Girl Scouts Magazine - Fall 2025

GIRL SCOUTS

Fall 2025

News and Program Information from Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

Earn the Lou Henry Hoover Patch!

Where We Grow!

Welcome to the 2025-26 Girl Scout Membership Year

Girl Scout Fall Product Program Begins September 12

2025 Girl Scout Fest...Let's GROW! Saturday, October 18, Northwest River Park

Make the World a Better Place...Start Composting!

Tidewater Compost offers discounted pricing for Girl Scout families and has a drop-off kiosk at A Place for Girls in Chesapeake!

Our composting services give you the ability to recycle your food scraps and organic waste at home without any of the work or mess.

Just collect your compostables, and let us do the rest! The best part, you earn 5 gallons of finished compost 2x a year to use or donate to someone in our local community.

Earn the Daisy Use Resources Wisely Petal Badge Composting Activity for Kids Time needed: 20 minutes Materials needed: Paper bags (optional) Setup: Earth is our home. You can protect it by throwing away less trash and finding new ways to save natural resources. If we all work together, we can take care of our planet!

One way you can throw away less trash is by composting. Compost is made from mixing decomposing food and plant waste with soil. Things like fallen leaves, sticks, fruit and vegetable peels, and eggshells are all examples of compostable materials. Compost gives the soil more nutrients and helps plants grow stronger.

Activity: info@tidewatercompost.com 757-550-0446

Go online with an adult or talk to a gardener, farmer, or other soil expert to find out what other materials you can add to your compost. How can you start composting at home if you don’t already? After doing your research, search around your home and out in nature for things you can use in your compost. Be sure to ask an adult for permission before going outside.

Adapted from Step 1 of the Daisy Use Resources Wisely petal badge.

Virginia Symphony's Peanut Butter & Jam (PB&J) Concerts!

The Virginia Symphony Orchestra will be performing some of the PB&J Concerts at the Ferguson Center for the Arts in Newport News!

Family friendly lobby activities begin at 2 p.m.!

When Instruments Roamed the Earth!® Sept. 20, 3 p.m.

Ferguson Center Sept. 21, 3 p.m.

Sandler Center Join us on a hilarious journey to love the people, the sound & the experience of the symphony orchestra.

Hogwarts Hullabaloo Jingle Bell Jam Oct. 26, 3 p.m.

Dec. 14, 3 p.m.

Sandler Center Sandler Center Charms, Potions and Musical Notions!

Hop on the Hogwarts Express and visit The Virginia Symphony Orchestra School of Witchcraft and Wizardry!

Use the code: PBJPARTNER2526 for $2 off the ticket price!

With a visit from Santa Claus, the beloved Jingle Bell Jam rings in the magic of the season with the holiday tunes you know and love!

Therapeutic Horsemanship Badge This program teaches about the elements required to provide riding lessons for individuals with special needs, including: • the types and qualities of therapy horses • specialty equipment • trained volunteer support 2626 Heritage Park Drive Virginia Beach, VA 23456 757-721-7350 | equikids.org information@equikids.org

Earn Your Horseback Riding Badge!

Junior (Grades 4-5) Find out about horse behavior and riding basics.

• Know the basics of horseback riding • Take care of a horse and learn about safety • Prepare for your ride • Practice your ride • Go for a ride When you've earned this badge, you’ll know what it takes to be a good rider—from understanding horse body language to controlling the horse’s speed while you're riding.

GIRL SCOUTS

Contents

News & Program Information from Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

Board Chair

Chief Executive Officer

Carolyn Pittman

Tracy Keller

Vice Chair Lu Ann Klevecz

Treasurer Luis Estrada

Secretary Amanda Howie

Members at Large: Dawn Brotherton Dr. Leonard Brown, Jr. Dr. Vera Combs Campbell Elizabeth Chapman Latonya English Angelyn Gibson Dr. Sharon M. Jones Deneen Keegan Sarah Linden-Brooks Kim Mingee Colleen Mollison

Laura Morgan Christy Murphy Dr. Laura Sass, MD

8

Delegate Board Members Leslie Atkins Eileen Livick

Girl Scout Board Member Martha-Ann Wells

On the Cover!

Meet Girl Scout Cadette Olivia Wilkerson from Troop 305 in Norfolk!

Olivia has been a Girl Scout since joining as a Girl Scout Daisy in kindergarten.

She loves learning, challenges and spending time with friends in Girl Scouts!

She earned the Girl Scout Bronze working alongside troop members on a project to support the work of Operation Smile. She is looking forward to diving into earning her Girl Scout Silver Award this year. When it comes to new experiences, she loves outdoor adventures and spends time outdoors with her troop and family. She's been at nearly all the Council camps!

Olivia excels academically and attends the Academy of International Studies, a young scholars program in Norfolk.

12

16

Features

Departments

8 Travel Opportunities 12 Troop News 16 Program Events

22 Family Connection 24 Girl Award Celebration 27 Camp News

Share Your Story. We want to hear from you!

Girl Scout Cadette Alyssa from Troop 30 took action to earn her Girl Scout Silver Award with a project titled, Save the Sea. She collected debris from beaches then created posters. The posters included sea turtle shapes made of trash. She placed the posters at various locations to educate the public on the impact of trash on our oceans. First Landing State Park was one of the locations that promoted her project and spotlighted her poster!

Stay Connected 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.

A Place for Girls 912 Cedar Road, Chesapeake, VA 23322 757-547-4405 | 800-77SCOUT gsccc.org

Stay connected with GSCCC!

Fearless. Bold. Unstoppable!

Girl Scouts lead the way with courage, confidence, and character. They're innovators. They're change-makers. They're trailblazers. They're unstoppable! A Girl Scout shows perseverance in the face of challenges. She overcomes obstacles and inspires others to follow her lead.

Girl Scouts are bold and shine with an indomitable spirit; they demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to leadership, community, and inclusiveness. They reflect the qualities of Girl Scout founder Juliette Gordon Low, who herself refused to take “no” for an answer when she launched the Girl Scout movement more than 100 years ago.

At a time when women and girls had limited opportunities, Girl Scouting was considered a game changer. Juliette Gordon Low paved the way for millions of girls to say, “Just watch me.”

Tracy Keller Chief Executive Officer

“The work of today is the history of tomorrow, and we are its makers.” ~Juliette Gordon Low

I was honored to be part of history last March as we celebrated Juliette Gordon Low’s legacy, when the U.S. minted quarter recognizing this great woman was unveiled at the National Postal Museum. Several of our amazing young leaders accompanied GSCCC Board Chair Carolyn Pittman and me to this event. The experience was awe-inspiring as we joined nearly 1,500 other Girl Scouts in celebrating Juliette and our Movement.

Juliette’s dream was to create a safe space for girls of any class, culture or ethnicity to develop leadership skills, advocate for themselves and others and so much more. She wanted girls to see their full potential and gain confidence in a world that at the time was male-dominant in areas like science. She was an advocate for girls and dedicated a lifetime to molding Girl Scouts into what we are today.

How will we look back and see the changes we’ve been part of as history makers? What impact will we, as Girl Scouts, have on generations of women to come?

Live your life the Juliette way — be bold, be fearless, be unstoppable. Our mission is rooted in risk-taking and dream-making, so don’t be afraid to be your authentic self! Together, as history makers, we can make our future brighter.

Sincerely,

Tracy Keller Chief Executive Officer, GSCCC

Updates to Your Inbox!

We’re moving to ONE e-newsletter per month, instead of separate ones for volunteers and families, beginning in October. Delivered on the first Thursday of each month, The Colonial Coaster will have sections for targeted reading so you can focus on what you need.

Plus, we’re streamlining our event emails; the GSCCC GO! weekly digest of program opportunities will be sent on Tuesdays. (There may sometimes be additional GSCCC emails for special promotions.)

Make sure you are opted-in to emails from GSCCC! Scan this QR code or visit gsccc.org/email.

2025-26 Calendar Volunteer Kick-off September 13

Girl Scout Fall Product Program September 12-November 9

World Thinking Day February 22

Girl Scouts Love State Parks September 13 and 14

Happy Holidays December 23-January 2 GSCCC offices closed

Girl Scout Week March 8 to March 14

Annual Delegate Meeting and Volunteer Awards Celebration October 4

Girl Scout Cookie Program January 9-March 29, 2026

International Day of the Girl October 11

Cookie Classic Run January 17

Juliette Gordon Low's Birthday October 31

First Day Patch Design Contest February 1-March 15

4 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast 4 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

Summer Camp Registration Early Bird February 15-March 15

Girl Scout Sunday March 8 Girl Scout Birthday March 12 Girl Scout Sabbath March 14 Camp is Calling—Badge Bash April 18

Volunteer Appreciation Day April 22 Girl Awards Ceremony June 6 Girl Scout Convention Washington, DC July 23-25 Girl Scout Famous Formers September 26

Meet National President of Girl Scouts of the USA Noorain Fatima Khan at GSCCC's 2025 Volunteer Kickoff!

Appointed in 2023 as the National President of Girl Scouts of the USA, this Gold Award Girl Scout has done some amazing things! Noorain Khan earned a JD from Yale Law School and practiced law and was involved in public policy making for many years before becoming the director of the Ford Foundation’s Office of the President, where she oversaw the foundation’s global discretionary grantmaking and led cross-foundation strategic initiatives. She was named to Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list. Among the boards she has served on are: Vote.org, the Association of American Rhodes Scholars, and the Brooklyn Children’s Museum.

She now leads NFK Philanthropic Strategy where she guides private clients, and she is a Senior Advisor at the investment firm XN. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband Sabeel Rahman and their two children, and she co-leads Daisy Troop 2314.

Join us on Saturday, September 13 | 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Virginia Beach United Methodist Church | 212 19th Street, Virginia Beach, VA Cost: $10; Lunch is provided; Register by: September 5

Meet Noorain Khan President, Girl Scouts of USA

All volunteers are invited to a day of learning and fun, giving you tools to make the coming year the best ever! Special guests will lead many of the workshops that include: • Mental Wellness • Volunteer Onboarding Experience • Working with Children of all Abilities • Ceremonies and Traditions • Conflict Resolution • Time to Craft & Tinker

Girl Scouts Love State Parks Weekend! ⬥ September 13 York River State Park Williamsburg, VA Chippokes State Park Surry, VA

⬥ September 14 Machicomoco State Park Hayes, VA Chippokes State Park Surry, VA Jockey’s Ridge State Park Nags Head, NC

Join GSCCC in Celebrating

Let's celebrate the seventh annual Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend together!

