GSESC Volunteer Essentials 2015-16 online

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, Inc. BYLAWS Approved January 20, 2007 ARTICLE I: NAME The Name of the Corporation shall be known as Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, Inc. The electoral body will herein be referred to as the "delegate assembly." The total membership will herein be referred to as the "council."

ARTICLE II: PURPOSE The purpose of the council shall be as defined in the Articles of Incorporation to make available to girls under its jurisdiction the program, practices, and standards of Girl Scouting as offered by the Girl Scouts of the United States of America.

ARTICLE III: MEMBERSHIP The members of the council shall be members of the Girl Scout movement and must be registered through the council. The membership of the delegate assembly shall consist of (a) board members, (b) delegates age fourteen (14) years or older who are elected by each service unit and (c) board development committee members. Elected delegates must make up a majority (50% + 1) of the delegate assembly.

ARTICLE IV: ELECTION OF DELEGATES Each service unit shall be entitled to elect two (2) delegates from among the active members of the service unit plus an additional delegate from each service unit for each one hundred (100) [or majority (50% + 1)thereof] registered girls. The date of the computation shall be September 30th preceding the annual delegate assembly meeting. Delegates shall be elected for a one (1) year term, or until their successors are elected. Delegates must be registered members of the Girl Scouts.

ARTICLE V: RESPONSIBILITIES The delegate assembly shall [a] elect the officers of the council, the members-at-large of the board of directors, the members of the board development committee and the delegates and persons to fill any vacancies that are among delegates of the council to the National Council of Girl Scouts of the United States of America; [b] determine the general lines of direction for Girl Scouting locally by receiving and acting upon reports of the board of directors; [c] amend the articles of incorporation and the bylaws; and [d] take all other action requiring membership vote.

ARTICLE VI: MEETINGS SECTION 1. REGULAR MEETING The annual meeting of the delegate assembly shall be held during the first four (4) months of the calendar year at such time and place as may be determined by the board of directors. Notice of time, place and purpose of the meeting, together with the slate of nominees for all offices or positions to be filled pursuant to these bylaws shall be given personally, or mailed to each member of the delegate assembly not less than thirty(30) days before the delegate assembly.

Each voting delegate present in person shall be entitled to one (1) vote. Elections shall be by ballot only in contested elections and a plurality of votes cast shall elect. All other matters shall be determined by a majority (50% +1) vote of the voting delegates present and voting unless otherwise provided by the bylaws.

SECTION 2. SPECIAL MEETINGS: Special meetings of the delegate assembly may be called by the board chair, by written request of two-thirds (2/3 or 10 members) of the members of the board of directors or by written request of one-quarter (25%) of the delegates provided that at least a majority of the service areas are represented.

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, Inc. BYLAWS Approved January 20, 2007 The purpose of such meeting shall be limited to the legitimate business of the membership of the delegate assembly and shall be stated with the request. No other business shall be transacted except that for which the meeting has been called. Notice of time, place, and purpose of the meeting shall be mailed not less than ten (10) days before the meeting to each member of the delegate assembly. Voting at special meetings may be done via email, mail, phone, fax, or in person. The board of directors may adopt rules governing the casting and authentication of votes.

SECTION 3. QUORUM: One-quarter (25%) of the members of the delegate assembly shall be present in person to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, provided that a majority of the service areas shall have at least one of their elected delegates present at each such meeting.

ARTICLE VII: BOARD DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE SECTION 1. COMPOSITION: There shall be a board development committee consisting of nine (9) members, a minimum of two (2) or a maximum of four (4) of whom shall be members-at-large board members.

SECTION 2. METHOD OF ELECTION, TERM, VACANCIES: Members of the committee shall be elected by the delegate assembly for a term of three (3) years or until their successors are elected. Members of the committee may not serve more than two (2) consecutive terms and shall be eligible again for committee membership after the lapse of two (2) years. The board of directors shall have the power to fill vacancies in the committee until the next annual meeting of the delegate assembly.

SECTION 3. SELECTION AND TERM OF CHAIR: The chair of the committee shall be appointed by the board chair from among the committee members for a term of one (1) year and shall serve as chair for no more than two (2) terms. The chair, if not already elected to the board of directors, shall be an ex-officio member of the board without vote.

SECTION 4. QUORUM: A majority (50% + 1) of the members of the committee must be present in person or through agreed upon telecommunications to constitute a quorum for transaction of business. Members who give proper advance notification may attend a meeting via telecommunications. In the event of a required vote, vote by email, mail, phone or fax is permitted.

SECTION 5. ATTENDANCE: A quorum is essential to transact business. Members are expected to notify the Board Development Committee Chair when an absence is necessary. Non-participating Board Development Committee members who miss two (2) consecutive meetings without correspondence to the Chair of the BDC may be considered resigned and can be removed by a majority vote of the committee.

SECTION 6. RESPONSIBILITIES: The council board development committee shall: A. Solicit and recruit candidates for elected positions in the council.

B. Provide to the membership a single slate for all positions for election, including officers, directors, and Board Development Committee members.

C. Provide to the membership in accordance with the time frame established by the Girl Scouts of the United States of America a single slate of delegates and alternates to the National Council Session of the Girl Scouts of the United States of America.

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, Inc. BYLAWS Approved January 20, 2007 D. Develop in conjunction with the board of directors: i.

Board orientation and education materials; ii.

Board development materials; iii.

Methods for identifying needed skills and talents for the corporation board of directors and committees; iv.

Methods for succession planning; and v.

Board annual self-assessment materials E. Conduct board orientation and Board Development training sessions as needed and/or as directed by the Board of Directors.

SECTION 7. REMOVAL: A member of the committee may be removed with or without cause by vote of the majority (50% + 1) of the board development committee.

SECTION 8. NOMINATIONS FROM THE FLOOR: Nominations for any of the elected positions may be made from the floor at the annual meeting provided: 1. The individual to be nominated has consented in writing to serve if elected; 2. The nomination has been submitted to the chair of the Board Development Committee, or her/his designee, at least seventy-two (72) hours before the time designated for the convening of the annual meeting; 3. The prospective nominee meets the qualifications for the office which she/he is being nominated.

ARTICLE VIII: PARTIAL TERMS A person who has served more than half of a specific term in an office as that specific term is set forth in the bylaws shall be considered to have served the full term for the purpose of determining eligibility to serve additional terms in that office or in another position.

ARTICLE IX: OFFICERS SECTION 1. NUMBER AND TITLE: The officers of the delegate assembly, who also serve as officers of the corporation and board of directors shall be the board chair; the first, second, and third vice-chairs; the secretary; and the treasurer.

SECTION 2. ELECTION, TERM, AND VACANCIES: The board chair, vice-chairs, secretary and treasurer shall be elected by the delegate assembly for a term of three(3) years or until their successors are elected, and shall serve for no more than two (2) consecutive terms in any one or more of these offices. Members of the board shall be eligible again for board membership after the lapse of one (1) year. A person shall be eligible to serve two (2) consecutive terms as board chair regardless of the number of consecutive terms that person has served in any one(1) or more offices other than board chair.. Terms of office shall begin at the close of the annual meeting at which elections are held. The board of directors shall fill a vacancy among the offices other than board chair until the next annual meeting of the delegate assembly. In the event of a permanent vacancy in the office of the board chair, as determined by the board of directors, vice-chairs will succeed in order of their rank until the next annual meeting. The chief executive officer shall be appointed by the board of directors to hold office at its pleasure and shall serve as an ex-officio officer of the board without vote.

The term of one-third (1/3 or 2 officers) of the officers shall expire at the conclusion of each annual meeting.

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, Inc. BYLAWS Approved January 20, 2007 SECTION 3. DUTIES: The duties of the officers shall be as follows: A. The board chair shall be chief corporate officer and shall preside at all meetings of the delegate assembly, the board of directors and the executive committee. The board chair shall be responsible for seeing that the lines of direction given by the members of the delegate assembly and the actions of the board of directors are carried into effect and for reporting to the membership and the board of directors on the conduct and management of the affairs of the council. The board chair shall be an ex-officio member of all committees established by the board of directors and shall perform such other duties as are assigned by the board of directors or prescribed elsewhere in the bylaws and as are usual to this office.

B. The vice-chairs shall have such other powers and perform such other duties as may be assigned by the board chair. During any absence of the board chair falling short of a permanent vacancy in the office as determined by the board of directors, the duties of the board chair shall temporarily be performed by the first vice chair. In the event that the first vice chair is unable to perform such duties, they shall be performed by one of the remaining vice chairs in order of their rank.

C. The secretary shall be responsible for seeing that notices are issued for all meetings of the delegate assembly, the board of directors, and executive committee, and shall see that minutes of such meetings are kept. The secretary shall be responsible for the custody of corporate books, records, and files and shall perform such duties as are usual of this office or as assigned by the board chair.

D. The treasurer shall be responsible for monitoring the receipt, custody, investment, and distribution of all monies of the council as authorized by the board of directors; for seeing that accurate accounts are kept of monies received and paid out; for executing contracts or other instruments authorized by the board of directors; and for preparing and issuing financial statements and reports. The treasurer shall be an exofficio member of the finance committee and shall perform such other duties as are usual to this office or as assigned by the board chair.

E. The chief executive officer of the council shall be responsible for providing advice and assistance to the council, the board of directors, the board chair, and other officers and the committees and task groups; and shall be responsible for administering the total operations of the council. The chief executive officer shall have the authority to employ and release all employed staff in accordance with policies adopted by the board of directors. The chief executive officer shall have such powers and perform such other duties as may be provided by the board of directors through the board chair.

SECTION 4. REMOVAL: The board of directors may remove an officer with or without cause by vote of the majority of the total membership of the board of directors.

ARTICLE X: BOARD OF DIRECTORS SECTION 1. POWER, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND ACCOUNTABILITIES: The corporate business and affairs of the council shall be managed under the direction of the board of directors. The board is accountable: to the elected membership for managing the affairs of the council, and none of its actions shall conflict with the actions taken by the delegate assembly; to the board of directors of GSUSA for compliance with the charter requirements; to the state in which it is incorporated for adhering to state law; and to the federal government in matters relating to legislation affecting nonprofit and non-stock organizations.

SECTION 2. COMPOSITION: The board of directors shall consist of the six (6) officers and nine (9) members-atlarge and a chief executive officer who serves without privilege of a vote. The chair of the board development committee, if not already a board member, shall be an ex-officio member of the board of directors without vote.

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, Inc. BYLAWS Approved January 20, 2007 SECTION 3. ELECTION AND TERM: The members-at-large shall be elected by the delegate assembly for a term of three (3) years or until their successors are elected, and shall serve for not more than two (2) consecutive terms and shall be eligible again for board membership after the lapse of one (1) year. The term of office of one-third (1/3 or 3 members) of the at-large membership of the board shall expire at each annual meeting of the council.

The term of office of officers shall expire as provided in Article IV above. Regardless of the number of consecutive terms any person shall have served as a member-at-large of the board of directors, such person shall be eligible to be a voting member of the board when serving as an officer of the board or a non-voting member of the board when serving as chair of the board development committee.

SECTION 4. VACANCIES: The board shall have the power to fill vacancies in members-at-large, until the next annual meeting of the delegate assembly.

SECTION 5. REGULAR MEETINGS: The board of directors shall hold no less than four (4) regular meetings each year at such time and place as the board may direct. Notice of time, place, and purpose of the meeting shall be mailed to each board member not less than ten (10) days before the meeting.

SECTION 6. SPECIAL MEETINGS: Special meetings may be called by the board chair or upon written request of a simple majority of five (5) board members. The purpose of such meetings shall be stated with the request and no other business shall be transacted except that for which the meeting has been called. Notice of time, place, and purpose of the meeting shall be given or sent to each board member not less than three(3) days before the meeting. For the purpose of this section, notice will be duly given to a director if given to him or her orally (by telephone) or if such notice were delivered to such director in person, by mail, or agreed upon telecommunications.

SECTION 7. QUORUM: A majority (50% +1) of the voting members of the board must be present to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. Board members who give proper advance notification may attend a board meeting via telecommunications. In the event of a required vote, vote by email, mail, phone, or fax is permitted.

The board of directors may adopt rules governing the casting and authentication of votes.

SECTION 8. ATTENDANCE: A quorum is essential to transact business. Board members are expected to notify the board chair when absence is necessary. Non-participating board members who miss two (2) consecutive meetings without correspondence to the chair of the board may be considered resigned and can be removed by a majority vote of the board.

SECTION 9. MINORS: The membership of those members of the board of directors under age eighteen (18) shall be without vote.

ARTICLE XI: EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE SECTION 1. RESPONSIBILITIES: There shall be an executive committee which shall have and may exercise the powers of the board in the interim between board meetings, except that the executive committee shall not have the power to adopt the budget, or to take any action which is contrary to or a substantial departure from the direction established by the board, or which represents a major change in the affairs, business or policy of the delegate assembly. The executive committee shall inform the board of all action taken within fourteen (14) days of the decision.

SECTION 2. COMPOSITION: The executive committee shall consist of the elected officers. The chief executive officer shall serve as an ex-officio member of the executive committee without a vote.

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, Inc. BYLAWS Approved January 20, 2007 SECTION 3. MEETINGS: Meetings of the executive committee shall be held at the discretion of the board chair.

SECTION 4. QUORUM: A majority (50%+1) of the voting members of the executive committee must be present to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. Executive committee members who give proper advance notification may attend an executive committee meeting via telecommunications. In the event of a required vote, vote by email, mail, phone, or fax is permitted. The executive committee may adopt rules governing the casting and authentication of votes.

SECTION 5. ATTENDANCE: A quorum is essential to transact business. Executive committee members are expected to notify the executive committee chair when absence is necessary. Non-participating executive committee members who miss two (2) consecutive meetings without correspondence to the chair of the executive committee may be considered resigned and can be removed by a majority vote of the executive committee.

ARTICLE XII: BOARD COMMITTEES / TASK GROUPS SECTION 1. ESTABLISHMENT: The board of directors may establish such committees and/or task groups as it deems necessary. Such groups shall have name, responsibilities, and existence as may be determined by the board of directors.

SECTION 2. APPOINTMENT AND TERM OF CHAIR: The chair of any committee, task group, and board ad hoc committees shall be appointed by the Chair of the Board, subject to the approval of the board of directors.

A. Members of any committee, task group, or ad hoc committee shall be appointed by the Chair of the Board in consultation with the chair of the respective committee or task group B. At least one (1) member of any committee or task group shall be a member of the board of directors, one (1) of whom shall serve as chair of the committee.

C. Appointments to committees and task groups shall be for one (1) year unless a different term is specified by the board of directors at the time of appointment. Members may be reappointed for continuity of committee or task group.

D. Vacancies in any committee or task group shall be filled by the Chair of the Board in accordance with Section 2.A or 2.B of this Article.

SECTION 3. QUORUM: The quorum for meetings of any committee or task group shall be a majority (50% + 1) of the members present in person or linked by telecommunication or by means such that all members participating in the meeting are able to hear one another and participate in the proceedings.

SECTION 4. ATTENDANCE: A quorum is essential to transact business. Members are expected to notify the Committee/Task Group Chair when absence is necessary. Non-participating members who miss two (2) consecutive meetings without correspondence to the Chair may be considered resigned and can be removed by a majority vote of the committee.

ARTICLE XIII: NATIONAL COUNCIL DELEGATES The delegates whom the council is entitled to elect to the National Council of Girl Scouts of the United States of America shall be elected by the members of the delegate assembly held in the year of the regular meeting of the National Council. The board of directors, or the board chair in the absence of a meeting of the board, shall fill delegate vacancies from among the persons elected to fill vacancies, which persons shall be elected at the same time and in the same manner as the delegates. Delegates shall be citizens of the United States of America. They Page 6 - Revised March 15, 2008, April 24, 2010, April 28, 2012 and April 5, 2014

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, Inc. BYLAWS Approved January 20, 2007

shall be elected from the active members of the council, fourteen (14) years of age or over, registered through the council with Girl Scouts of the USA and shall serve for a term of three (3) years from the date of their election or until their successors are elected.

ARTICLE XIV: FISCAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS SECTION 1. FISCAL YEAR: The fiscal year of the council shall be October 1st to September 30th.

SECTION 2. CONTRIBUTIONS: Any contributions, bequests, and gifts for the purpose of the council shall be accepted or collected only as authorized by resolution of the board of directors. Guidelines for accepting contributions must be established by the board of directors.

SECTION 3. DEPOSITORIES: All funds of the council shall be deposited to the credit of the council under such conditions, and in such banks, as shall be designated by the board of directors.

SECTION 4. APPROVED SIGNATURES: Approval for signatures necessary on contracts, checks, and orders for payment, receipt or deposit of money, and access to securities of the council shall be provided by resolution of the board of directors.

SECTION 5. BONDING: All persons having access to or major responsibility for the handling of monies and securities of the council shall be bonded as provided by resolution of the board of directors.

SECTION 6. BUDGET: The board of directors shall approve the annual budget of estimated income and expenditures.

SECTION 8. AUDITS: An audit of the council’s financial affairs shall be performed annually by a certified public accountant not otherwise involved in or responsible for the council’s accounting or financial record-keeping. A report of this examination shall be submitted to the board of directors and shall be made available to the membership upon request.

SECTION 9. PROPERTY: Title to all real property shall be held in the name of the council.

SECTION 10. FINANCIAL REPORTS: A summary report of the financial condition of the council shall be presented to the membership at the annual meeting of the Delegate Assembly.

SECTION 11. LEGAL COUNSEL: Independent legal counsel should be retained by the board of directors to [a] ensure compliance with federal and state requirements; [b] review and advise on any and all legal instruments the council executes, such as leases, contracts, property purchase or sale; and [c] review and advise on any official statements developed for the media.

SECTION 12. DISSOLUTION: In the event of the dissolution of the council, assets of the council remaining after the discharge of all liabilities shall be put in trust with Girl Scouts of the United States of America pending the reorganization of a Girl Scout council in the area.

SECTION 13. INVESTMENTS: The treasurer of the council shall invest the funds of the council in accordance with direction of the board of directors or any committee of the board appointed for such purpose. The Board of Directors shall have the ability to borrow, lease, assign against council securities/investments when the board deems necessary.

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, Inc. BYLAWS Approved January 20, 2007

SECTION 14. INDEMNIFICATION: Indemnification shall be provided by resolution of the board of directors in accordance with the state code.

ARTICLE XV: MISCELLANEOUS SECTION 1. PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY: Roberts Rules of Order, Revised, shall be the parliamentary authority governing the meetings of the delegate assembly, board of directors, service areas, and all committees.

SECTION 2. AMENDMENTS: These bylaws may be amended by a majority vote of those present and voting at any meeting of the delegate assembly, provided that the full text of the proposed amendment shall have been included in the notice of the meeting.

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Fund Development Policies December 4, 2013

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.

GIFT ACCEPTANCE POLICY 1.1 Overview

2 2

2.

TYPES OF GIFTS 2.1 Unrestricted and Restricted Gifts  Permanently and Temporarily Restricted Gifts 2.2 Memoriums and Honorariums 2.3 Gifts in Trust and Other Planned Gifts 2.4 Property 2.5 Legacies and Bequests

3 3 3 3 4 4 5

3.

GIFTS-IN-KIND

6

4.

CORPORATE SUPPORT OR DONATION 4.1 Overview 4.2 Policy

7 7 7

5.

TROOP / SERVICE UNIT SOLICITATION AND MONEY-EARNING POLICY 5.1 Troop / Service Unit Solicitation Policy 5.2 Troop Money-Earning Policy

9

6.

DONOR STEWARDSHIP POLICY 6.1 Recognition Levels

11 11

7.

DONOR PRIVACY POLICY

12

8.

DONOR BILL OF RIGHTS

13

9.

NON-COMPLIANCE OF FUND DEVELOPMENT POLICIES BY A TROOP OR SERVICE UNIT

14

10.

CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY AGREEMENT

14

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1. GIFT ACCEPTANCE POLICY 1.1

Overview

The several benefits enjoyed by Girl Scouts under the law include active support and voluntary contributions from individuals, corporations, foundations, government, associations and societies. The relations among all these parties are essential to the mission of Girl Scouting, especially its financial stability. The Board of Directors shall retain responsibility for preservation and enhancement of philanthropy.

All charitable contributions, regardless of value, form or designated use, shall be made only to the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina. Incorporated in the state of South Carolina and designated as a 501(c)3 organization, the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina is the only tax exempt entity. Gifts may be received on behalf of projects, programs, geographic units, troops or groups as designated donations or restricted donations.

The council will comply with applicable tax laws and public reporting requirements.

Members and donors shall have full disclosure of the financial operations of the council by contacting the CEO, COO, or CFO. All fund raising methods employed by the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina shall be in keeping with the principles for which the organization stands.

The Board of Directors has the right to refuse gifts or contributions that do not enhance the long-range financial viability of the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina or the mission of the Girls Scouts.

Use of the name of this organization for any fund raising purpose by any other organization or entity shall require prior approval of the Fund Development Committee. The policies of Girl Scouts of the USA shall act as a guide for entering into joint fundraising ventures where there is no implied endorsement or selling of unapproved products.

Joint ventures, cause-related marketing and solicitation partnerships shall be in accordance with regulations of federal, state and local laws, council policies and individual written contracts for each occurrence shall be approved by the Board of Directors upon the recommendation of the Fund Development Committee.

All policies will be re-evaluated by the Fund Development Committee every three years beginning in 2010. The next evaluation will be scheduled for 2016.

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2. TYPES OF GIFTS Besides monetary gifts in the form of cash, checks, money orders and charges to approved credit cards, non-monetary gifts may be accepted, such as: bonds and securities, real property, tangible personal property, gifts-in-kind to be used in the form in which they are given, royalties, copyrights and trademark rights, and insurance policies naming the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina as a beneficiary in whole or in part. The following is a list of some of the types of gifts Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina may accept.

2.1

Unrestricted and Restricted Gifts

Gifts with no stipulation by the donor as to their purpose or use are unrestricted.

Unrestricted funds will be used to support the Girl Scout program, maintain properties, and offer scholarships to camp or to college. Gifts with purpose, timing or both, stipulated by the donor, are restricted and may be used only as stipulated. Restricted gifts are assets designated by the donor or by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina for future operating and capital needs. Restricted gifts are of two types: permanently restricted and temporarily restricted. 

Permanently restricted gifts have principal that is never spent, only invested.

Earnings from these investments, i.e., dividends or interest or both, are either temporarily restricted or unrestricted as determined by the donor.  Temporarily restricted gifts are to be spent subject to time or purpose restrictions stipulated by the donor. They often involve sponsorship of an event or sponsorship of a program.

At the time of adoption of this policy, Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina accepts donor restriction to council priorities as set forth in the council corporate plan. If a donor wishes to make a gift restricted, acceptance of the gift and its stipulations requires both review and acceptance of the Fund Development Committee and the Board of Directors.

The council will make every effort to maximize solicitations of unrestricted gifts and to educate donors as to their importance. The council will make appropriate efforts to convince a potential donor who intends a restricted gift not acceptable to the council to reach alternative mutually acceptable stipulations for such a gift. The specific restrictions will be detailed in the donor’s commitment letter.

2.2

Memoriums and Honorariums

Both restricted and unrestricted commemorative gifts may be received in the form of “in memory” “in honor of” or “on the occasion of” from any source. Unless the donor specifies their use or the person or family named, they shall be considered unrestricted gifts.

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2.3

Gifts in Trust and Other Planned Gifts

The organization may accept gifts in trust, agreeing to hold and manage a donors principal resources and assets in exchange for life income, after which the principle and future income become the property of the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, in accordance with the council’s Planned Giving Program and/or Girl Scouts of the USA’s planned giving program.

2.4

Property

Personal property may be accepted with approval of the Board of Directors when the property can be sold or the property can be used in keeping with the mission of the organization. A certified professional appraiser must appraise all gifts of property at the expense of the donor, and a copy of the appraisal must accompany the gift. The gift value shall be the appraised value at the time of the gift. If the property is sold within two years of its receipt, IRS form 8282 will be completed and submitted to the IRS. Real estate in the form of a residence, business, commercial building, undeveloped land, etc., may be accepted when the regulatory environmental and toxic waste review is completed and the property can be sold or the property can be used in keeping with the mission of the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina. Acceptance of real property requires board approval after review and recommendation by the Fund Development Committee.

Acting with legal and other appropriate advisers, the Fund Development Committee review includes a review of the results of a due diligence search and other site investigations and review of the council's long-range property plan.

Ordinary due diligence includes a review of regulatory and zoning issues, property appraisal by a certified appraiser, and a title search to reveal any encumbrances on the property, such as easements, rights of way, mineral leases, resource rights, etc.

As part of, or in addition to ordinary due diligence, the review will include an inquiry into the previous ownership and uses of the property. Such search should include a visual inspection of the site for suspicious conditions arising from former uses, such as landfill or unmarked containers of liquid waste, evidence of industrial uses, etc., and a determination if a Phase I Environmental Inspections report is required. Expenses arising from all investigations leading to the acceptance of a gift of real property are the sole responsibility of the donor. The council will notify the donor for approval, prior to incurring expenses.

If a gift of personal or real property is restricted, the provisions of restricted gifts policy will also apply.

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2.5

Legacies and Bequests

A donor may designate Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina in a will or other instrument, such as an insurance policy as a beneficiary to receive a direct gift from the donor’s estate.

Unless otherwise specified by the donor, legacy and bequest income are received in the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina’s endowment, insuring that the principal will be invested and only earnings will be applied to council use.

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3. GIFTS-IN-KIND POLICY Gifts of material or products may be accepted when the form of the gift can be used immediately by the organization. A gift-in-kind is an item such as equipment, software, or a product that the donor voluntarily transfers to Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina without charge or consideration.

Only Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina’s Chief Executive Officer, Board of Directors, Director of Resource Development, or members of the Fund Development Committee, or their assignees have the authority to accept gifts-in-kind.

Donors must complete a gift-in-kind form that includes the name of the donor, a description of the item(s), the retail value of the item(s) and permission to publicly recognize the donation.

Once accepted, the donated item(s) become the property of Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, which retains the right to dispose of a gift-in-kind as it sees fit, unless another arrangement has been made with the donor.

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4. CORPORATE SUPPORT OR DONATION 4.1

Overview

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina believes that it can best fulfill its mission through a broad base of support from various sources. However, to maintain its independence and objectivity, it seeks to identify any areas where there may be real or apparent conflicts of interest or where the mission, programs, projects and independence of Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina could be compromised.

As part of the expanding base of support, Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina is willing to consider partnerships with and gifts from the corporate sector. Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina recognizes that corporations, as profit-centered organizations, have the obligation to their shareholders, boards and employees to be successful. Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina also recognizes that companies support the non-profit sector not only out of a desire to be helpful, but also with a hope of a return or benefit to the companies.

Given these realities and both legal and ethical considerations, Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina is willing to negotiate partnerships and accept support from the corporate sector in ways that will benefit and recognize the supporting companies while enabling Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina to better achieve its mission without compromising its principles.

4.2

Policy

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, as an independent non-profit organization, will accept no cash or real property gift, pledge of support or non-cash gift or services or enter into any partnership with any company or organization that produces products that are or may be harmful to the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina community. Nor will Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina accept any of the above support from any company or organization that, in the judgment of Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, exploits girls or volunteers in its product lines, advertising, marketing, work force or in any other way.

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina will solicit and accept support only for activities that are consistent with its mission.

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina will accept funds for operations and program activities only when the content is to be determined by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina or an independent group designated by Girl Scouts of the USA. Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina will maintain complete control of all funds provided by corporations, organizations and individuals.

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina will not accept any support that implies or requires endorsement of products.

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Recognition of major corporate support will be developed in cooperation with the corporate donors and will be consistent with the level of support and Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina’s mission and purpose. Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina will seek to develop recognition opportunities that are appropriate and meaningful for both the supporting companies and Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina.

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina’s intangible intellectual assets, including its name, research and other work, will be protected at all times. Donors will not be permitted to use Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina’s name or other items for commercial purposes or in connection with the promotion of any product.

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina board and staff reserve the right to refuse any donation of cash or other real property, services, non-cash gifts or any other forms of support if such support is not in keeping with the above policies or for other reasons that Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina deems appropriate.

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5. TROOP/SERVICE UNIT SOLICITATION AND MONEY-EARNING PROJECT POLICY 5.1

Troop/Service Unit Solicitation Policy

Solicited Cash Contributions While companies and organizations may assist Girl Scout troops and service units in nonfinancial ways, troops and service units should NOT solicit businesses, organizations or individuals for monetary support or grant funding for their troop or service unit. GSESC is a non-profit entity recognized as a tax-exempt charitable organization. Subordinate units are a subdivision of the council and have no independent existence for tax purposes.

Unsolicited Cash Contributions Unsolicited funds from non-sponsor businesses, organizations or individuals for monetary support of a troop or service unit over $250 must be issued to Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina in order to be tax deductible and ensure proper donor acknowledgement. Prior to the disbursement of the funds, an explanation of the use of the funds will be required to ensure it benefits Girl Scouting and/or the community in general. The Council will then issue a check to the troop in the next check cycle. The amount of the donation must be reported as income on the Troop Finance Report. A Cash/In-Kind Form must be completed and returned along with the donation check to the Grants/Development Manager.

Solicited In-Kind Contributions A Girl Scout Troop or service unit may solicit in-kind donations to support Girl Scouting activities. Approval must be secured from the Grants/Development Manager prior to soliciting any in-kind contribution over $250 in order to avoid conflict with council level fundraising efforts.

Troop Sponsorship – Solicited or Unsolicited Troop Sponsors can provide troop meeting places, volunteer time, equipment, scholarships or cash funding. The amount of cash funding is not to exceed current registration and council service fees per troop member per fiscal year.

In the event of a cash contribution for sponsorship, a Cash/In-Kind Form must be completed, along with the Troop Sponsorship Agreement, and returned with the donation check to council. Checks from troop sponsors must be issued to Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina in order to be tax deductible. The Council will then issue a check to the troop in the next check cycle.

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5.2

Troop Money-Earning Project Policy

Permission to conduct an approved Money-Earning Project, other than the Council Cookie Sale or the Fall Product Sale, must be obtained by completing and submitting the Troop Money-Earning Project Form to the Grants/Development Manager for approval at least two (2) weeks prior to the project.

Per the below schedule and during the membership year (October 1 – September 30), Girl Scout troops may conduct an “approved money-earning project” if they have participated in the Council Cookie Sale and Fall Product Sale: Daisies Brownies and Juniors Older Girls

None One More than one, with Council approval

No resale of commercially manufactured products by any Girl Scout troop/group is permitted other than the Council Cookie and Fall Product Sale.

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6. DONOR STEWARDSHIP POLICY Donor wishes will be considered to the extent possible, so long as their intended use of funds is in keeping with the mission of Girl Scouting and the policies and priorities of Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina as expressed in the corporate plan. Resolution of donor wishes outside approved priorities and established programs shall be by the Board of Directors upon recommendation of the Fund Development Committee.

Formal recognition of donations to Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina shall include methods of recognition that enhance the image of Girl Scouting, show appreciation to the donor and provide opportunities for public acknowledgement.

All gifts, regardless of value, form or designated use shall be acknowledged by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina with official correspondence within 72 hours of acceptance of the gift. Acknowledgement represents to the donor acceptance of the gift along with its restriction, notice of what goods and services were or were not received and may also serve the donor as evidence to certify a possible tax deduction. In processing all gifts, will be entered into Raiser’s Edge for the constituency source from which these gifts are given (i.e. corporations, foundations, church, or individuals) along with all contact information for the donor.

6.1

Recognition Levels

The following recognition levels have been set for annual giving. Special fundraising events, capital campaigns and endowments will set their own recognition levels.

Friend - $0 - $249 Supporter - $250 - $499 Partner - $500 - $999 Bronze - $1,000 - $2,499 Silver - $2,500 - $4,999 Gold - $5,000 - $9,999 Diamond - $10,000 - $19,999 Platinum - $20,000 - $49,999 Steward - $50,000 - $99,999 In-Kind – at every level

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7. DONOR PRIVACY POLICY The Fund Development Department shall maintain confidentiality concerning all correspondence regarding contributions, gift records, prospect files and other data on donors, and should ensure that it is used only for the support of fundraising. Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina is committed to respecting the privacy of donors. The types of donor information that it collects and maintains are as follows.    

Contact information: name, address, telephone number and e-mail address Giving information Information on events attended, publications received and special requests for program information Information provided by the donor in the form of comments and suggestions

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina uses donors’ information to understand their interests in its mission and to update them on the organization’s plans and activities. It is shared with staff, board members, volunteers and consultants only on a “need-to-know” basis.

The organization also assures donors that their names and addresses will not be shared with any third party unless permission has been granted.

If you have comments or questions about Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina’s donor privacy policy, please call the Grants/Development Manager at (843) 669-5174 or (800) 786-8704.

APPROVED BY:

Date Reviewed: Date Approved:

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8. DONOR BILL OF RIGHTS Philanthropy is based on voluntary action for the common good. It is a tradition of giving and sharing that is primary to the quality of life. To assure that philanthropy merits the respect and trust of the general public, and that donors and prospective donors can have full confidence in the not-for-profit organizations and causes they are asked to support, we declare that all donors have these rights: 1. To be informed of the organization's mission, of the way the organization intends to use donated resources, and of its capacity to use donations effectively for their intended purposes.

2. To be informed of the identity of those serving on the organization's governing board, and to expect the board to exercise prudent judgment in its stewardship responsibilities.

3. To have access to the organization's most recent financial statements.

4. To be assured their gifts will be used for the purposes for which they were given.

5. To receive appropriate acknowledgment and recognition.

6. To be assured that information about their donations is handled with respect and with confidentiality to the extent provided by law.

7. To expect that all relationships with individuals representing organizations of interest to the donor will be professional in nature.

8. To be informed whether those seeking donations are volunteers, employees of the organization or hired solicitors.

9. To have the opportunity for their names to be deleted from mailing lists that an organization may intend to share.

10. To feel free to ask questions when making a donation and to receive prompt, truthful and forthright answers.

The text of this statement in its entirety was developed by the American Association of FundRaising Counsel (AAFRC), Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP), Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), and National Society of Fund Raising Executives (NSFRE). Copyright NSFRE and others. Used with permission; all other rights reserved.

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9. NON-COMPLIANCE OF FUND DEVELOPMENT POLICIES BY A TROOP OR SERVICE UNIT Non-conformity with the above policies could result in one or more of the following as recommended by council CEO and approved by council board of directors:  Forfeiture of Troop Product Sales Bonus (Fall and/or Cookie)  Forfeiture of Cookie Dough  Forfeiture of Cookie Patch  Loss of participation in troop trips for a year  Loss of participation in Council-sponsored events  Revocation of troop charter

10. CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY AGREEMENT In performing their duties, Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina staff, board members and volunteers are privy to information about individuals and families, such as giving history, assets, wealth and family relationships. This is especially true for staff, board members and volunteers involved in fundraising and development activities. Due to the sensitivity of this information, it is important that all Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina staff, board members and volunteers adhere to the policy that information shared with them remains confidential, is not discussed with others in private or public settings and is not disclosed or used for any other purposes.

I agree to comply with this policy.

______________________________________ Signature

_______________________ Date

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Volunteer Procedures and Practices June 2015

**NOTICE** PLEASE READ THE DISCLAIMER AND THE VOLUNTEER PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES CAREFULLY. THE PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES CONTAIN SIGNIFICANT CHANGES.

DISCLAIMER **NOTICE** **PLEASE READ THIS DISCLAIMER AND THE VOLUNTEER PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES CAREFULLY. THIS PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES CONTAIN SIGNIFICANT CHANGES.** THIS HANDBOOK DOES NOT CREATE A CONTRACT. THIS HANDBOOK IS AN OVERVIEW AND ACTS AS A GUIDELINE OF THE CURRENT VOLUNTEER PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES OF THE GIRL SCOUTS OF EASTERN SOUTH CAROLINA (“GSESC”). THE PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES SET FORTH IN THIS HANDBOOK SUPERSEDE AND REPLACE ALL PRIOR PROCEDURES AND/OR PRACTICES, WRITTEN AND ORAL. FROM TIME TO TIME IT WILL BE NECESSARY, WITH OR WITHOUT NOTICE, FOR GSESC TO CHANGE, DELETE OR ADD TO THE PROVISIONS OF THIS HANDBOOK. CHANGES AND UPDATES WILL BE MADE IN WRITTEN FORM, APPROVED AND DISTRIBUTED BY SIGNATURE OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER. THIS HANDBOOK IS NOT INTENDED TO CREATE, AND DOES NOT CREATE, A CONTRACT OF EMPLOYMENT, EXPRESS, IMPLIED, UNILATERAL OR OTHERWISE, BETWEEN YOU AND GSESC. NOTHING IN THIS HANDBOOK BINDS GSESC TO ANY SPECIFIC PROCEDURES, PRACTICES, CONDITIONS, BENEFITS, PRIVILEGES OR DEFINITE PERIOD OF VOLUNTEER SERVICE. NOTHING IN THE HANDBOOK GIVES THE VOLUNTEER A CONTRACTUAL RIGHT TO ANY BENEFITS OR PAYMENTS. EACH VOLUNTEER IS COMPLETELY FREE TO END THE VOLUNTEER RELATIONSHIP AT ANY TIME HE OR SHE CHOOSES; AND GSESC HAS THE SAME RIGHT TO END THE VOLUNTEER RELATIONSHIP AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT NOTICE, REGARDLESS OF PERFORMANCE. THIS DISCLAIMER EXPRESSES THE COMPLETE UNDERSTANDING CONCERNING YOUR VOLUNTEER SERVICES WITH GSESC. IT SUPERCEDES ANY AND ALL AGREEMENTS, ORAL OR WRITTEN, REGARDING VOLUNTEER SERVICE. NEITHER THIS HANDBOOK NOR ANY ORAL OR WRITTEN POLICY OR PROCEDURE, NOR ANY STATEMENT BY ANY GSESC EMPLOYEE, AGENT OR OFFICER CAN, OR WILL CHANGE THE VOLUNTEER RELATIONSHIP.

I, _______________________, have read this Disclaimer as well as the Operational PROCEDURES and Practices which has been provided to me. I understand that

THIS HANDBOOK AND ITS PROCEDURES ARE NOT A CONTRACT. I understand and agree that volunteers are not employees of GSESC; voluntary service may be terminated by GSESC or the volunteer at any time with or without notice or reason. ________________________ Date

_________________________________ Volunteer Signature (Troop Leader)

________________________ Date

_________________________________ Volunteer Signature (Troop Co-Leader)

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TABLE OF CONTENTS DISCLAIMER INTRODUCTION Welcome Letter ........................................................................................................................................ 3 GSUSA Highlights .................................................................................................................................. 3 The Girl Scout Promise............................................................................................................................ 4 The Girl Scout Law .................................................................................................................................. 4 Council Introduction to Volunteers ........................................................................................................... 5 Volunteer Philosophy ............................................................................................................................... 5 VOLUNTEER PRACTICES AND PROCEDURES Volunteer Definitions ................................................................................................................................ 5 Placement Procedures ............................................................................................................................ 5 Selection Procedures ............................................................................................................................... 5 Appointment of Operational Volunteers ................................................................................................... 5 Membership ............................................................................................................................................. 6 Volunteer Position Descriptions ............................................................................................................... 6 Uniforms................................................................................................................................................... 6 Volunteer-Related Position Expenses ..................................................................................................... 6 Accident and Liability Insurance .............................................................................................................. 6 Training and Skills Development ............................................................................................................. 6 National Council Session ......................................................................................................................... 7 Educational Opportunities........................................................................................................................ 7 Recognition and Appreciation .................................................................................................................. 7 Volunteer Evaluation.................................................................................................................................7 Volunteer Records ................................................................................................................................... 8 Confidentiality .......................................................................................................................................... 8 Volunteer Position Performance .............................................................................................................. 8 Grievance ................................................................................................................................................ 8 Reappointment/Referral............................................................................................................................9 Termination ...............................................................................................................................................9 SAFETY EXPECTATIONS Safety ....................................................................................................................................................... 9 Smoke Free Program Delivery ................................................................................................................ 9 Substance Abuse ..................................................................................................................................... 9 Violence ................................................................................................................................................. 10 Searches ................................................................................................................................................ 10 Crisis Communication ............................................................................................................................ 10

IMPORTANT PROCEDURES AND CHILD PROTECTION Child Abuse ........................................................................................................................................... 10 Anti-Retaliation .......................................................................................................................................12 ACKNOWLEDGMENT

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INTRODUCTION Welcome Letter Welcome to Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina!

