.
Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $20; Register by: 10/24
Master new first aid skills, discuss looking after younger children, learn how to tackle weather-related illnesses, and get hands-on practice.
Daisy Day
November 3; Time: 1-2:30 p.m.
Location: APFG, Chesapeake
Cost: $14; Register by: 10/24
Let’s enjoy an outdoor fun day at camp, just for Girl Scout Daisies! We’ll go over what you need to take on a day hike, talk about what it means to “Leave No Trace” and see what kinds of plants and animals we can identify as we go.
Hanging Out
November 3; 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Location: The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium, Virginia Beach; Levels: B/J/C/S/A
Cost: $42; Register by: 11/2
With 17 treetop trails to explore, The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium offers challenges for beginners as well as experienced climbers. Bring a piece of your Girl Scout uniform and receive a special patch!
Capital Bike Ride
November 9; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg
Levels: C/S/A
Cost: $16; Register by: 10/31
Enjoy a scenic bike ride down Capital Trail to Chickahominy Riverfront Park where we will picnic and enjoy lunch before heading back. Bikes and helmets will be provided!
Stargazing
November 9; 7-9 p.m.
Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg
Levels: C/S/A
Cost: $16; Register by: 10/31
Make your own star wheel to help you find stars throughout the year, view the night sky through a telescope, and enjoy star-inspired crafts.
Solar Pioneers
November 10, 10 a.m.-Noon
Location: APFG, Chesapeake; Levels: D/B
Cost: $16; Register by: 10/31
Become a solar pioneer and create your own solar-powered device! Plus, meet Daisy, the solar SmartFlower who helps to power our regional headquarters.
Letterboxing for Treasure
November 16; 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Levels: Brownies
Cost: $16; Register by: 11/7
Arrr, matey! There’s treasure hidden at Camp Apasus just for you to find! Follow clues to solve the mystery of the pirates. Along the way, you’ll earn your Letterboxing badge!
AIM
November 16; 1-3 p.m.
Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Levels: B/J; Cost: $16; Register by: 11/7
Aim for your archery patch: line up your bow and arrow, stand straight and shoot! With some practice and instructor’s coaching, you may become the next archery champion.
Axe Throwing
November 16; 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $16; Register by: 11/7
Join us on the axe-throwing range at Camp Apasus and learn the skills to hit the bullseye!
Basic Knot Tying
December 7; 9-11 a.m.; Location: APFG
Chesapeake; Levels: D/B
Cost: $16; Register by: 11/28
Learn some basic knots and practice knot-tying skills! We use knots everyday without even thinking about it. Practice tying shoes, and use your new knot skills to make fun crafts and games.
Solar Pioneers
December 7, 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Location: APFG, Chesapeake; Levels: C/S/A
Cost: $16; Register by: 11/28
Become a solar pioneer and create your own solar-powered device! Plus, meet Daisy, the solar SmartFlower who helps to power our regional headquarters.
Advanced Knot Tying
December 7, 3-5 p.m.; Location: APFG
Levels: J/C/S/A Cost: $16; Register by: 11/28
Practice some basic knots and then build on your existing skills. Knots can be used to tie tent flaps or secure camping gear, to connect a boat to a dock, and for lots of cool crafts and games!
Daisy Bouldering
December 14; 10-11 a.m.
Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg
Cost: $12; Register by: 12/5
Get ready for a fun introduction to bouldering! Discuss basic climbing skills, practice stretches to get ready for your climb, and participate in games.
Climbing Wall
December 14; 12:30-2:30 p.m.; Levels: B/J
December 14; 3-5 p.m.; Levels: C/S/A
Camp Skimino; Cost: $16; Register by: 12/7
Challenge yourself to see how high — and how fast — you can climb our indoor rock wall! Explore your limits and reach new heights.
Cracks, Crevices and Crawlways
January 11; 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. OR January 12; 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Levels: J/C/S/A; Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg
Cost: $15; Register by: 12/19
Join the Colonial Coast Girl Scout Cavers for a day of climbing, crawling, and scooting through our artificial caves. Plus, we’ll enjoy team building exercises, games, and songs about the high adventure sport of caving!