Join us for a fossil hike at York River, visit the Chippokes Farm and Forestry Museum in Surry, learn how to identify poisonous and edible plants at Machicomoco, or complete activities toward earning your Dune Ranger patch at Jockey's Ridge!

You don’t need to be a member of Girl Scouts to join the fun but registration is required. gsccc.org/stateparks

Volunteer Awards Celebration October 4 1-3 p.m.

A Place for Girls Register at gsccc.org/events

Happy Birthday Juliette Gordon Low - October 31!

We hope you will take time to learn more about Juliette and plan to do something special in her honor like earning a Spread Kindness patch (see page 10) or lending a helping hand to someone.

Scan the QR code for resources and ideas for how you can celebrate!

5

Fall

2025 Fall Product Program During the Fall Product Program, Girl Scouts participate in selling nuts, candies, magazines and decorative tins, all of which go a long way to help troops plan a year of adventures.

Fall Product FAQs! Can my Girl Scout participate by selling online?

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.

Fall Product Program Dates:

2025 Girl Scout Tin

Program begins - Sept. 12 Girl in-person orders end - Oct. 4 Online Girl delivered orders ends - Oct. 6 Program ends - Nov. 9

Visit the Fall Product page gsccc.org/fall for more information.

Another Amazing Cookie Season!

Thank you Girl Scouts, volunteers, and supporters who made the 2025 Girl Scout Cookie Program possible. This year, 3,901 Girl Scouts in our area participated in the program and learned valuable skills along the way. With every transaction, our community and volunteers were invaluable in supporting Girl Scouts’ ability to learn, grow, and thrive through the program’s adventures.

The best part is that all proceeds stay local to help fund life-changing, girl-led programs, experiences, and learning. Post-season celebrations were held for Top Cookie Entrepreneurs with a trip to Virginia’s Natural Bridge! What’s in store for 2026? Be sure to check out GSCCC's Cookie page for updates (with details posted in December). Remember, Girl Scouts in troops and individually registered members can all participate!

Mark Your Calendar for the 2026 Cookie Dates!

6 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

Top Cookie Entrepreneur Girl Scout Top Cookie Entrepreneurs touring Luray Caverns!

Senior Lorelei Timmons was invited to Back row: Lillian Willis, Alexa Richardson, Sceva Jenkins throw the first pitch at our Night with Front row: Emma Jones and Sophia Hart the Tides event!

Congratulations to the Top Ten Cookie Entrepreneur Super Stars!

Girl Scout

Boxes Sold

Girl Scout

Boxes Sold

Lorelei Timmons Alexa Richardson Elgin Raymond Sophia Hart Lillian Willis

7,115 boxes 4,444 boxes 3,521 boxes 3,502 boxes 3,025 boxes

Mallory Simonsen Alexis Vann Sceva Jenkins Chelsea Simonsen Emma Jones

2,820 boxes 2,643 boxes 2,597 boxes 2,518 boxes 2,430 boxes

Cookie Program Begins January 9

Count-n-Go February 21

Booths Start February 22 Cookie Program Ends March 29

NEW Leadership Awards - Choose One! Girl Scouts of the USA is expanding the options for highest award pre-requisites. Members can earn leadership awards and use one to fulfill highest award pre-requisite or use Journeys for one more year. Journeys will be fully retired by October 2026. The requirements and resources to support Journeys may still be found in the Volunteer Toolkit.

Personal Leadership Award - J/C/S/A Explore your character, build your confidence with others, and act with courage.

Peer Leadership (REFRESHED) Silver Torch for Cadettes/Gold Torch for Seniors and Ambassadors (retiring Gold/ Silver Torch for Seniors) Work with peers and lead in a group setting.

Teaching Leadership Junior Aide; Program Aide for Cadettes (retiring Leader-In-Action for Cadettes); Volunteer in Training for S/A; and Counselor Training I & II for S/A Community Advocacy Take Action J/C/S/A; Global Action J/C/S/A (replacing badges with pins) Advocate for a local or global cause you care about with a team of peers.

NOTE - These leadership awards were NOT refreshed: Service bars, Lifesaving Awards, Safety Awards, Bridging Awards, and My Promise, My Faith.

Earning Highest Awards Current Prerequisites Highest Awards

Highest Awards Prerequisites - CHOOSE ONE Journey option will be removed on October 1, 2026

Personal Leadership

Peer Leadership

True North

Teaching Leadership Junior Aide

Community Advocacy Take Action

Journeys

Global Action

Bronze Award

Silver Award

One Junior Journey

Earn the Bronze Award

True North

Earn the Silver Award

True North

Silver Torch

Program Aide

Take Action

Global Action One Cadette Journey

Gold Torch

Volunteer in Training Take Action

Gold Award

Global Action

Counselor in Training I and II

One Senior or Ambassador Journey

Earn the NEW Solutions Superstar Patch! (K-12) The Solutions Superstar patch program—made possible by DHL—invites Girl Scouts to build critical skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and creative thinking through hands-on activities. From mapping cookie deliveries to engineering egg drops, these fun challenges spark curiosity and introduce girls to the world of logistics. Girls who complete at least 3 out of 6 activities can unlock a special patch available at the Girl Scout Shop. Find activities on the Volunteer Toolkit.

Egg Drop Activity Do an egg drop competition! Have teams each design a way to protect an egg when dropped via delivery from a certain height. Have materials on hand that teams my use to create a delivery package. If more than one team protects the egg from that height, move higher until a winner is declared!

7 Fall

Destinations

Make Next Summer Your Best Summer!

GSUSA Travel Opportunities Destinations are the ultimate adventure for individual Girl Scout Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors. We highly recommend you visit GSUSA's Destination page to view all the opportunities, there are so many! Be sure to read the helpful Frequently Asked Questions section.

Adventures in the Land of Waterfalls - Date: July 05 - July 18, 2026 Discover the natural and cultural wonders of the “Land of Waterfalls.” Western North Carolina offers an abundance of outdoor recreational activities and some of the most beautiful areas of the country.

Machu Picchu, the Amazon and Empowerment through Service - Lima, Sacred Valley, Cuzco, Iquitos Date: July 19 - July 29, 2027

Find More Travel Opportunities at girlscouts.org

Travelers will explore historical sites in Lima, then experience two incredible cultural sites through a guided boat tour in the Amazon and an expert-led tour of Machu Picchu. Your group will also help uplift local women and their communities with a service project that supports economic sustainability, local agriculture, or access to education.

GSCCC 2026 Travel Destinations 2026: Travel the European Quartet: Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris and London

Interested in taking a fabulous trip? Email gscccdestinations@gmail.com

Open doors.

Free to explore.

Alex Katz (American, born 1927), Ada, Late Summer (detail), 1994, Oil on canvas

Date: June 21 - July 03, 2026 (must be entering 10-12th grades including graduating seniors) Begin your European adventure with a flight to Amsterdam. There you will see famous windmills, learn about Dutch traditional crafts and visit the Anne Frank House. Continue to Brussels to see the famous Atomium and make treats during a Belgian chocolate workshop! Then it’s off to Paris where you will view 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! 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 where you will ride the London Eye, take a cruise on the Thames River, visit Windsor Castle and participate in a special oneof-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.

See the World at the Chrysler and Earn Your Explore Patch!

Try our D.I.Y. patch or visit during Girl Scout Days at the Chrysler Museum this Fall. Visit chrysler.org/girl-scouts for more information.

Free Admission | chrysler.org

8 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

2026 Girl Scout Convention in Washington, DC

Planning Ahead Join us (and 10,000+ Girl Scouts) at the 2026 National Council Session (NCS) in Washington, DC, as we celebrate the spirit, individuality, and self-confidence that make Girl Scouts shine. This special six-day gathering only happens once every three years and will take place at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Convention kicks off with our 58th National Council Session (NCS) from July 20–22, where delegates from around the country and overseas gather to vote on and discuss issues important to our Movement, and elect leaders for the next triennium.

After NCS, from July 23–25, thousands more Girl Scouts (and alums, families, and non-members) stream into town for a multi-day event featuring interactive workshops, inspiring speakers, and once-in-a- lifetime adventures that spark forever friendships. In addition to our convention, 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of the USA. What better place for Girl Scouts to celebrate than in the nation’s capital—a place built on our shared values of individuality and self-expression. Centrally located and accessible to Girl Scouts and families flying in from across the country and the world, the nation’s capital is just as ideal for those who may want to join us for a long weekend or simply make it a family day trip. We hope to see many of you at the 2026 Girl Scout Convention.

Should your troop travel to convention? Convention is a great experience for both families and troops. Troops can use the Girl Scout Guide to U.S. Travel to start brainstorming. As soon as you decide to plan a troop trip, read the Trips/Travel chapter in the Safety Activity Checkpoints, available on gsccc.org. For more guidance, contact customercare@gsccc.org to learn about resources, requirements, and training that may be available.

Will girls be able to use their cookie rewards to attend? Yes! This would be a travel activity and proceeds from the annual Cookie Program can be used by troops and individual members.

Be sure to check the GSCCC website for updates throughout the year. Also visit DC250 for trip planning!

Plan Your Trip!

Meet GSCCC National Delegates Julianne and Martha-Ann Two Girl Scout Seniors, Julianne Van Auken and Martha-Ann Wells, are representing GSCCC as National Council Delegates. Both Girl Scouts have had experience in leadership roles, and Martha-Ann is currently a youth member on GSCCC’s Board of Directors!

They are among six elected delegates who will be gathering input from our membership and representing our council at the 58th National Council Meeting (NCM). They are excited about their role and responsibility that involves decision-making on issues that will impact the Girl Scout Movement! Starting with their appointment, they have been staying engaged, attending meetings and trainings, and planning out activities to fulfill their role duties.

Julianne Van Auken

"My experience as a National Delegate has opened my eyes to the power of Girl Scouting when all councils come together to make change in the interest of our movement and its next generations of confident leaders,” Julianne said. “During a live national webinar hosted by the president of Girl Scouts of the USA, Noorain Khan, I spoke on how GSUSA can revolutionize engagement among our members, volunteers, and alumni, and I look forward to speaking on behalf of Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast at the National Council Session."

Additional Adult National Council Delegates Lu Ann Klevecz Erika Grasse

Tracy Keller Tomira Viviano

Alternates:

Martha-Ann Wells

Tammy Carlson Jennifer Glaspell Willa Glaspell, (Youth Girl Scout) Olivia Glomski, (Youth Girl Scout) Grace MacLuskie, (Youth Girl Scout)

GSCCC National Convention page!