We are excited to have you as part of the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina (GSESC) volunteer team. As a volunteer, you share a commitment to our mission and contribute to the achievement of the organization’s goals. The Girl Scout purpose is to inspire girls with the highest ideals of character, conduct, patriotism, and service so that they may become happy, resourceful citizens. As part of the GSESC team, we hope you will discover that the pursuit of excellence is truly a rewarding aspect of your volunteer experience with GSESC. Welcome aboard! We thank you and look forward to your contributions.

GSUSA Highlights History Juliette Gordon Low, founder of Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA), was born October 31, 1860, in Savannah, Georgia. A sensitive and talented youngster, Daisy, as she was known to family and friends, developed what was to become a lifetime interest in the arts. She wrote poems and plays, sketched, acted, and later became a skilled painter and sculptor.

Full of inspiration herself, it was her destiny to inspire others. On March 12, 1912, in Savannah, Juliette Low gathered 18 girls together to organize the first two American Girl Guide troops. Daisy Gordon, her niece, was the first registered member. The name of the rapidly growing organization was changed to Girl Scouts the following year. Within months, girl members were hiking through the woods in their ankle-length blue uniforms, playing basketball in a curtained-off court, and going on camping trips. The following year saw the opening of a national headquarters in Washington, D.C., and the publication of the first Girl Scout handbook, How Girls Can Help Their Country, which featured knot-tying, first-aid, and outdoor cooking instructions.

In developing the Girl Scout Movement in the United States, Juliette Low brought girls of all backgrounds into the outdoors, giving them the opportunity to learn about nature and develop self-reliance and resourcefulness. She encouraged girls to prepare themselves not only for traditional homemaking roles, but also for possible future roles in the arts, sciences, business, and for active citizenship outside the home.

At the organization‘s founding in 1912, Juliette Gordon Low originated the practice of defying stereotypes. She was a visionary who blazed the way for girls and women to embrace everything life offers. She not only offered girls the opportunities that until then only boys were granted, she opened up those same possibilities to girls of all ethnic, racial, socioeconomic, ability, and geographic groups. Just as it was for Juliette more than 100 years ago, so it is with us today: ensuring all girls in America have access to Girl Scouting is vital.

We are the place where over 2.6 million girls go to explore and discover their world, connect with others, and become leaders who take action to make their world a better place. Now headquartered in New York City, Girl Scouts of the USA is the world‘s largest voluntary organization for girls. To date, GSUSA has positively influenced the lives of more than 50 million girls and adult women.

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The Girl Scout Promise

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.

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

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Council Introduction to Volunteers.

Girl Scouting is a membership organization. Girls join the Girl Scout movement in order to take part in the Girl Scout program; adults join in order to make the program possible and available to girls. Each adult, regardless of the position she/he holds--volunteer or staff, council or national--contributes directly and/or indirectly to helping girls.

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina is chartered by Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. All operational volunteers are to support and operate within the framework of the GSESC council charter, articles of incorporation, bylaws, procedures, standards, goals and plan of work of the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina and of the procedures, standards and corporate goals of Girl Scouts of the U.S.A.

Volunteer Philosophy Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina believes the strength of the Girl Scout movement rests in the voluntary leadership of its adult members. It is through this voluntary leadership that Girl Scouting serves girls.

VOLUNTEER PRACTICES AND PROCEDURES Volunteer Definitions Operational Volunteer: One appointed to the voluntary leadership position of troop leader, co- troop leader, member of the service team or membership extension or series volunteer.

Volunteer: All other voluntary (non-employee) positions.

Volunteer Status: All volunteer service is voluntary and without definite duration or pay. Volunteers are completely free to end the volunteer relationship at any time and GSESC has the same right to end the volunteer relationship at any time, with or without notice and regardless of performance. **Volunteer Applications and Background Checks Each applicant for a volunteer position is to complete a volunteer application and submit an online background check http://www.girlscoutsesc.org/volunteer-now All registered adults in a troop are to complete a background check.

Placement Procedures For volunteer satisfaction and/or effective utilization of the talents of the operational volunteers, GSESC may assess individual skills and aspirations in relation to the duties and responsibilities of the volunteer.

Selection Procedures Adult volunteers are selected on the basis of qualifications for membership, ability to perform the volunteer duties, and willingness and availability to participate in required adult development training. GSESC cannot guarantee that a volunteer will be placed in a position, or in the position for which she/he applied. Some volunteers may be referred to another position appropriate to her/his interests and skills. As much as possible and appropriate, GSESC attempts to find a rewarding position that will suit the applicant’s interests, skills and personality.

Unfortunately, GSESC cannot place every volunteer, and GSESC retains the sole discretion to determine, change, remove, end and deny placement at any time, with or without notice.

Appointment of Operational Volunteers A volunteer agreement is to be completed by the operational volunteer at the time of appointment to an operational position. It may include appointment terms, specific expectations for operational volunteer performance and the signatures for the operational volunteer and her/his supervisor.

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Membership Girl Scouts in the United States are part of a worldwide movement of girls and adults dedicated to the acceptance of the Girl Scout Promise and Law. As a condition of appointment, operational volunteers must subscribe to the Girl Scout Promise and Law and be registered members of Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. Volunteer Position Descriptions Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina provides written position descriptions for all operational volunteer positions and certain other volunteer positions. To provide better services to girls and a clear understanding of position expectations and accountabilities, position descriptions may be reviewed and revised periodically as ways of working and operating procedures change. Position descriptions may be used for recruitment, selection and appointment; for understanding of work to be done and qualifications needed; and, from the prospective volunteer, for understanding of responsibility and accountability.

Uniforms Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. authorized uniforms are symbols and marks of distinction. Members of Girl Scouts provide their own uniforms. Members of Girl Scouts are readily identified by uniforms worn when attending official functions. A uniform is not required for participation in Girl Scout activities; however, it is particularly suitable for almost all council functions. Operational volunteers are encouraged to wear the Girl Scout pin when they are not in uniform.

Volunteer-Related Position Expenses Operational volunteers are encouraged to keep a record of expenses incurred while performing Girl Scout responsibilities, e.g., uniforms, gasoline. Many of these expenses may be applied as income tax deductions.

Volunteers should check with the Internal Revenue Service or their tax consultant for allowable deductions.

Volunteering with Girl Scouts is a voluntary service, and no volunteer, operational or otherwise, should expect, receive or solicit any monetary reimbursement for services.

Accident and Liability Insurance Any motor vehicle used to transport Girl Scouts to be duly licensed, insured, safety tested and operated by a responsible person with a valid driver’s license. South Carolina state law requires bodily injury and property damage liability as well as personal injury protection or its equivalent be provided on privately owned or rented vehicles. If you will drive as a volunteer and have any concern about meeting this requirement, it is your responsibility to consult the Volunteer Support Specialist in your area. Volunteers who transport children other than their own have to be registered Girl Scouts.

In addition, all registered members, including volunteers, are currently protected under Girl Scout Activity Accident Insurance, basic coverage. This plan provides certain coverage for accident–related medical expenses to members while participating in or traveling to and from and participation in approved, supervised Girl Scout activities, e.g., day camp, troop camp, weekend trips (of two nights or less) and regular troop meetings. This basic coverage becomes null and void if a troop does not follow the guidelines for approval of a trip and/or the leaders have not taken the required training. Liability and sickness insurance is required of all troops traveling outside the U.S.A. Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina does not assume responsibility for insuring a volunteer’s personal effects or for routine or emergency medical care except as covered under such basic accident insurance plan as is in effect. **Training and Skills Development Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina is committed to adult development. It is considered in the best interest of Girl Scouting to provide opportunities, as possible, for volunteers to grow in competency and skills. By assisting individuals to reach their full potential, the organization fulfills its needs for increasing effectiveness as a voluntary organization. Adult development and training is the process by which each volunteer is assisted with clarifying her/his personal volunteer goals. “Introduction to Girl Scouting”, “Girl Scouting 101” and “Leadership Essentials” are required before leaders and co-leaders begin meeting with their troop.

Leaders and co-leaders are expected to register for (and complete) these required trainings within one months’ time. “Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Training” through “Now Hear This” is required for leaders and co-leaders within the first 6 months of meeting with the girls. Troops will not be recognized as registered if these training requirements are not met. This means a troop will not be able to participate in any council sponsored event, program or product sales nor will they be covered under liability or accident insurance for troop meetings until the training requirements are met. Leaders and/or assistant leaders are also responsible for ensuring that either they or another adult member of the troop has taken troop required trainings such as “Planning Trips with Girls”, “Troop Camping”, “First Aid and CPR, etc.

The council constantly strives to provide a climate conducive to the development of each person’s potential.

In pursuit of this endeavor, training may be made available on many levels and to meet ongoing needs of volunteers as they develop and grow in a position. As a condition of service, GSESC requires all 6 This is not a contract **Note major changes June 2014

operational volunteers to participate in training for the position accepted and all other volunteers to take appropriate training within the time frame indicated by their appropriate positions.

In addition to council training, operational volunteers may take other trainings, including those offered by GSUSA national centers or others, with council endorsement.

National Council Session National Council Session delegates elected by the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina may be provided all or part of travel, room and per diem expenses entailed in attending the National Council Session upon timely production of acceptable documentation.

Educational Opportunities Travel scholarships may be available to help selected adults defray the cost of attendance at Girl Scout training courses or special events held outside the council jurisdiction. Applications may be obtained from the North Charleston Service Center. Consideration is given for financial assistance according to such factors as the type and cost of the event, the amount budgeted for the fiscal year, and the number of eligible applicants. In order for an adult to receive financial assistance from the council, among other factors, the adult must have been a registered member for at least one year and have a working knowledge of Girl Scout program and procedures.

Recognition and Appreciation Volunteers serve Girl Scouting because they believe in the philosophy of the movement, receive satisfaction from giving service to others, and achieve personal growth and development. There are, however, times and circumstances that call for a special expression of appreciation.

The most frequent and meaningful recognition comes from those close to volunteer, who are able to see the effort that has been put into the position. For the vast majority of volunteers it is this recognition that counts, and the supervisor can see that the recognition happens. The supervisor has a key role in initiating either service unit or council-wide recognition for exceptional performance.

Tokens of appreciation may range from a brief note of thanks to a lasting memento. Giving should be motivated by a sincere desire to express thanks rather than tradition or custom. Special expressions of appreciation should be given on the basis of performance. The following chart describes some appropriate recognitions for adults: Performance

Sample Recognitions

Duties well done, training or certification completed, small successes and achievements.

A thank you note or phone call, flowers, a certificate or congratulatory card, a formal letter, position pin, homemade gift or card, etc.

Duties done especially well, advanced or specialized training completed, duties done for a long period of time.

Any of the above, plus a local newspaper or council article, a tribute at a local event, membership numerals or a small gift or plaque.

Exceptional performance done with dedication

Any of the above, plus a tribute at an area or councilwide event, a council certificate of appreciation.

Significantly outstanding contribution to Girl Scouting in the council.

Council Award & GSUSA Award

Service significantly above and beyond the call of duty, outstanding contribution that has effect throughout the Girl Scout movement

Council Award & GSUSA Award

**Volunteer Evaluation Volunteer evaluation is a constructive tool used to assess strengths, weaknesses, volunteer performancerelated problems or the need for change in volunteer duties. Additionally, ongoing feedback concerning volunteer performance may be based on mutual agreement of desired goals and objectives. In view of the purpose of the Girl Scout movement and membership requirement, evaluations of adults in Girl Scouting are made on two broad bases: the individual’s ability to carry out the volunteer assignment and the individual’s 7 This is not a contract **Note major changes June 2014

performance as it is consistent with the philosophy and purposes of Girl Scouting. Each volunteer (Leader, Co-leader, Service Team Member, Trainer) is expected to complete an annual evaluation by September 30th.

Volunteer Records Limited storage space prohibits maintenance of lengthy personnel records for operational volunteers. Adult registration forms and records of training course attendance are kept for a three-year period. Individuals are urged to use the Volunteer Position Record or some other means of recording years of membership, positions held, training taken and other data pertinent to Girl Scout membership and service.

Confidentiality Information learned while serving as a volunteer is the exclusive (intellectual) property of GSESC and should be carefully guarded. Confidential information includes, but is not limited to, non-public technical, business and financial information and plans, as well as private information about councils, volunteers, customers, suppliers, and employees. Confidential information may not be disclosed to unauthorized persons, including competitors, reporters, or to other volunteers whose duties do not require use of such information.

Volunteers may also be responsible for the internal security of such information.

Only designated individuals are authorized to speak on behalf of GSESC. All media inquires should be directed to the Communication and Marketing Department or the Chief Executive Officer. **Volunteer Position Performance: All volunteers are expected to meet the council's standards for volunteer performance, as specified in the position description. When a volunteer's performance does not meet appropriate standards, ordinarily she/he will be given a reasonable opportunity to correct the problem.

Progressive discipline ensures three stages. The three stages of the process are verbal counseling, written warning, and termination. At each stage the supervisor ordinarily would:   

identify the problematic behavior or performance. inform the volunteer of performance expectations. inform the volunteer of the consequences e. g. further discipline, termination from the position.

Each operational volunteer shall be provided with the opportunity for regular review and evaluation. **Grievance: A grievance is a complaint related to a volunteer's position not being properly administered. The grievance procedure is a systematic process to ensure the objective hearing and orderly handling of volunteer grievance.

All operational volunteers may use the grievance procedure. Every volunteer may expect a fair resolution of her or his grievance without fear of jeopardizing her or his volunteer status. The council also maintains an open door policy regarding volunteer concerns. 







Step 1: The volunteer requests a conference with the Director of Membership Services within 10 working days. The volunteer cites the policy or procedure that has allegedly been misapplied, misinterpreted, or violated.

Step 2: If the volunteer is not satisfied with the disposition of the grievance, the council staff member or, if appropriate, the Chief of Staff will meet with the volunteer within 10 working days following her or his initial conference.

Step 3: In the event, the grievance is not resolved in Step 2; the staff member prepares a written report on the situation, including recommendations for her or his supervisor, and sends a copy to the Chief of Staff.

Step 4:

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 

The Director of Membership Services and the Chief of Staff decide on what additional action to take, using one or more of the following options: -Accept the staff member's report and recommendations.

-Meet with the volunteer and hear the grievance complaint.

-Appoint a review team to meet with the volunteer.

Step 5: Should the volunteer find the results of any of these options unacceptable, the Chief Executive Officer will make the final decision to the resolution of the case and see this decision is implemented.

Step 6: They may take the grievance to the Board of Directors.

**Reappointment/Referral: The council has the right to reappoint volunteers to their current position, refer them to another position, or not appoint or reappoint to any position. Reappointment or rotation to a different position is based on past performance, adherence to GSUSA and GSESC Council policies, and positive relationships with the community, parents, girls, other volunteers, and employed staff. **Termination: Any volunteer may terminate her or his services upon written notification to council. The council may terminate the services of a volunteer because of restructuring of volunteer positions, the elimination of the volunteer position in which a person serves, the inability or failure to complete the requirements of the position, the refusal to comply with council or GSUSA policies, and the refusal to support the mission and values of the organization.

An adult volunteer who is terminated from her or his Girl Scout position may continue her or his adult membership with GSUSA unless it is determined that she or he does not meet the membership requirements specifically concerning principles and beliefs of the Girl Scouts. When this is the case, her or his Girl Scout membership will not be renewed.

SAFETY EXPECTATIONS Safety Maintaining a safe Girl Scouting environment is a goal for all and requires the continuous cooperation of all.

Volunteers are expected to report any suspected unsafe conditions and all accidents or injuries regardless of how insignificant that occur during girl scouting activities immediately to the Volunteer Support Specialist, and the Chief of Staff. It is the responsibility of each volunteer to accept and follow established safety procedures as well as exercise good judgment and common sense.

If you are ever in doubt regarding the safe way to perform a task, please consult the Volunteer Support Specialist for the area or the Chief of Staff. GSESC does not intend for any volunteer to perform any task that is dangerous to his/her, safety or security. We strongly encourage volunteer participation and input on health and safety matters.

Smoke Free Program Delivery Smoking is prohibited in all service centers, satellite offices and program delivery sites and facilities including, but not limited to, offices, restrooms, meeting rooms, dining areas and living quarters. Smoking is also prohibited on or off trails, or at any time when girls are present.

Substance Abuse GSESC’s goal is to establish and maintain a Girl Scouting environment that is free from the related risks and effects of alcohol and drug abuse.

GSESC has adopted a zero tolerance policy and reserves the right and discretion to take actions it determines appropriate based solely on its reasonable suspicion of current use or being under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol while serving as a volunteer for GSESC The use, distribution, manufacture, dispensation, sale or possession of illegal drugs and/or alcohol, or the misuse of prescribed drugs, cannot be tolerated at any time

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on GSESC’s premises, in the conduct of GSESC’s business, or off premises, or during non-volunteer hours if it affects an individual’s performance.

GSESC may approve certain events which allow adult social consumption of alcoholic beverages. When attending such events, volunteers are expected to act responsibly by exercising moderation and discretion, by maintaining professionalism and by securing alternative transportation to avoid potentially impaired driving, as appropriate.

Violence GSESC cannot condone violent, abusive, or threatening behavior in the Girl Scouting environment. This includes any acts or threats of violence by its volunteers or against its volunteers on GSESC premises or while they are engaged in business with or on behalf of GSESC, on or off GSESC premises.

In furtherance of this policy, volunteers are expected to warn or advise their supervisor, Chief of Staff or the Chief Executive Officer of any suspicious activity, situations or incidents that concern them involving other volunteers, employees, and/or former employees. This includes, for example, threats or acts of violence, aggressive behavior, offensive acts and threatening or offensive comments or remarks. GSESC does not condone any form of retaliation against any volunteer for making a report under this policy.

Searches In the interest of a safe and drug free Girl Scouting environment or to safeguard property, GSESC may search any time, at its discretion and without notice, for illegal drugs, alcohol, weapons, personal property of GSESC or others, etc. in GSESC’s facilities or on or about a volunteer while a volunteer is serving.

Desks, lockers, computers and other storage devices or equipment may be provided for the convenience of volunteers, but remain the sole property of GSESC. Accordingly, any agent or representative of GSESC can inspect them, as well as any articles found within them, at any time, either with or without prior notice. At its discretion, GSESC may also question volunteers. Volunteers are expected to cooperate in the conducting of such searches.