3rd Annual Abby Furco
Memorial
Color Run
Come for a morning of fun while you run (or walk) a 5k neighborhood course with your family or troop in this community & GIRL powered Color Run founded in memory of local Girl Scout Abby Furco. Use coupon code GS2024 for 50% registration before October 5th.
Date: October 20, 2024
Check-in starts: 9 a.m. Run/Walk starts: 10 a.m.
Place: Lago Mar Park at Back Bay, 801 Casa Verde Way, Virginia Beach, VA. Start/Finish festival at the park with 5k course through the neighborhood. Registration begins in September.
11th Annual Cookie Classic Run
Date: Saturday, January 18, 2025
Location: Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, Chesapeake
Start Time: 9 a.m.
Cost: There is a registration fee and deadline.
Audience: All Girl Scout grade levels, family members and friends!
Timed Races: 1 Mile, 5K and 10K
Walk the trail or be a virtual runner! T-shirts, goodie bags and more! 5K and 10K finishers receive a medal and a special gift!
For all the details visit: www.gsccc.org/cookieclassic
Turkey Hang - November 1-3, 2024
Newport News City Park Campground
Girl Scouts 12 and older; Cost: $70 per Girl Scout
$35 per adult; must be registered members and CAMP TRAINED
Join us for a Thanksgiving dinner that you cook outside! Get ready to enjoy stuffing, potatoes, corn, sweet potatoes, acorn squash, homemade bread, green beans, pumpkin pie, apple pie, cranberries, and more. All sides will be cooked in dutch ovens, box ovens, over a fire, and in other ways, all outdoors. Girl Scouts will learn time management skills, outdoor cooking methods and safety while having a fun feast!
2025 Trip to Yellowstone National Park, The Grand Tetons and Jackson Hole, Wyoming
June 27-July 7, 2025
Girl Scouts 14 and older (at time of the trip)
Cost: (estimated) $3500
Don’t miss this memory-making experience! Included in your registration are roundtrip flights from Norfolk to Jackson Hole, ground transportation, lodging (in modern cabins with beds, bathrooms and kitchens), most meals, and all activities which include whitewater rafting on the Snake River, horseback riding, hiking, entrance fees to National Parks and more! (Adults are welcome to sign up to be placed on a waitlist; ratios are already covered and priority will be given to Girl Scouts.)
GSCCC Explore Patch Programs
GSCCC offers a variety of Explore Patch programs. From visiting area museums to exploring entire counties, these patch programs are designed for adventure. You can do them as a troop, as an individual Girl Scout member or as a family! Each patch program is created using the three keys of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. Activities/requirements fall under one of the keys.
• Discover: Girls understand themselves and their values and use their knowledge and skills to explore the world.
• Connect: Girls care about, inspire, and team with others locally and globally.
• Take Action: Girls act to make the world a better place.
Once you complete the requirements, you are ready to purchase the patch! Check each patch’s requirement handout for details. Learn more at www.gsccc.org/patches
Explore Virginia Air and Space Center
Would you like to know what it feels like to navigate a lunar landing?
Just ask Girl Scout Cadette Julianne, who practiced a simulated moon landing at the Virginia Air & Space Center in Hampton, while earning the Explore Virginia Air & Space Center patch offered by GSCCC. Home-schooled Girl Scouts from Virginia Beach spent a day in June enjoying an out-of-this-world STEM adventure!
Explore a City or County
Explore a Museum
Explore a Program Partner or Special Area of Interest
Homeschooled Girl Scouts enjoyed a day at the Virginia Air and Space Center in Hampton
Girls experienced a sonic boom, viewed a lunar habitat, and sat in the cockpit of a passenger airplane. They practiced being an astronaut on one of the many hands-on simulator machines, made paper airplanes in the Flight Lab, and took a look at a moon rock.
