GIRL SCOUTS
News and Program Information from Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast
2023-24 Impact Report
Girl Cookie Season Begins January 11 2025 Camp Open Houses
GIRL SCOUTS
Board
Members at Large:
Dawn
Dr.
Dr.
Elizabeth Chapman
Angelyn Gibson
Dr.
Deneen Keegan
Sarah Linden-Brooks
Kim Mingee
Colleen Mollison Laura Morgan
Make the WORLD a Better Place!
PODCAST
Be sure to listen to the official GSCCC podcast, “Make the World a Better Place” — new episodes will be posted on the website and on Spotify and our YouTube channel, so be sure to subscribe!
About Our Show: Meet leaders with connections to Girl Scouts serving in our community and beyond!
Together, we will hear inspiring stories from Girl Scout alum and adult supporters of Girl Scouts who use their courage, confidence, and character to make the world around them a better place.
Save the Date for the Welcome to the Cadettes Event!
May 10, 2025 | Time: 1-4 p.m.
Camp Darden, Courtland
Rising 6th graders and their adults can join us for an afternoon of mental wellness conversations, outdoor adventure activities, sisterhood over s'mores, and information about everything Girl Scouts can offer at the next level, including travel, highest awards, and more!
Scouts participated in many
Girl Scouts do amazing things every single day and we want to hear about it. Did your troop participate in a special project or attend a fun event? Did your girl excel at something new? Visit our website's Home page and go to Share Your Story!
Girl
area parades this fall, including the Veteran’s Parade in Virginia Beach. Girl Scout Seniors Lily Taylor and Isabella Chviek from Troop 883 were at the lead!
Tracy Keller Chief Executive Officer
Lifelong Values
Girl Scouting has been in my blood since I joined as a 6 year old in 1977. That seems like another lifetime away, but I still recall all the amazing things I did during those early years in Girl Scouts. It became the foundation for all that I do in life. Girl Scouting made me the person that I am and contributed to all that I have accomplished both professionally and personally. My mother was my first Brownie troop leader, and what better role model can a child have than her own mother demonstrating leadership, courage, confidence and character to her impressionable daughter. Through her leadership and the values I gained in Girl Scouts, I learned that I could, in fact, be whatever I wanted to be, achieve whatever I set my mind to and that service to others could be both a vocation and an avocation.
I continued with Girl Scouting through my teen years in high school; during that time, I found courage, thanks to so many wonderful mentors, to remain in the program and earn the highest award in Girl Scouts, the Gold Award.
From backpacking on the Appalachian Trail to traveling to Richmond as a Girl Scout Senior to participate in Capital Caravan, my experiences in Girl Scouting helped to build my self-confidence and deepened my ability to connect with and understand others. I still love the outdoors and am very interested and involved in civic engagement, including advocacy within my role as CEO and ensuring we have legislative day events on our annual calendars. These and so many other experiences as a youth in Girl Scouts have had an impact. I learned I could face any challenge with the tools I had acquired from Girl Scouts. I am so proud to be here at GSCCC, helping to lead the way and seeing today’s Girl Scouts learn those same skills and values that are so integral to my life. I see those benefits each and every day through the eyes of the Girl Scouts we serve. That is why I am a lifetime Girl Scout, the proud mom of three Girl Scout alum, and a member of the Juliette Gordon Low Society which ensures that the legacy of Girl Scouting will continue for generations to come. If you are wondering why I give, why do I continue dedicating so much of my life to Girl Scouts, I can only reply, how can I not? What a better world this would be if EVERY girl could live a Girl Scout life and benefit from this extraordinary program.
Sincerely,
Benefits of Girl Scouting
Inputs
(What Girl Scouts provides)
• Caring adults and peers
• Fun, girl-centered space
• "Whole girl" program content
• Emotionally and physically safe environment
• Girl Scouts' brand history, traditions reach, and global sisterhood.
(What Girl Scouts do)
Girl Scouts design their experience to include a variety of cooperative activities such as:
• Exploration of life skills, STEM, self-expression and the arts, and global citizenship
• Outdoor adventures
• Giving service to the community
• Field trips and special events
• The Girl Scout Cookie Program
(What Girl Scouts practice)
• Self-advocacy
• Critical thinking
• Decision-making
• Communication
• Adaptability/grit/ resilience
• Cooperation and building connections
Tracy Keller Chief Executive Officer, GSCCC
• Confidence and selfesteem
• Personal growth and strong sense of self
• Friendships, connections, and belonging
• Phyical and mental well-being
• GSLE outcomes
(How Girl Scouts make the world a better place)
• More girls and women drive change and action in their communities
• More girls and women become leaders in business and community
• Communities grow from a more gender-balanced workplace, building a more equitable and just world
• Girls and women are living their best lives as their best authentic selves
• Girls become cultural ambassadors, uniting different backgrounds and viewpoints, and building a more harmonious world
Meet GSCCC Board Member Girl Scout Senior Martha-Ann
Girl Scouts is all about building young leaders that are confident in their ability to make the world a better place. Accepting a position on GSCCC’s Board as a youth member opens doors to endless opportunities to become your best self and try new things. As an important member on the Board team, they serve as representatives for Girl Scout youth members across our council. They attend board member meetings where they speak their mind, share their ideas, and provide their perspective on a variety of topics.
Meet Martha-Ann Wells, our newest youth member on the Board! She is a freshman attending Warwick High School in Newport News and has been a Girl Scout for nine years, starting as a Girl Scout Daisy. In addition to earning both her Bronze and Silver Awards, each age level Summit Award, several faith awards, and community service bars, she has participated as a Council representative at GS Legislative Day and at the CommuniTEA United Way events. Outside of Girl Scouts, she is the parliamentarian for her national junior honor society chapter, volunteers at the Virginia Living Museum, and competed in the regional science fair – placing first. Martha-Ann is passionate about inclusion and facing the challenges with respect to the youth mental health crisis. We are pleased to have such a talented young leader on our board. Welcome Martha-Ann!
Destinations!
Girl Scout Destinations are the ultimate adventure for individual Girl Scout Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors. Push past your comfort zone by applying for a trip on your own, and make friends from all over the country as you travel with new Girl Scout friends. There’s a unique, life-changing experience for everyone. Here’s one to check out:
Global Leadership Conference
Thursday March 06 - Sunday, March 09, 2025
Travel the 2026 European Quartet!
Registration opens Auguast 1, 2025. Travelers must be entering 10-12th grade, including graduating seniors, to travel.
Begin your European adventure with a flight to Amsterdam, Capital of the Netherlands. Encounter their famous windmills and learn about Dutch traditional crafts. No visit to Amsterdam would be complete with a stop at one of the most famous houses in the world, the Anne Frank House.
Continue to Brussels where you will see the Grand Place and marvel at the famous Atomium. Complete your time in Brussels while making some treats during a Belgian chocolate workshop.
On to Paris where, during your guided tour, you will see the city's most famous monuments, take a tour of the Latin Quarter, catch a glimpse of the Notre-Dame Cathedral and visit the Louvre Museum. Top off your Paris experience with a Macaron Class!
Engage with today’s important social issues at this inspirational conference on the campus of Salve Regina University in beautiful Newport, Rhode Island, and plan your future to make the world a better place. This Destination takes place in March, which may be during spring break. Participants may need to miss a day of school before and/or after the trip for travel days or more days depending on when their spring break takes place. A formal letter will be provided to request excused school absences.