Upon determination of reasonable suspicion, GSESC may also inspect without notice any packages, parcels, purses, handbags, briefcases, tool boxes, desks, lockers or any other possessions or articles carried to and from GSESC’s property. **Crisis Communication Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina has established written emergency procedures that should be followed during a crisis situation; in addition, any serious accident or fatality is to be reported immediately to the Chief of Staff at (843) 552-9910 X 2280 or (843) 830-7277, the Chief Executive Officer at (843) 552-9910 or (843) 614-2417, Director of Product Program (843) 224-6450 or the Regional Director of Membership Services at (843) 303-2838.

IMPORTANT PROCEDURES AND CHILD PROTECTION There are four major types of child abuse recognized by South Carolina Law: Neglect, Physical, Emotional and Sexual. Neglect has four subcategories: Physical, Medical, Educational, and Emotional.

South Carolina Law states that it is abuse or neglect when a child is injured by an intentional act, or omission of an act (failure to protect).

Neglect: (There are four sub types of neglect) Neglect is failure on the part of the parent to provide for the child’s basic needs, including, but not limited to:  Physical: lack of appropriate supervision, exposure to unsanitary or hazardous living conditions or failure to provide necessary food or shelter  Medical: failure to provide necessary dental, medical or mental health treatment  Educational: failure to educate a child or attend to special education needs  Emotional: inattention to a child’s emotional needs, exposure to parental substance abuse or domestic violence

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PLEASE NOTE: What appears to be physical, medical or educational neglect may actually be a family in need of resources.

Physical abuse is characterized by any type of damage to the skin, including, but not limited to: punching, beating, kicking, biting, shaking, throwing, stabbing, choking, hitting (with a hand, stick, strap, or other object), burning, or otherwise harming a child.

Emotional abuse is any pattern of behavior that impairs a child’s emotional development or sense of selfworth. This includes, but is not limited to: constant criticism, threats, rejection, bullying, ignoring, isolating, corrupting, as well as withholding love, support, or guidance.

Sexual Abuse is any sexual or sexually provocative behavior by an adult toward a child, whether or not the child gives consent. This includes but is not limited to: fondling, penetration, incest, rape, sodomy, indecent exposure, commercial exploitation through prostitution, exposure to and/or production of pornographic materials, communicating in a sexual manner by phone or internet If you suspect child abuse: You should make a report if you have reason to believe a child’s physical or mental health or welfare has been or may be adversely affected. Reason to believe does not require conclusive proof, or proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

If a child discloses abuse to you: It is important for you to remain calm and in control of your feelings in order to assure the child that you believe them, and that something will be done to keep him or her safe.

Listen; do not question the child, unless you know how to do a Minimal Facts Interview. Do not remove clothing to examine the child’s body unless you are a medical professional. Do not confront the alleged perpetrator, or share with him/her what the child disclosed to you.

Immediately: Document what the child said to you and make the report to the proper authority. You will be asked to provide the information the child shared with you, the child’s name, address, parent’s name(s), names of siblings and any other people living in the home (if known). 

Contact DSS if the alleged perpetrator is an adult who is a parent or other primary care giver.



Contact local law enforcement if the alleged perpetrator is anyone else.

And AFTER making the report to the proper authority, if this involves a girl member of GSESC: 

Contact GSESC, following the procedure on the emergency card. Fill out the First Report of Accident/Injury report, and fax to the North Charleston Service Center ASAP.

DSS will, within 24 hours of the receipt of the report, commence an investigation. If you are concerned about the child’s immediate welfare, in addition to contacting DSS, contact local law enforcement. Law Enforcement Officers are authorized to place children in EPC when the officer has probable cause to believe that by reason of abuse or neglect the child is in substantial and imminent danger.

South Carolina Law requires certain professionals to report child abuse and neglect when it is suspected, and there are legal penalties when a Mandated Reporter does not report. GSESC encourages all staff, volunteers and Board Members who are adult members registered with GSESC to act “as if” they are Mandated Reporters in order to protect children from child abuse and neglect.

Note that the SC Senate and House are in the process of adding camp counselor, scout leader and any other person whose duties require direct contact or supervision of children to the list of mandatory reporters. The new bill should be signed into law sometime during the upcoming membership year 2014-2015.

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By South Carolina Code 63-7-310 the following professionals are required to report suspected cases of child abuse and neglect. 

physician, nurse, dentist, optometrist



medical examiner, coroner, and their employees



any other medical, emergency medical services, mental health or allied health professional



member of the clergy, Christian Science Practitioners, religious healers



school teacher, counselor, principal, assistant principal, school attendance officer



social or public assistance worker



substance abuse treatment staff



child care worker in a child care center or foster care facility



foster parent



police or law enforcement officer, juvenile justice worker



undertaker, funeral home director and employees



persons responsible for processing of films



computer technician



judge



volunteer non-attorney guardian ad litem

No Retaliation Retaliation against any Girl Scout member, volunteer or employee for filing a complaint, participating in or cooperating with an investigation is strictly prohibited. GSESC does not tolerate adverse treatment of employees or Girl Scout members (including volunteers) because they report child abuse or provide information related to such complaints. After a report, GSESC may make follow up inquiries to determine that any prohibited activity has in fact ended and retaliation has not occurred.

A Final Word About Adult/Girl Scout Sexual Relationships As GSESC encourages friendships between staff/administration/volunteers and Girl Scouts, GSESC strives to differentiate appropriate friendships from amorous and/or erotic relationships between Girl Scouts who are children/minors and adult staff/administration/volunteers. Such relationships, whether consensual or not, are always unacceptable. Implicit in the idea of professionalism is the recognition by those in positions of authority that in their relationships with Girl Scouts who are children/minors, there is always an element of power. Because the power in relationships between staff members (including volunteers) and such Girl Scouts is always fundamentally asymmetric in nature, it is incumbent on those with authority not to abuse, nor seem to abuse, the authority with which they are entrusted.

Anti-Retaliation GSESC strives to provide employees and volunteers with confidential, non-threatening alternatives for reporting their concerns or information regarding any legally protected rights without fear of retaliation.

GSESC does not tolerate retaliation against anyone for stepping forward in good faith to address discrimination, harassment or abuse as may be defined in this handbook or by law in accordance with internal reporting responsibilities.

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Volunteers who perceive any implication or threat of retaliation because they have voiced or supported a complaint involving anyone’s legally protected rights should immediately report as detailed in this handbook in the section entitled, “Reporting Responsibilities and Complaint Resolution for Protected Status Discrimination, Harassment, Child Abuse and/or Retaliation”.

Reporting Responsibilities and Complaint Resolution for Protected Status Discrimination/Harassment/Abuse and/or Retaliation Any volunteer who believes that any administrator’s, supervisor’s, co-worker’s, employee’s, Girl Scout’s, volunteer’s or third party’s actions or words constitute legally protected status discrimination, harassment, child abuse and/or retaliation toward himself/herself or toward another has a responsibility to report the situation immediately to the Chief Executive Officer, or in the case of the Chief Executive Officer’s absence, conflict or other concern, to Chief of Staff. In the case of conflict or other concern regarding reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, a report of such discrimination, harassment or abuse may also be made to the Board Chair. This reporting responsibility specifically includes supervisors or those in positions of authority to whom such a report may be made.

A complaint or report of legally protected status discrimination, harassment, abuse and retaliation may be made by anyone affected by or observing such behavior. While the initial complaint may be made verbally, GSESC may request a signed written complaint/report to follow. Although failure to immediately receive the complaint in writing does not prevent investigation, delay or lack of substantiated detail may hamper the investigation and appropriate resolution. A complaint of alleged protected status discrimination, harassment/retaliation (including sexual/gender harassment) or Girl Scout and/or Girl Scout related child abuse should include all appropriate times, places, and dates.

Upon receipt of the report, GSESC may take such immediate actions as it deems appropriate. This may include notifying the individual charged and/or the parents, if a Girl Scout who is a child/minor is involved, that a complaint has been lodged. Impracticality of immediate parent notification does not prevent GSESC from taking such immediate action as it deems appropriate, including but not limited to separating, suspending and/or questioning and/or preliminary disciplinary action of the individual[s] involved.

GSESC conducts a prompt investigation of any allegations of protected status discrimination, Girl Scout related child abuse (as determined appropriate) sexual discrimination/harassment or discrimination/harassment of a similarly offensive nature based on legally protected status, including (for employees only) gender, age, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, military service/obligation or protected activity (i.e., opposition to prohibited discrimination or participation in the statutory complaint process) and/or retaliation for bringing or participating in such a claim. The Chief Executive Officer, or, in case of his/her absence or conflict, Chief of Staff or the Board/Board Chair may designate a member of the staff/administration or outside investigator to investigate and document the events specific to the charges (“the designee”), as determined appropriate.

During the investigation, anyone who is alleged to have committed acts of protected status discrimination/harassment/retaliation or abuse may be contacted and permitted to respond to specific allegations.

As to any GSESC Girl Scout member (girl or volunteer) or third party who is the subject of any investigation, GSESC and/or its designee has full discretion to seek such additional information, recommendations, input and/or assistance as it determines to be appropriate. Further, GSESC has full authority to take such disciplinary and/or corrective action as it deems appropriate at any stage of the investigation. Upon review of the investigation and/or documentation, the Chief Executive Officer, Chief of Staff or Board/Board Chair, as determined appropriate, determines the seriousness of the circumstances, and may take such action as GSESC deems appropriate, including, remedial and/or preventive measures. At the conclusion of the investigation, should GSESC determine the matter calls for discipline and/or remedial, preventive or additional action as to a GSESC employee, Girl Scout member (girl or volunteer) or third party, such action and/or communication as the GSESC deems appropriate may follow.

Any Girl Scout member (girl or volunteer) who is found to be involved in protected status discrimination, harassment, child abuse or activity which could be perceived as abusive toward a child or children or discriminatory, harassing or retaliatory toward an employee is subject to appropriate disciplinary or corrective action to be determined at the sole discretion of GSESC.

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Information provided is kept as confidential as possible in keeping with an investigation that is as thorough as GSESC determines necessary and appropriate to the charge. Additionally, once a complaint of Girl Scouting related child abuse, protected status discrimination or harassment has been filed, the Chief Executive Officer or GSESC designee may periodically keep the accuser, the accused, the reporting party and, as determined appropriate, Board/Board Chair informed as the investigation and decision processes unfold. When a final determination is made, the Chief Executive Officer or GSESC designee may inform the accuser, accused, reporting party and/or Board/Board Chair, as determined appropriate, of the ultimate resolution and/or action to be taken. In all cases, the Chief Executive Officer or GSESC designee may also keep other concerned persons informed.

All Girl Scout members (girls and volunteers), as applicable, are expected to cooperate in any investigation.

Information provided to the person or persons investigating is to be kept as confidential as possible in keeping with a thorough investigation and need to know.

Please know that requirements related to the filing of claims with any state or federal enforcement agencies, including time deadlines, are not changed by this internal reporting and resolution process. It is, however, GSESC’s hope that all will access and find the internal procedure satisfactory. GSESC asks that Girl Scout members (girls and volunteers) and/or anyone else concerned bring any difficulties in using the procedure directly to the attention of the Chief Executive Officer, or in the case of conflict or absence, to the Board/Board Chair.

Any good faith report of concerns of protected status discrimination and/or harassment and/or retaliation and/or abuse, experienced or observed, should be made without fear of retaliation by GSESC. Retaliation against any Girl Scout member (girls or volunteers) for filing a complaint or participating in an investigation in good faith is strictly prohibited and cannot be tolerated. Any incident of retaliation as above should also be reported using this policy.

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

Service Unit Approved Awards Board Approved Awards

58-59 59-62

We Are Girl Scouts

2

Who Can Join Girl Scouts—and How?

4

Girl Scouts’ Organizational Structure

5

What Girl Scouting Does for Girls

63

GSESC

5

Top Reasons why Girl Scouts get Outdoors

64

Governance and Policy-Influencing Positions

6

I can’t wait to & ToGetHerThere

65

GSESC Service Centers Information & Map

7

Fun with Purpose

65-66

GSESC Staff

8-11

Who To Call

12-15

National Leadership Journeys

67

Service Unit and Service Team

16-31

The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting and National Proficiency Badges

67

Digital Programing

67

Make Your Own Badge

68

Helpful Hints for Membership Registration

32

Getting Started with the National Leadership Program through Journeys 33

The National Program Portfolio

66

Planning in a Girl-Led Environment

34

My Promise, My Faith

68

Meeting with Girls for the First Time

35

The Girl Scout Cookie Program

68

Using Safety Activity Checkpoints

36

Outdoor Adventures

68

Understanding How Many Volunteers You Need

37

Spanish Language Resources

69

Lifesaving Awards

69

Healthy Habits

69

Get Making with Get Moving

70

BFF (Be A Friend First)

70

41

Imagine Your STEM Future

70

Your Responsibilities

42

Free Being Me

70

Your Volunteer Support Team

43

Ban Bossy

71

Following the Girl Scouts Safety Guidelines Outdoor Progression

Understanding Your Role as a Girl Scout Volunteer

38-39 40

43-44

What Daisies Do - What Ambassadors Do

GSESC Training System

44-45

Emblems and Patches

GSESC Training Requirements

45-46

GSESC Girl Scout Shop

GSESC Training Calendar

47-56

Girl Scout Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards

79

Other Initiatives and Opportunities

80

Taking Advantage of Learning Opportunities

Girl Scouting 101

47

72-77 78 78-79

Leadership Essentials

47-48

Girls Go Techbridge

Grade Level Portfolios

49-53

Roll Model Matter Online Toolkit

82

Planning Trips with Girls

54-55

GSESC Goes Lego

82

Introduce a Girl to Engineering

83

Destinations

83

Troop Camping

55

Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention 56 Knowing How Much You’re Appreciated

57

80-81

South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page

Guidelines for Submitting Nominations for Adult Recognitions 57-58

Program

83

GSESC College Scholarships

84

Service Unit Approved Awards

Barbie and Me Sleepover!

84

60-61

President’s Volunteer Service Award

84

Girl Scout Activity Insurance

Girl Scout Traditions and Celebrations

85

Experts

Girl Scout Calendar

85

What to do if….there is an accident

115-116 117 117-118

Time-Honored Ceremonies

85-86

GSESC Procedure for Accidents

117-118

Signs, Songs, Handshake, and More!

86-87

First-Aid/CPR

118-119

You Witness or Experience Abuse

120-122

GSESC Child Abuse Reporting Procedure

121-122

Hosting a Girl Led Event

Arranging a Time and Space for Girl-Led Meetings Understanding Healthy Development in Girls Creating a Safe Space for Girls

88

89

Establishing an Account

90-95

GSESC Troop Finances

96-100

GSESC Check Policies

123 123-124 124

Recognizing and Supporting Each Girl

96

Promoting Fairness

96

Top 10 Reasons your daughter should participate in the Fall Product Sale 125

Building Trust

96

2015-2016 Cookie Sale Dates

126

Managing Conflict

97

Understanding the Girl Scout Cookie Program

127

Inspiring Open Communication

97

Your Council’s Role

Sensitive Topics

98

Knowing Where Proceeds Go

Working with Parents and Guardians

99

Girl Adult Partnership

Arranging Meetings with Parents/Guardians

100-101

Creating an Atmosphere of Acceptance and Inclusion 101-103

Knowing Your Responsibilities

104-106

Responsibilities of the Volunteer: Girl Scout Safety Guidelines 106-107

127 127-128 128

Preparing for your Girl Scout Cookie Booths 128-129 Cookie Donation Program

129

Handling Product Complaints

129

Using Online Resources and Social Media

129

Setting Up a Group Website

130-131

Money-Earning Basics

131-132

Additional Group Money-Earning Activities

135-136 133-134

Responsibilities of Parents and Guardians

106

Collaborating with Sponsors

Responsibilities of the Girls

107

Troop/Group Donations and Solicitations

134

Knowing How Many Volunteers You Need

107

Helping Girls Reach Their Financial Goals

134-135

Transporting Girls

108

Financial and Sales Ability by Grade Level Fund Development

Checklist for Drivers

109

Product Sales Program Safety

109

G.I.F.T

110

Helping GSESC is Easy Flyer

Prepare Early Plan for Safeguarding Money Booth Sales Computer/Online Safety

110-111 111

Contributions

139-140 141

142

112-113 112

Safety in Technology Based Sales

113

Forming a Troop Committee

114

Holding Troop Meetings

Health Histories (Including Examinations and Immunizations)

137-142

List of Companies that Match Employees

Safeguard Information

Approaching Activities

135-136

114-115

143 144-145

Six Parts of a Meeting

144

Letting Girls Lead

145

Transporting Girls

146

Insurance Claim Form

Looking at a Sample Troop Year

146

Fraud Statement

185

Reengaging Girls

147

First Report of Accident/Injury

186

Training Registration Form

187

Child Release Authorization

188

Sensitive Issues for Girls Parent Consent Form

189

Girl Permission Slip

190

Traveling with Girls

148-149

183-184

Using Journey and The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting in Their Travels

149

Year Long Parental Permission form for GS Activities 191-192

Seeking Council Permission

150

Financial Assistance for Membership Fees- Girls only

193

Involving Chaperones

151

Financial Assistance for Membership Fees- Adults only

194

Letting Girls Lead

152

Honor Troop Application

Staying Safe During the Trip Reengaging Girls Sandy Ridge Information Packet for GS Troops History of Sandy Ridge Sandy Ridge Camp Sites

152-153 153 154-162 154 155-157

195-196

Troop Committee Sign-Up

197

Troop Bank Account Information Form

198

Annual Troop Finance Report (Troop Disband Form)

199

Troop Owned Equipment Form

200

Sponsorship Agreement

201 202

Guidelines and Procedures for Males

158

Cash/In-Kind Donation Form

Sandy Ridge Site Regulations

158

Worksheet for Projecting Troop Income and

Site Reservation Procedures for Sandy Ridge

159

Expenses

Sandy Ridge Activities 2016 Summer Camp Information

Agenda Suggestion for the Delegate Assembly

160-161 162

Adult Recognitions Forms

166-173

Annual Service Unit Finance Report

174

Service Unit Owned Equipment Form

175

Processing Trip Approval Forms and Multiple Troop Event Approval Forms

Application for Troop Fundraising Projects

205

Event and Activity Report

206

Volunteer Agreement

207 :

164

Annual Meeting and Adult Recognition Registration Form 165

176

Multiple Troop Event Approval Form

177-178

Trip Approval Form

179-180

Extra Insurance Request

181

How to File a Claim

182

203-204

Girl Recognition Ceremony Registration Form

208

Girl Recognition Ceremony – Summary Form

209

Girl Event Registration Form – Troop

210

Girl Event Registration Form – Individual

211

Page Program Flyer

212

Page Program Girl Application

213

Page Program Adult Application

214

Techbridge Checkout Form

215

Role Models Matter

216

Welcome to the great adventure of Girl Scouting! Thanks to volunteers like you, generations of girls have learned to be leaders in their own lives and in the world.

We know you’re busy and need to be efficient with your time. For that reason, this Quick-Start Guide to Volunteer Essentials gives you the nitty-gritty—what you need to know now, as you plan for your first meeting with girls. We encourage you to read through these tips as soon as you can, and then feel free to put down this handbook for now.

The rest of Volunteer Essentials is a reference for you to use only as needed. When you have a question, simply look up the topic in the Table of Contents, and you’ll find your answer. Think of Volunteer Essentials as your encyclopedia to Girl Scout volunteering: it’s here when you need it, but there’s no need to read it all today.

Ready to get started? Then read the following handy tips, and you’ll be on your way!

1

Girl Scouts was founded in 1912 by trailblazer Juliette Gordon Low. We are the largest girlserving organization in the United States and a member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, a sisterhood of close to 10 million girls and adults in 145 countries.

Girl Scouts builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. We strive to be the premier leadership organization for girls, and experts on their growth and development.