The Girl Scout Juniors liked visiting the solarium; similar to a planetarium, the solarium provides an immersive experience, but instead of learning about the night sky, this exhibit is all about the sun’s atmosphere. Girls can learn about heliophysics while surrounded by images and sounds (yes, sounds!) of the sun produced by actual sun data and translated by NASA scientists. Girl Scout Brownies and Daisies really enjoyed the sky-high climbing gym in the Early Learner Gallery.
Like all GSCCC Explore patches, requirements are separated into three categories: Discover, Connect, and Take Action. Girl Scouts fulfill one or more requirements in each section, depending on their grade level. The Virginia Air & Space Center patch requirements come in the form of fill-in-the-blank questions, perfect for testing your newly-acquired knowledge after a day at one of Hampton Roads’ most fascinating destinations! Plus, a trip to the Air & Space Center is also the perfect addition for girls working on their Space Science badges, Think Like a Citizen Scientist journey, or the Sandra DeLoatch STEM patch.
To get the most out of a visit, be sure to book a tour with the site’s Scout Program Coordinator at scouts@vasc.org.
Fitness Trail Challenge in The Outback!
Earn your Fitness Trail patch by completing all fitness stations at either the novice or advanced level. Find details with instructions on our Explore Patch page on our website Each station sign explains the activity with novice and advanced achievement levels. Walk or skip and have fun going from station to station! Once you complete the course at either level, you can purchase the patch at the GSCCC shop.
Rope Climb
Scaling Wall
Squat
Chinning Bar
Push Ups
Parallel Bars
Frog
Community Troop Fun
Many thanks to GSCCC’s Community Troop Team, a group of trained Girl Scout staff members and volunteers who guide girls through activities in various schools, churches and community centers, as well as virtually. Without this team, many girls would not have the opportunity to be Girl Scouts otherwise. These
Girl Scout Cadettes who attend the Achievable Dreams Middle School participated in a women in engineering program titled Excelerate-HER. Girls were given STEM kits and asked to complete building a model bridge in a two-hour period!
Girl Scouts who are part of the Just Girls program in Elizabeth City worked to earn their Craft & Tinker badge by creating art projects based on themes. GSCCC served 31 girls during the 2023-24 membership year through that partnership!
The area’s monthly magazine for parents. A go-to guide for all things family, featuring pages full of news and information to help raise children.
Making the World a Better Place for All!
Girl Scout Juniors from Troop 541 dropped off donations and handmade snuffle mats to the Virginia Beach SPCA. The VBSPCA lists items that can be donated as well as instructions for pet-friendly craft projects online.
GSCCC Spread Kindness Patch
Let’s spread kindness to our four-legged friends! Starting in October, National Adopt-a-Pet Month, Girl Scouts are encouraged to take action to help animals in our communities and to learn more about pet care. There are more than twenty animal shelters in our Council’s area who are looking for support. Even if you cannot adopt a shelter pet right now, your acts of kindness will make a difference.
Kindness is the most powerful and useful of all socialemotional skills. Did you know that performing acts of kindness, such as helping our animal friends, improves the well-being of the giver more than the well-being of the receiver! Kindness paves the way for all the other important social-emotional childhood skills to be more effective.
Find details for this Council-wide community service project and learn how to earn the free 2024 Spread Kindness patch! Scan QR code or visit www.gsccc.org/kindness
Girl Scout Juniors from Troop 256 created and donated 50 Adopt-a-Pet gift bags for an area animal shelter. First, they created a list of items that a family adopting a pet would need. Then they created flyers and videos asking for donations of those items and distributed them to friends and family. The last step was assembling the bags before the delivery! A READING PROGRAM CONNECTING YOUTH AND SHELTER PETS
Girl Scout Cadettes Julianne Van Auken and Adalyn DeJoy of Troop 94 gave a hand to the Chesapeake Humane Society by creating original artwork and volunteering at a silent art auction. The girls also made over 200 items for the Humane Society, including enrichment toys, snuffle mats, blankets, and feather wands. With the items, Julianne and Adalyn put together “Pup Packs” to support the organization’s Crisis Boarding Program.