Leave France in style as you board the high-speed Eurostar train and travel through the English Channel on your way to London. Wrap up your European adventure by visiting the United Kingdom. While in London you will ride the London Eye, take a cruise on the Thames River, visit Windsor Castle and participate in a special one-of-a-kind pinning ceremony at the WAGGGS World Center, Pax Lodge. Before departing for home, tour the Roman Baths and experience a visit to one of the most famous landmarks in the United Kingdom, Stonehenge.
Interested? Contact the Destinations Coordinator at gscccdestinations@gmail.com
Windsor Castle...WOW!
Girl Scout Cookie Weekend
Friday, February 21 to Sunday, February 23
Cookie Count-n-Go
February 22, 2025
Cookie Booths Begin February 23, 2025
Cookie Program Ends March 30, 2025
2025 Girl Scout Cookie Program
Get ready to "Embrace Possibility!"
When customers buy delicious Girl Scout Cookies, they're helping power amazing experiences for Girl Scouts. Experiences that broaden their worlds, help them learn essential life skills, and prepare them to practice a lifetime of leadership.
Cookie proceeds stay local, which means after the costs of baking the cookies and program logistics (like transporting them), 100% of the proceeds for each package is reinvested in Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast.
Essential Skills Girl Scouts Learn —
• Goal Setting
• Money Management
• Business Ethics
Cookie Lineup
• Decision Making
• People Skills
Through Little Brownie Bakers, Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast will be offering NINE cookie varieties: Thin Mints®, Samoas®, Tagalongs®, Trefoils®, Do-si-dos®, Girl Scout S’mores®, Toffee-tastic® (gluten free), Lemon-ups®, and Adventurefuls®.
Troop Proceeds
When customers buy delicious Girl Scout Cookies, they’re helping power amazing experiences for Girl Scouts. Experiences that broaden their worlds, help them learn essential life skills, and prepare them to practice a lifetime of leadership. Cookie proceeds stay local, meaning after the cookies' costs and program logistics (like transporting them!), 100% of the proceeds for each package is reinvested in Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast!
PGA Selling With Rewards
*Without Rewards
*The without rewards option is only open to C/S/A
Cookie Business Badges
The Cookie Business badges are the best way for Girl Scouts to develop business skills and learn to think like entreprenuers as they run their own business.
My Cookie Venture; Cookie Market Researcher; Cookie Innovator
Daisy: My First Cookie Business; Cookie Goal Setter
Brownie: My Cookie Customers; Cookie Decision Maker
Junior: My Cookie Team; Cookie Collaborator
Ambassador: My Cookie Business Resume; Cookie Influencer
Senior: My Cookie Network; Cookie Boss
2025 Girl Rewards!
Get details and the REWARDS you can earn on our website's Cookie page!
Super Seller 1,000+ Boxes
Girl Scouts earn points based on the number of boxes sold. These points are redeemable for AWESOME rewards.
Top 10 Council Entrepreneurs
These top entrepreneurs will enjoy an overnight trip to visit the Natural Bridge, Luray Caverns, and the Virginia Safari Park!
2,000+ Box Club
One week at a *GSCCC Resident OR Day Camp, (must pay deposit $50) OR Lifetime Membership (for 12th graders only.) *Pay deposit to reserve camp spot in February, do not delay!
Top Entrepreneurial Rewards
• Top 10 Digital Cookie Sellers
• Top Service Unit Entrepreneurs
• Top Entrepreneurs by Girl Scout level
Gift of Caring
New Philanthropic Reward!
Spike's K9 Fund. Protecting our national heroes.
Working dogs are crucial to keeping our communities safe. Spike's K9 Fund's mission is to protect our K9 heroes with custom-fit lifesaving vests, along with other critical needs.
Girl Scouts can choose to make the world a safer in place of a reward item. This means they can mix and match protecting a dog and picking a reward at different levels.
The Gift of Caring program offers a wonderful opportunity to support Girl Scouts, even if you're not interested in eating the cookies yourself. Customers can buy Gift of Caring cookies, which will then be donated to the USO of Hampton Roads and various other organizations across the council.
Gift of Caring Rewards
Digital Cookie makes a Girl Scout’s business plan sweet!
Digital Cookie helps Girl Scouts run and manage their Girl Scout Cookie business online. The Digital Cookie app makes it super simple for customers to order their faves online and pay by credit card to get the cookies right from you or have them shipped or donated— awesome!
Host a Family Cookie Meeting!
• Review the Caregiver Permission form and the Family Guide and open the meeting up to questions and clarifications.
• Discuss the methods of selling and which methods work best for the troop and families.
• Share rewards on the order card with your Girl Scouts - you know they're excited!
• Set troop and individual goals. How much money would the Girl Scouts like to earn? Is there a special trip or service project the troop in interested in? How will the troop track their goals.
• Discuss volunteer opportunities with caregivers such as initial order pick up, cookie sorting, and cookie booth supervision.
• Share important dates, review the program calendar and rally information.
• Establish a calendar of when orders will be due and when cookies will be available for pickup.
• Log in and discuss Digital Cookie.
Panda Hoodie
That's Me...a Change Maker!
Girl Scouts Take Action on Literacy
A report published by the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) paints a concerning picture of literacy in the U.S., with the average reading scores for many student groups declining. Why? It can be traced to screens becoming the default portal for information and leisure, with immersive reading often left behind. The fast-paced lifestyles we tend to lead also play a crucial role in the decline of reading.
While the reading crisis looms large, Girl Scouts are taking action and being creative to address the issue. Several GSCCC troops made a commitment and carried out literacy projects by bringing books to their communities as part of their Girl Scout Bronze projects.
Little Lending Library
Girl Scout Juniors from Troop 861 created a Little Library in their community to help others find the joy of reading. They started by researching locations and selecting a construction plan. Before starting construction, they developed a budget that was helped along with a troop bake sale. With donated books from their families and friends in the community, their newly built Little Library was opened for business!
The Tiny Escape Book Library
Mikayla McVeigh from Troop 0105 worked with members of the Coast Guard Base in Elizabeth City, NC to get approval for creating a lending library in the barracks building. She collected books to fill the shelves, then crafted bookmarks and a poem/poster to spread the word about her library to barracks guests. Mikayla is utilizing local Coast Guardsman as "secret shoppers" to assist her with any future restocking needs.
Warwick Moose Lodge Little Library
Girl Scout Juniors from Troop 1290 wanted to share their love for reading by creating a Little Library and placing it on the property owned by the Warwick Moose Lodge. To start, they prepared and presented a PowerPoint presentation to Lodge members. With full support from the Lodge, they moved ahead with construction plans. The final touch was collecting books from family members, school sources and friends in the community. The Warwick Moose Lodge Little Library is now fully stocked and in operation!
Check Out a New Book!
The first in a must-read middle grade series from Girl Scouts of the USA about a group of fifth-graders with lots of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.
Saturday, June 7, 2025
10 a.m. - Noon
Norfolk State University Wilder Theater 700 Park Ave., Suite 111, Norfolk 23504
Join GSCCC in recognizing Girl Scouts who have earned highest Girl Scout awards (Summit, Bronze, Silver and Gold) during the period from April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025.
Graduating Girl Scouts will be recognized at our celebration and participate in a bridging ceremony to become an adult member in the Movement. Registration is required for this special recognition and to be applauded on our Council’s social media.
That's Me...a Girl Scout!
Girl Scouts Visit Hope for Life Rescue
Girl Scouts from Troop 216 attended GSCCC’s Mental Health Matter event and learned stress management tips. They also toured the Hope for Life Rescue as part of this year's Spread Kindness to Four-legged Friends initiative and donated supplies. They learned how the facility operates, how to volunteer and what items are needed the most year-round.