9 Fall

Spread

Kindness

Spread Kindness to Seniors - Hand in Hand!

This year’s Council-wide community service effort is focused on making a difference in the lives of senior citizens in our community. We want to show them we appreciate them and their contributions. They contribute significantly to our communities by sharing wisdom, experiences, and knowledge, providing mentorship, and fostering intergenerational relationships. They also play a crucial role in volunteer work, civic engagement, and caregiving, enriching community life and supporting various social initiatives.

Here’s a few activities to help your Girl Scouts understand some of the challenges faced by senior citizens.

Physical Disability: Have each girl try to thread a needle while wearing either a pair of mittens or thick bulky socks. (Girls may take turns if limited number of mittens are available.) Have girls try to button a shirt with their fingers taped together with masking tape. Wrap both hands including the thumbs with strips of masking tape. Did the girls find it frustrating? Why? Explain to the girls how it represents the challenges represented by arthritis.

Visual Disability: Have the girls blindfolded before snack. Give the girls directions to where the food is and have them eat and drink while blindfolded. You can also have the girls find their way to the bathroom, water fountain, etc. while still wearing the blindfold. (Make sure the girls have a guide who is not blindfolded.) Ask the girls how it felt to do things they usually do without being able to see.

Hearing Disability: Before starting your troop meeting, have the girls place (do not stuff) clean cotton balls in their ears. Tie a scarf around their head to keep the cotton balls in place. Have the troop meeting with the girls as normal. At the end of the meeting ask girls if they notice any differences. Are people talking louder than usual? Do they have trouble following directions because they can't hear what you're saying? Are they any less intelligent because they can't hear? (Frequently people who are hard of hearing are treated as though they have learning problems.)

Take Action and Earn Your Patch!

STEPS: 1. Research and connect with a senior or senior community in your area. a. This could be an independent living community, an assisted living center, a hospital system, a family member, a neighbor, or a member of your place of worship or other community groups. b. We recommend meeting with your selected person or group in person, as many are busy or may not have easy access to phones and email.

2. Talk with your person or group about what needs they may have that Girl Scouts can assist them with. a. This could be something like cleaning up a garden bed for the winter, leading a game night, letter writing, simple pet care (like taking a dog on a long walk), painting projects, or collecting items for care packages. b. You could also consider organizing a fun project based on Thanksgiving or a winter holiday, such as hosting a meal or wrapping gifts.

3. Rally your team! Work with your troop, friends, or family to organize the time to work with your selected senior person or group.

4. Complete your project! Record your service hours and take photos!

5. Fill out the post-program survey.

Spread Kindness projects should be completed October through December 2025. Surveys will be collected through January, patches will be ordered by January 31, and we anticipate patches being delivered by the end of February (whoever submits the survey will be notified). Patches can be picked up at A Place for Girls in Chesapeake or from your service unit volunteers depending on your selection on the survey.

Consider helping us with a council-led project. All project details can be found on our Spread Kindness page!

Spread Kindness: reGenerations Project (Session 1) October 5; Location: Virtual; B/J: 2-3 p.m.; C/S/A: 3:30-5 p.m.

Cost: Free; Register by: 9/24 Spread Kindness: Create Thanksgiving Greetings for Meals on Wheels Drop off items by October 30; Location: APFG, Chesapeake Level: Family friendly; Cost: Free; Register by: 10/30 Spread Kindness: reGenerations Project (Session 2) December 7; Location: Virtual; B/J: 2-3 p.m.; C/S/A: 3:30-5 p.m.

Cost: Free; Register by: 9/24

10 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

World Thinking Day 2026. Celebrating 100 years of World Thinking Day! This year’s theme is "Our Story; Reflecting the symbolism and values of our Movement."

This day began with the birthday celebration of our founders and evolved into landmark event for our Movement.

This is a chance to be curious and creative, to form meaningful connections with our sisters in Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting and beyond.

For a troop or family activity, consider creating a collage that represents the global sisterhood of Girl Scouts and Girl Guides with the theme of friendship – or friendship between cultures. Use various materials like pictures, drawings, and words to express ideas about global issues and friendship and then glue them onto a flat surface. Showcase your collage to promote global friendship! Be sure to take a photo and send to marcomm@gsccc.org

International Day of the Girl International Day of the Girl is on October 11th and we encourage every Girl Scout to celebrate this day by speaking out and highlighting their achievements! We know that each girl has the power to exercise her potential. We recognize the importance of amplifying girls’ voices and advocating for their inclusion in changemaking spaces. By supporting and investing in girls, we can make the world a better place. We celebrate IDG not only to give girls a platform to speak out, but to share girls’ achievements, triumphs, and contributions as we build towards a brighter and more equitable future for girls everywhere.

The theme for the 2025 International Day of the Girl is "Digital generation. Our generation." This theme emphasizes the importance of digital inclusion and literacy for girls, advocating for equal access to the internet and digital devices. It also highlights the need to address the gender divide in online access and safety, ensuring girls can safely and meaningfully participate in the digital world.

2025 IDG Activity Guide can be found at gsccc.org/patches Suggested Activities • Talk to your Girl Scouts about online safety and have them take the Internet Safety Pledge.

• Talk with girls about some of the issues and challenges that girls face around the world as well as the opportunities that exist in regard to digital inclusion and literacy. Ask girls to brainstorm what they think all girls should have access to and create a girls’ bill of rights!

• Create a workshop to teach others about the impact of media (social media and other) on self-image.

Consider including activities to earn the new Body Appreciation badges!

Celebrate International Girl's Day Out with the Kappa Delta Sisters!

Saturday, November 15 D/B: 10-11:30 a.m. | C/S/A: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Location: ODU Webb Center, Norfolk | Cost: $10 | Register by: 11/3 The ODU Kappa Delta sisters invite Girl Scouts to a tea party! Dress up in your favorite outfit and prepare for fun.

11 Fall

Where Confidence Grows!

Hope Bags

Blankets For Flood Victims

Lend a Paw - Pet Shelter Donation Drive

Girl Scout Juniors Aarya Bledsoe, Ava Chakan, Eibhlin Campbell, Eliana Breitkreutz, Joy Helm, Kylie Morgan and Marnet Roberts

Girl Scout Junior Troop 1138 took action to support people facing homelessness by partnering with The Potter's House in Virginia Beach where they created hygiene bags that were then distributed. In the bags, they also included "Get Help" pocket guides with information on local resources. Funds from the troop’s Cookie Program helped fuel this project!

Girl Scouts from Troop 919 took action to help Hurricane Helene victims during recovery efforts. They put their crafting skills to use and created handtied fleece blankets. The blankets were shipped to the Marshall Relief Alliance in North Carolina.

Mural at Camp Apasus

Blessing Bags Girl Scout Junior Adalyn from Troop 256 created "Blessing Bags" for children served by Child Protective Services through foster care. Adalyn wanted to provide some comfort for children transitioning into foster care, so she created 20 comfort bags that included toothbrushes, toothpaste, blankets, stuffed animals, books, clothes, socks, & hygiene products.

Flower box for New Church Sign Girl Scout Juniors Kassie Smith and Makaylah Shank took action to help the Isle of Wight Christian Church with their new sign.

After discussing the church's vision, a flower bed around the sign, the girls devised a plan to hold a bake-sale to pay for building materials. In addition to raising $200, the Girl Scouts built the flower box and planted flowers! They plan to help maintain the little garden as well.

12 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

A big thank you to Girl Scout Troop 444 from Norfolk, led by Julie Walsh, for the inspiring new mural at Camp Apasus.

Girl Scouts Visit WTKR Girl Scout Troop 826 was given an opportunity to watch the live taping of WTKR's Coast Live. They met the host, April Woodard who is a former Girl Scout!

After viewing the show’s taping, they toured the production studio and the newsroom.

Girl Scouts... Having a Heart for Animals Lend a Paw

Pet Food Pantry

Girl Scout Juniors from Troop 811 took action to help the Portsmouth Humane Society. They made pet items that included tie-knot blankets, braided tug toys for dogs, and catnip knot toys for cats. They also collected items and donations such as towels, blankets, canned food, treats, and toys All items were delivered to the Portsmouth Humane Society where they were able to meet some of the pets that benefited from their handiwork!

Girl Scout Juniors from Troop 602 worked together to collect items for Grace Methodist Church’s Food Pantry, a pantry that also gives out food for pets.

The troop set up a collection site at an area pet store and Girl Scout Juniors of Troop 602 Allison, Anna, also collected from family Caylee, Emily, and Marisa and friends.

Alice’s Animal Aid Project Girl Scout Junior Alice from Troop 479 made some animals feel extra loved this year through a Take Action project. She made animal pouches and donated them to Evelyn’s Wildlife Refuge. She made 75 fleece pouches that are used to keep animals safe and warm.

All Paws In Girl Scout Juniors of Troop 94 focused on enriching the lives of animals at the Virginia Beach Animal Care and Adoption Center. They handcrafted enrichment toys, including snuffle mats chew toys, and catnip toys, to help animals feel Girl Scouts from Troop 94 Bell, Hannah, Harper, safe, comfortable, and Lily and Julianne happy. They also donated cleaning supplies and treats to support the shelter’s ongoing needs.

Lending a Helping Paw 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 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, which provides aid to families that are currently not able to care for their pets. The “Pup Packs” were designed to help newly-arrived animals feel more at home on their first night at the shelter.

You can earn the GSCCC Explore Patch for the VBSPCA!

Girl Scout Junior Alice from Troop 479

Support the Virginia Beach SPCA with your Troop!

Come meet the animals, explore the shelter, and take part in our Tale for Two reading program.

Discover how you can make a difference for homeless pets in your community.

You could also earn a compassion patch!

Patches Available

Register at vbspca.com/education

13 Fall

NATO parade

First Aid

Save the date for 2026...

April 16-18 parade and festival!

Girl Scouts from Troop 30 took part in the First Aid, CPR and AED Training at A Place for Girls. Being prepared can be fun!

Once again, we thank Girl Scout volunteer Mara Bates for heading volunteer efforts here at GSCCC to support the regional NATO Parade. NATO stands for 'North Atlantic Treaty Organization'. It is a military alliance of 30 countries in Europe and North America with a regional presence in Hampton Roads.

Making "Fairfield" a Better Place for All

Girl Scout Juniors Sadie Spindler and Lyla Dill

Girl Scout Juniors Sadie and Lyla took action to enhance their elementary school by creating a beautification project at Fairfield Elementary School. Along with planting flowers, they reused materials to create birdhouses for the school to enjoy.