Girl Scout Juniors from Troop 1201 researched different organizations in their area that help animals and learned how animals serve members of the Williamsburg area. They surveyed over 100 people visiting an area park as part of their research. The survey showed that park visitors wanted more areas for pet walks. In collaboration with the James City County Parks Department, the troop planted seventeen trees surrounding three fenced areas within the park!
Youth ages 6-13 Learn more at vbspca.com/a-tale-for-two
To book a shelter tour for Girl Scouts or other youth groups, visit vbspca.com/private-tours.
Don’t forget, troops can earn this VBSPCA Explore patch! See page 15.
2024 Gold Award Girl Scouts
Claire Askew
Troop 5357, Suffolk, VA
Growing Healthy Habits
Susie Ayres
Troop 52, Moyock, NC
More Than Art —
A Fine Arts Con
Macayla Barry
Troop 57, South Mills, NC
Reading and Literacy Access for Students
Chardan Bonheur
Troop 505, Norfolk, VA
Sustainable Pollinator
Roof Top and Ground Level Garden at ForKids in Chesapeake, Virginia
Paige Gregory
Troop 126, Virginia Beach, VA Rain Garden
Jenna Howorth
Troop 1288, Yorktown, VA
Homebound Care Package Program
Kate Holland
Troop 5357, Smithfield, VA
Smart Reading Cookies
Kendal Keough
Troop 1104, Williamsburg, VA
CPR Saves; What You Need To Know
Cathy Paulson
Troop 126, Virginia Beach, VA
Making Education Accessible for the Less Fortunate
Avery Rinschler
Troop 5836, Chesapeake, VA
Hugo Owens Middle School Courtyard Beautification
Emma Rotzler
Troop 946, Franklin, VA
Planting the Seeds to Reroot Our Agriculture
Claire Taliaferro
Troop 5357, Suffolk, VA
Cyber Savvy Seniors
Caitlin Watson
Troop 15, Chesapeake, VA
Living Classroom
Lydia Williams
Troop 15, Chesapeake, VA
EDucation: Learn about Eating Disorders
Girl Scouts Who Amaze Celebration!
Nearly 100 GSCCC Girl Scouts were honored at the 2024 awards ceremony, Girl Scouts Who AMAZE Celebration! It was held at the L. Douglas Wilder Performing Arts Center at Norfolk State University, one of the sponsors of the event. Helping open the program and welcoming guests was Norfolk State University President Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston. City Council Member Andria McClellan, also a Girl Scout alum, offered a welcome message from the city. Gold Award Girl Scout alum Sarah Buck, Senior Manager Public Affairs – Market Expansion for Cox Communications, emceed and helped recognize Girl Scouts who earned the Girl Scout Summit, Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards, along with celebrating achievements of Girl Scouts receiving special recognitions and scholarships.
New this year, graduating Girl Scouts were invited on stage to cross a bridge and officially become an adult member in the Movement.
Congratulations to those who were recognized and a special thank you to all of the volunteers, especially those who serve on the Highest Award Committee, who support Girl Scout leadership. Many thanks to Norfolk State University for hosting the event on their campus! We also extend thanks to the following supporters and sponsors: Fulton Bank; Wall, Einhorn, & Chernitzer; and Wegmans.
GSCCC recognized 14 Gold Award Girl Scouts. Each Gold Award Girl Scout was also honored with a lifetime membership made possible by the Helen Kattwinkel Lifetime Membership Endowment fund.
2024 Girl Scout Bronze Awardees
Summit Award recipients with GSCCC CEO Tracy Keller (left) and Board Chair Carolyn Pittman (right)
2024 Girl Scout High School Graduates
Gold Award Scholarship
She Believes She Can, So She Does Scholarship
The scholarship supports Girl Scouts pursuing higher education opportunities. Girl Scout Alum, Kate Godby, created the scholarship to recognize graduating Girl Scouts’ achievements. The applicants need to describe how they personally exemplify the principles contained within the Girl Scout Promise and Law.
Recipient
Gold Award Girl Scout Kendal Keough
Maylea Brockington Beasley Love and Laughter Scholarship
Maylea was a Gold Award Girl Scout who lost her life in a tragic accident as a college student. Maylea embraced all things in Girl Scouts. To honor Maylea’s commitment to making the world a better place, her family annually recognizes a Gold Award Girl Scout with a scholarship.