Troop 305 Camping at First Landing
Girl Scouts from multi-level Troop 305 in Norfolk did fall camping at First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach where making s’mores was part of the fun! Girl Scout Daisies enjoyed a day trip including art activities and badge work before they headed home, and the other Girl Scouts spent the night under the stars!
A New Look for the Lodge
Thanks to Girl Scout Cadette Troop 538 the lower-level bathroom at The Lodge has a new look! The troop members, who enjoys staying at facility, decided to brighten up the bathroom by painting it a vibrant blue and then adding decorations, a new shower curtain and throw rug. “Everywhere you look there are inspirational quotes and words of encouragement,” said Reahna Mallory, the troop leader.
Girl Scouts Meet Mayor Phillip Jones
Troop 1040, a multi-level troop, met Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones. The Mayor spoke about initiatives within the city, along with participating in a Q&A with the girls. This was the culminating activity in a day spent working on the Democracy badge across all Girl Scout levels.
We love our Explore Patch programs! This fall, our Program Team organized an explore trip to Southampton County in Virginia. The group visited the Prince House on Main Street in Courtland, stopped at Rawls Museum of Art to make foil necklaces and had lunch at Belmont Deli before going to the Girl Scout Hut in Franklin where they made dioramas of what they did and saw on their journey. Visit our Patch page to learn about our Explore Patch programs.
Exploring Southampton County
Helping Evelyn's Wildlife Refuge
Girl Scout Juniors from Troop 223 earned their Bronze Award by building two large outdoor enclosures for Evelyn's Wildlife Refuge, a place dedicated to rehabilitating injured and orphaned wildlife native to Virginia.
Girl Scouts Are Spreading Kindness!
Spread Kindness to our Four Legged Friends
Caitlin shaping biscuits.
2024 Girl Fest
Girl Scouts are spreading kindness to our four-legged friends! The program campaign started in October and will be completed the end of February. The program included a fall Chalk Art Contest. Congratulations to the winner, Girl Scouts of Troop 1018!
The program encourages Girl Scouts to take action to help animals in their communities and to learn more about pet care as they earn a special patch. GSCCC scheduled several Spread Kindness workshops where Girl Scouts made animal treats and toys and heard from professionals.
Girl Scouts and families had fun at Girl Scout Fest at Northwest River Park on October 19 to celebrate the start of a new membership year. Themed activities focused on physical and mental well-being in the outdoors! From nature walks to healthy cooking ideas and outdoor meditation, there was plenty for all to sample.
Exhibitors included several community partners, among them: Tidewater Compost; Hurrah Players; Gym Guyz; Elizabeth River Project; and Equi-Kids. GSCCC specialty clubs and archives were also represented.
Tidewater Compost educated members on the benefits of composting and explained how the regional compost bin is being used at A Place for Girls! “Food is a valuable resource that doesn't belong in the trash. Our services take your food scraps from table to farm and transforms your waste into nutrient rich living soils,” said owner Cameron Kania.
Multi-level Troop 772 from Suffolk visited the Suffolk North Library to meet and learn about therapy dogs while choosing some great books to read about children and pets!
from GSCCC’s Star Club gave demonstrations at Girl Scout Fest. The Club is open to Girl Scout Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors! The Club is supported by Back Bay Astronomers. In addition to virtual meetings, they take trips to planetariums and schedule in-person workshops. GSCCC also has a Drone Club (C/S/A)! One of their supporters is the Princess Anne High School ROTC. Learn what drones are, how to use them, and enter a competition with your Club members. Both clubs meet monthly. Interested? Email customercare@gscc.org
Volunteer archive docents from Troop 256 shared history of Girl Scouting with Girl Fest guests. On exhibit, were scrapbooks from their trip to visit the founder’s birthplace in Savannah, Georgia!
Members
Focus on Mental Well-Being
Girls need Girl Scouting. They need the support of their peers and caring adults. They need safe places where they can just be themselves and know they can take healthy risks to try new things, like public speaking, building a robot or climbing a rock wall for the first time. Girls today face stressors to an extreme that past generations didn’t, such as climate change, political polarization, hate crimes and school shootings. As these pressures have increased, in-person, real-life connections have decreased. Research shows that this generation, especially with the impact of COVID, is spending less time than any other generation face-to-face with their friends.
Instead, they are spending more time online digesting what social media and influencers pitch — and so are their peers. This has led girls to think way too much about their own appearance. While some attention to this is normal and understandable, an overemphasis on what you look like is clearly not healthy, and it is strongly associated with depression and anxiety.
Research shows that teaching girls at young ages to be cheerleaders for one another (and modeling that behavior ourselves as grownups) can help ease the sense of anxiety and, in some cases competition, that today’s girls are facing. As parents and volunteers, we can encourage girls to value inner qualities, such as their artistic abilities or intelligence. Childhood is a time of discovery and a time when we build important values that carry us through life, not a time to build a lifelong critical inner voice that tears us down.
Be Prepared!
Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach volunteers, parents, family members, caregivers, and other caring adults how to help an adolescent (ages 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health challenge. The course teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations.
This is a blended learning course with a required online portion that must be completed prior to the in-person portion. Adults who complete the course work will receive a certificate.
Take action and register for either January 18 or February 9. You can also email customercare@gsccc.org and let us know you are interested in a future training and want to be placed on an alert list.
Mental Health Matters
Members of the College of William & Mary Kappa Deltas led Girl Scouts in mental health activities at the Mental Health Matters workshop that included making friendship bracelets, journaling, vision boards, and having open discussions with college mentors.
Coming Soon! New Body Appreciation Program scheduled release in July 2025. Six badges plus content on Volunteer Toolkit!
Girl Scouts' Mental Wellness Patch Program provides tips and free activities to assist girls on their mental wellness journey! http://www.gsccc.org/family#mentalhealth
GSUSA Activity Zone
Participate in online events in real time or watch past events on demand. Explore activities that feature step-by-step videos hosted by volunteers, troop leaders, and Girl Scouts like you! Watch videos like Make a Bug Box, Knots to Know, Create Your Happy Place, and more.
Work at your own pace!
GSCCC offers virtual badges that you can start and finish at any time:
• Financial Literacy
• Think Like A Programmer
• Photography
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). Register for your kit on the events page at www.gsccc.org/events.
• Entrepreneur
• Robotics
• The Science of Happiness
• Mechanical Engineering
• Automotive Engineering
Fun at the Virginia Air and Space Science Center. Schedule a visit soon!
Program Events ~ January-June 2025
NCIS Norfolk
February 1; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: NCIS Base in Norfolk
Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $14; Register by: 1/15 Norfolk-based NCIS agents will help you learn fingerprinting/forensics, polygraph, and officer response tactics, then hold a question and answer session regarding their careers.
It’s Your Planet, Love It!
February 8; Levels: D/B/J 9:30 a.m.-Noon Levels: C/S/A 1-4 p.m.; Location: Virginia Wesleyan University; 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!
STEM Club: Automotive Engineering
February 9; D/B/J 10 a.m.-Noon C/S/A 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Location: Landstown High School, Virginia Beach; Cost: $40; Register by: 1/22
Find out how automotive designers come up with ideas for new vehicles. Then, take the wheel and design your own! Includes all three Automotive badges for Girl Scout Daisies, Brownies and Juniors (older girls will receive patches).
Daisy Space Science Explorer
February 15; 10-11:30 a.m.
• Think Like A Programmer Journey
• Think Like A Citizen Scientist Journey
• Think Like An Engineer Journey
Location: APFG; Cost: $10; Register by: 1/30 Girl Scout Daisies: Earn your Space Science Explorer badge with the GSCCC Star Club! Come explore the sun. moon, and stars with us.