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. *Girl Scouts of the USA makes no attempt to define or interpret the word “God” in the Girl Scout Promise. It looks to individual members to establish for themselves the nature of their spiritual beliefs. When making the Girl Scout Promise, individuals may substitute wording appropriate to their own spiritual beliefs for the word “God.” Note: This disclaimer appears in the National Leadership Journey adult guides, but not in the girls’ books. It is included here as a reminder to you, as a volunteer, that it’s your responsibility to be sensitive to the spiritual beliefs of the girls in your group and to make sure that everyone in the group feels comfortable and included in Girl Scouting. Please feel free to share this information with girls’ families.

I will do my best to be

and to

honest and fair,

respect myself and others,

friendly and helpful,

respect authority,

considerate and caring,

use resources wisely,

courageous and strong,

make the world a better place,

and responsible for what I say and

and be a sister to every Girl Scout.

do,

2

We are urban, rural, and suburban. We are in schools, churches, temples, mosques, public housing, foster homes, and detention centers. We are in virtually every zip code and in 90 countries around the world.     

2.3 million girls 5 to 18 years of age 16,800 Girl Scouts overseas 888,000 adult volunteers 59 million alumnae 112 councils throughout the United States

At any given time, approximately 10 percent of girls are Girl Scouts, and it’s interesting to know that:    

80 percent of women business owners were Girl Scouts.

69 percent of female U.S. Senators were Girl Scouts.

67 percent of female members of the House of Representatives were Girl Scouts.

Virtually every female astronaut who has flown in space was a Girl Scout.

We have identified Three Keys to Leadership: girls Discover themselves and their values; Connect with others; and Take Action to make the world a better place. At Girl Scouts, everything centers around the girl: activities are girl-led, which gives girls the opportunity to learn by doing in a cooperative learning environment.

Connect with Girl Scouts of the USA at www.girlscouts.org, www.facebook.com/GirlScoutsUSA, www.twitter.com/girlscouts, and www.pinterest.com/GSUSA. Your local council also shares event information, learning opportunities, tips, and advice at www.girlscoutsesc.org, www.girlscoutsesc.org, www.facebook.com/GirlScoutsESC and www.twitter/com/girlscoutsesc and www.pintrest.com/GirlScoutsESC GSESC has a Facebook page and a Twitter feed. All leaders are encouraged and welcome to follow us on Twitter and “like” us on Facebook. There is a lot of information that is shared by council through our social media outlets, so being connected to us this way is always a good idea. You will be the first to know about goings on within the council, good news about troops, special events and more. You can also connect with other troop leaders and Girl Scout friends this way, or ask us a question. Just remember when posting to our accounts it’s important to keep your postings free of bad language or use our accounts to promote other activities outside of Girl Scouts. We do monitor these accounts and will remove anything we deem inappropriate.

We know a lot of you have personal Facebook pages, blogs and Twitter feeds. While we do not regulate what you post to these pages or accounts, please remember that even outside of troop meetings and events, you are still representing Girl Scouts. A good rule of thumb when you post to your personal accounts is to remember the Girl Scout Law and be honest, fair, considerate and caring, and most importantly, remember to be a sister to every Girl Scout.

2

I Can’t Wait To is a multi-year campaign that focuses on getting the fun of Girl Scouts into the lives of young girls (K–5), their parents and caregivers, and you, the volunteer. We are heading into the second year of I Can’t Wait To, and the promotions, games, and contests keep coming.

Your council will be in touch with you and other volunteers about what is happening locally with this campaign, so keep an eye out!

At Girl Scouts, we know that when girls are given the opportunity, they change their world.

Every girl has an important role to play, and every girl deserves the confidence to achieve anything she sets her sight on. But we need help to ensure that girls in every U.S. zip code develop the confidence that Girl Scouts nurtures. That's why we've launched ToGetHerThere, the largest fundraising campaign for girls in history.

ToGetHerThere is a Movement wide fundraising campaign with the goal of raising $1 Billion for girls by 2020. Every gift to every Girl Scout Council counts toward the goal. Together, we will get her there - to help lead her troop, her family, her community, her company, her country, and her world. To learn more about joining the largest campaign for girls visit girlscouts.org/invest.

3

Girl Scouts is about sharing the fun, friendship, and power of girls and women together. Any girl—from kindergarten through 12th grade—can join Girl Scouts. Girl Scout volunteers are also a diverse group—you may be a college volunteer working on a community-action project, a parent volunteer ready for an outdoor adventure with your daughter’s group, or any responsible adult (female or male, who have passed the necessary screening process) looking to help prime girls for the day when they’ll lead—however and wherever they choose.

What all members share, both girls and adults, are the Girl Scout Promise and Law. Each member also agrees to follow safety guidelines. The national membership dues are $15 per person and the council service fee is $15 for girls only; with a total amount of $30 per girl. Membership dues may not be transferred to another member and are not refundable. (Adults have the option to purchase a lifetime membership for $375).

Girls at Every Grade Level

After girls join, they team up in the following grade levels:      

Girl Scout Daisy (grades K–1) Girl Scout Brownie (grades 2–3) Girl Scout Junior (grades 4–5) Girl Scout Cadette (grades 6–8) Girl Scout Senior (grades 9–10) Girl Scout Ambassador (grades 11–12)

Across the country, the Girl Scout community is hard at work on a whole new approach to make sure that everyone can participate in Girl Scouting in the ways they want to. As a volunteer, you can choose from flexible ways to participate that can be tailored to fit your schedule and lifestyle. You can also volunteer behind the scenes, in your council office, instead of volunteering directly with girls.

Girls can choose any one, all, or some of the options—camp, events, series, troop, travel, and virtual*— within a single membership year. (*Note that virtual is still in development.) As a volunteer, you, too, have the option of partnering with girls throughout a membership year or committing to an opportunity for only a few weeks or months. Based on independent research and extensive surveys with thousands of council staff members from around the country, we have a good sense of which options will interest girls, based on their grade levels. These are reflected in the chart on the right.

4

Girl Scouts is the world’s largest organization of and for girls, currently encompassing 2.3 million girl members and nearly one million volunteers! Three core structures support all these members: the national headquarters, your council, and your support team.

The national office of Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA), located in New York City, employs roughly 300 employees. GSUSA is a member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS). (Visit GSUSA online, where you’ll find a wealth of resources for both girls and volunteers.)

Global Girl Scouting ensures that girls have increased awareness about the world, cross-cultural learning opportunities, and education on relevant global issues that may inspire them to take action to make the world a better place. Visit Global Girl Scouting online for additional information.

Since 1925, USA Girl Scouts Overseas (USAGSO), a division of Global Girl Scouting, has helped ease the transition for American families relocating overseas by offering the familiar traditions and exciting opportunities of Girl Scouting to girls abroad. USAGSO now serves thousands of American girls living overseas, as well as girls attending American or international schools. Through Global Girl Scouting, members participate in World Thinking Day on February 22, visit the four WAGGGS world centers (see the “For Travel Volunteers” appendix), participate in international travel, promote global friendship and understanding by supporting the Juliette Low World Friendship Fund, and take action on global issues.

Girl Scout councils are chartered by the national office to attract and retain members in a geographic area, provide ways for girls to participate in Girl Scouting, create an environment that reflects Girl Scout values and ideals, manage volunteers’ experience with Girl Scouting, and keep girls and volunteers as safe as possible. The national office provides support materials to all councils to ensure that the Girl Scout experience is nationally consistent.

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina began operations on January 20, 2007 when Girl Scouts of Carolina Low Country and the Girl Scout Council of the Pee Dee Area, Inc. realigned to form a combined, high-capacity council. In 2006, Girl Scouts of the USA’s National Board of Directors voted to endorse a plan to realign the 312 existing councils into 112 high-capacity, communitybased councils in order to make the most effective use of resources to better serve communities and to create more opportunities in Girl Scouting for even more girls. As an “early-adopter”, GSESC was the second council in the nation to realign. Currently, GSESC serves over 6,000 girls and 2,800 adult volunteers throughout twenty-one counties. The appropriate paperwork was filed with the South Carolina Secretary of State on January 29, 2007. This is the official, recognized date for the formation of Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina.

The 21 counties are: Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Berkeley, Calhoun, Charleston, Clarendon, Chesterfield, Colleton, Darlington, Dillon, Dorchester, Florence, Georgetown, Horry, Lee, Marion, Marlboro, Orangeburg, and Williamsburg.

5

Board of Directors: Responsible for managing the corporate business and affairs of the council.

The Board of Directors is the policy setting arm of the council.

Board Chair: Sees that the lines of direction given by the members of the delegate assembly and the actions of the Board of Directors are carried out. Board Chair reports to the membership and the board on the conduct and management of the affairs of the council.

Executive Committee: May exercise the powers of the Board of Directors in the interim between Board of Directors meetings, but does not have the power to adopt the budget or take action which is contrary to the direction established by the Board of Directors.

Board Development Committee: A committee elected by delegates to prepare a slate for the delegate assembly. The committee's goal is to secure those persons who have the greatest competency and necessary attributes to direct the management of the affairs of the council. Names for consideration should be submitted on the Prospect Information for Board or Committee Nomination.

Service Unit: The council's jurisdiction is divided into geographic areas known as Service Units.

Membership is composed of girl and adult members meeting in the geographic subdivision. The Service Unit meets under the guidance of the volunteer Service Unit Chair with the help of the Service Unit Team. The primary responsibility of Service Unit members is to develop community support for Girl Scouting, such as providing the means for adult participation in board and council decision making; identifying Service Unit needs; assisting in the planning of Service Unit Take Action projects; and electing delegates to the Delegate Assembly (Annual Meeting).

Service Unit Chair: Appointed by the Volunteer Support Specialist to interpret and promote Girl Scouting within a geographic area; to guide the members of the Service Unit in their corporate responsibilities; and to report constituency suggestions and concerns.

Delegate: Elected by members of the Service Unit to represent the Service Unit as members of the Delegate Assembly at the Annual Meeting and, any other special meetings as called by the Board of Directors, as it formulates broad direction for the Girl Scout Program and to elect officers, members of the Board of Directors, Board Development Committee and Delegates to the national council as well as any changes to the council bylaws.

Guidelines for Delegate Suggestions: Delegates are invited to participate in the development of the business agenda for the GSESC Annual Meeting. Suggestions should foster the improvement of Girl Scouting within the council's jurisdiction. The following guidelines outline the procedure for placing a suggestion on the agenda: 1. Suggestions should be submitted to the Board Chair in writing on Agenda Suggestion for the Delegate Assembly, in the Forms Chapter, page 164, by March 5th, 2016 for consideration.

2. Suggestions shall be reviewed to determine if such items are appropriate for placement (at the discretion of the Board Chair). Examples of appropriate suggestions include (but are not limited to) the sale of property used for Girl Scout Program delivery; changes in policy that affect adult recruitment, retention and development; potential changes in Service Unit jurisdiction, etc.

3. Delegates will be notified by mail as to whether their suggestion has been approved.

If approved, delegates should be prepared to make a presentation of the suggestion during the business section of the Delegate Assembly.

6

www.girlscoutsesc.org • info@girlscoutsesc.org North Charleston Service Center Florence Service Center

Myrtle Beach Service Center

7257 Cross County Road North Charleston, SC 29418 843.552.9910 800.868.9911 Toll free 843.552.6221 Fax

1203 48th Ave. N., Suite 115 Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 843.626.5190 843.839.0818 Fax

2412 Pisgah Road Florence, SC 29501 843.669.5174 800.786.8704 Toll free 843.669.0822 Fax Sandy Ridge 3680 Girl Scout Road Bennettsville, SC 29512 843.479.6814 Camp Director 843.479.6742 Camp Ranger

7

A team of volunteers and staff provides you with local support, learning opportunities, and advice. As a volunteer, you will have the most contact with your Girl Scout support team, which may be called a service unit or another name. Never hesitate to contact them, because your support team will guide and assist you in all things Girl Scouting. If you have questions about the Girl Scout program, working with girls, resources in the National Program Portfolio (National Leadership Journeys and The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting), or selling Girl Scout cookies and other products, go to your team for answers and ongoing support.

Administration Chief Executive Officer Loretta Graham – North Charleston 843-552-9910 ext. 2320 lorettagraham@girlscoutsesc.org Chief of Staff Melissa Cox – North Charleston 843-552-9910 ext. 2280 melissacox@girlscoutsesc.org Administrative Services Governance and HR Coordinator

Executive Assistant

Cindy Watson – Florence

Debbie Persin – North Charleston

843-669-5174 ext. 3111

843-552-9910 ext. 2200

cindywatson@girlscoutsesc.org

debbiepersin@girlscoutsesc.org

IT/CES Manager

Receptionist

Bob Deas – Florence

Hilary Ancrum – North Charleston

843-669-5174 ext. 3117

843-552-9910 ext. 2300

bobdeas@girlscoutsesc.org

hilaryancrum@girlscoutsesc.org

8

Marketing & Communication Director of Marketing & Communications Donna Lee – North Charleston 843-552-9910 ext. 2430 donnalee@girlscoutsesc.org

Finance Accounting Services Director

Accounts Payable Specialist (PT)

Jackie Jackson – Florence

Linda Rhodes – North Charleston

843-669-5174 ext. 3115

843-552-9910 ext. 2340

jackiejackson@girlscoutsesc.org

lindarhodes@girlscoutsesc.org Fund Development

Grants Development Manager Pat Baxley – Florence 843-669-5174 ext. 3150 patbaxley@girlscoutsesc.org Membership Services Vice President of Membership Diane Smart – North Charleston 843-552-9910 ext. 2420 Membership Registrar

Membership Registrar (PT)

Julann Judge – North Charleston

Crystal Smith – North Charleston

843-552-9910 ext. 2350

843-552-9910 ext. 2380

julanncross@girlscoutsesc.org

crystalsmith@girlscoutsesc.org

Regional Director of Membership

Regional Director of Membership

Regions III, IV & V

Regions I & II

Tina Carter – North Charleston

Michaela Watts – North Charleston

843-552-9910 ext. 2270

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

tinacarter@girlscoutsesc.org

michaelawatts@girlscoutsesc.org 9

Region III

Region I

Community Engagement Specialist

Community Engagement Specialist

Nicole Nick – North Charleston

Dana Spivey – Florence

843-552-9910 ext. 2310

832-669-5174 ext. 3116

nicolenick@girlscoutsesc.org

danaspivey@girlscoutsesc.org

Volunteer Support Specialist

Volunteer Support Specialist

Misty Carpenter – North Charleston

Benita Jacobs – Florence

843-552-9910 ext. 2260

843-669-5174 ext. 3132

mistycarpenter@girlscoutsesc.org

benitajacobs@girlscoutsesc.org

Region IV & V

Region II

Community Engagement Specialist

Community Engagement Specialist

Joyce Rodgers – North Charleston

Terrie Thomas – Myrtle Beach

843-552-9910 ext. 2330

843-626-5190 ext. 302

joycerodgers@girlscoutsesc.org

terriethomas@girlscoutsesc.org

Volunteer Support Specialist

Girl Support Specialist

NyRe Taylor – North Charleston

Gina St-Lawrence – Myrtle Beach

843-552-9910 ext. 2260

843-626-5190 ext. 308

nyretaylor@girlscoutsesc.org

ginastlawrence@girlscoutsesc.org Program Services

Vice President of Girl Leadership Experience Lesley Robinson – North Charleston 843-552-9910 ext. 2240 lesleyrobinson@girlscoutsesc.org Director of Product Program

Product Program Specialist

Stephanie Walsh – North Charleston

Deborah Paisley – North Charleston 843-552-9910 ext. 2400 deborahpaisley@girlscoutsesc.org

843-552-9910 ext. 2370 stepahniewalsh@girlscoutsesc.org

10

Outdoor Program Specialist/ Resident Camp Director

Girl Leadership Experience Specialist Jen Sandie – North Charleston

Chuck Iler – Sandy Ridge

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

843-479-6814

jensandie@girlscoutsesc.org

chuckiler@girlscoutsesc.org Property Property Ranger

Maintenance Tech (PT)

David Sports – Sandy Ridge

Jeremy Steen

843-479-6742 (maintenance shop) davidsports@girlscoutsesc.org Shop gsescshop@girlscoutsesc.org Council Shop Manager Susan Rhyne – North Charleston 843-552-9910 ext. 2410 susanrhyne@girlscoutsesc.org

11

A receptionist or an automated attendant will connect you to the person who can best help you. Below is a list of subject areas and corresponding staff members’ positions and contact information.

Address/Troop Change

Registrar

843-552-9910 ext. 2350

Adult Recognition

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Ambassador Girl Scout Activities

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Annual Giving/Family Partnership

Grants Development Manager

843-669-5174 ext. 3150

Annual Meeting

Executive Assistant

843-552-9910 ext. 2200

Annual Report

Dir. of Mkt. and Communications 843-552-9910 ext. 2430

Annual Troop Finance Report

Contact your Volunteer Support Specialist

Application for Employment

Chief of Staff

843-552-9910 ext. 2280

Appreciation Pin

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Awards for Volunteers

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Background Check

Contact your Volunteer Support Specialist

Be A Friend First (BFF)

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Best Practices

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Board Development Committee

Governance and HR Coordinator 843-669-5174 ext.3 111

Board of Directors

Governance and HR Coordinator 843-669-5174 ext. 3111

Bronze Award

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Brownie Girl Scout Activities

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Cadette Girl Scout Activities

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Sandy Ridge (Maintenance Shop)

Property Ranger

843-479-6742

Camp Activities and Resident Camp

Camp Director

843-479-6814

Clara Keithler Award

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Cookie Sale Program

Director of Product Program

843-552-9910 ext. 2370

Council Delegates

Executive Assistant

843-552-9910 ext. 2200

Daisy Girl Scout Activities

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

destinations

VP of Girl Leadership Experience 843-552-9910 ext. 2240

E-mail address (provide or change)

Registrar - N. Charleston

Events, council-wide

VP of Girl Leadership Experience 843-552-9910 ext. 2240 12

843-552-9910 ext. 2350

Fall Sale Program (nuts/candy/magazines) Director of Product Program

843-552-9910 ext. 2370

Fax – Florence Service Center

843-669-0822

Fax – Myrtle Beach Service Center

843-839-0818

Fax - North Charleston Service Center

843-552-6221

First Aid & CPR Training

Regional Membership Director

Flags to Borrow – Florence Service Center

843-552-9910 ext. 2390 843-669-5174

Flags to Borrow – North Charleston

VP of Girl Leadership Experience 843-552-9910 ext. 2240

Girls Go Techbridge

VP of Girl Leadership Experience 843-552-9910 ext. 2240

Girl Scouting 101

Contact your Volunteer Support Specialist

Global Girl Scouting

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Gold Award

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Graduating Seniors

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Grants

Grants Development Manager

843-669-5174 ext. 3150

GSESC Goes Lego

VP of Girl Leadership Experience 843-552-9910 ext. 2240

Honor Pin

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Imagine

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Insignia/Badges (purchasing)

Shop Manager – N. Charleston

843-552-9910 ext. 2210

Accounting Services Director

843-669-5174 ext. 3115

Insurance, Extra for Troop Trips

JLWFF (Juliette Low World Friendship Fund) Journeys Juliette

Contact your Volunteer Support Specialist

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Contact your Girl Support Specialist/Volunteer Support Specialist

“Juliette Spirit Award”

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Junior Girl Scout Activities

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Lifesaving Award

VP of Girl Leadership Experience 843-552-9910 ext. 2240

Lifetime Members, chg. information

Registrar

843-552-9910 ext. 2350

Major Gifts

Grants Development Manager

843-669-5174 ext. 3150

Marketing

Dir. of Mkt. and Communications 843-552-9910 ext. 2430

Mary Dean Brewer Women of Distinction Grants Development Manager 843-669-5174 ext. 3150 Media Relations

Dir. of Mkt. and Communications 843-552-9910 ext. 2430

Membership

Contact your Community Engagement Specialist

Membership Registrations

Registrar

843-552-9910 ext. 2350 13

Money-Earning

Grants Development Manager

843-669-5174 ext. 3150

Newsletter

Dir. of Mkt. and Communications 843-552-9910 ext. 2430

Nominations (Board Member)