Recipient
Gold Award Girl Scout Paige Gregory
New: Girls of Courage, Confidence and Character Scholarship
After a nomination from GSCCC, Gold Award Girl Scout Claire Askew of Suffolk was selected by GSUSA as one of the recipients from across the country to receive this prestigious honor. The recognition was accompanied by a $5,000 scholarship from GSUSA, which was matched by GSCCC, for a total of $10,000. Claire will return this fall to the University of Alabama as a sophomore.
Claire’s project aimed to address the underlying causes of childhood obesity, namely the lack of accessible recreational spaces and miseducation about healthy habits. She partnered with Jennifer Webb of Edmarc Hospice for Children, a Portsmouth-based facility, and Childhood Obesity Expert Joanne Wunderlich of the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters, for expert guidance throughout the completion of her Gold Award project.
After 20 years as a troop leader for both of her daughters, Jennifer Lynch is giving back to graduating Girl Scouts who are continuing their education. As Michaella and Morgan's mom, Jennifer saw how Girl Scouting contributed to their achievements, especially in their courage, confidence, and character. The Lynch family offers a scholarship to a Gold Award Girl Scout who has grown throughout their years in Girl Scouting.
Recipient Girl Scout Ambassador Kasia Gruetzmacher
You’ve got what it takes to make a lasting impact. Put the puzzle together!
Earn the Changemaker Patch from GSCCC! It’s a puzzle made up of a set of four patches; each piece of the puzzle represents the highest award a Girl Scout has earned for her grade level.
Get started by earning the Girl Scout Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards. Each award will challenge you and help you take action in a big way.
Scan the QR code to view the Girl Scouts Who Amaze Celebration program booklet www.gsccc.org/publications
2024 Girl Scout Silver Awardees
Gold Award Girl Scout Claire Askew and Board
Chair Carolyn Pittman
Community Leaders of Tomorrow Award
Girl Scout Ambassador Maureen Keller was recognized by the Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council (CEIC) and Chesapeake City Parks, Recreation and Tourism for her work towards making the city of Chesapeake greener with the Community Leaders of Tomorrow Award. As part of her Gold Award project, Maureen took action to host “Earth Day Celebration 2024” that was held at Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Historic Park. Those who took part in activities participated in a trail clean-up and learned about Virginia organizations with missions related to environmentalism. Along with providing access to information and resources, the event offered the opportunity for visitors to participate in a trash audit station, a plastic bag drop-off, and a clothing swap!
“The event I hosted was to educate people on smart recycling and plastic consumption. Chesapeake City canceled the city funded recycling program, and this was really hard for the city because people don’t have easy access to recycling like they did before. I wanted to help the community understand how they can recycle correctly and how they can help the environment correctly, so they don’t damage systems that are in place. This is our planet and we should all want to keep it clean, and healthy, and safe.”
Maureen was also recognized by GSCCC as the top entrepreneur for the 2023 Fall Product Program. She will be showcased on the 2024 order form! Maureen has also participated in the Cookie Program for years and has sold 41,000 boxes of Girl Scout Cookies.
Scan QR code for details on the Chesapeake Environmental Awards program.
VFW Scout of the Year Award
VFW Post
in Chesapeake.
Presenting the award was Post Commander Robert Gregory at Chesapeake City Council Chambers.
Gold Award Girl Scout Caitlin Watson from Troop 15 was presented the Scout of the Year Award from VFW Post 2894 in Chesapeake. The award came with a $500 scholarship and the opportunity to compete for a larger national scholarship. She was recognized for her outstanding Gold Award project, Living Classroom.
Buck Harris Award
Through her project, she created an outdoor learning space at Great Bridge Intermediate School described as an outdoor pollinator habitat with educational features for students to enjoy. Her goal was to help students gain an understanding of the role of pollinators in the ecosystem and agriculture while increasing their exposure to STEM and the outdoors.