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. You’ll have the chance to use different tools and materials to make a craft and brainstorm ways to make it even better.
Medical Simulation Experience
February 22; 8:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Location: ODU Lester Hall, Norfolk Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $27; Register by: 2/5
Do you think you might like a career in the medical field? Find out what it's like to be a med student as you try your hand at different activity stations and play doctor for a day!
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!
FLY into Spring with iFly
March 30; Session 1: 9:30-10 a.m.
Session 2: 10-10:30 a.m.
Session 3: 10:30-11 a.m.
Location: iFLY - Virginia Beach
Levels: J/C/S/A; Cost: $35; Register by: 3/19
We are flying in the state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnel with the iFLY team! Be inspired by trained educators who will guide you through an interactive presentation and demos in the wind tunnel.
Think Like a Citizen Scientist
April 5; Levels: D/B/J: 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Levels: C/S/A: 1-4 p.m. Location: Virginia Wesleyan University; Cost: $30
Register by: 3/19
Practice making scientific observations and collecting data, participate in a citizen science project, and do a Take Action project to address an issue in your community.
Robotics with the Kappa Deltas
April 5; 10 a.m.-Noon; Location: The College of William and Mary; Levels: J/C
Cost: $17; Register by: 3/19
Girl Scout Juniors and Cadettes are invited to earn their Robotics badges with the Kappa Deltas! From engineering to programming to digital arts to psychology, developing robots lets you draw from a wide range of talents.
Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast
Hockey 101 Workshop
April 6; 2:15-4 p.m.
Location: Chilled Ponds, Chesapeake Levels: All; Cost: $5; Register by: 3/26
Ready to try your hand at the fastest team sport? The coaches at Chilled Ponds will guide you through the basics of hockey while you practice the sport out on the ice. Every participant will receive a patch!
Cookies on Ice with The Norfolk Admirals April 12; Game Time 7:05
Location: Norfolk Scope; Levels: All Cost: $20; Register by: 4/2
Come cheer on the Norfolk Admirals at their final game of the season! Girl Scouts will be recognized for their cookie sale achievements. It's also Fan Night so bring your friends and family for an evening of high energy fun!
Girl Scout Night Out with the Tides April 25; Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Game time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Harbor Park; Levels: All Cost: $12; Food: $9.50; Register by: 4/18
It’s time for our annual trip to the ballpark!
Join your sister Girl Scouts, family, and friends this spring for a fun night of baseball with the Norfolk Tides at Harbor Park.
Girl Scout Night Out with the Tides Overnight April 25; Time: Following the game
Location: Harbor Park; Levels: All Cost: $6; Register by: 4/18
Spend the night under the stars at Harbor Park after the game. Register for Girls Night Out with the Tides, then purchase these optional overnight tickets. Details will be emailed the week of the event.
Explore the Outer Banks
April 26; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: Outer Banks, NC; Levels: All Cost: $12; Register by: 4/9
Come along on our Exploration series and earn a patch as we Explore the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
Sea Love Candle Making
April 27; D/B/J: 11 a.m., Noon, or 1 p.m. C/S/A: 2 p.m., 3 p.m., or 4 p.m.
Location: Sea Love Candle Bar and Boutique, Virginia Beach, Cost: $35 Register by: 4/18
Girl Scouts will get their creative juices flowing while designing and pouring their own handmade candles!
My Family Story
May 3; 10-11 a.m.; Location: Paperbacks Ink
9716 Warwick Blvd, Newport News
Levels: Brownies; Cost: $10; Register by: 4/16
Paperbacks Ink bookstore staff will help Brownies to tell your family story and find out more about the people you love and who love you!
Girl Scout Day with Operation Smile
May 3; 2-5 p.m.
Location: Operation Smile Headquarters, Virginia Beach; Levels: All Cost: $5 for patch; Register by: 4/23
Explore the global headquarters of Operation Smile to learn about the cleft care and education they provide to communities around the world. This family-friendly open house with include tours, activities, and community service opportunities!
Welcome to the Cadettes Event
May 10, 1-4 p.m.
Location: Camp Darden, Courtland
Level: Juniors; Cost: $15; Register by: 4/22
Rising 6th graders and their adults are invited to an afternoon of exploration through outdoor adventures, chatting about issues important to young teens, and enjoying good munchies that include making s'mores! Get the scoop on travel, highest awards and all that Girl Scouts offers a Girl Scout Cadette!
Think Like an Engineer Journey
May 17; Levels: D/B/J: 10-11:30 a.m.
Levels: C/S/A: Noon-2 p.m.
Location: Landstown High School, Virginia Beach; Cost: $30; Register by: 4/23
Complete hands-on design challenges powered by solar energy, and plan a Take Action project that helps others. Includes the badges to be earned and everything you need to complete the Journey!
Think Like a Programmer Journey
May 31; Levels: D/B/J: 10-11:30 a.m.
Levels: C/S/A: Noon-2 p.m.
Location: APFG; Levels: All
Cost: $30; Register by: 5/14
Complete fun, computational thinking activities with hands-on materials for experimentation. Includes the badges to be earned and everything you need to complete the Journey!
Celebrate National Girl Scout Week
March 9-15, 2026!
Girl Scout Week is celebrated each March, starting with Girl Scout Sunday and ending with Girl Scout Sabbath on a Saturday, and it always includes Girl Scouts' birthday, March 12. It is a time when we shout our Girl Scout pride from the rooftops! Be sure to add a special celebration in your troop and/or service unit plans. Don't forget to wear your Girl Scout uniform, membership pin or Girl Scout spirit apparel to school or work on March 12. There are so many ways to celebrate! You’ll find church/ places of faith bulletins and inserts on our website.
11th Annual Cookie Classic Run
January 18; 9 a.m.; Location: Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, Chesapeake 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
Climbing Wall - Bouldering
January 25; Level: Daisy: 9 -10:30 a.m.
Level: Daisy: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg
Cost: $12; Register by: 1/16
Climb on our indoor bouldering wall. Discuss basic climbing skills, practice stretches to get ready for your climb, and participate in some fun games.
Climbing Wall
January 25; 2-4 p.m.
Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg
Levels: B/J; Cost: $16; Register by: 1/16
Challenge yourself to see how high — and how fast — you can climb our indoor rock wall! Explore your limits and reach new heights.
Daisy Knot Tying
February 8; 8:30-10 a.m.; Location: APFG
Cost: $15; Register by: 1/30
Learn some basic knots and use your new skills to make fun crafts and games! Groups will be kept small so everyone can receive individual help.
Brownie Knot Tying
February 8; 10:30 a.m.- Noon
Location: APFG; Cost: $18; Register by: 1/30
Learn some basic knots and use your new skills to make fun crafts and games! Groups will be kept small so everyone can receive individual help.
Junior Knot Tying
February 8; 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Location: APFG; Cost: $18; Register by: 1/30
Build your 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.
Another Way to Celebrate!
Learn about the history of Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast! This booklet includes historical highlights of Girl Scouting, both nationally and locally. Many thanks to the GSCCC archives committee for all their efforts in researching, and editing this historical record of our councils history. Scan the QR Code and read online!
Advanced Knot Tying
February 8; 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Location: APFG; Levels: C/S/A
Cost: $18; Register by: 1/30
Build your 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.
Brownie First Aid
February 15; 10-11:30 a.m.
Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Cost: $20; Register by: 2/6
Find out how to get help in an emergency so you can be prepared if the unexpected happens. Role-play how to talk to 911 and make your own basic first aid kit.
Junior First Aid
February 15; 1-3 p.m.
Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Cost: $20; Register by: 2/6
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
February 16; 9:30 a.m.-Noon
Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $20; Register by: 2/6
Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors: Gain advanced first aid skills, discuss looking after younger children, learn how to tackle weather-related illnesses, and get hands-on practice.
AIM
March 1; Levels: B/J 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Levels: C/S/A 1-3 p.m.
Location: Camp Burke's Mill Pond, Gloucester; Cost: $16; Register by: 2/20
Aim for your archery patch: line up your bow and arrow, stand straight and shoot! Learn the basics of archery and with some practice and instructor’s coaching, you may become the next archery champion.
Stargazing
March 1; 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Location: Camp Burke's Mill Pond, Gloucester; Levels: J/C/S/A; Cost: $18
Register by: 2/20
Make your own star wheel to help guide you through the Milky Way, view the night sky through a telescope, and enjoy star-inspired crafts.
Slingshots
March 2; 9-11 a.m.
Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg Level: Daisy; Cost: $16; Register by: 2/20
The slingshot has been around for centuries, just waiting for you to give it a try. Join us to work on your aim and enjoy some fun target range activities!
AIM
March 2; Levels: B/J 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Levels: C/S/A 3-5 p.m.
Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg
Cost: $16; Register by: 2/20
Learn about parts of the bow, finetune your skills and then show off your archery prowess in a series of games and challenges!
Camp Skimino Open House
March 8; 9-11 a.m.
Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg
Cost: Free; Register by: 2/27
Discover the fun that awaits you at summer camp before the season even begins at our camp open house! Take a guided tour of beautiful Camp Skimino in Williamsburg, Virginia.
Low Ropes
March 8; 1-3 p.m.
Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg
Levels: J/C; Cost: $16; Register by: 2/27
Participate in some fun teambuilding games and traverse tricky obstacles with your team. Challenge yourself and gain some new skills!
Climbing Wall
March 8; 1-3 p.m.
Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg
Levels: B/J; Cost: $16; Register by: 2/27
Challenge yourself to see how high — and how fast — you can climb our indoor rock wall! Explore your limits and reach new heights.
Camp Apasus Open House
March 22; 9-11 a.m.
Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Cost: Free; Register by: 3/13
Discover the fun that awaits you at summer camp before the season even begins at our camp open house! Take a self-guided tour of beautiful Camp Apasus in Norfolk, Virginia.
AIM
March 22; 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Levels: B/J; Cost: $16; Register by: 3/13
Aim for your archery patch: line up your bow and arrow, stand straight and shoot! Learn the basics of archery and with some practice and instructor’s coaching, you may become the next archery champion.
Letter Boxing
March 22; 2-4 p.m.
Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Levels: Brownies; Cost: $16; Register by: 3/13
There's treasure hidden at Camp Apasus just for you to find! Follow the clues to find the letterboxes and solve the mystery of the pirates.
Day by the Pond
March 29; 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Location: Camp Burke's Mill Pond
Levels: B/J/C/S/A; Cost: $15/youth, $8/adult Register by: 3/20
Grab a paddle and enjoy some time on the water with the Blazing Blue Herons Canoe Team, plus other outdoor activities including art and archery!
Camp Outback Open House
March 29; 9-11 a.m.
Location: Camp Outback, Chesapeake
Cost: Free; Register by: 3/20
Discover the fun that awaits you at summer camp before the season even begins at our camp open house! Take a guided tour of The Outback in Chesapeake, Virginia.
Canoeing
March 29; 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Location: APFG; Levels: B/J; Cost: $16
Register by: 3/20
Canoeing is a great team-building exercise and a fun way to enjoy the outdoors! Learn about canoes and practice some basic skills, then take a trip around Bells Mill Creek.
Daisy Outdoor Day
March 29; 2-3:30 p.m.
Location: APFG; Cost: $14
Register by: 3/20
Let's enjoy an outdoor fun day, 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.
Slingshots
April 5; 9-11 a.m.
Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Level: Daisy; Cost: $16; Register by: 3/27
The slingshot has been around for centuries, just waiting for you to give it a try. Join us to work on your aim and enjoy some fun target range activities!
AIM
April 5; Levels: B/J 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Levels: C/S/A 3-5 p.m.; Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk; Levels: B/J; Cost: $16
Register by: 3/27
Aim for your archery patch: line up your bow and arrow, stand straight and shoot! Learn the basics of archery and with some practice and instructor’s coaching, you may become the next archery champion.
Climbing to Cadettes
April 6; 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.
Location: Camp Darden, Courtland Levels: Juniors; Cost: $20; Register by: 3/27
This specialty program will offer 5th grade Juniors the chance to earn the Cadette Climbing Wall Adventure badge as they challenge themselves and rise to new heights!
Daisies Explore Camp
April 19; 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Location: Camp Darden, Courtland Cost: $25; Register by: 4/10
Discover all the camping fun that Girl Scouts has to offer, and meet some new friends, too. You'll make tie dye, go canoeing, and roast a classic camp s'more!
April 26; Levels: D/B 9-11 a.m
Levels: J/C 3-5p.m.
Location: APFG; Cost: $18
Register by: 4/17
Learn about all the different ways we can use solar energy and then create your own solar-powered device!
Daisy Outdoor Day
April 26; 1-2:30 p.m.
Location: APFG; Cost: $14
Register by: 3/20
Let's enjoy an outdoor fun day, 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.
Capital Bike Ride
April 27; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: Capital Trail Jamestown Trailhead; Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $16
Register by: 4/17
Enjoy a scenic bike ride down the Capital Trail to Chickahominy Riverfront Park where we will picnic and enjoy lunch before riding back.
Leadership Weekend
May 3-4; 10 a.m. Sat.-2 p.m. Sun.
Location: Camp Burke's Mill Pond Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $80
Register by: 4/24
What is leadership and how do you become a leader? We will spend two days and one night tackling those questions and play some fun and challenging teambuilding games.
Paddles Away
May 10; Levels: J/C 9 a.m.-Noon Levels: S/A 1-4 p.m.
Location: Camp Darden, Courtland Cost: $16; Register by: 5/1
Enjoy a fun morning on the water! Test your abilities on canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards; play games, improve your watersport skills, and explore the lake at Camp Darden.
Canoeing
May 10; 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Location: Camp Darden, Courtland Levels: B/J; Cost: $16; Register by: 5/1
Canoeing is a great team-building exercise and a fun way to enjoy the outdoors! Learn about canoes and practice some basic skills, then take a trip around the lake at beautiful Camp Darden.
Jockey's Adventure
May 17; Time: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Location: Jockey's Ridge State Park, Nags Head, NC
Levels: J/C/S/A; Cost: $10
Register by: 5/8
Join us at Jockey's Ridge State Park for a fun day of archery, kite flying, and Junior Ranger adventures.
Brownie First Aid
May 31; 10-11:30 a.m.; Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk; Cost: $20; Register by: 5/22
Find out how to get help in an emergency so you can be prepared if the unexpected happens. Role-play how to talk to 911 and make your own basic first aid kit.
Junior First Aid
May 31; 1-3 p.m.; Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk; Cost: $20; Register by: 5/22
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
June 1; 9:30 a.m.-Noon
Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $20; Register by: 5/22
Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors: Gain advanced first aid skills, discuss looking after younger children, learn how to tackle weatherrelated illnesses, and get hands-on practice.
The 5k is to honor the love of community by providing scholarships in Maylea Beasley's name. All proceeds benefit local scholarships and are awarded annually to a senior player at First Colonial High School Volleyball and a Gold Award Girl Scout from the Girl Scouts Colonial Coast Council for continuing education.