Executive Assistant

843-552-99100 ext. 2200

North Charleston Girl Scout Shop

Shop Manager

843-552-9910 ext. 2210

Outdoor Training

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Palmetto Pin

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Partner Activities and Events

VP of Girl Leadership Experience

Patch Activities

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Patches (how to purchase)

N. Charleston

843-552-9910 ext. 2210

843-552-9910 ext. 2240

Photography (Permission/Submission) Dir. of Mkt. and Communications 843-552-9910 ext. 2430 Planned Giving

Grants Development Manager

843-669-5174 ext. 3150

President’s Award

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

President’s Volunteer Service Award

VP of Girl Leadership Experience 843-552-9910 ext. 2240

Product Sales Information

Director of Product Program

843-552-9910 ext. 2370

Program (Girl Leadership Experience) VP of Girl Leadership Experience 843-552-9910 ext. 2240 Program Aide Training

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Property Issues

Chief of Staff

843-552-9910 ext. 2280

Public Relations

Dir. of Mkt. and Communications 843-552-9910 ext. 2430

Recognitions for Volunteers

Regional Membership Director

Recruitment (Membership)

Contact your Community Engagement Specialist

Rental of Campsites

Camp Director

843-479-6814

Resident Camp Activities

Camp Director

843-479-6814

Rookie of the Year Award

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Scholarships

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Senior Girl Scout Activities

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Service Unit Events

Contact your Service Unit chair or Volunteer Support Specialist

Service Unit Day Camps

Contact your Service Unit chair or Volunteer Support Specialist

Silver Award

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

South Carolina Legislative Page Program GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Special (Money-Earning) Events

Grants Development Manager

843-669-5174 ext. 3150

STEM Activities Information

VP of Girl Leadership Experience 843-552-9910 ext. 2240 14

Take Action Project Information

GLE Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2360

Tenure Pins (Adults)

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Ten Year Pins for Girl Scouts (purchase) Shop Manager – N. Charleston 843-552-9910 ext. 2210 Thanks Badge

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Thanks Badge II

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Training

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Training Registrations/Confirmations

Contact your Volunteer Support Specialist

Trainers

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Trip Approval Forms

Volunteer Services Specialist

843-552-9910 ext.2330

Troop Bank Accounts

Contact your Volunteer Support Specialist

Troop Money-Earning

Grants Development Manager

843-669-5174 ext. 3150

United Way

Chief Executive Officer

843-552-9910 ext. 2320

Volunteers

Contact your Community Engagement Specialist

Volunteer Applications

Volunteer Services Specialist

843-552-9910 ext. 2330

VIT (Volunteer in Training)

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Volunteer of Excellence Award

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

Volunteer of the Year Award

Regional Membership Director

843-552-9910 ext. 2390

15

The Service Unit is composed of all troops in a given geographic area. The Service Unit holds regularly scheduled monthly meetings. Each troop must be represented at these meetings. The purpose of the meeting is to:    

Receive and discuss information.

Share accomplishments, needs and ideas.

Provide training workshops and activity ideas.

Provide input to the Service Unit delegates regarding the views of the Service Unit.

Council Code: 376

Report Code, Registration Area (see below) Expiration Date: 2016

Service Unit

RC

RA

Service Unit

Allendale/Barnwell/ Bamberg

629

5

Kingstree/ Lake City/ Johnsonville/Hemingway

655

2

Charleston Peninsula

657

3

Marion

645

Cheraw/Chesterfield/ Jefferson/Pageland

634

1

Marlboro County

635

1 1

Clarendon County Colleton County

644 637

2 4

Myrtle Beach

640

2

Northern Beaufort

636

4

Darlington/Lamar

652

1

Northern Horry

641

2

Dillon

642

1

Orangeburg/Calhoun

643

5

East Cooper

650

3

Southern Beaufort

631

4

Florence/Timmonsville

646

1

South Strand

639

2

Georgetown County

649

2

Western Horry

638

2

Greater Berkeley County

662

3

West of the Ashley

658

3

Greater Dorchester

660

4

Hartsville/Lee County

651

1

16

RC

RA

Your geographically based team of volunteers and staff provides you with local support. As a volunteer, you will have the most contact with your Girl Scout support team, which is called a Service Unit. This support team is the one you can look to as your experts in all things Girl Scouting. If you have questions about the Girl Scout program, working with girls, using journey books, selling Girl Scout Cookies and other products, go to this team of volunteers for the answers and ongoing support you need.

The Service Team provides opportunities for girls and adults within its jurisdiction. Its purpose is to:          

Make decisions with top priority being the best interest of the girl Support girl and adult recruitment efforts Ensure the placement of girls bridging to the next Girl Scout Program level Increase visibility of Girl Scouting Maintain and provide direct services to troops Keep leaders and assistant leaders informed of dates and deadlines Provide ideas for troop activities Discuss and resolve problems arising in the Service Unit Discuss policy changes Prepare and submit required reports and adhere to deadlines

SERVICE TEAM POSITIONS The Service Team is appointed by a Volunteer Support Specialist for a one (1) year term. Please contact your Volunteer Support Specialist if you are interested in any of the Service Team volunteer opportunities.        

  

Service Unit Chair and/or Co-Chair Secretary Chair Treasurer Chair Juliette Chair Program Chair Adult Development Chair Membership Chair Mentor/Grade Level Chair o Girl Scout Daisy o Girl Scout Brownie o Girl Scout Junior o Girl Scout Cadette o Girl Scout Senior o Girl Scout Ambassador Product Sales Chair Fund Development Chair Public Relations Chair

17

In any organization, situations may arise that make it necessary to consider releasing a volunteer from an assignment. GSESC reserves the right to immediately release an adult from a volunteer position as it deems appropriate, with or without notice or stated reason.

SERVICE TEAM POSITIONS Service Unit:

Date:

Community Engagement Specialist ________________________________________ Volunteer Support Specialist _____________________________________________ Service Team Chairs (list names and contact information): Service Unit Chair: Secretary Chair: Treasurer Chair: Juliette Chair: Program Chair: Adult Development Chair: Membership Chair: Mentor(s) Grade Level Chair: Grade Level: Product Sales Chair: Fund Development Chair: Public Relations Chair:

18

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Position Description Position:

Service Unit Chair

Appointed by and Accountable to:

Volunteer Support Specialist

Length of Appointment: One year Responsible for:

Overall coordination of the Service Unit

Qualifications:      

Girl focus: Empower girls to lead activities, learn by doing, and cooperate with others on current issues that involve their interests and needs, while having fun.

Personal integrity: Demonstrate dependability, honesty, and credibility.

Adaptability: Adjust, modify own behavior, and remain flexible and tolerant in response to changing situations and environments.

Oral communication: Express ideas and facts clearly and accurately.

Foster diversity: Understand, respect, and embrace differences.

Computer skills: Access to e-mail and the Internet.

Principal Tasks:             

Attend training and other events as appropriate for the position such as Service Unit Development Session (SUDS) Schedule and preside at meetings of the Service Team and Service Unit Prepare and follow agenda for Service Team and Service Unit meetings, ensuring that meetings start and stop on time Approve expenditures of Service Unit funds Work with treasurer to maintain financial records for all Service Unit funds and submit required reports meeting the deadlines Help solve troop problems beyond normal troop management Promote participation in the GSESC Annual Meeting Encourage leaders to attend Service Unit meetings Promote troop participation in Community Take Action projects Support girl and adult recruitment efforts Work with Service Team to plan, implement and evaluate Service Unit events Work with the Service Team to achieve Service Team benchmarks Work closely with the Volunteer Support Specialist ensuring good communication

19

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Position Description Position:

Secretary Chair

Appointed by: Accountable to:

Volunteer Support Specialist Service Unit Chair & Volunteer Support Specialist

Length of appointment: One year Responsible for:

Keeping and providing records of Service Unit meetings & Service Unit Team Meetings

Qualifications:      

Girl focus: Empower girls to lead activities, learn by doing, and cooperate with others on current issues that involve their interests and needs, while having fun.

Personal integrity: Demonstrate dependability, honesty, and credibility.

Adaptability: Adjust, modify own behavior, and remain flexible and tolerant in response to changing situations and environments.

Oral communication: Express ideas and facts clearly and accurately.

Foster diversity: Understand, respect, and embrace differences.

Computer skills: Access to e-mail and the Internet.

Principal Tasks:        

Attend training and other events as appropriate for the position such as Service Unit Development Session (SUDS) Keep minutes of meetings; prepares reports Attend monthly Service Team and Service Unit meetings Support girl and adult recruitment efforts Work with Service Team to plan, implement and evaluate Service Unit events Work with Service Team to achieve Service Team benchmarks Work to promote Girl Scouting within the Service Unit Contact team members via telephone or email

20

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Position Description Position:

Treasurer Chair

Appointed by:

Volunteer Support Specialist

Accountable to:

Service Unit Chair, Volunteer Support Specialist

Length of appointment: One year Responsible for:

Managing Service Unit funds

Qualifications:      

Girl focus: Empower girls to lead activities, learn by doing, and cooperate with others on current issues that involve their interests and needs, while having fun.

Personal integrity: Demonstrate dependability, honesty, and credibility.

Adaptability: Adjust, modify own behavior, and remain flexible and tolerant in response to changing situations and environments.

Oral communication: Express ideas and facts clearly and accurately.

Foster diversity: Understand, respect, and embrace differences.

Computer skills: Access to e-mail and the Internet.

Principal Tasks:             

Attend training and other events as appropriate for the position such as Service Unit Development Session (SUDS) Maintain financial records for Service Unit funds and submit required reports, meeting deadlines Keep accurate records of Service Unit checking account Reconcile monthly bank statements with checkbook Make deposits as funds are generated Keep records of all troop/group checking accounts Disburse funds as requested with approval of Service Unit team Maintain inventory of all property owned by Service Unit Attend monthly Service Team and Service Unit meetings Support girl and adult recruitment efforts Work with Service Team to plan, implement and evaluate Service Unit events Work with Service Team to achieve Service Team benchmarks Work to promote Girl Scouting within the Service Unit

21

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Position Description Position:

Juliette Chair

Appointed by:

Girl & Volunteer Support Specialist

Accountable to:

Service Unit Chair, Girl & Volunteer Support Specialist

Length of Appointment: One year Responsible for:

Providing support to any individually registered girl member

Qualifications:      

Girl focus: Empower girls to lead activities, learn by doing, and cooperate with others on current issues that involve their interests and needs, while having fun.

Personal integrity: Demonstrate dependability, honesty, and credibility.

Adaptability: Adjust, modify own behavior, and remain flexible and tolerant in response to changing situations and environments.

Oral communication: Express ideas and facts clearly and accurately.

Foster diversity: Understand, respect, and embrace differences.

Computer skills: Access to e-mail and the Internet.

Principal Tasks:             

Attend training and other events as appropriate for the position such as Service Unit Development Session (SUDS) Maintain a file on all Juliettes in the jurisdiction of their assigned Service Unit Know which Pathway they started in as to give them appropriate support Encourage participation in appropriate council and Service Unit activities and events, as well as other opportunities for participation, including resident camp Send reminders or make phone calls about upcoming deadlines for registration Contact membership and program staff for assistance in meeting the needs of Juliettes Develop a forum (either electronic or written) to allow open communication Offer ideas for petals and badges Submit information to PR Chair for inclusion in the council newsletter.

Encourage family members, advisors, or mentors to attend council training and Service Unit meetings Work with product sales chair to provide parent/girl training prior to participation in cookie sale Work with Mentor Chair and Membership Chair to make sure girls that want to be in a troop are placed Guide Juliette parents through the Girl Scout Leadership Experience 22

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Position Description Position:

Program Chair

Appointed by:

Girl Support Specialist

Accountable to:

Service Unit Chair, Girl Support Specialist & VP of Girl Leadership Experience

Length of Appointment: One year Responsible for:

Planning Service Unit events with the assistance of committees

Qualifications:      

Girl focus: Empower girls to lead activities, learn by doing, and cooperate with others on current issues that involve their interests and needs, while having fun.

Personal integrity: Demonstrate dependability, honesty, and credibility.

Adaptability: Adjust, modify own behavior, and remain flexible and tolerant in response to changing situations and environments.

Oral communication: Express ideas and facts clearly and accurately.

Foster diversity: Understand, respect, and embrace differences.

Computer skills: Access to e-mail and the Internet.

Principal Tasks:           

Attend training and other events as appropriate for the position such as Service Unit Development Session (SUDS) Work with Service Team members to brainstorm activity and event ideas Recruit and support volunteer planning committees for all Service Unit events Utilize girl/adult partnership when planning Service Unit events Ensure Safety-Wise Chapter IV in VE, Safety Activity Checkpoints and council guidelines are followed for each event Complete all event paperwork within the timeframe given to include an after-action report within two weeks of event Attend monthly Service Team and Service Unit meetings Support girl and adult recruitment efforts Work with Service Team to plan, implement and evaluate Service Unit events Work with Service Team to achieve Service Team benchmarks Work to promote Girl Scouting within the Service Unit 23

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Position Description Position:

Adult Development Chair

Appointed by:

Volunteer Support Specialist

Accountable to:

Service Unit Chair, Volunteer Support Specialist

Length of Appointment: One year Responsible for:

Promoting training opportunities and recognitions

Qualifications:      

Girl focus: Empower girls to lead activities, learn by doing, and cooperate with others on current issues that involve their interests and needs, while having fun.

Personal integrity: Demonstrate dependability, honesty, and credibility.

Adaptability: Adjust, modify own behavior, and remain flexible and tolerant in response to changing situations and environments.

Oral communication: Express ideas and facts clearly and accurately.

Foster diversity: Understand, respect, and embrace differences.

Computer skills: Access to e-mail and the Internet.

Principal Tasks:            

Attend training and other events as appropriate for the position such as Service Unit Development Session (SUDS) Promote Service Unit and council recognitions Work closely with the Volunteer Support Specialist to ensure required paperwork is submitted to council Keep training records of Leaders and Assistant Leaders and communicate training needs to Volunteer Support Specialist Promote training opportunities Keep leaders informed of important dates and deadlines Attend monthly Service Team and Service Unit meetings Support girl and adult recruitment efforts Work with Service Team to plan, implement and evaluate Service Unit events Work with Service Team to achieve Service Team benchmarks Work to promote Girl Scouting within the Service Unit Work with Membership Chair to plan and implement Adult Recruitments 24

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Position Description Position:

Membership Chair

Appointed by:

Community Engagement Specialist

Accountable to:

Service Unit Chair & Volunteer Support Specialist

Length of Appointment: One year Responsible for:

Extending membership to girls and adult volunteers

Qualifications:      

Girl focus: Empower girls to lead activities, learn by doing, and cooperate with others on current issues that involve their interests and needs, while having fun.

Personal integrity: Demonstrate dependability, honesty, and credibility.

Adaptability: Adjust, modify own behavior, and remain flexible and tolerant in response to changing situations and environments.

Oral communication: Express ideas and facts clearly and accurately.

Foster diversity: Understand, respect, and embrace differences.

Computer skills: Access to e-mail and the Internet.

Principal Tasks:          

Attend training and other events as appropriate for the position such as Service Unit Development Session (SUDS) Assist Community Engagement Specialist in recruitment efforts for both Girl and Adult Recruitments Follow up on girls who participated in day/twilight camp and resident camp for troop placement Help place girls and adults in troops Help recruit new sponsors Attend monthly Service Team and Service Unit meetings Assist in the placement of girls bridging to the next Girl Scout Program level Work with the Service Team to achieve Service Team benchmarks Attend council-wide Service Team meetings Assist with placing Juliettes in troops as needed

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Position Description Position:

Mentor(s) / Grade Level Chair(s)

Appointed by:

Girl Support Specialist

Accountable to:

Service Unit Chair & Girl Support Specialist

Length of Appointment: One year Responsible for:

Mentoring of Grade Level Leaders

Qualifications:      

Girl focus: Empower girls to lead activities, learn by doing, and cooperate with others on current issues that involve their interests and needs, while having fun.

Personal integrity: Demonstrate dependability, honesty, and credibility.

Adaptability: Adjust, modify own behavior, and remain flexible and tolerant in response to changing situations and environments.

Oral communication: Express ideas and facts clearly and accurately.

Foster diversity: Understand, respect, and embrace differences.

Computer skills: Access to e-mail and the Internet.

Principal Tasks:            

Attend training and other events as appropriate for the position such as Service Unit Development Session (SUDS) Guide and mentor leaders for specific grade level within Service Unit Support girl and adult recruitment efforts Assist with placement of new and bridging girls in respective grade level Help solve troop problems beyond normal troop management Encourage leaders to attend Service Unit meetings Promote troop participation in council events Attend monthly Service Team and Service Unit meetings Work with Service Team to plan, implement and evaluate Service Unit events Work with the Service Team to achieve Service Team benchmarks Works to promote Girl Scouting within the Service Unit Guide Juliette parents through the Girl Scout Leadership Experience

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Position Description Position: Appointed by:

Accountable to:

Product Sales Chair Director of Product Program with Volunteer Support Specialist’s Recommendation Service Unit Chair & Director of Product Program

Length of Appointment: One year Responsible for:

Managing council sponsored product sales for the Service Unit

Qualifications:      

Girl focus: Empower girls to lead activities, learn by doing, and cooperate with others on current issues that involve their interests and needs, while having fun.

Personal integrity: Demonstrate dependability, honesty, and credibility.

Adaptability: Adjust, modify own behavior, and remain flexible and tolerant in response to changing situations and environments while working with other adult volunteers.

Oral communication: Express ideas and facts clearly and accurately to volunteers as well as the Director of Product Program.

Foster diversity: Understand, respect, and embrace differences.

Computer skills: Access to e-mail and the Internet.

Principal Tasks:           

Attend council product sales training and other events as appropriate for the position such as Service Unit Development Session (SUDS) Collect troop payments and reports from sales and submit to council adhering to established time lines set by the Director of Product Program Prepare and submit reports of insufficient payments/delinquent/troops/groups/individuals Coordinate booth sales with businesses and troops Assure that all product sales volunteers receive appropriate product sales training and paperwork in a timely manner Support, mentor and guide leaders throughout the sales Participate in product sales evaluations Attend monthly Service Team and Service Unit meetings Work with Service Team to plan, implement and evaluate Service Unit events Work with the Service Team to achieve Service Team benchmarks Work to promote Girl Scouting within the Service Unit 27

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Position Description Position:

Fund Development Chair

Appointed by:

Volunteer Support Specialist

Accountable to:

Service Unit Chair, Volunteer Support Specialist & Grants Development Manager

Length of Appointment: One year Responsible for:

To ensure the support of council sponsored fund development events and campaigns within an assigned area

Qualifications:      

Girl focus: Empower girls to lead activities, learn by doing, and cooperate with others on current issues that involve their interests and needs, while having fun.

Personal integrity: Demonstrate dependability, honesty, and credibility.

Adaptability: Adjust, modify own behavior, and remain flexible and tolerant in response to changing situations and environments.

Oral communication: Express ideas and facts clearly and accurately.

Foster diversity: Understand, respect, and embrace differences.

Computer skills: Access to e-mail and the Internet.

Principal Tasks:      

Attend training and other events as appropriate for the position such as Service Unit Development Session (SUDS) Attend monthly Service Team and Service Unit meetings Serve as the fund development liaison between troops in the Service Unit and council Be able to solicit donations (cash and/or in-kind) Support the Annual Giving Campaign including but not limited to G.I.F.T. Help with special events or any fundraising activities in your area

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Position Description

Position:

Public Relations Chair

Appointed by:

Volunteer Support Specialist

Accountable to:

Service Unit Chair, Volunteer Support Specialist & Director of Marketing and Communication

Length of Appointment: One year Responsible for:

Promoting Girl Scouting within Service Unit and council

Qualifications:      

Girl focus: Empower girls to lead activities, learn by doing, and cooperate with others on current issues that involve their interests and needs, while having fun.