“The decline of butterflies comes from the destruction of natural habitats and the use of chemicals and fertilizers. I addressed the root cause of this issue by creating a safe ecosystem, free of outside threats. This outdoor classroom is a place for educators to provide hands-on education that follow current Virginia Standards of Learning (SOLs). From the teacher workshop, to the butterfly release, my project spoke to the importance of maintaining pesticide free environments.”
Girl Scout Senior Cailyn Yerigan from Troop 510 was recognized with the 2024 Buck Harris Award. The award was established in honor of Buck Harris, a former executive director of the Virginia Tidewater Girl Scout Council and recognizes a Girl Scout who is nominated by her peers for her love of the outdoors along with her ability to direct her life using Girl Scout values. Cailyn received a certificate and a free week at a GSCCC-sponsored summer camp!
Cailyn is active in her troop and with the Council’s Blazing Blue Herons canoe team. This year, she helped younger Girl Scouts as a Cookie Captain. She is known to be patient and generous as she demonstrates the Girl Scout Promise and Law through her actions, in and outside of Girl Scouting!
Nominations for the 2025 Buck Harris Award are due by March 31, 2025.
Gold Award Girl Scout Caitlin Watson received Scout of the Year Award from
2894
Girl Scout Ambassador Jade Hawkins
As a girl representative to the board of directors, Jade has participated in Council governance, bringing her experiences and views to the table, and has had a real-world leadership experience. She was presented with many opportunities that included serving on the Council’s Advocacy Committee and attending the annual Virginia Girl Scout Legislative Day where she met with legislators to talk to them about issues that impact Girl Scouts, getting a first-hand look at government in action.
This summer, Jade attended Gloucester Service Unit Day Camp at Camp Burke’s Mill Pond and took on leadership as a counselor-in-training. Her leadership experience also includes earning the Girl Scout Bronze and Silver Awards, and she is planning to earn the Girl Scout Gold Award this year!
Congratulations to Girl Scout Cadette Kaydence Rincon — selected to serve on the National Girl Scout Advisory Board!
This Girl Scout from Chesapeake joined the Movement as a Girl Scout Daisy and has been totally engaged ever since. She has earned Girl Scout Summit Awards for each of her Girl Scout grade levels and has earned the Girl Scout Bronze Award, and the Girl Scout Silver is on her radar.
Speak Up, Stand Out. Join the GSCCC Board!
We want girls who are passionate about Girl Scouting to share that love with council decision makers. Are you ready to make an impact on the ways Girl Scouting reaches your community and sister Girl Scouts? Our board respects and values girls’ voices. Girl leaders can express and share their enthusiasm for Girl Scouts with board members, council staff and the public. These positions offer a rare opportunity to play a role in furthering the Girl Scout movement. Application deadline is September 30. Download the Girl Board Member Application from www.gsccc.org/board. Girl Scouts must be 14 when appointed to the position to serve. Girl Board Members will be appointed at the October 17 GSCCC board meeting.
Leave an Enduring Message for Your Girl Scout Hero. Purchase a Commemorative Brick or Bench!
You’re invited to join us for the 2024 Commemorative Brick Ceremony
Saturday, October 12 at 11:30 a.m.
A Place for Girls, 912 Cedar Road, Chesapeake Questions? philanthropy@gsccc.org
ADULT Trainings
Girl Scouts offers a wide array of training and development opportunities for adults. From workshops on leadership and communication to specialized training in outdoor skills, our registered adults, especially those in volunteer capacities, are continually encouraged to expand their knowledge and capabilities.
Basic Troop Camping with Optional Overnight October 26-27; 8 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
Location: Camp Skimino; Cost: $40 day only, $10 overnight option; Register by: 10/10
Join us for this all-day training in outdoor skills at Camp Skimino, with an optional overnight! We will cover basic outdoor camping and gear, outdoor cooking and more.
Youth Mental Health First Aid
Location: APFG, Chesapeake
10 a.m.-4 p.m.
November 2; Register by: 10/17
January 18; Register by: 1/2
February 9: Register by 1/26
Cost: $45
Learn how to help an adolescent who is experiencing a mental health or addiction challenge or is in crisis. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disruptive behavior disorders, and eating disorders.