Saturday, April 5, 2025 (Rain date, 4/12)
Start and Finish at Baylake United Methodist Church Parking Lot
Set-up begins at 6 a.m. | 5K 9–1 p.m. Clean up immediately after completion of 5K Volunteers needed!
Contact Shari Beasely with any questions 757-617-0120.
GSCCC Wild Things – High Adventure Group
• Spring Break Trip, April 14-18, 2025, hike the Triple Crown - (experienced hikers 13 and up)
• Great Smoky Mountains Trip. Six days of exploring and camping. Summer 2025
• North Carolina’s First Rail Bike Tour! Summer 2025
Find details on their website! wildthingsgsccc.weebly.com
World Thinking Day 2025 will take place on Thursday, February 22. The theme for 2025 is "Our Story," reflection on the values and symbolism of the Girl Scout movement; explore what it means to be a Girl Scout; and travel into the past, explore the present, and look toward the future.
Activity to Try!
Gather your troop and listen to “The World Song” performed by Melinda Caroll* which can be found on YouTube.
Sing the song with friends, family, your troop, family or friends. Add fun by creating props, such as drawing a flag and holding it while singing. You could also take turns singing each line, use hand movements to act out words, or come up with a drumbeat or claps for the rhythm.
After you sing “The World Song,” create YOUR OWN song or poem. Make it about this year’s World Thinking Day theme. Videotape your performance and share with GSCCC’s Marcomm Team to share with our members! Send your videos to customercare@gsccc.org
*Credit: Melinda Caroll Music, www.melindacarollmusic.com/
Maylea's Fun 5K Run/Jog/Walk
2025 GSCCC Summer Camp Registration opens February 13, 2025!
Summer camp can be a life-changing, unforgettable experience where a Girl Scout can make new friends and discover the world outdoors while exploring new things. Outdoor experiences give Girl Scouts the opportunity to unplug, learn new skills, discover their sense of self, and test new-found independence in a safe, environment!
Discover the fun that awaits you at summer camp before the season even begins at a camp open house event! From archery to fun on the water, you’ll learn why Girl Scout camp is the best place to be in the summer. Make sure to wear your walking shoes. Registration is encouraged but walk-ins are welcome.
Camp Open Houses from 9-11 a.m.:
Camp Skimino, Williamsburg
Camp Apasus, Norfolk
Camp Outback, Chesapeake
($15 off select camps).
Who can go to camp?
• Overnight camp is for Girl Scouts entering grades 2-12. Leadership opportunities are offered for those entering grades 9-12.
• Day camp is for Girl Scouts entering grades 1-6. Leadership opportunities for those entering grades 7-12.
Girls Need Camp. Camp Needs YOU!
Summer Camp Employment
• Experience three great camp locations in one summer.
• Combination overnight and day camp experiences.
• Competitive salaries.
Apply online TODAY! Visit our website at gsccc.org or call Tammy Carlson, Human Resources Director, with questions at 757-548-4743.
The 2025 Camp Guide is available for viewing:
Sandler Center for the Performing Arts Performance Dates: March 7-9, 2025
Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts Performance Date: March 15, 2025
New Girl Scout Daisy Leader Elvira Contes Nieves
As a new Girl Scout Daisy Leader of Troop 2106, Elvira and her co-leaders are providing a safe space for Girl Scouts to discover themselves. They are helping them try new things, build each other up, and make unforgettable memories through fun, laughter, and connection. Thanks to these role models and mentors, we have more Girl Scouts eager to make the world a better place. It all happened when Elvira said "yes" and took advantage of the new initiative to receive monthly Girl Scout Experience boxes that would help her in her new Daisy leader role. She then received help to form a troop and two parents, Jamie and Cariann, volunteered to be as leaders as well.
“In 2023, I first learned about Girl Scouts being available in the Outer Banks while taking my daughter to the Kid's Fest in Manteo,” Elvira said. “During the Spring of 2024, we went to the Kid's Fest again and headed over to the Girl Scouts booth to make a friendship bracelet and later on in the summer, we joined a crafting and information session held at the Kill Devil Hills Library and had a chance to ask questions. It was a great, informative session that helped me decide.”
The boxes the troop receives each month include supplies, handouts, materials, and suggestions on how to lead the meetings. “These boxes have been incredibly helpful for us in our first year as a Daisy troop," Elvira said. “The girls are excited to see what's inside and so are we! This helps the meetings run smoothly, save on possible material expenses and help make the meetings extra fun.”
With the help of their active parents, the troop offers activities inside and out of their regular troop meetings. Their first outdoor troop activity was the Girl Scouts Love State Parks event held in September at Jockey's Ridge. “One of our moms brought the Junior Ranger Activity book to a meeting and we all worked collectively on the activities to earn the Jockey's Ridge State Park Junior Ranger Badge, which made the event even more exciting!”
The troop is a bilingual troop with a diverse background and aims on highlighting all the things that make each person unique. Elvira volunteers to help connect Girl Scouting with the Spanish-speaking families in her community. The troop celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month and painted maracas and created flowers out of crepe paper as part of Dia De Los Muertos. Several of the troop members also attended Girl Scout Fest at Northwest River Park in Chesapeake to celebrate the start of the new Girl Scout membership year.
“When I look at my daughter, Artemis, I think about her future and I visualize her being an example of change, to help and influence others to become better people. In addition to all the skills we teach her at home and those she learns at school, it is important she continues to learn other skills outside of those environments. And certainly, through Girl Scouts, the opportunity and encouragement to help develop those different skills as a collective whole exists. I strongly believe in our girls and future girls who want to join Girl Scouts and help in making a difference in the world.”
Girl Scouts change the world. You can change their lives.
You have what it takes to inspire the next generation. And you don’t have to have a child of your own to get involved— you just need to care.
New Daisy Girl Scout (K-1) troop leaders will receive a complimentary monthly supply box filled with step-by-step activities, supplies, and everything they’ll need for a fun meeting with their troop.
Reach out and learn more about how simple it can be to make a big difference in Girl Scouts’ lives.
Did
you know? Many Girl Scouts resources are available in Spanish and/or bilingual formats!
Plus, using the Google Translate widget at the top of our website, you can read any page in Spanish.
Here are a few resources you’ll find on our new “one-stop” Spanish resource page found at gsccc.org:
• La Conexión Familiar: Una introducción a Girl Scouts en inglés y español. (An introduction to Girl Scouts in English and Spanish.)
• Emprendedora con Negocio de Galletas (Cookie Entrepreneur Family Pin: Bilingual activity sheets for each grade level)
• Mi Promesa, Mi Fe (My Promise, My Faith): Booklets for Daisy/ Brownie/Junior or Cadette/Senior/Ambassador
• Bilingual Troop Year Plans for Daisies and Brownies
C cktails for a Cause
Still Green. Still Great!
March 5, 2025 | 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Town Point Club
101 W Main St, Suite 300, Norfolk
Free admittance, hors d’oeuvres, cash bar and great company!
Interested? Contact philanthropy@gsccc.org
Celebrate Girl Scout Leader Day on April 22!
Nominations open until Jan. 20, 2025
Girl Scout Famous Formers returns better than ever!
Join us on May 1, 2025 to celebrate Girl Scouting and its legacy of leadership!
d’Art Center, Norfolk, VA
5:30–8:30 p.m.
$60 per person, or two for $100
Valet parking, culinary delights, two beer/ wine tickets, tile pour art class, and a “Leave your mark” canvas group art project will encourage guests to engage and socialize!
How About a Week in Greece!
October 6-14, 2026
Join GSCCC’s “Travel Queen” Eileen Livick for this amazing adventure, just for adults. Walk through ancient history and open-air museums in the capital, Athens. Revel in the serenity and diversity of the Greek Islands on the isles of Mykonos and Santorini—daydreams come to life in a hundred shades of blue. Watch the setting sun from hilltops and black sand beaches.