More First Aid Trainings are on the way this November!

First Aid for B/J: November 1 | Advanced First Aid for C/S/A: November 2 Location: A Place for Girls, Chesapeake Register at gsccc.org/events

A Day at Camp Apasus To start the summer season, all Girl Scouts being served by our Community Troop Team were invited to a day at Camp Apasus. It was full of fun, friendship, and adventure. More than 50 Girl Scouts explored the camp. For some, this was their first time at a Girl Scout camp! They participated in activities such as archery, canoeing, slingshots, crafting, campfires, tie-dye and more!

Bat Boxes

Troop #30 Takes the PLANK CHALLENGE!

Girl Scouts from Troop 30 spent time getting ready for the Cookie Classic Run. They had a meeting dedicated on ways to exercise that included directions on bicep curls, strength training exercise, and how to use light weights. They all intend on registering for the Cookie Classic Run in 2026!

Girl Scouts from Troop 364 from Virginia Beach dedicated several meetings to earning their Engineering badge. Part of their badge work included working with students at the Global Studies and World Languages Academy at Tallwood High School to make 24 bat boxes. They learned about design, used tools, and then created a plan to showcase their bat boxes within the community at the Virginia Beach Meyera Oberndorf Library to help educate the public about bats.

2026 Cookie Classic Run! January 17, 2026, Dismal Swamp Canal Trail in Chesapeake 14 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

ou at the race!

S ee y

Think Like a Programmer

Girl Scouts learned how programmers "talk" to computers in coding languages and then code solutions to all kinds of problems. They also learned basic programming by pretending to be robots and then driving simple robots around a paper city.

Summer fun at Craft and Tinker with Mathnasium

Think Like An Engineer Workshop

What can Girl Scouts do? Anything and everything! Members of the Landstown High School Lady Eagles Engineering Club, one of whom is a Girl Scout, offered two engineering workshops this year to Girl Scouts. In February, participants worked on kits from Engineering Your Future Today to earn their Automotive Engineering badges. Together, they explored how automotive designers imagine and make plans for a new vehicle design, like a car or truck. In May, workshop participants worked on the Think Like an Engineer Journey!

Girl Scouts used skills and their imagination to make objects that solved problems to work towards badge requirements. Mathnasium offers Girl Scout programs and tutoring services.

Mathnasium is a New Partner!

1408 N Great Neck Rd., Virginia Beach, 23454 Mathnasium combines math learning with interactive activities to keep kids engaged and excited about math! Our fun, hands-on approach helps students explore math concepts in creative ways while reinforcing essential skills.

Findings from Girl Scout research showed that for Girl Scouts of all ages, doing at least one Girl Scout STEM activity during the troop year resulted in higher levels of STEM interest, confidence, and value of STEM to society at the end of the year compared to Girl Scouts who did no STEM activities!

Take a Look at all our Program Partners! You'll find many of them offer STEM activities.

Spooky Halloween at the Virginia Air and Space Science Center!

Saturday, October 25th 4 to 6:30 p.m.

Dress up in your costume and plan to have fun doing Spooky STEM activities. Learn scary science on this special day.

Ticketed event.

Find information at www.vasc.org

You can earn the GSCCC Explore Patch for the Virginia Air & Space Science Center!

15 Fall

The events calendar PDF can be downloaded! gsccc.org/events

Fun at the Virginia Air and Space Science Center. Schedule a visit soon!

Program Events ~ September-May 2026

Creative Arts The Great Girl Scout Cookie Mystery September 14; 2–4 p.m.

Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg Family friendly; Cost: $40 per adult ($20 of each ticket directly benefits the GSCCC Help-A-Girl fund.) $20 per youth (ages 5–17) includes Register by: 9/9 Join us for an afternoon of mystery, fun, at our family-friendly matinee theater event! Pasta and salad bar included. Register before September 1 to receive your “special event card” to share a specific clue during the performance. Clues are limited in quantity and reserved for pick up at the event!

Boogeyman Blues at the Z Theater October 25; 11 a.m.-Noon and 2-3 p.m.

Location: Zeiders American Dream Theater, 4509 Commerce St, Virginia Beach Cost: $15 for Girl Scout (includes badge or charm) Register by:10/23 Original, family-friendly entertainment for audiences young and young at heart. Girl Scouts are invited for a Q&A and reception after the show!

Learn the Basics of an Aerialist November 9 and November 16 Cadettes: 10-11:30 a.m. | S/A: 12-1:30 p.m.

Location: Railroad Aerial Arts, 115 W 25th St, Norfolk; Cost: $50; Register by: 10/29 or 11/5 Challenge yourself and try something new with this introductory session! Together we'll get in the air with hoops and silks, be creative and get some exercise.

Vintage Badge Series Drawing and Painting November 22; B/J 10-11 a.m. | C/S/A 10-11:30 a.m.

Location: Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 110 Finley Ave., Suffolk; Cost: $20; Register by: 11/5 Travel back in time this month as we complete portions of the Drawing and Painting badge from the 1990s with help from our partners at the Suffolk Center for the Cultural Arts.

NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet November 26; 3-5 p.m.

Location: Sandler Center, Virginia Beach Family friendly; Cost: $38; Register by: 11/9 Gather your loved ones for this traditional tale performed by an extraordinary international cast.

Girl Scouts and their guests will have an exclusive meet and greet with a performer after the show!

Vintage Badge Series - Weaving December 13; 10-11:30 a.m.; Location: APFG, Chesapeake; Levels: D/B; Cost $15 Register by: 11/26 Travel back in time as we explore badges that Girl Scouts of the past could earn. This month we will learn about textures, patterns, and colors, and even try using natural dyes!

Vintage Activity Series - Basketry December 13; 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Location: APFG, Chesapeake; Levels: J/C/S/A Cost $15; Register by: 11/26 Travel back in time as we explore badges that Girl Scouts of the past could earn. This month we will create our own designs, learn about different materials, and try our hand at basketmaking!

16 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

2025 Sea Candle Making Workshop

Textile Artist December 14; 1:30-4 p.m.; Location: APFG, Chesapeake; Level: C/S/A; Cost: $20 Register by: 12/4 Explore textile art as you learn and practice basic crochet stitches, cross stitching and latch hook techniques to create your own masterpieces.

You'll earn your Textile Artist badge.

Glassblowing at Chrysler Glass Studio January 11 and January 25 10-12 p.m. and 1-5 p.m. (15 minute blocks) Location: Chrysler Glass Studio, Norfolk Levels: All; Cost: $50; Register by: 11/26 The new Chrysler Museum Perry Glass Studio is ready for Girl Scout creativity! Make your own beautiful blown glass ornament, heart, or starfish.

Plan B Kids Comedy Show at the Z Theater March 21; 2-3 p.m.

Location: Zeiders American Dream Theater, 4509 Commerce St, Virginia Beach Family friendly; Cost: $10; Register by: 3/19 Comedy Kids Show! That’s right, bring the whole family to The Z and catch this hilarious show that both teaches and entertains while leaving the audience in stitches.

Each kit comes with directions and materials needed to earn a badge for your Girl Scout level. Kits may be picked up from APFG, or can be mailed for an additional $10/kit. (Kits include all badges). These events are always listed together on the last day of the month on our events page calendar at gsccc.org/events.

• Entrepreneur • STEM Club: Automotive Engineering • STEM Club: Robotics • Think Like A Programmer Journey • The Science of Happiness • Think Like A Citizen Scientist Journey • STEM Club: Mechanical Engineering • STEM Club: Think Like An Engineer Journey

Life Skills Girl Scout Program Taste Test Day September 20; 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Location: APFG, Chesapeake; Levels: All Cost: $3; Register by: 9/10 Join GSCCC and our program partners to get a taste of some of the fun programs that will be offered during the 2025-26 membership year!

Pistol Shooting October 4; Session 1: 10-11 a.m.

Session 2: 11-noon; Location: Chesapeake Police Academy, Chesapeake; Levels: S/A Cost: $15; Register by: 9/23 Learn essential firearm safety, proper handling, and secure storage techniques while getting hands-on practice using firearms with simulated, paint-filled rounds.

The Cookie Robber Case October 26; D/B/J 10-11:30 a.m.

C/S/A 12:30-2 p.m.; Location: APFG, Chesapeake; Cost: $12; Register by: 10/15 GSCCC in partnership with the Chesapeake Police Department present a Who Done It Mystery.

Can you solve the Cookie Robber Case?

Brownie First Aid November 1; 10-11:30 a.m.; Location: APFG, Chesapeake; Level: Brownies; Cost: $20 Register by: 10/23 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 November 1; 1-3:15 p.m.

Location: APFG, Chesapeake; Level: Juniors Cost: $20; Register by: 10/23 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; 1-3:45 p.m.; Location: APFG, Chesapeake, Level: C/S; Cost: $20 Register by: 10/23 Cadettes and Seniors: Gain advanced first aid skills, discuss looking after younger children, learn how to tackle weather-related illnesses, and get hands-on practice.

It's Your Story - Tell It! November 8; D/B/J: 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

C/S/A: 1-4 p.m.; Location: Tidewater Collegiate Academy, Virginia Beach Cost: $30; Register by: 10/22 Designed to strengthen a Girl Scout's sense of self and boost her capacity to seek and meet challenges in the world, this Journey provides the opportunity to tell stories through a range of creative approaches.

International Girl's Day Out November 15; D/B: 10-11:30 a.m.

C/S/A: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.; Location: ODU, Norfolk Cost: $15; Register by: 11/3 The ODU Kappa Delta sisters invite Girl Scouts to a tea party! Dress up in your favorite outfit and prepare for fun.

Resilient, Ready, Strong with the Kappa Deltas November 16; 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Location: William & Mary, Williamsburg Levels: All; Cost: $15/patch included Register by: 11/5 Life isn't always easy, but dealing with tricky emotions doesn't have to be so hard. The Kappa Delta sisters of William & Mary and other wellness experts will help us explore fun ways to support ourselves and each other.

Make the World a Better Place December 6; 12-1:30 p.m.

Levels: All; Location: APFG, Chesapeake Cost: $10; Register by: 11/19 Join us for activities that help us to appreciate diversity, learn about accessibility, and how to make the world a better place locally and around the globe!

Brownie First Aid December 6; 10-11:30 a.m.

Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg Level: Brownies; Cost: $20; Register by: 11/27 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 December 6; 1-3:15 p.m.; Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg; Level: Juniors Cost: $20; Register by: 11/27 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 December 7; 1-3:45 p.m.

Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg Level: C/S/A Cost: $20; Register by: 11/27 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.

It's Your World - Change It! January 31; D/B/J: 9:30-12 p.m.; C/S/A: 1-4 p.m.

Location: Tidewater Collegiate Academy, Virginia Beach; Cost: $30; Register by: 1/14 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.

Vintage Badge Series: Sewing February 14; Brownies 10-11 a.m.

J/C/S/A 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (advanced activities) Location: A Place for Girls, Chesapeake Cost: $12; Register by: 1/28 Travel back in time as we explore badges that Girl Scouts of the past could earn. Learn the basics by completing portions of Sewing badges from across many Girl Scouting decades!

Healthy Living Vintage Badge Series - Sports & Games October 12; 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg Levels: All; Cost: $12; Register by: 10/1 Travel back in time as we explore badges that Girl Scouts of the past could earn. This month we will be trying a variety of sports and games from as far back as the 1920s!

Girl Scout Fest 2025: Let's GROW! October 18; 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Location: Northwest River Park, Chesapeake Family friendly; Cost: $15; Register by: 10/1 Girl Scout Fest 2025 returns to Northwest River Park for outdoor fun, community partners, Girl Scout traditions, Jack's Jungle Petting Zoo, Sunshine Treats food truck, and more! Get your troop and family together and get ready to GROW into a new membership year!

STEM Think Like a Citizen Scientist Journey October 4; D/B/J: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.; C/S/A: 1-4 p.m.

Location: Norfolk; Cost: $30; Register by: 9/17 Participate in a hands-on, local citizen science project about sea level rise, and be inspired to complete a Take Action project to address an issue in your community.

STEM Club: Solar Energy October 11; D/B/J: 10-11:30 a.m.

C/S/A: 12:30-2 p.m.

Location: APFG, Chesapeake; Cost: $20 Register by: 9/24 Let's scope out the 'S' in STEM as we delve into the science of solar energy! We'll meet Daisy the SmartFlower and do some fun experiments.

Solar Pioneers November 16; D/B 10 a.m.- 12 p.m.

December 14; B/J 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Location: APFG, Chesapeake; Level: D/B Cost: $18; Register by: 11/6 and 12/4 Learn about all the different ways we can use solar energy and then create your own solar-powered device!

Law & Advocacy at Regent University January 31; 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Location: Regent University, Virginia Beach Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $10; Register by: 1/21 Meet us on campus for an exciting, hands-on workshop in law and advocacy at Regent University! Discover ways you can be involved and have a career in these fields.

17

Fall

STEM Club - Mechanical Engineering January 10; D/B/J: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

C/S/A: 1-3 p.m.; Location: Landstown High School, Virginia Beach; Cost: $40 Register by: 12/24 Let's Explore the 'E' in STEM with the Lady Eagle Engineers and Scientists! Discover how machines make our lives easier and then build a few for yourself.

iFly March 29; Mornings: 10, 10:30, 11, 11:30 Location: iFly, Virginia Beach; Levels: J/C/S/A Cost: $45; Register by: 3/18 We are going 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 Programmer Journey January 17; D/B/J: 9-12 p.m.

C/S/A: 1-4 p.m.; Location: Landstown High School, Virginia Beach; Cost: $30 Register by: 12/31 Work with the Lady Eagle Engineers and Scientists club to complete fun, computational thinking activities with hands-on materials. Includes the badges to be earned and everything you need to complete the Journey!

NCIS Norfolk February 7; 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; Location: Naval Station Norfolk, 1530 Gilbert St., Norfolk Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $14; Register by: 1/17 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.

STEM Club - Technology (Robots) February 14; D/B/J: 10-12 p.m.

C/S/A: 1-3 p.m.; Location: Landstown High School, Virginia Beach; Cost: $40 Register by: 1/28 Let's tour the 'T' in STEM as we explore Technology through robots and programming with the Landstown High School Lady Eagle Engineers and Scientists club.

The Sky's the Limit: A Girl Scout's Guide to the Galaxy March 7; 10 a.m.-12 p.m.; Location: Michael & Kimthanh Le Planetarium, ODU Levels: All; Cost: $15; Register by: 2/25 Visit ODU's planetarium to see a pristine night sky unspoiled by light pollution, fly through the solar system to see your favorite planets up close and explore the wonders of the Milky Way Galaxy.

18 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

Think Like an Engineer Journey May 3; D/B/J: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.; C/S/A: 1-4 p.m.

Location: TBD; Cost: $30; Register by: 4/15 Complete hands-on design challenges powered by solar energy, and plan a Take Action project that helps others. Includes the badges and everything you need to complete the Journey!

Community Service

Space Science Adventure at A Place for Girls It's Your Planet - Love It! April 4; D/B/J: 9:30-12 p.m.; C/S/A: 1-4 p.m.

Location: Tidewater Collegiate Academy, Virginia Beach; Cost: $30; Register by: 3/18 This Journey series invites Girl Scouts to make sense of the wealth of environmental information available so they can act for the betterment of Earth and its inhabitants.

Vintage Badge Series - Bees April 18; 10-11:30 a.m.; Location: Chesapeake Bee Yard; Levels: D/B; Cost: $12; Register by: 4/1 Girl Scouts were learning about bees as far back as the 1950s! We will explore why we need bees, how bees live, and plant a flower just for a bee in your own decorated pot.

Register for the next NCIS event in Norfolk February 7!

Discover Flight with the Ninety-Nines May 2; 1-4:30 p.m.; Location: Hampton Roads Executive Airport, 5172 W. Military Highway Cost: $15; Register by: April 19 Explore aviation with the The Ninety-Nines, International Organization of Women Pilots.

Learn about the history of women in flight, see aircraft in action, and more!

Vintage Badge Series - Bee Keeper April 18; 10 a.m.-12 p.m.; Location: Chesapeake Bee Yard; Levels: J/C/S/A; Cost: $12; Register by: 4/1 Travel back in time as we explore badges that Girl Scouts of the past could earn. This month we will be completing portions of the Bee Keeper badge from the 1950s.

STEM Club - Math in Nature April 25; D/B/J: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

C/S/A: 1-3 p.m.; Location: APFG-Outback, Chesapeake; Cost: $35; Register by: 4/8 Let's master the 'M' in STEM as we look for Math in nature! Identify patterns, take measurements, discover the intricate details of plants and animals, and more!

Day of Service at Operation Smile April 25; 1-4 p.m.; Location: Operation Smile Headquarters, Virginia Beach; Family friendly Cost: Free; Register by: 4/19 Explore the global headquarters of Operation Smile at this family-friendly open house to learn about cleft care and the education they provide to communities around the world.

Fall Green Team Community Service October 25; 9 a.m.-noon Location: Nauticus, 1 Waterside Drive, Norfolk; Levels: J/C/S/A; Cost: $3 Register by: 10/8 Help keep areas around our waterways clean with the Nauticus' fall Green Team Community Cleanup Day. Community Service Project - Book Drive Collecting from November 1-21; Drop off at APFG, Chesapeake; Register by: 11/14 REACH Inc. is collecting new and gently used books to distribute in the local community to families in need.

Restore Battleship Wisconsin November 8; 9 a.m.-noon; Location: Wisconsin at Nauticus, Norfolk; Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $3 Register by: 10/30 As a team, we will work on the museum ship, the Battleship Wisconsin (BB-64), to help with projects such as cleaning and preparing spaces for guests to visit.

Veteran's Day Parade November 11; 9 a.m. (arrive early); Location: Virginia Beach Oceanfront at Dairy Queen Levels: All; Cost: $3 for patch; Register by: 11/1 Honor our military veterans by participating in the annual Tidewater Veterans Day Parade.

Entrepreneurship Vintage Badge Series: Money January 24; 10-11:30 a.m.; Location: APFG, Chesapeake; Levels: D/B; Cost: $12 Register by: 1/7 How did we survive before online banking? Learn real-world money management skills as we do things the old-fashioned way and check out some vintage office equipment.

Vintage Badge Series: Clerk January 24; 10 a.m.-12 p.m.; Location: APFG, Chesapeake; Levels: J/C/S/A; Cost: $12 Register by: 1/7 Travel back in time as we explore badges that Girl Scouts of the past could earn. This month we will learn money management skills to complete portions of the Clerk badge from the 1940s.

Outdoor Hanging Out September 12 and September 21 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Location: The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium, Virginia Beach; Levels: J/C/S/A Cost: $56; Register by: 10/2 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!

Hike & Bike September 19, 12 p.m.-September 21, 8 p.m.

Location: Pick Up/Drop off at A Place for Girls, Chesapeake; Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $225 Register by: 9/4 Enjoy a weekend getaway in Damascus! Burst into fall with a bang on this three-day, two-night trip. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Virginia Creeper Trail on a 17-mile bike ride, then hike up to Grayson Highlands State Park where you can view unique habitats and watch wild ponies. Pitch a tent at night and enjoy camp songs around the fire!

Girl Scouts from Service Unit 220 paddled the rapids on the James River in May. Discover the Green Spaces of W&M with the Kappa Deltas September 27; 10 a.m.- 12 p.m.

Location: College of William & Mary, Williamsburg; Levels: D/B/J/C; Cost: $10 Register by: 9/10 Explore trails and other green spaces with the Kappa Delta sisters on the beautiful campus of the College of William & Mary!

Canoeing September 28; 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Location: Camp Darden, Courtland, VA Level: B/J; Cost: $21; Register by: 9/18 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.

Paddles Away September 28; 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Location: Camp Darden, Courtland, VA Levels: J/C/S/A; Cost: $20; Register by: 9/18 Enjoy a fun afternoon 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.

Slingshots October 4; Daisies: 8:30-10:30 a.m.

B/J: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk; Cost: $16; Register by: 9/25 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!

Geocaching November 8; 3-5 p.m.

Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg Level: Juniors; Cost: $16; Register by: 10/30 Geocaching is an exciting exploration game using GPS. Search for hidden treasures all around the camp property, then learn how to set up your own cache for others to find!

Axe-Throwing October 4; 2:30-4:30 p.m.

Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $20; Register by: 9/25 Join us on the axe-throwing range at Camp Apasus and learn the skills to hit the bullseye!

Brownie Naturalists November 15; 9-11 a.m.

Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk Level: Brownies; Cost: $18; Register by: 11/6 Become a bug naturalist and explore the small but mighty world of bugs while creating bug-inspired crafts and more.

Outdoor Skills October 5; Juniors: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Cadettes: 1:30-4:30 p.m.; Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk; Cost: $20; Register by: 9/25 Gain new outdoor survival skills and team up with other Girl Scout Juniors to conquer challenges!