Personal integrity: Demonstrate dependability, honesty, and credibility.

Adaptability: Adjust, modify own behavior, and remain flexible and tolerant in response to changing situations and environments.

Oral communication: Express ideas and facts clearly and accurately.

Foster diversity: Understand, respect, and embrace differences.

Computer skills: Access to e-mail and the Internet

Principal Tasks:       

Attend training and other events as appropriate for the position such as Service Unit Development Session (SUDS) Take photos and obtain photo releases as needed Clip Girl Scouting news articles from local newspapers and forward to Director of Marketing and Communication Update contact information for local media outlets with Director of Marketing and Communication Encourage Service Unit volunteers/leaders to share troop news with council office Work closely with Director of Marketing and Communication to submit stories to local newspapers Act as a public relations liaison within the community

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Position Description

Position:

Delegate (Elected by the membership)

Accountable to:

Service Unit; girls and adults

Length of Appointment: One year Responsible for:

Representing the Service Unit at the GSESC Annual Meeting and to elect officers, members and Board Development Committee of the GSESC Board of Directors and delegates to national meetings of GSUSA.

Qualifications:       

Girl focus: Empower girls to lead activities, learn by doing, and cooperate with others on current issues that involve their interests and needs, while having fun.

Personal integrity: Demonstrate dependability, honesty, and credibility.

Adaptability: Adjust, modify own behavior, and remain flexible and tolerant in response to changing situations and environments.

Oral communication: Express ideas and facts clearly and accurately.

Foster diversity: Understand, respect, and embrace differences.

Computer skills: Access to e-mail and the Internet Must be at least 14 years of age

Principal Tasks      

Review issues to be discussed at the GSESC Annual Meeting Attend the GSESC Annual Meeting and any other called delegate meetings Understand the viewpoint of the Service Unit and vote, after full consideration of all points of view on the basis of what is in the best interest of Girl Scouts throughout the council Report back to the Service Unit on discussion and action taken at the GSESC Annual Meeting Inform the Service Unit Chair of any concerns expressed by membership that requires the Board of Directors’ and/or the Chief Executive Officer’s attention and relay any information received from the Service Unit Chair to the membership Attend delegate training(s) and workshop(s)

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Position Description

Position:

Delegate (Alternate) (Elected by the membership)

Accountable to:

Service Unit; girls and adults

Length of Appointment: One year Responsible for:

When the delegate is unable to serve: representing the Service Unit at the GSESC Annual Meeting and to elect officers, members and Board Development Committee of the GSESC Board of Directors and delegates to national meetings of GSUSA.

Qualifications:       

Girl focus: Empower girls to lead activities, learn by doing, and cooperate with others on current issues that involve their interests and needs, while having fun.

Personal integrity: Demonstrate dependability, honesty, and credibility.

Adaptability: Adjust, modify own behavior, and remain flexible and tolerant in response to changing situations and environments.

Oral communication: Express ideas and facts clearly and accurately.

Foster diversity: Understand, respect, and embrace differences.

Computer skills: Access to e-mail and the Internet Must be at least 14 years of age

Principal Tasks:      

Review issues to be discussed at the GSESC Annual Meeting Attend the GSESC Annual Meeting and any other called delegate meetings Understand the viewpoint of the Service Unit and vote, after full consideration of all points of view on the basis of what is in the best interest of Girl Scouts throughout the council Report back to the Service Unit on discussion and action taken at the GSESC Annual Meeting Inform the Service Unit Chair of any concerns expressed by membership that requires the Board of Directors’ and/or the Chief Executive Officer’s attention and relay any information received from the Service Unit Chair to the membership Attend delegate training(s) and workshop(s)

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The following information will serve as a guide for the registration process and also serve as a reference guide to all troop leaders.

Membership Dues Summary Forms It is very important to complete this form each time you turn in registrations o Please identify the grade level that describes the majority of your girls. Feel free to check all that apply, but please make it clear which applies to the bulk of the girls by putting the number of girls you have in each grade level. o Optional: Write each members name on the front of the Dues Summary and what grade they are in. See Examples of New Forms. o All of the information regarding meeting location and time is very important and needs to be completed with as much information as possible. o Please provide the Troop Leaders name, address, and phone number on the bottom portion of the form, regardless of who turns the form in. o Please fill out the Troop Number, Service Unit, and Registration Area at the top of the Membership Summary Dues Form if possible. o If your troop is brand new, please mark New next to the Troop Number on the top of the form.

If your troop was in existence in previous years, please mark Reregistering.

Adult Membership Forms o If a P.O. Box is given as a mailing address, a physical street address must also be listed on the form. Your mail will continue to be sent to your P.O. Box. o Remember to mark your position code under Participation. This will help ensure that you receive the information you need for your position. o A signature is required on the adult form and cannot be processed without one. o Adults should mark any of the ways they would like to get involved – these choices are listed on the side of the Adult form.

Girl Membership Forms o Please be sure the form is filled out in its entirety, making certain that the grade levels and birthday are provided. The registration cannot be processed without this information. o A parent or guardian’s signature is required for all girls. The registration cannot be processed without this information. o Please include as much information about the parent or guardians as possible. This includes phone numbers (home, work, cell), and home address if different from the child’s. o Please do not abbreviate school names. o Girls should mark Individual girl interest by pathway, indicated on the Girl registration Form Other Reminders Annual dues are $30 per girl and $15 per adult registration at the time the registration is turned it. o Girls must be in grades 5K – 12th grade on the date their registration is turned in. o The name used on the registration form must be the name used throughout the membership year, i.e. if Margaret goes by “Meg” please register her by the name she prefers. o Turn in the one copy of all forms to the council and keep a copy for your Troop’s records. o Individuals are people who join Girl Scouts that are not a part of a Troop. o Online registration is available to members that were registered the precious membership year. An email address must be provided to council for access. o Returning Troop Leaders (01) will be able to manage their troops online. If you are a leader registering your troop you must still turn in signed forms, but parents are not required to turn in the signed forms if they register their child.

If you have any changes or updates that need to be made after you have registered, please inform our Registrar at julannjudge@girlscoutsesc.org or your Volunteer Support Specialist.

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The Girl Scout program is based on the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE), in which girls Discover themselves, Connect with others, and Take Action to make the world a better place—all within the safety of an all-girl environment where girls take the lead, learn by doing, and learn cooperatively.

At the core of the GSLE are National Leadership Journeys, fun and challenging experiences grouped around a theme and spread over a series of sessions. Each Journey has all the important components of the GSLE sewn right in. So, to guide girls on a great Journey, all you need is enthusiasm and a sense of adventure. Before you dive in, try these six simple tips: 1. Check out the Journey maps at www.girlscouts.org/program/journeys/maps. These maps show you how all the fun and meaningful traditions of Girl Scouting fit right into any National Leadership Journey. There, you can also find information about the topics that each Journey covers, which you can share with girls. And you’ll find even more fun traditions to complement your Journey in The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting, a resource for each grade level of Girl Scouting.

2. Choose a Journey. Because Girl Scouting is girl-led, it’s important to give girls the chance to pick the Journey they want to do. Talk to them about what each Journey for their grade level is about and let them choose one.

3. Get to know the Journey. Pick up a girls’ book and an adult guide. Read the girls’ book for the pleasure of it, just to get an overview of the Journey’s theme and content.

4. Review the sample session plans in the adult guide. These sample session plans give you ideas about bringing the Journey to life with girls while leaving plenty of room for creativity and customization.

5. Invite girls (and their parents/guardians) to use their imaginations to make the Journey come to life in ways that excite them. Remember that you and the girls don’t have to do everything exactly as laid out in the sample sessions.

6. Step back and watch how the girls, with your knowledge, support, and guidance, have enormous fun and a rewarding experience. Celebrate with them as they earn their National Leadership Journey awards—and perhaps some Girl Scout badges, too!

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To start planning your time with girls, visit www.girlscouts.org/MyCalendar.

There, you’ll consider the following questions and begin to map out your Girl Scout year: 



 

How many times each month will you meet?

When do you plan to break for holidays?

How many weeks do you need to allocate for the Girl Scout Cookie Program?

Will you have time in your schedule for guest speakers and other visitors?

If you’ve worked with this group before, what are their preferences: badge work? field trips? other activities? For specific ideas on how to incorporate badges, trips, and other Girl Scout traditions into a Journey, check out the online Journey maps for the grade level of the girls you’re partnering with.

If your group will be meeting for less than a year (such as at a resident camp or during a series), you’ll be able to adjust the calendar to suit your needs. In the same way, if you’re planning a multi-year event (such as a travel excursion), add one or two more years to the framework.

After you’ve drafted a loose framework, ask the girls what they think. Or, create the online calendar together! Remember that you want girls to lead, but younger girls will need more guidance, while older girls will require much less. Seniors and Ambassadors may not even want you to draft a calendar in advance, so if they balk at what you’ve done, let them take the reins. (Journeys for older girls include planning pages specifically designed to help them customize their Journey.) Daisies and Brownies, on the other hand, may enjoy your calendar and just fill in a few ideas here and there, which will clue you in to their interests.

As your group starts its Journey, get a discussion (or debate!) going on the Journey’s theme and what it means to the girls. Probe to find out what they’re most interested in accomplishing during their time together, and then help them connect those interests to their Journey.

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When you first get together with girls (and this meeting may also include parents/guardians, or you may decide to hold a separate meeting for the adults), you’ll want to get to know the girls, and give them a chance to get to know one another.

Icebreaker games that let girls share simple details about themselves are a great way to start off your first gathering. Journeys often start with such an icebreaker, so if you’re digging into a Journey right away, you’ll be all set. You can also check your council’s resources or search the Internet for “icebreakers for kids” to find more ideas.

If you already know which Journey the girls want to do, you’ll find it useful to accomplish some of the following during this meeting. (Note that all these points are detailed in the adult guide for each Journey, too). If your girls haven’t chosen a Journey yet, you can spend time during the first meeting talking about the themes of the three Journeys that are available for their grade level and find out which one the group would like to do. You can then discuss these points in the next meeting, if you run out of time.

1. Introduce the Journey, its theme, and its ties to leadership. Each Journey’s adult guide gives you ideas for talking with girls and their parents/guardians about the Journey’s theme and the Three Keys to Leadership.

2. Find out what interests the group (and be sure to include the other adult volunteers), so that you and the girls can begin to customize the Journey. Do the girls want to dig deeper into a particular aspect of the Journey? Without promising anything (yet!), ask the girls to talk about what they’re passionate about, what they’ve always wanted to do, and how they would spend their time if money and other barriers were no object. Remind the girls they can do activities inside or outside. Build off the ideas shared, but be sure to include opinions from all the girls. Ask direct questions of those who seem to be holding back or are unsure about answering, so everyone is included.

3. Get the girls talking about how they want to schedule their time together. Use the planning pages from their Journey (referring to your draft calendar only as needed, so that the girls lead). Consider questions like these: o Can girls organize and plan a field trip or longer travel opportunity that will allow them to learn more about a particular Journey topic or theme? o Is there an event that meshes with this topic or area of interest? o Can the girls locate and communicate with an expert in the field via email or social media? o Can they invite a guest speaker to answer questions or demonstrate particular skills? o Which badges can the group choose to work on that will deepen their skills in this particular area? o If they are Juniors or older, are they interested in pursuing their Girl Scout Bronze, Silver, or Gold Awards? o Do they have ideas for activities that will involve younger or older girls?

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When preparing for any activity with girls, start by reading the Girl Scout Safety Activity Checkpoints for that particular activity. You can find these on your council’s website; your council may also provide them in some additional electronic or printed form.

Each Safety Activity Checkpoint offers you information on where to do this activity, how to include girls with disabilities, where to find both basic and specialized gear required for the activity, how to prepare yourselves for the activity, what specific steps to follow on the day of the activity, and so on.

In addition to reading these checkpoints yourself, you can email or print them for co-volunteers, parents/guardians, and the girls themselves. The checkpoints are formatted as checklists, so that you, your co-volunteers, and the girls can check off each step that has been accomplished.

In keeping with the three processes of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, be sure that: 

 

All activities are girl-led. Take into account the age and abilities of the girls. Older girls can take the bulk of the responsibility for carefully planning and executing activities, while younger girls will require more of your guidance but should still be deeply involved in making decisions about their activities.

Girls have the chance to learn cooperatively. Have girls teach each other new skills they may need for the activities, rather than hearing all that from you.

Girls learn by doing. If research or special equipment is needed, they’ll learn better by doing that research themselves than by having you do the legwork and report back to them. Even Daisies can do basic research and give reports or do show-and-tell for each other.

Ambassadors may need you only for moral support as they research, teach each other, and plan every detail of their excursions.

If Safety Activity Checkpoints do not exist for an activity you and the girls are interested in, check with your council before making any definite plans with the girls. A few activities are allowed only with written council pre-approval and only for girls 12 and over, while some are off-limits completely: 

Caution: You must get written pre-approval from your council for girls ages 12 and older who will operate motorized vehicles, such as go-carts and personal watercraft; take trips on waterways that are highly changeable or uncontrollable; or fly in noncommercial aircraft, such as small private planes, helicopters, sailplanes, untethered hot air balloons, and blimps. 

Warning: The following activities are never allowed for any girl: potentially uncontrolled free-falling (bungee jumping, hang gliding, parachuting, parasailing, go-karting, and outdoor trampolining); creating extreme variations of approved activities (such as highaltitude climbing and aerial tricks on bicycles, skis, snowboards, skateboards, water-skis, and wakeboards); hunting; shooting a projectile at another person; riding all-terrain vehicles and motor bikes; and taking watercraft trips in Class V or higher.

An additional note: Girl Scouts welcomes and serves girls and families from a wide spectrum of faiths and cultures. When girls wish to participate in discussions or activities that could be considered sensitive—even for some—put the topic on hold until you have spoken with parents and received guidance from your council. When Girl Scout activities involve sensitive issues, your role is that of a caring adult who can help girls acquire skills and knowledge in a supportive atmosphere, not someone who advocates a particular position. You are required to obtain permission slips signed by the girls’ parents/guardians; see the “Engaging Girls at All Grade Levels” chapter of this handbook for more information.

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Girl Scout groups are large enough to provide a cooperative learning environment and small enough to allow development of individual girls. The following group sizes are recommended:  Girl Scout Daisies: 5–12 girls  Girl Scout Brownies: 10–20 girls  Girl Scout Juniors: 10–25 girls  Girl Scout Cadettes: 5–25 girls  Girl Scout Seniors: 5–30 girls  Girl Scout Ambassadors: 5–30 girls Girl Scouts’ adult-to-girl ratios show the minimum number of adults needed to supervise a specific number of girls. (Councils may also establish maximums due to size or cost restrictions.) These supervision ratios were devised to ensure the safety and health of girls— for example, if one adult has to respond to an emergency, a second adult is always on hand for the rest of the girls. It may take you a minute to get used to the layout of this chart, but once you start to use it, you’ll find the chart extremely helpful.

Group Meetings Two unrelated adults (at least one of whom is female) for every:

Events, Travel, and Camping

additional adult to each additional:

Two unrelated adults (at least one of whom is female) for this number of girls:

Two unrelated adults (at least one of whom is female) for every:

Girl Scout Daisies (grades K–1)

12

1-6

6

1-4

Girl Scout Brownies (grades 2–3)

20

1-8

12

1-6

Girl Scout Juniors (grades 4–5)

25

1-10

16

1-8

Girl Scout Cadettes (grades 6–8)

25

1-12

20

1-10

Girl Scout Seniors (grades 9–10)

30

1-15

24

1-12

Girl Scout Ambassadors (grades 11–12)

30

1-15

24

1-12

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Here are some examples: If you’re meeting with 17 Daisies, you’ll need three adults, at least two of whom are unrelated (in other words, not your sister, spouse, parent, or child), and at least one of whom is female. If this isn’t making sense to you, follow the chart: you need two adults for 12 Daisies and one more adult for up to six more girls. You have 17, so you need three adults. If, however, you have 17 Cadettes attending a group meeting, you need only two unrelated adults, at least one of which is female (because, on the chart, two adults can manage up to 25 Cadettes).

In addition to the adult-to-girl ratios, please remember that adult volunteers must be at least 18 years old or at the age of majority defined by the state, if it is older than 18.

Adult supervision for all girls also extends to any online activity. For additional information on online safety, please consult:  The “Computer/Online Use” Safety Activity Checkpoints  Girl Scout Internet Safety Pledge  Digital Cookie Terms & Conditions for Girls, Digital Cookie Terms & Conditions for Parents/Guardians and Digital Cookie Terms & Conditions for Volunteers

 Every adult in Girl Scouting is responsible for the physical and emotional safety of girls, and we all demonstrate that by agreeing to follow these guidelines at all times.

1. Follow the Safety Activity Checkpoints. Instructions for staying safe while participating in activities are detailed in the Safety Activity Checkpoints, available from your council.

Read the checkpoints, follow them, and share them with other volunteers, parents, and girls before engaging in activities with girls.

2. Arrange for proper adult supervision of girls. Your group must have at least two unrelated, approved adult volunteers present at all times, plus additional adult volunteers as necessary, depending on the size of the group and the ages and abilities of girls. Adult volunteers must be at least 18 years old (or the age of majority defined by the state, if it is older than 18) and must be screened by your council before volunteering. One lead volunteer in every group must be female.

3. Get parent/guardian permission. When an activity takes place that is outside the normal time and place, advise each parent/guardian of the details of the activity and obtain permission for girls to participate.

4. Report abuse. Sexual advances, improper touching, and sexual activity of any kind with girl members are forbidden. Physical, verbal, and emotional abuse of girls is also forbidden. Follow your council’s guidelines for reporting concerns about abuse or neglect that may be occurring inside or outside of Girl Scouting.

5. Be prepared for emergencies. Work with girls and other adults to establish and practice procedures for emergencies related to weather, fire, lost girls/adults, and site security.

Always keep handy a well-stocked first-aid kit, girl health histories, and contact information for girls’ families.

6. Travel safely. When transporting girls to planned Girl Scout field trips and other activities that are outside the normal time and place, every driver must be an approved adult volunteer and have a good driving record, a valid license, and a registered/insured vehicle. Insist that everyone is in a legal seat and wears her seat belt at all times, and adhere to state laws regarding booster seats and requirements for children in rear seats.

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7. Ensure safe overnight outings. Prepare girls to be away from home by involving them in planning, so they know what to expect. Avoid having men sleep in the same space as girls and women. During family or parent-daughter overnights, one family unit may sleep in the same sleeping quarters in program areas. When parents are staffing events, daughters should remain in quarters with other girls rather than in staff areas.

8. Role-model the right behavior. Never use illegal drugs. Don’t consume alcohol, smoke, or use foul language in the presence of girls. Do not carry ammunition or firearms in the presence of girls unless given special permission by your council for group marksmanship activities.

9. Create an emotionally safe space. Adults are responsible for making Girl Scouting a place where girls are as safe emotionally as they are physically. Protect the emotional safety of girls by creating a team agreement and coaching girls to honor it. Agreements typically encourage behaviors like respecting a diversity of feelings and opinions; resolving conflicts constructively; and avoiding physical and verbal bullying, clique behavior, and discrimination.

10. Ensure that no girl is treated differently. Girl Scouts welcomes all members, regardless of race, ethnicity, background, disability, family structure, religious beliefs, and socioeconomic status. When scheduling, helping plan, and carrying out activities, carefully consider the needs of all girls involved, including school schedules, family needs, financial constraints, religious holidays, and the accessibility of appropriate transportation and meeting places.