See the full itinerary and book your spot today!
Families, you’ll find volunteer appreciation toolkits with resources on GSUSA’s website. Find some fun ways for you and your Girl Scout to show your love to an exceptional volunteer with customizable email and social media content to make thanking volunteers easier than ever!
Say “thank you” to everyone who gives their time on behalf of Girl Scouting. Visit the GSCCC shop for some great gift ideas!
Camp Young Reunion
Girl Scout alum who attended Camp Eleanor Young’s Girl Scout camp as youth gathered at Grace Episcopal Church in Norfolk to reconnect and take a trip down memory lane. The event was hosted by William Mann, Jr., son of the camp’s director, Pam Mann. Established in 1946, the camp was owned by the City of Norfolk and was managed by nonprofits. It was named in honor of child advocate Eleanor White Young, wife of the Journal and Guide owner, P.B. Young.
Please read GSCCC’s blog on the reunion and the friendship it ignited!
Who We Are: From kindergarten through 12th grade Girl Scouts gain important skills in areas that form the foundation of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. Creating connections with Girl Scouting is at the heart of what we do and this year was a testament to that commitment. With every troop meeting held, every service project completed, and every badge earned, our youth members are shaping their futures through the power of Girl Scouts.
6,801 Girl Members 2023-2024
5,492 Adults
Your year of wonder, your year of friendship, your year of adventure – all messages used during the 2023-24 Membership Year that were right on target as Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast grew innovative programs and connected with Girl Scouts in new ways. Together, staff, board, volunteers, and donors stuck to the “business plan,” our mission, of empowering girls to build courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. We are confident that Juliette Gordon Low’s visionary spirit and the Movement she founded in 1912 live on with each Girl Scout we serve through our life-changing leadership experiences.
We are proud to present the 2023-24 Impact Report showcasing the incredible results Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast achieved. We invite you to help us celebrate the accomplishments of our extraordinary Girl Scouts, dedicated volunteers, and generous supporters, as we prepare the path for yet another adventurous year!
4,482
Girl Scouts earned badges and patches, connected with their sister Girl Scouts, and had fun, using their superpowers.
1,529
Highest Girl Awards
Supporting Girl Scouts as they strive to reach their full potential makes it possible for girls to thrive today—and set the stage for their future success.
Along with caring adults by their side, our supporters were part of Girl Scouts having an opportunity to shine! At a celebration held in June at Norfolk State University, Girl Scouts earning the highest Girl Scout leadership awards in their level were recognized.
Claire Askew of
as one of the recipients from across the
The recognition was accompanied by a $5,000 scholarship from GSUSA, which was matched by GSCCC, for a total of $10,000. Claire is attending the University of Alabama.
Donor Recognition
October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024
You have so many choices in determining which causes to support through your charitable donations. Thank you for selecting Girl Scouts!
As we move together into the future, Girl Scouting is evolving and innovating to better support girls to take the helm. Your investment helps every Girl Scout prepare for a lifetime of leadership, adventure, and success.
ANNUAL CONTRIBUTIONS
$100,000+
Anonymous (D)
United Way of South Hampton Roads
$25,000 - $50,000
Beazley Foundation, Inc.
Hampton Roads Community Foundation
United Way of the Virginia Peninsula
$10,000 – $24,999
Anonymous
Girl Scouts of the USA
Rotary International District 7600
Norfolk Southern Corporation
The Warfield Foundation Inc.
$5,000 - $9,999
Albemarle Area United Way
The Benevity Community Impact Fund
Estate of Barbara Wild
Franklin-Southampton Area United Way
Franklin-Southampton Charities
Dan and Tracy Keller
Langley for Families Foundation
Papa Johns Foundation
Carolyn Pittman
Sentara Health
Service Unit 250-Lynnhaven Shores
Charles Constant and Ruth Hastings Skinner Memorial Trust
$1,000 - $4,999
Abingdon Ruritan Charitable Associates Inc.
ABNB Community Foundation
Carolyn Abron-McCadden
Albemarle Community Trust
Anonymous (3)
The Bank of America Charitable Foundation
BASF Corporation
JoAn M. Berry
Dawn and Pete Brotherton
Deborah H. Butler
The Capital Group
Paul and Tammy Carlson
Elizabeth Chapman
City of Chesapeake
Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign
Sylvia Weinstein Craft
Patrick Cvitanovich
The Elizabeth City Foundation
Luis Estrada
Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund
Fulton Bank
Sherrie Hastings
Amanda Howie
Dr. Sharon Jones
Lu Ann Klevecz
Knights of Columbus Council 11984
Norman J Knott (D)
Ladies Auxiliary Fleet, Reserve Assn. Unit 60
Dr. Lorraine Lees and Dr. William Rodner
Sarah Linden-Brooks
Thomas and Linda Linke
Microsoft Matching Gifts Program
Laura Morgan
NPOconnect LLC Newport News
Shipbuilding
Obici Healthcare Foundation
Richard and Lara Overy
Kyle S. Price
Publix Super Markets Charities
Doug and Susan Ramsland
Ealey Reynaud
Mr. and Dr. Barry & Lara Sass
SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment
Shirley Skinner
Richard and Sunny Smith
Southeast Virginia Community Foundation
Spouses Club of Fort Eustis
Carl B. Sterzing
The Suffolk Foundation
Sally Swanson
Tidewater Community College
The J. Edwin Treakle Foundation Inc.
UBS Financial Services, Inc.
April Van Skiver
Warwick Rotary Foundation
Wegmans
Williamsburg Garden Club
$500 - $999
Angela R. Bright
Ms. Melissa L.Burroughs and Mr. Guy Flibotte
Mr. and Mrs. David A Carver
Chrysler Museum of Art
Combined Federal Campaign
$500 - $999 continued
Amy S. Coyne
Michael and Jennifer Daniels
David Hunt and Sharon E. Durrette-Hunt
Christy Falk
Norfolk NATO Festival
Marcy Germanotta
Angelyn W. Gibson
Guads Granby Street, Inc
Carolene Goodwyn-Harris
Tricia Hudson
Cheran Ivery
Jody A. Kaurup
Stacey Kellar
Kim Lincoln
Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Lisner
Constance Liu
Lockheed Martin Charity Custodial Account
Cheryl A. McGrenra
Brittany Meadows
Reverend Andrea Nelson
Jessica Newberry
Service Unit 360-Suffolk
Kristina and Daniel Thompson
Troop 444
Vanguard Charitable Endowment Program Wall, Einhorn & Chernitzer, P.C.
IN-KIND CONTRIBUTIONS
24/7 Fitness
Adams Outdoor Advertising
The Adventure Park at Virginia Beach, LLC
Deb Amatulli
Emily D. Balke
Mara Bates
JoAn M. Berry
Laura Bohannon
Dawn and Pete Brotherton
Leonard Brown Jr.
Sheila Byrum
Champion Fences
Cherry Pop Craft Shop
Chesapeake Pest Control
Cinema Cafe
City of Elizabeth City
Amy S. Coyne d'Art Center
Ronnie and Virginia G. Douvia
Endurance IT Services
Latonya English
Fairfield Inn Williamsburg
Greenbrier Country Club
Amanda Howie
Tricia Hudson
iFLY Va Beach Indoor Skydiving
Innovative Creative Designs
Jody's Popcorn
Jody A. Kaurup
Kim Keene (D)
Sonia Kessler
Lu Ann Klevecz
Latitude Climbing & Fitness
Eileen S. Livick
Macaroni Kid
Sue Mangan
Cheryl A. McGrenra
Mid Atlantic Dairy Queen LLC
Mini Me Events
Laura Morgan
My Active Child
Nauticus, National Maritime Museum
Next Level Beauty
Novatech
Barb T. Owens
PepsiCo
PJ United, Inc.