American Red Cross Adult & Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED
November 16; APFG, Chesapeake; Register by: 10/31
January 11; Camp Skimino; Register by: 12/20
February 8; APFG, Chesapeake; Register by: 1/22
March 15; APFG, Chesapeake; Register by: 3/1
Cost: $55
This blended learning course, provided in three sessions, equips you to recognize and care for a variety of first aid breathing and cardiac emergencies for people of all ages. Must attend all three sessions on the date you attend: 10 a.m. to noon; 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. and 3 to 5 p.m.
A certificate for Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED is issued upon successful completion.
Wilderness First Aid
December 7-8; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. each day; Location: APFG
Cost: $45; Register by: 11/21
Learn advanced first aid skills to be used in emergencies when help from professional first responders may be far away. A current CPR/AED certification is a prerequisite for this course.
NEW! Girl Scout Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Training Now Available
The Girl Scout Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention national training is now available on gsLearn. The Girl Scout abuse prevention training—including policies, practices, and procedures— is available at no cost to volunteers and takes approximately 50 minutes to complete. All registered and appointed volunteers must take the course. The course covers understanding the factual information about abuse and abusers, recognizing signs of child abuse, and learning the proper methods for reporting suspected abuse.
Jade Hawkins with Delegate Hodges from Gloucester
October is National Adopt a Pet Month, and Juliette Gordon Low’s Birthday is on the 31st!
We want to celebrate Juliette Gordon Low and her kindness to the pets she loved by creating sidewalk pet portraits!
Dogs, cats, hamsters, fish, birds, — whatever the pet, you can create its portrait on a sidewalk or driveway. Do this with your family or with your troop!
Use sidewalk chalk to create your portrait, take a photo, then send the picture to marcomm@gsccc.org so we can share on social media.
The winning artist or troop will receive a $25 gift certificate to the shop!
• Must be an active member of GSCCC for the MY24-25 year.
• One entry per person or group. (For example, if you participate in creating art that your troop submits, you cannot then submit another one on your own.)
• Incorporate the hashtag “#gscccpets” somewhere in your art.
• Entries are due by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 — which just so happens to be World Kindness Day!
Have S’more Fun, Make S’more Friends
We’re encouraging troops and service units to host troop or service unit “back-to-school, back-to-troop” gatherings! Celebrate a new Girl Scout membership year. Thank those who have renewed their membership. Invite more friends to join!
GSCCC has prepared a party toolkit for you to use. Find suggested activities, games and invitations to use. Create your own and share with marcomm@gsccc.org so we can share on our social media, too!
You’re Invited to a...
Find invites, activity suggestions and games to download at www.gsccc.org/marketing#smore
Zeiders American Dream Theater in Virginia Beach presents The Puppet Friends Smile Show!
September 14, 2024 at 2 p.m.
Cost: $10 3 yr olds and up
Senior/Military: $9
Life isn’t easy for ten-year-old Diego. Born with cleft lip and cleft palate, Diego struggles with being bullied, feeling lonely, and fitting in with the other kids. Embark on a heartwarming journey with Diego through story and song alongside Operation Smile’s Puppet Friends and discover the power
Details: https://thez.org/event/puppet/
Girl Scouts can earn the Operation Smile Explore patch! Scan the QR code to learn about GSCCC’s Explore Patch Program.
When donating during your workplace campaign, you can designate to Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast
Your generosity is counted toward your company’s goals while creating opportunities for girls to reach their full potential. Your donation stays local and helps all Girl Scouts succeed!
United Ways leverage the caring power of communities by investing in agencies that make a difference. Their accreditation processes ensure the partner organizations are effective and target the community’s greatest needs. The CVC and CFC campaigns thoroughly review each agency through an annual application process.