Learn how to build a fire, use a compass, some basic emergency techniques, and more.

Explore Camp October 11; 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk Levels: D/B; Cost: $25; Register by:10/2 Explore all the fun of Camp Apasus and make some new friends while you create a tie dye, go canoeing, and roast a classic camp s'more!

AIM, Archery, and Slingshots October 12 AIM B/J 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Archery C/S/A 1-3 p.m.

Slingshots C/S/A 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk Cost: $21; Register by:10/2 Practice basic (AIM) or advanced archery to earn a badge or patch for your grade level, or try your hand at using a slingshot to hit the bullseye!

Daisies Outdoors October 19; 10-11:30 a.m.; Location: APFG, Chesapeake, Level: Daisies; Cost: $16 Register by: 10/9 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.

Outdoor Art November 8; 9-11 a.m.; Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg; Level: D/B; Cost: $16 Register by: 10/30 Explore looking at nature with an artistic eye and create art inspired by nature through different art forms and mediums.

Letterboxing November 8; 12:30-2:30 p.m.; Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg Level: Brownies; Cost: $16; Register by: 10/30 There's treasure hidden at Camp Skimino just for you to find! Follow the clues to find the letterboxes and solve the mystery of the pirates.

Junior Naturalists November 15; 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk; Level: Juniors; Cost: $18; Register by: 11/6 Explore the world of botany and learn about flowers while creating flower art and discovering secret messages through the language of flowers.

Cadette Naturalists November 15; 3-5 p.m.; Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk; Level: Cadettes; Cost: $18 Register by: 11/6 Climb to the next branch of naturalist knowledge as you discover what makes trees grow and thrive and try your hand at tree care.

Daisy Knot Tying December 13; 9-10:30.; Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk; Level: Daisy; Cost: $18; Register by: 12/4 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 December 13; 11-12:30 p.m.

Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk; Level: Brownie Cost: $18; Register by: 12/4 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.

Junior Knot Tying December 13; 2:30-4:30 p.m.

Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk Level: Juniors; Cost: $18; Register by: 12/4 Build your knot-tying 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.

Save the date for free Camp Open House events!

Go on a guided tour or explore the property on your own to discover all the fun you’ll have at summer camp in 2026.

March 7: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg March 21: Camp Apasus, Norfolk or Camp Outback, Chesapeake (9-11 a.m. at each location)

19

Fall

The Great Girl Scout

Cookie Mystery

Activities for Girl Scout Juniors to earn their Detective badge!

Sunday, Sept. 14 | 2 to 4 p.m. | Pasta & Salad Buffet Included Camp Skimino, Williamsburg This original whodunnit combines interactive dinner theater with Girl Scout family fun. Who will catch the cookie culprit before the matinee concludes? This playful theater experience was written by acclaimed author and GSCCC Board Member, Dawn Brotherton. Watch for familiar faces while you enjoy an engaging performance! Register before September 1 to receive your “special event card” to share a specific clue during the performance. Clues are limited in quantity and reserved for pick up at the event.

• All ages are welcome to attend; best for ages 7 and up.

• $40 per adult ($20 of each ticket directly benefits the GSCCC Help-A-Girl fund.)

• $20 per youth (ages 5 – 17) includes a Girl Scout fun patch Tickets

Meet Dawn Brotherton

Dawn’s a talented author, owner of Blue Dragon Publishing, and a member of GSCCC’s Board of Directors. She has volunteered in many ways, including offering workshops for Girl Scouts and supporting GSCCC events. During her workshops, she has helped Girl Scouts in kindergarten through fifth grade discover their abilities as storytellers and illustrators. Attendees are delighted to get a chance to meet a real author and read books by Dawn that reflect Girl Scout values, such as “If I Look Like You,” a tale about the value of individuality and friendship.

Writing a Girl Scout mystery play is just one more way she is using her talents to support Girl Scouting.

She says she loves a challenge and had a lot of fun writing the mystery. When it comes to being an exceptional writer, Dawn said she draws from her experience as a retired US Air Force Colonel, a softball coach and Girl Scout leader. She has authored many books our Girl Scouts love, including “Trish’s Team,” “Margie Makes a Difference,” “Nicole’s New Friend,” and “Tammy Tries Baseball.” The four books are all parts of the “Lady Tigers” series, a series about a girls’ fast pitch softball team with messages that encourage young female athletes to reach for the stars in the games they love. As a mother of two female athletes and former Girl Scouts, Dawn is intent on “playing like a girl,” which, to her, means playing with determination, teamwork, sportsmanship and most of all, a love for what you do.

Be a Reader!

Girl Scouts bring their dreams to life and work together to build a kinder, better world.

And now, young people and their families everywhere can experience the friendships and fun of Girl Scouting through thought provoking books with Girl Scout characters published by HarperCollins. This series for readers ranging from toddlers to middle schoolers will spark imaginations, inspire young minds, and remind girls that they can do anything they set their minds to. The first book was released in 2024, "Maven Takes the Lead," and was focused on how Maven and her Girl Scout friends used courage, confidence, and character to make the world a better place. To help readers dive deeper, a discussion guide can be used to facilitate conversations about thoughts, feelings, and ideas. A fun patch is also available for purchase!

New in September, a book titled, “Take Action: You Can Make the World a Better Place.” Be sure to read more and encourage your Girl Scouts to be readers! Scan the QR code to see all seven of the additional Girl Scout books available.

20 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

New Girl Scout Body Appreciation Badge Series Having a healthier body image means a Girl Scout is able to celebrate and appreciate their natural body shape and the uniqueness of each individual person. Concentrating on healthy body image tools will also lead them to understand that a person's physical appearance says very little about their character or value. Remember the old adage, "It's what inside that counts!"

With this new badge series, girls will learn to recognize and value their bodies for their inherent worth, qualities, functions, and uniqueness, rather than solely focusing on physical appearance. You can find details on them all in the Volunteer Toolkit.

Body appreciation is important for girls!

Promotes Mental Health Research shows that many young people experience body dissatisfaction, and eating disorders surged in Daisy: Fun with Movement teens during the pandemic, according to U.S. News & World Report. Promoting body appreciation helps Moving your body for girls feel more comfortable and confident with their bodies, reducing the likelihood of negative thoughts fun including the and insecurities. development of gross and fine motor skills

Brownie: Me Time Using your amazing body as a tool to help you feel your best

Junior: Uniquely Us Learning to appreciate differences, celebrate similarities, and accept your unique self

Fosters Healthy Lifestyle Choices Body appreciation is linked to healthier eating styles and a reduced likelihood of engaging in restrictive or unhealthy eating behaviors.

Promotes Physical Activity When girls appreciate their bodies for what they can do, they are more likely to engage in enjoyable physical activity and feel confident in their capabilities.

Builds Resilience and Social Skills Helps navigate societal pressures where girls are constantly exposed to unrealistic beauty standards through media and social comparisons. Body appreciation helps them develop resilience against these pressures and appreciate their unique qualities.

Note: This badge line addresses body issues and related topics. Some Girl Scouts may find these topics sensitive. As the facilitator/volunteer, your delivery is critical in providing a positive experience. Visit the Volunteer Toolkit on mygs.girlscouts.org for information and resources that will help you make the most of this experience, along with detailed activity instructions and meeting aids.

Girl Scout Brownie Activity

Cadette: Outside the Mirror Question beauty standards to find and appreciate your authentic self

Fuel yourself for fun. Learn about all the great things water does for your body.

Decorate your own water bottle. Find out how much water your body needs each day and how many bottles that equals. Then set a goal to drink that number of bottles of water each day. After one week, think about how you did. Was it hard to meet your daily goal? Easy? Somewhere in between? How does your body feel when you drink enough water?

Girl Scout Junior Activity Avoid the “comparison trap.” The phrase “comparison trap” means comparing other people’s or cultures’ Senior: Mind, Body, Me Supporting overall well-being

traits—both physical and non-physical—to your own. Doing this can make you feel like you’re not good enough.

Avoid this trap. Learn to appreciate what you do have instead of wishing for what you don’t. You’re uniquely you, and you will always be good enough.

Sample activities: What I like about you. Get a group of friends or family together. Write something you like about each person on a sticky note. Stick the notes to each other’s backs. When everyone is done, collect the notes and read them out loud. Accept the praise with pride—you deserve every compliment!

Ambassador: Cheers to Every Body Appreciate and celebrate uniqueness in yourself and others

For more fun: Write in small notebooks, one per person, instead of on sticky notes. Read your “compliment book” whenever you need a reminder that your friends think you’re great.

Start an “affirmation jar.” Decorate a jar and put it somewhere handy. Try to catch yourself making negative comparisons. Each time it happens, STOP! Write something nice about yourself on a slip of paper and put it into the jar. After a week, empty the jar.

Read what you wrote—and remember how special you are!

21 Fall

Family Connection Celebrating Spirituality and Faith

There are opportunities for families to get involved in Girl Scouting and to have fun along the way. Caregivers and family members are encouraged to actively participate in various activities alongside their Girl Scouts, fostering a shared experience and strengthening family bonds! These opportunities include volunteering at troop meetings, assisting with cookie booths, joining camping trips, working on special recognitions such as My Promise, My Faith pin, and participating in special events and activities.

Our fall Girl Scout Fest is a perfect event to register for and enjoy with the whole family!

Girl Scouts is welcoming and inclusive to members of all faiths. Everything in Girl Scouting is based on the Girl Scout Promise and Law, which include many principles and values that are common across religions. We invite Girl Scouts to take spiritual journeys via their faith’s religious recognitions. Girls may also earn the Girl Scout My Promise, My Faith pin where they will explore the connections between the Girl Scout Law and teachings from their faith.

This pin can be earned each year.

Take the journey with her!

Consider supporting your Girl Scout’s troop! When you step up, you’re enhancing the troop experience and modeling leadership for your girl.

She’ll be prouder than ever to call you hers. Scan the QR code or visit www.gsccc.org/journey.

Scan Me!

In 15 minutes a week, you could…

Organize and manage the calendar for troop snacks or carpools. Keeping track of who’s contributing what and when will make meetings go smoothly for everyone.

In 30 minutes a week, you could…

Manage troop communications. This can mean anything from texting other families to confirm meeting dates, to maintaining the troop’s social media account or being in charge of a phone tree.

Girl Scouts may also earn a Religious Recognition created by a national religious organization that encourages a Girl Scout's spiritual growth. Each religious organization develops and administers its own program, many of which can be found on Programs of Religious Activities with Youth (P.R.A.Y.) website. You can also contact the

religious organization - your church, synagogue or other place of worship - directly to obtain the curriculum booklets and direction.