Ripley's Believe It or Not! Williamsburg
Deborah Sampson
SeaHill Spa at The Cavalier
Sertoma Club of Norfolk
Shore Store
Southern Branch Nursery
Lauren Spruill
Joanne Sundberg
Sally Swanson
Tidewater Hispanic News
Barbara and Frank Tierney
Topiaries
Total Wine & More
True Value Hardware Windsor
April Van Skiver
Virginia Arts Festival
Virginia Opera
Virginia Stage Company
Virginia Symphony Orchestra
Carletta Waddler
Terri Washington
Wawa
Wines for Humanity
Jay and Mickey Woodcook
Beth Yates
ENDOWMENTS & SPECIAL FUNDS
BUCK HARRIS AWARD ENDOWMENT
Anonymous
Lila Davis
Elizabeth A. Kessler
GSCCC LEADERSHIP ENDOWMENT
Deb Amatulli
Tricia E. Armstrong
Shannon O. Carter
Elise Gore
Susan Scheessele
Terri Washington
GSCCC GOLD AWARD SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Anonymous (2)
Linda and James Bass
Deborah Becherer
JoAn M. Berry
Ms. Melissa Burroughs and Mr. Guy Flibotte
Vera Campbell
Cheran Ivery
Dan and Tracy Keller
Eileen S. Livick
Ann Loflin Hobson
Dr. Lisa and Mr. Jeff Moore
Irene Morris
BJ and Bruce Nuckols
Beblon Parks
Carolyn Pittman
Richard and Sunny Smith
Ann E. Stenberg
Rev. Carole K. Stockberger
Sally Swanson
Cheryle Thorne-Harris
Barbara and Frank Tierney
Mercedes Tierney
Annette and Stephen Wilkens
GIRL SCOUTS OF COURAGE, CONFIDENCE, AND CHARACTER SCHOLARSHIP
Jennifer Lynch
HELP A GIRL FUND
Anonymous (10)
Birdsong Peanuts
JoAn M. Berry
Leonard Brown, Jr.
Girl Scouts of the USA
Tricia Hudson
Ladies Auxiliary Fleet, Reserve Assn. Unit 60
Dr. Lorraine Lees
Sarah Linden-Brooks
Ann E. Stenberg
Barbara and Frank Tierney
ROWENA FULLINWIDER LEADERSHIP ENDOWMENT
Peter Fullinwider
SHE BELIEVES SHE CAN SO SHE DOES SCHOLARSHIP
Carrie Baquie
The Benevity Community Impact Fund
Kathryn Godby
Mikala January
Dianne Lee
Carletta Waddler
JULIETTE GORDON LOW SOCIETY
Carolyn Abron-McCadden
Deb Amatulli
Erik and Eva Anderson Girl Scout
Movement-wide Challenge Planned Gift
Anonymous (3)
Dianne Belk & Lawrence Calder Girl Scout
Movement-wide Challenge Planned Gift
JoAn M. Berry
Melissa L. Burroughs
Sarah Delaney Butt
Norman Cox
Amy S. Coyne
Dina K. Crewe
Lila R. Davis
Sandra J. DeLoatch (D)
Regina and Tom Duffy
Luis Estrada
Claudia C. Flowers
Denise L. Frey
Kathryn Godby
Carolene Goodwyn-Harris
Amanda Howie
Tricia Hudson
Cheran Cordell Ivery
Helen M. Kattwinkel (D)
JULIETTE GORDON LOW SOCIETY
Dan and Tracy Keller
Elizabeth A. Kessler
Sonia Kessler
Andrea Kinnear
Lu Ann Klevecz
Amy N. Ledford
Dr. Lorraine Lees and Dr. William Rodner
Anna Lee Liverman (D)
Eileen S. Livick
Dale K. McClure
Cheryl A. McGrenra
Ashley McLeod
Susan Meek
Michael Mendelsohn
Jennifer Moose
Laura Morgan
Stacy Nixon
Camile L. Peter
Bradley and Carolyn Pittman
Amy Reineri
Jann P. Schultz
Richard and Sunny Smith
Keith R. Snyder
Ericka Spratley
Nancy Staples
Tesi D. Strickland
Michael and Sally Swanson
Toni N. Taylor
Mary Ann Thomas
Cheryle Thorne-Harris
Barbara Tierney
Anna Goode Turner (D)
Zechariah Turner (D)
Deborah Verhofstadt
Melissa Warfield (D)
Claire Winiarek
Beth Yates
(D) denotes deceased
GSCCC reports your donations(s) in accordance with your expressed preferences. If you want to update your donor recognition, or believe there is an error or omission, please contact philanthropy@gsccc.org.
There are many ways our donors have contributed. If you want another way that is not listed, let us know! We will do our best to help you help the girls!
• Monthly Giving via credit card (GSCCC website donate button)
• One-time Donation - Credit card (GSCCC website donate button), cash, check, bank account or retirement account transfer, or stock transfer.
• Door Advised Fund distribution.
• Pledge, payable per arranged schedule.
• Non-cash goods or services.
• Sponsorships.
• Designations via federated campaigns (United Ways, CFC, CVC, etc.)
GSCCC Property News
The Board’s Property Committee also continued to dedicate time to formulating a plan to address repairs needed for the dam at Camp Burkes Mill Pond dam.
We thank Girl Scout members and friends in the community, such as those who volunteered during United Way’s Day of Caring, for lending a hand to our property improvements throughout the year!
GSCCC offers summer camps and other recreational activities for troops, groups, and families all year. Maintaining safe and groomed properties is always a priority.
Using the Council’s Long Range Property Plan as our guide, we continued to maintain camps of high quality. Projects included: replacing a facility roofs at Camp Apasus and Camp Burkes Mill Pond, renovations at the Norfolk Lodge and Ranger Home at Camp Skimino, and installation of an outdoor water fountain at Camp Outback.
Alum & Friends Celebrate!
Several events hosted by GSCCC’s Philanthropy Team made it possible for Girl Scout alum and friends to connect and support Girl Scouting. From celebrating Girl Scout Week at Cocktails for a Cause held in March to a fun-filled, fall weekend at Camp Darden, donors and prospective donors were able to learn more about Girl Scouting today while experiencing some Girl Scout magic!
Congressman Scott and Carolene Goodwyn-Harris
912 Cedar Road
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Visit us on the web at www.gsccc.org
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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
Campalooza Core Camp was a blast!
A weekend of camping experience pre-planned and carried out by GSCCC Program Team. Girl Scouts who attended were in troops who registered on-time, registering at least two volunteer leaders by April 5.
It's Patch Design Contest Time!
Day patch design contest theme is: Your Year of Kindness!
Don’t miss out on being entered in the 2025 drawing. Look for details in monthly e-newsletters starting in March.
Winner of the First Day Patch Design Contest will have design produced as the official patch given to everyone who renews their membership on April 1, 2025.
SUBMIT DESIGNS
February 1-March 16, 2025 (details at www.gsccc.org/renew)
Find all your cookie merchandise at the shop and remember you can always place orders online!
Have you tried the Supermix Kiosk Yet?
Come to A Place for Girls to create and customize your own gear with Girl Scout designs and so much more!
For Shop specials and hours, visit: www.gsccc.org/shop
Cookie tabletop riser, only $20!
Cookie Squad, hooded sweatshirt, only $35!