TLC for Properties
The Outback Gets a Water Bottle Filling Station
Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast sincerely thanks The Beazley Foundation, Rotary International District 7600, and Great Bridge Rotary Club for increasing safety at Camp Outback. Their generous donations improved lighting and brought potable water to the camp. Improved lighting helps Girl Scouts remain safe and secure during evening walks through camp pathways. Potable water was highly requested by our outdoor-trained volunteers, as water sources were not easily accessible before. Concerns over heat-related illnesses have increased at camp in recent years. Easily accessible potable water ensures Girl Scouts are hydrated and healthy during their adventures.
Off the Hook
Girl Scout Juniors from Troop 1422 in Williamsburg chose to improve Camp Skimino! The girls installed hooks on each bunk throughout camp to keep everything tidy.
Thank you, Troop 1422!
The Lodge Receives a Creation Station
Girl Scout Troop 371 banded together to create space at The Lodge where troops could work on projects during meetings in the facility’s dining area. They painted the dining room, refinished two cabinets, and built organizers (made of recycled Girl Scout Cookie boxes!) to make a “Creation Station.” To make organizers, they painted cookie box “drawers” and added decoupaged cookie knobs and labels to each. The troop filled the drawers with supplies and activities for other troops to use at their meetings.
A Day at Camp Fury
This summer, sixteen campers attended Camp Fury Norfolk and spent a whirlwind day at Naval Air Station Oceana and the NCIS Norfolk Field Office. They met some outstanding role models that included Firefighter AEMT Erin Virnelson who gave them a tour of the Fire and EMS vehicles, including a top-of-the-line, airport-aircraft firefighting vehicle called the Oshkosh Striker 3000. They got a front row seat to view a demonstration of a military service dog at work and climbed the base’s observation tower for a panoramic view of the airfield. Two air traffic controllers toured them through the control room and explained operations.
After a brief lunch, Special Agent Claire Kelly at the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Field Office assigned them to groups and the campers participated in activities organized by Agent Kelly that introduced them to defense tactics, polygraph testing, and forensics.
Many thanks to Firefighter Nicole Collins who organized and coordinated the week in collaboration with GSCCC’s program team. GSCCC offers girls opportunities each summer to challenge themselves at firefighting camps, Camp Fury. They are offered in collaboration with area city fire and rescue divisions.
Early bird
prices for
Girl Scout Camp!
February 12March 12, 2025
Consider a GSCCC Camp Property for an Upcoming Function!
Properties are available for rentals by non-Girl Scout members, such as churches, schools, community groups, and others.
GSCCC Properties
• A Place for Girls (APFG)-Chesapeake • The Outback-Chesapeake
• The Lodge-Chesapeake
• Camp Apasus-Norfolk
• Camp Burke’s Mill Pond-Gloucester • Camp Darden-Courtland
• Camp Skimino-Williamsburg
From commercial kitchens to pavilions with fireplaces, a GSCCC property could be the perfect spot for your event!
Amenities, site capacities and fees: www.gsccc.org/rentals
Group photo in front of Striker 3000!
912 Cedar Road
Chesapeake, VA 23322
We are supported in part by
The GSCCC Magazine is published twice a year by Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast for our registered members and donors. You may find an online copy at www.gsccc.org/publications. If your household has received duplicate mailings, please email customercare@gsccc.org.
Editor: Marcella Germanotta; Graphic Artist: Barbara Owens
Supermix Kiosk in the GSCCC Shop!
Try your new interactive kiosk where Girl Scouts can design their own merchandise using GSUSA approved Supermix Studios, an interactive custom design platform. This innovative platform is designed to empower Girl Scouts to celebrate their individuality by creating their own unique merchandise.
Supermix founder and owner, Jennifer Stein-Bischoff, was a participant on Shark Tank and received an offer from the sharks!
National Delegate Application Now Open for the 2026 Girl Scout Convention! Washington, DC - July 20-25
GSCCC is inviting members 14 and up to apply to be a National Council Delegate! Be our voice at the National Council Session as part of your 3 year term. All expenses paid!
Deadline to apply is October 31, 2024.
Everyone is invited to this amazing event that will be held in Washington DC at a time our nation is celebrating its 225th birthday!
Girl Scouts of all ages can have fun in the Hall of Experiences and more.
Application and details can be found at www.gsccc.org/delegates