In 45 minutes a week, you could…

Take photos or videos at troop meetings and Girl Scout events. Make sure the troop has signed council photo releases before snapping and sharing images!

In 1–2 hours a week, you could…

Lead part of a troop meeting or guide the girls through earning a specific badge. You can introduce the girls to a topic that you specialize in or explore a new activity and learn alongside the troop.

In 2–3 hours a week during cookie season, you could…

Organize booth sales and keep track of cookie orders. You’ll be playing a key part in the Girl Scout Cookie Program®, which raises funds for troop activities and teaches girls important leadership skills.

Example United Methodist God & Me Medallion

View or download the Girl Scout Family Connection Fun Guide at gsccc.org/family! A great resource, especially for those new to Girl Scouts!

Family Connection

Girl Scouts Your go-to, e super-fun guid Ready, Set, Goals!

What do you want to be, do, or know more about? Fill to getting the in the first column of this chart with three ideas— What We Value dream big!—then ask your troop leader or another t out of mos Being “good” at everything isn’t the goaladult here.to It’shelp the you willingness find Girl Scout badges or awards to put yourself out there and really make effort that will give toan earn that can help you reach your dreams. Those ts Scou you your fullest, funnest, and most successful life. That’s why Girl

Get That Girl Scouts Glow Up Girl Scouts have fun learning new skills, earning badges, and testing their abilities— but it’s our community that makes us a must for your family.

In good times and bad, Girl Scouts is your: FRIEND CIRCLE

DREAM CENTER

RELEASE VALVE

83% of Girl Scouts have a best friend in their troop.

We stick together, stand up for one another, and are sisters for life.

992% say Girl Scouts helps them try new things.

If a girl can dream it, Girl Scouts can take her there.

94% say Girl Scouts is a safe space.

The amazing support of Girl Scouts is more important than ever.

go in the second column. Check out girlscouts.org/ both the Girl Scout Promise and Law—which members of all activityzone to see all the different things you could ages recite—start with the idea of trying to do your best. try. Reaching your target has never been so fun.

to…

Girl ScoutI want Promise 1.On my honor, I will try:

To serve God* and my country, To help people at all times, And to live by the Girl Scout Law.

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Use this space to draw or write about what it feels like to be a Girl Scout.

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and to respect myself and others, respect authority, use resources wisely, make the world a better place, and be a sister to every Girl Scout.

*Members may substitute for the word God in accordance with their spiritual beliefs.

Get Started Now Troop meetings are awesome, but why let the good times stop there? Head to girlscouts.org/ activityzone to check out some of our favorite activities—then try them at home with your family or friends for free!

22 Girl GirlScouts Scoutsof ofthe theColonial ColonialCoast Coast

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Cadettes Grades 6–8

Keep the Park in Your Heart

Just for Juliettes

*Members may substitute for the word God in accordance with their spiritual beliefs.

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Brownies Grades 2–3

U t y g c w f t t s h

Juniors Grades 4–5

On my honor, I will try: To support my Girl Scout and her troop, To help girls lead at all times,

3.And to always keep it fun!

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Daisies Grades K–1

Need more help?

Go to girlscouts.org/ placement.

Girl Scout Family Promise

Family-Connection COUNCIL.indd 2-3

Ever feel like yo Break out of the blahs w of G

Flag patch, council name patches, and troop numbers go on the front right, in that order, starting at the top.

Fun patches from trips and experiences always go on the back.

Girl Scout Law I will do my best to be honest and fair, 2.friendly and helpful, considerate and caring, courageous and strong, and responsible for what I say and do,

Shake Up Family Time

You’re earning badges, patches, and awards—but where do they belong?

Here’s the rundown on what goes where on your tunic, sash, or vest.

Badges and Journey awards always go on the front, starting at the bottom. On a vest, badges go on the right and Journey awards on the left. On a sash, badges go below Journey awards.

This can help

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Wear It Where?

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A Juliette, or individually registered Girl Scout, has the same Girl Scout experience as other girls, just without being in a troop. If you’re a Juliette family, connect with your council for support and to stay up-todate on exciting events for the whole family.

Take a walk, ride a bike, or have a picnic in the park with the whole family. Ask everyone to look around and name one thing they love about the park and one thing that could be better. This can also be a time to explore the history of your park and to learn about the Indigenous people who lived on this land before you.

Is there no place to recycle bottles and cans? Not enough park benches? Would it be fun to have a skateboard ramp, or could the basketball court use a fresh coat of paint? Write down everyone’s

ideas, then connect with local organizations that advocate for parks. Maybe your family could join them and turn some of your ideas into reality.

If there isn’t already a team of people helping your park, bring up the idea with other families— especially those you know through Girl Scouts— or at your local city council meeting to see if you can start one. Taking care of and learning about our outdoor spaces together is a fun way to build community, make friends, and improve the world for everyone.

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Seniors Grades 9–10

Ambassadors Grades 11–12

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Family-Connection COUNCIL.indd 12-13

It's a Family Affair...

The Family Cookie Pin!

Fun with Our Partners!

Families, consider “catching the king” this year. Catch the King (CTK) is an annual tide mapping event that recruits volunteers to collect flooding data during the Pertigean tides - the highest tides of the year. Your participation in this award-winning, crowd sourced flood data collection can make a big difference in local research. Catch the King annual tide mapping event for 2025 will be held in October. Check out our Girl Scout event offering or you can participate as a family with Wetlands Watch.

Think Like a Citizen Scientist-October 4 D/B/J: 9-12 p.m. | C/S/A: 1-4 p.m.

Location: Norfolk, VA Cost: $15; Register by: 9/17

Get details on Wetlands Watch

Participate in a hands-on, local citizen science project about sea level rise, and be inspired to complete a Take Action project to address an issue in your community.

The year-by-year Cookie Entrepreneur Family pin collection supports the Girl Scout Cookie Program. It’s never been easier to support your girl as she develops business skills, makes amazing memories, and earns a different pin for her uniform every cookie season.

Fun at Events!

GSCCC families had a blast at our 2025 events that included a night with the Norfolk Tides and Cookies on Ice with the Admirals!

Ways to learn about tide power: • Explore local shorelines, observing the changes in the tide, identifying different types of sand and sediment, and looking for evidence of animal life.

• Learn to identify different types of coastal habitats and ecosystems, such as beaches, dunes, and salt marshes.

• Learn about the threats that these ecosystems face, such as pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction, and how you can help to preserve them.

• Organize a beach cleanup, plant coastal vegetation, or advocate for policies that protect coastal ecosystems.

Learn About Citizen Scientist Badges

GSUSA Activity Zone

You can also find badge requirements in the Volunteer Toolkit.

Daisies

Brownies

Juniors

Cadettes

Become a Climate Advocate!

As climate change affects our planet, it’s up to us to do what we can to protect our Earth. When you participate in the Girl Scout Climate Challenge, you’ll get outdoors to learn about climate science, connect with your community to understand how it is impacted by climate change and spread awareness of the issue to make a difference.

Additional Family Friendly Things to Look Forward To! Find all the descriptions on the event pages (16-19) or visit gsccc.org/events • Shows at the Zeiders American Dream Theater in Virginia Beach September 25, 2025 and March 21, 2026 • The Nutcracker at the Sandler Center in Virginia Beach on November 26, 2025 • The Cookie Classic Run at the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail in Chesapeake January 17, 2026 • The Day of Service at Operation Smile on April 25, 2026 • Girl Scout Night Out with the Tides in the Spring • Community Service Spread Kindness (October-December), Book Drive (November)

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

Events

23 Fall

Girl Scouts Who Lead the Way Celebration!

2025 Gold Award Girl Scouts Janelle Breitkreutz Troop 468, Virginia Beach, VA Community Music Café Sarah Glassman Troop 919, Suffolk, VA Dogs for a Cause Maureen Keller Troop 359, Chesapeake, VA Green Hearts - Think Before You Trash Mackenzie Koman Juliette, Chesapeake, VA It's Time to Get Cheering Abi Michalczak Troop 673, Chesapeake, VA Furry Futures Taylor Westbrook Troop 57, South Mills, NC Let's Get Real. Period.

Julia Wiiliams Troop 15, Chesapeake, VA Nurture Your Mind with Nature Justina Williams Troop 15, Chesapeake, VA Bringing Awareness to Crisis Boarding Program and Resources

Many thanks to the donors who supported this event: Norfolk State University, Capital Group, and Publix Super Market Charities

Our outstanding Girl Scouts who are leading the way through their Gold Award projects were recognized at our annual Girl Scout Awards Ceremony on June 7 at the L. Douglas Wilder Performing Arts Center at Norfolk State University. Girl Scouts who earned Summit, Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards took the stage to shine. GSCCC also recognized recipients of special awards and scholarships. To close the event, graduating Girl Scouts were invited to take part in a youth to adult Girl Scout bridging ceremony on During the event, GSCCC recognized 8 Gold Award Girl Scouts. As stage! The ceremony opening was part of the celebration, one-minute project videos on each Gold performed by Girl Scouts from Award Girl Scout were shown. Each Gold Award Girl Scout was also Troop 305 who presented the honored with a lifetime membership made possible by the Helen Colors and Girl Scout Ambassador Kattwinkel Lifetime Membership Endowment fund.

Bella Waite who sang the national View the ceremony’s anthem. program on our website!

National Gold Award Scholarship Gold Award Girl Scout Maureen Keller was selected as one of the 2025 recipients of the Girl Scouts of the USA Gold Award Scholarship. Each year, GSUSA selects 111 Gold Award Girl Scouts for this recognition, one per Girl Scout council. Maureen was awarded $5,000 as the recipient, with an additional $5,000 from local donors to increase the full scholarship gift to $10,000. In addition to the $5,000 gift, these donors also made it possible for three finalists to be recognized with scholarships of $1,000 each. They were: 2025 National Gold Scholarship recipient Maureen Keller with scholarship Gold Award Girl Scout Ambassadors Janelle Breitkreutz, Justina Williams, and donors former GSCCC Board Chair Barbara Tierney and past Board Member Ashely McLeod.

Sarah Glassman.

Maureen’s Gold Award project, “Green Hearts-Think Before You Trash” addressed the critical need of recycling and some of the issues and challenges communities face surrounding recycling.

When the city of Chesapeake placed a city-wide nix of its government-funded recycling program, she took the initiative to tackle this challenge by hosting Chesapeake’s very first city-wide Earth Day celebration where she advocated for the return of curbside recycling. The event was held at the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Historic Park. Exhibitors included: the Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council; Chesapeake Recycles; Hampton Roads Master Gardeners; The Virginia Butterfly Society; Tidewater Beekeepers; Tidewater Compost; Goodwill Industries; and the Elizabeth River Project. Maureen’s educational brochure and curriculum used during the event continues to be available and used by Chesapeake Recycles.

Maureen also met with local policy makers, spoke as an advocate at a city council hearing, and helped get a referendum, the "Chesapeake City Curbside Recycling Fee Measure," on a 2024 ballot. You can read more about Maureen and her project on GSCCC’s Blog!

24 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

Buck Harris Award Girl Scout Senior Lily Willis from Troop 53 in Service Unit 330 was recognized with the 2025 Buck Harris Award. The award is named after Georgie “Buck” Harris who served as the executive director of what was then the Virginia Tidewater Area Council of area Girl Scouts. To qualify for the award, a girl must be nominated by the girls in her troop, group or service unit, or by an adult who is aware of her qualifications. Girl Scouts must meet the criteria of being an active troop member who has helped make troop meetings and activities more enjoyable during the past two years by participating in, or helping, to make service unit events and/or Council events better during the past two years.

Along with being nominated by her peers for the many ways she Girl Scout Senior Lily Willis lives the Girl Scout Promise and Law, Lily’s go-getter spirit was recognized. She has earned the Girl Scout Bronze and Silver Awards, served as a Cookie Captain, and a Service Unit Delegate. Lily inspires others with her positive approach to life and motivates them to find common ground and solutions to any challenges they might face. Read more about Lily on GSCCC’s Blog!

Be sure to read about the award and consider a nomination for 2026!

Nominations are due by March 31 each year.

GSCCC Gold Award Scholarship Fund

Scholarships She Believes She Can, So She Does Scholarship Recipient: Girl Scout Ambassador Lydia Winstead

Maylea Brockington Beasley Love and Laughter Scholarship Recipient: Gold Award Girl Scout Justina Williams

Girls of Courage, Confidence and Character Scholarship Recipient: Girl Scout Ambassador Gabriella Waite Read about the scholarships offered

by GSCCC and GSUSA on the GSCCC website.

Scout of the Year

Every year, courageous Girl Scouts on the road to leadership identify problems in their communities and develop creative, sustainable solutions to address them. They plan and lead Gold Award projects that tackle issues in areas such as physical and mental health, arts and culture, environmental sustainability, education, and child safety. They are changemakers and the budding leaders our communities so desperately need.

Your gift can help us build the GSCCC Gold Award Scholarship fund that ensures that these girls of courage, confidence, and character have the financial support they need to grow, thrive, and continue to make the world a better place. With scholarships that recognize the value of young leadership, more will be encouraged to accept the challenge to lead the Girl Scout way. Our Gold Award Girl Scouts inspire us, and it is your engagement, dedication, and support that empowers them to do great things!

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Introducing Daisy’s Circle Daisy’s Circle is more than a monthly giving program — it’s a powerful way to champion girls across our region and build a stronger tomorrow.

To join — visit gsccc.org and click the green DONATE button. While completing your donation, select the MONTHLY option. It's that easy!

If you are already a monthly donor, you have automatically joined Daisy's Circle!

Why a monthly gift is a good choice: Lasting Impact: Consistent monthly gifts build up to a substantial contribution that can create significant, long-term change.

Budget-Friendly: By giving in smaller increments, you can support Girl Scouts without a large financial burden.

Convenience: Monthly giving automates the process, making it easy to support Girl Scouts year-round without needing to remember to donate.

"Joining Daisy’s Circle was one of the most meaningful decisions I’ve made. As a monthly donor, I know my support is helping girls grow into confident leaders, creative thinkers, and compassionate changemakers. It’s not just a gift—it’s an investment in their future. Every month, I feel proud knowing I’m part of making girls' futures brighter." ~ Laura Morgan, Daisy’s Circle Founding Member

Congratulations to Gold Award Girl Scout Justina Williams from Chesapeake who received the Scout of the Year recognition from VFW Post 2894. A ceremony was held in the Chesapeake City Council chambers on May 29. Susan Vitale, a Girl Scout alum and current troop leader who is also a former Chesapeake City Council member, is the Senior Vice Commander of VFW Post 2894 who helped present the award.

Visit the VFW website and learn about youth scholarship contests for middle and high school students.

Deadline for the 79th Annual Essay Contest entries is October 31.

This year’s theme: “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”

25 Fall

Medal of Honor Recipients Congratulations to Girl Scout Juniors Cora Jackson from Troop 137, and Vada Carawan from Troop 44. Both Girl Scouts were recipients of the Girl Scout Medal of Honor, awarded to Girl Scouts who demonstrate heroic actions in saving or attempting to save a life. They were recognized at Girl Scouts Who Lead the Way. Cora Jackson

Last spring while attending a neighborhood picnic and pool party, Cora noticed a five-year-old who was having difficulty in the water after jumping into the pool without supervision. With no supervising adults nearby to see this, Cora took action and jumped in after the girl and brought her to poolside safety!

Vada used skills she had learned from a Girl Scout troop first-aid training to save her dad's life. While home with her dad, Vada Carawan Clint, he experienced a heart attack.

Vada called 911 and with the dispatcher on the phone, started CPR. Paramedics arrived and continued CPR and brought him to the hospital.

Now recovered, he recalls the experience and says, "I am so proud of my daughter. You never know what skills you learn today that will be used to save a life tomorrow."

The Addams Family October 10-12, 2025 This performance will be at The Historic Wells Theater THE ADDAMS FAMILY, a comical feast that embraces the wackiness in every family, features an original story and it’s every father’s nightmare: Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family – a man her parents have never met. And if that wasn’t upsetting enough, Wednesday confides in her father and begs him not to tell her mother. Now, Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before – keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents.

Groups of 10 and more receive $5 off per ticket.

For a discount, call Lisa at (757) 627-5437.

One payment only per group.

26 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

First Aid Training American Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED October 11, April 5 and May 3 A Place for Girls, Chesapeake Open to Adults and Girl Scouts 12 years and up Session 1: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Session 2: 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Session 3: 3-5 p.m.

Cost: $55

Register on the event page!

This blended learning course equips you to recognize and care for a variety of first aid breathing and cardiac emergencies for people of all ages. A certificate for Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED is issued upon successful completion.

Register by: October 4 for October 11, March 23 for April 5, and April 24 for May 3

Connect with Nature

Earn Your GSCCC Explore Patch for the Norfolk Botanical Garden!

Learn more about NBG Girl Scout opportunities

Good Vibes at Camp!

Visit the Outback and Earn the Lou Henry Hoover Patch!

While visiting A Place for Girls, be sure to take time to visit The Outback. The nearly 8-acre wetlands site is a Lou Henry Hoover Memorial Sanctuary which is a natural area dedicated to preserving nature and honoring Lou Henry Hoover, a former First Lady and dedicated Girl Scout who served two terms as our Movement's National President. These sanctuaries are living tributes that aim to teach girls about nature, conservation, and Hoover's work in the Girl Scouts. These areas are designed to protect and preserve natural habitats, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility among Girl Scouts.

Find details on our website about the nature preserve and how to earn the Lou Henry Hoover Sanctuary Patch!

Did you know...

Amazing things happened at GSCCC's summer camp sessions!

Campers had new experiences, learned new skills, and made new friends. Keep the excitement going and sign up for outdoor fun going all year long!

Camp is Calling— Badge Bash!

A delightful adult-only (21+) evening packed with camp vibes, cocktails, creativity, and entertainment. Dress up in your best Girl Scout outfit, camp attire, or get creative for a chance to win Best Dressed!

Save the Date!

April 18, 2026 A Place for Girls in The Outback

Upon arrival at A Place for Girls, you’ll be welcomed like a true Girl Scout with a faux sash. Your very first task is to pick your legendary camp name! Then, explore The Outback and dive into every interactive station, offering hands-on activities to earn custom badges to add to your sash – can you complete the collection? Sip on adult beverages, enjoy snacks from mobile carts, and keep the party going as you travel between stations. And what’s a campout without s’mores by the fire? Toast your perfect marshmallow! Plus, there will be a re-envisioned, in-person Camp-is-Calling silent auction!

The Girl Scouts held their 18th National Council meeting in Virginia Beach in 1932. The event took place at the Cavalier Hotel and included a visit from First Lady Lou Henry Hoover, who was also the Honorary President of the Girl Scouts.

Patch Activity The Outback is home to a large amount of wildlife and insects which can be observed any time of the year. Spending quiet time in The Outback is a great way to observe them.

Animals such as squirrels, geese, raccoons, opossum, foxes, owls, hawks and osprey have been spotted here.

Try looking for tracks in the mud along the creek or trail.

Earn Your GSCCC Explore Patch for the Explore Jamestown Settlement!

TWO MUSEUMS. ENDLESS DISCOVERY. Experience the stories that shaped a nation

Camp is Calling - Badge Bash is your chance to relive or experience the magic of summer camp with a grown-up twist. Don’t miss out on this adventure!

January 17, 2026!

Dismal Swamp Canal Trail in Chesapeake • All races chipped timed • 1 milers: patch finisher gift • 5K and 10K (surprise) finisher gift • 5K and 10k age placed awards Registration: Runsignup.com facebook.com/cookieclassicGSCCC

JYFMUSEUMS.ORG 27 Fall

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Norfolk, VA Permit No. 150

912 Cedar Road Chesapeake, VA 23322

Visit us on the web at gsccc.org 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 gsccc.org/publications. If your household has received duplicate mailings, please email customercare@gsccc.org.

Editor: Marcella Germanotta; Graphic Artist: Barbara Owens

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Girl Scout Fest 2025 returns to Northwest River Park for outdoor fun, community partners, Girl Scout traditions, Jack's Jungle Petting Zoo, Sunshine Treats food truck, and more! Get your troop and family together and get ready to GROW into a new membership year!

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October 18 | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Location: Northwest River Park Cost: $15, +$3 patch

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2025 Girl Scout Fest– ’s Grow Let’s GROW! et

Register by 10/1 at gsccc.org/events

Register for a fun behind the scenes workshop at Duck Donuts!

What a great way to expand your entrepreneurship wings - oh, and did we mention it was a mighty tasty way, too?

Be sure to check GSCCC's Events page for fun sessions at Duck Donuts!

Visit their business locations as well.