11. Promote online safety. Instruct girls never to put their full names or contact information online, engage in virtual conversation with strangers. Girls should never arrange inperson meetings with online contacts, other than to deliver cookies and only with the approval and accompaniment of a parent or designated adult. On group websites, publish girls’ first names only and never divulge their contact information. Teach girls the Girl Scout Online Safety Pledge and have them commit to it.

12. Keep girls safe during money-earning activities. Girl Scout cookies and other councilsponsored product sales are an integral part of the program. During Girl Scout product sales, you are responsible for the safety of girls, money, and products. In addition, a wide variety of organizations, causes, and fundraisers may appeal to Girl Scouts to be their labor force. When representing Girl Scouts, girls cannot participate in money-earning activities that represent partisan politics or that are not Girl Scout–approved product sales and efforts.

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No matter how you volunteer with Girl Scouts, your investment of time and energy will pay back tenfold. With your help, girls will be able to identify issues they care about and work with one another to resolve them. Your interests and life experiences make you the perfect person to be a new kind of partner for girls, someone who creates a safe environment where they can work together and each girl feels free to work toward her highest aspirations. Have no doubt: You, and nearly one million other volunteers like you, are helping girls make a lasting impact on the world.

Your most important role as a Girl Scout volunteer is to be excited about everything this opportunity affords you: a chance to help girls succeed, play a critical role in their lives, and watch them blossom! You also want to be someone who enjoys the activities you’ll be embarking on with the girls—whether you’re volunteering at a camp, working with girls who are traveling, or partnering with girls on a short-term series on a topic that interests you.

As a Girl Scout volunteer, you’ll serve as a partner and role model to girls. You’ll also work closely with a co-volunteer, because two adults must be present at all times when working with girls, and at least one of those volunteers must be female and not related to the other adult. This is an important distinction that bears repeating: Men can serve as troop volunteers, but an adult female who is not related to the other volunteer must be present at all times, and only in cases of emergency is a girl to be alone with only one volunteer. Remember to also check the adult-to-girl ratios in the Quick-Start Guide and the “Safety-Wise” chapter of this handbook.

In More than ‘Smores: Success and Surprises in Girl Scouts Outdoor Experiences, the Girl Scout Research Institute (GSRI) has described the role of Adult Volunteers: “Because everything girls do outdoors in Girl Scouts must be supported by an adult, these results speak indirectly to adult volunteers and their preparation. To get girls outdoors more regularly, Girl Scouts need adult volunteers who encourage and promote outdoor experiences. .Communicating to volunteers and parents that casual outdoor experiences are effective ways of giving girls opportunities to build competencies and try new things may be the key to opening the gateway for all Girl Scouts to participate in the outdoors on a more regular basis.”

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Your other responsibilities as a Girl Scout volunteer include:      

    

Accepting the Girl Scout Promise and Law Understanding the Three Keys to Leadership that are the basis of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience: Discover, Connect, and Take Action Sharing your knowledge, experience, and skills with a positive and flexible approach Working in a partnership with girls so that their activities are girl-led, allow them to learn by doing, and allow for cooperative (group) learning; you’ll also partner with other volunteers and council staff for support and guidance Organizing fun, interactive, girl-led activities that address relevant issues and match girls’ interests and needs Providing guidance and information regarding Girl Scout group meetings with girls’ parents or guardians on a regular and ongoing basis through a variety of tools, including email, phone calls, newsletters, blogs, other forms of social media, and any other method you choose Processing and completing registration forms and other paperwork, such as permission slips Communicating effectively and delivering clear, organized, and vibrant presentations or information to an individual or the group Overseeing with honesty, integrity, and careful record-keeping the funds that girls raise Maintaining a close connection to your volunteer support team Facilitating a safe experience for every girl

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. *Girl Scouts of the USA makes no attempt to define or interpret the word “God” in the Girl Scout Promise. It looks to individual members to establish for themselves the nature of their spiritual beliefs.

When making the Girl Scout Promise, individuals may substitute wording appropriate to their own spiritual beliefs for the word “God.” Note: This disclaimer appears in the National Leadership Journey adult guides, but not in the girls’ books. It is included here as a reminder to you, as a volunteer, that it’s your responsibility to be sensitive to the spiritual beliefs of the girls in your group and to make sure that everyone in the group feels comfortable and included in Girl Scouting. Please feel free to share this information with girls’ families.

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I will do my best to be

and to

honest and fair,

respect myself and others,

friendly and helpful,

respect authority,

considerate and caring,

use resources wisely,

courageous and strong,

make the world a better place,

and responsible for what I say and do,

and be a sister to every Girl Scout.

In your role as a Girl Scout volunteer, you’ll team up with co-volunteers, parents/guardians, members of the community, council staff, and others who have expressed interest in working alongside you.

The adult guide of each Journey gives you tips and guidance for creating a friends-and-family network to support you all along the way.

The other volunteers on your support team may help by:       

Filling in for you Arranging meeting places Being responsible for communicating with girls and parents/guardians Locating adults with special skills to facilitate a specialized meeting Assisting with trips and chaperoning Building girls outdoor skills and experiences Managing group records

If you have a large support team, the first thing you’ll want to do is meet with this group and discuss what brought each of you to Girl Scouts, review your strengths and skills, and talk about how you would like to work together as a team. You might also discuss:    

When important milestones will happen (Girl Scout cookie activities, field trips, travel plans, events, dates for other opportunities) and how long the planning process will take When and where to meet as a group of volunteers, if necessary Whether, when, where, and how often to hold parent/guardian meetings Whether an advance trip to a destination, event site, or camp needs to happen

Remember to call on your volunteer support team. This team can help you observe a meeting, assign you a buddy, help with registration forms, assist you with opening a bank account, plan your first meeting, and so on. Also plan to attend support meetings—usually held several times throughout the year—that provide excellent opportunities to learn from other volunteers.

Girl Scouts strives to provide you with the necessary information to successfully manage your group of girls and to let you know how and where you can get additional information on certain topics when you want to learn more. Volunteer learning is offered in a variety of ways to best meet your unique learning styles: written resources, face-to-face learning, interactive online learning—and additional methods are being developed and tested all the time.

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There’s a good chance you’ve already logged on to http://training.girlscouts.org to watch Girl Scouting 101 or Volunteering for Girl Scout Series and Events, our self-paced, online orientations to Girl Scouting. Those online sessions and Volunteer Essentials are designed to give you all of the information you need to start working with girls. They’re always available; think of them as references you can use whenever you need them.

Training is vital to the success of a Girl Scout Volunteer. Every potential adult volunteer of Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina is evaluated on their willingness and ability to take training for the position.

We offer courses that will give each individual a chance to grow in competency and skills. These courses should be taken with the expectation that they will help volunteers gain confidence in their abilities and understanding of Girl Scouts. There is a $5.00 non-refundable fee for training unless otherwise indicated.

1. Introduction to Girl Scouting: This is a required training for all prospective troop leaders/Co-Leaders. It must be taken prior to starting a new Girl Scout troop. It is facilitated by your Community Engagement Specialist or Volunteer Support Specialist at no cost and lasts approximately one hour.

2. Girl Scouting 101: This is a GSUSA required online training for all Leaders and Co-Leader. It gives an overview of Girl Leadership Experience, the National Girl Scout Program Portfolio, the Three Keys to Leadership as well as the Three Processes. This session takes approximately 45 minutes and needs to be completed before coming to Leadership Essentials. http://www.girlscoutsesc.org/adults/training/required-leadership-training.html 3. GSESC Leadership Essentials: Leaders and Co- Leaders are required to take Leadership Essentials training within one month of Introduction to Girl Scouting. This training covers information about GSUSA and GSESC. You will also learn about forms and other information that is needed to be a leader including Emergency Procedures.

4. Portfolios: (Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior and Ambassador) These workshops will show you how the Journeys and Girl Guide to Girl Scouting tie into one another as well as go over the different awards and recognitions. Take Action Projects will be covered in detail and leaders will learn how to “detour” and make the scouting year fun and exciting for the girls.

5. First Aid/CPR One adult with current certification in First Aid and CPR is required per troop. If you have a current card, please copy it and send/fax it to the North Charleston Service Center. Please be sure it is current.

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6. *** Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention offered through “Now Hear This” As of October 1st, 2014 we ask that all leaders and co-leaders take this training which covers all four forms of abuse. We do encourage everyone who works directly with girls (chaperones, troop committee members, parents) to take this training.

Children cannot be expected to protect themselves from child abuse. It is the responsibility of adults to be trained in child abuse awareness and prevention. This comprehensive training will empower you to become proactive and an advocate for children. You will learn about the four major types of child abuse: neglect, physical, emotional, and sexual; how to recognize the clues that children give us, the behavior typically shown by perpetrators, and how to make a report to the proper authorities when indicated. Children are safer when adults are educated in the signs of child abuse and neglect, and how to react to them. This training is registered with SCDSS Child Care Training System for 2.0 Professional Development contact hours.

7. Planning Trips with Girls: Prerequisite to the “Troop Camping” This is a required training for leaders or a registered adult who will be planning and attending trips with girls. Planning trips, staying in hotels, public building and self-contained buildings even at camp will be covered. “Safety Wise” Chapter IV in Volunteer Essentials and the Activity Checkpoints will be the main focus of this training along with information about making reservations at our sites. This training does not include fire skills.

8. Troop Camping Since every troop going camping must have at least one troop camper with them, this course is required for a least one adult registered with the troop. To be a troop camper, an adult must be present for the entire training, which teaches basic cooking, outdoor and fire skills. Troop Camping is required for any type of camping either on Girl Scout Property or at other locations. You will learn all the skills you need to teach your girls about the out of doors. It is highly recommended that each troop have a copy of the Outdoor Education in Girl Scouting book that is for sale in our Council Shops and at the training. If you are more than 30 minutes late for this training you will not be given credit, no exceptions.

10. Primitive Camping Is your troop ready for primitive camping? This training prepares you to take your troop camping in primitive settings. You will learn about site selection, storing your food, water purification, the basics of pit latrines, creating working surfaces by using lashing skills, and using instinct and previously learned skills. There is a mandatory meeting scheduled before this camping overnight and advanced preparations to complete.

Training Requirements *** You can now register for training online. http://gsusa.ebiz.uapps.net/vp/FamilyManagement/Activities/ActivityLanding.aspx You can search trainings by area, class, type of training (ie. Outdoor) etc.

Paper Training Registration Form found in the Forms Section of your Volunteer Essentials or on the GSESC Web page. You should register for each class on a separate Training Registration Form so accurate records can be maintained. The Training Registration Form (Forms Chapter, page 187) needs to be in the North Charleston Service Center at least one week (7 days) before the class unless otherwise indicated. Be sure to include appropriate fees. Registrations should be delivered or mailed to: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, 7257 Cross County Road, North Charleston, SC 29418 with payment; faxed to: 843-552-6221

***Note major changes 45

COSTS There is a $5.00 non-refundable registration fee for training unless otherwise indicated. All training fees cover the cost of materials and maintenance of the equipment.

Payment must be sent with the Training Registration Form (Forms Chapter, page 187). You will not be enrolled in a class without payment. If you have a question about your registration, please call your Volunteer Support Specialist.

Please do not fax a form without credit card information.

ATTENDANCE Please plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes ahead of time to park, find the training room, sign-in, and get settled. Class will begin at the scheduled time; if you are more than 15 minutes late you will not be given credit for the training. If you are not present for the entire training it is the up to the trainer to decide if you have met the requirements of the training. If you are more than 30 minutes late for Troop Camping or Primitive Camping, you will not be given credit for the training.

CONFIRMATIONS You will receive a confirmation email at least 24 hours prior to the training. It is therefore important to indicate a working email address on your Training Registration Form. You are welcome to call and confirm receipt of your Training Registration Form.

CANCELLATIONS/REFUNDS Should a session not have the minimum number of participants you will be notified of the cancellation.

If you are unable to attend, call your Volunteer Support Specialist immediately. We may have a waiting list of people who need training. No refunds are given with the exception for emergency situations.

WHAT TO BRING Please bring: Journey Books, Girls Guide to Girl Scouting, paper, pen/pencil, and your training card. Bring a lunch and drink if the course extends beyond the noon hour, or a snack and drink for shorter classes. Check course schedule for additional required supplies, i.e. Outdoor Education in Girl Scouting for Troop Camping & Primitive Camping.

CHILD CARE Childcare is not available during trainings. This is a great opportunity to use a troop committee member or a troop parent. Children, friends, and other family members should not come to training with you unless they are being trained as well.

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GSESC Training Calendar Girl Scouting 101 GSUSA designed this online training for all Leaders and Co-Leaders. It is a required training and has to be completed prior to attending Leadership Essentials. This training is about 45 minutes in length. Go to http://www.girlscoutsesc.org/training-info/required-leadership-training and select Girl Scouting 101. Since it is self-paced you can complete in one or several session.

Leadership Essentials

Who: Registered Girl Scout Leaders and Co-Leader Fee: $5 Deadline is 1 week (7days) before the class. Please use a Training Registration Form for this training.

Leadership Essentials is required training for all Leaders and Co-Leaders. The information covered will include contact information for staff, Volunteer Essentials, council policies and procedures, resources, forms and much more.

Date Sat. August 8th 2015 Sun. August 9th 2015 Tues. August 11th 2015 Thurs. August 13th 2015 Thurs. August 20th 2015 Thurs. August 20th 2015 Tues. August 25th 2015 Tues. September 8 th 2015 Tues. September 8 th 2015 Thurs. September 10 th 2015 Sat. September 12 th 2015 Sat. September 12 th 2015 Tues. September 15 th 2015 Tues. September 22 nd 2015 Tues. September 22 nd 2015 Sat. September 26 th 2015 Tues. November 10th 2015 Tues. November 10th 2015 Thurs. November 12th 2015 Thurs. November 12th 2015 Sat. November 14th 2015 Sat. November 14th 2015 Tues. December 8th 2015 Thurs. December 10th 2015 Sat. December 12th 2015 Sun. December 13th 2015

Time 9am-12pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 9am-12pm 9am-12pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 9am-12pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 9am-12pm 1pm-4pm

Place Florence Service Center Myrtle Beach Service Center Stallsville UMC Summerville Charleston Service Center Charleston Service Center Myrtle Beach Service Center Stallsville UMC Summerville Stallsville UMC Summerville John Wesley UMC West Ashley Charleston Service Center Grace Coastal Church Okatie Florence Service Center Myrtle Beach Service Center Stallsville UMC Summerville Grace Coastal Church Okatie Christ Our King Mt Pleasant Stallsville UMC Summerville John Wesley UMC West Ashley Myrtle Beach Service Center Charleston Service Center Florence Service Center Beaufort TBA Stallsville UMC Summerville Charleston Service Center Florence Service Center Myrtle Beach Service Center 47

Reg. Deadline Thurs. July 30th Mon. August 3rd Tues. August 4th Thurs. August 6th Thurs. August 13th Thurs. August 13th Tues. August 18th Tues. September 1st Tues. September 1 st Thurs. September 3 rd Thurs. September 3 rd Thurs. September 3 rd Tues. September 8 th Tues. September 15 th Tues. September 15 th Thurs. September 15 th Tues. November 3rd Tues. November 3rd Thurs. November 5th Thurs. November 5th Thurs. November 5th Thurs. November 5th Tues. December 1st Thurs. December 3rd Thurs. December 3rd Mon. December 7th

Thurs. December 17th 2015 Sat. January 9th 2016 Sat. January 9th 2016 Sat. January 9th 2016 Tues. January 12th 2016 Thurs. January 14th 2016 Tues. January 19th 2016 Tues. January 26th 2016 Tues. February 9th 2016 Tues. February 9th 2016 Thurs. February 11 th 2016 Thurs. February 11 th 2016 Sat. February 13 th 2016 Thurs. March 10th 2016 Sat. March 12th 2016 Tues. March 15th 2016 Tues. March 22nd 2016 Sat. March 26th 2016 Sat. April 9th 2016 Tues. April 12th 2016 Thurs. April 14th 2016 Sat. April 16th 2016 Tues. April 26th 2016 Tues. May 10th 2016 Thurs. May 12th 2016 Sat. May 14th 2016 Tues. May 25th 2016 Thurs. June 9th 2016 Sat. June 11th 2016 Tues. June 21st 2016 Thurs. July 14th 2016 Sat. July 16th 2016 Tues. July 26th 2016

6pm-9pm 9am-12pm 9am-12pm 9am-12pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 9am-12pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 9am-12pm 9am-12pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 9am-12pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 9am-12pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 9am-12pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 9am-12pm 6pm-9pm

Charleston Service Center Florence Service Center Christ Our King Mt Pleasant Beaufort TBA Stallsville UMC Summerville Charleston Service Center Myrtle Beach Service Center Stallsville UMC Summerville Stallsville UMC Summerville John Wesley UMC West Ashley Charleston Service Center Myrtle Beach Service Center Florence Service Center Charleston Service Center Florence Service Center Myrtle Beach Service Center Stallsville UMC Summerville Christ Our King Mt Pleasant Florence Service Center Stallsville UMC Summerville Charleston Service Center Christ Our King Mt Pleasant Stallsville UMC Summerville Stallsville UMC Summerville Charleston Service Center Florence Service Center Stallsville UMC Summerville Charleston Service Center Florence Service Center Stallsville UMC Summerville Charleston Service Center Florence Service Center Stallsville UMC Summerville

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Thurs. December 10th Mon. January 4th Mon. January 4th Mon. January 4th Tues. January 5th Thurs. January 7th Tues. January 12th Tues. January 19th Tues. February 2nd Tues. February 2nd Thurs. February 4th Thurs. February 4th Thurs. February 4th Thurs. March 3rd Thurs. March 3rd Tues. March 8th Tues. March 15th Thurs. March 17th Thurs. March 31st Tues. April 5th Thurs. April 7th Thurs. April 7th Tues. April 19th Tues. May 3rd Thurs. May 5th Thurs. May 5th Tues. May 17th Thurs. June 2nd Thurs. June 2nd Tues. June 14th Thurs. July 7th Thurs. July 7th Tues. July 19th

Girl Scout Daisy Portfolio K5-1st grade Date Sat. August 8th 2015 Thurs. August 13th 2015 Thurs. August 20th 2015 Tues. September 8 th 2015 Sat. September 12 th 2015 Sat. September 12 th 2015 Sat. September 26 th 2015 Sat. October 3rd 2015 Sat. October 10th 2015 Tues. October 13th 2015 Thurs. October 15th 2015 Thurs. November 12th 2015 Sat. November 14th 2015 Sat. November 14th 2015 Sat. December 12th 2015 Thurs. December 17th 2015 Sat. January 9th 2016 Sat. January 9th 2016 Tues. January 12th 2016 Thurs. January 21st 2016 Tues. February 9th 2016 Sat. February 13 th 2016 Thurs. February 18 th 2016 Sat. March 12th 2016 Thurs. March 17th 2016 Sat. April 9th 2016 Thurs. April 21st 2016 Sat. May 14th 2016 Thurs. May 19th 2016 Tues. May 24th 2016 Sat. June 11th 2016 Thurs. July 14th 2016 Sat. July 16th 2016

Time 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm

Who: Registered Girl Scout Leaders and Co-Leader Fee: $5 Deadline is 1 week (7days) before the class. Please use a Training Registration Form for this training.

Information covered includes The Girl Guide to Girl Scouting, Journey resources, parts of a meeting and recognitions.

Place Florence Service Center Charleston Service Center Myrtle Beach Service Center Stallsville UMC Summerville Grace Coastal Church Okatie Florence Service Center Christ Our King Mt Pleasant Grace Coastal Church Okatie Florence Service Center John Wesley UMC West Ashley Myrtle Beach Service Center Charleston Service Center Florence Service Center Beaufort TBA Florence Service Center Myrtle Beach Service Center Florence Service Center Beaufort TBA John Wesley UMC West Ashley Charleston Service Center Stallsville UMC Summerville Florence Service Center Myrtle Beach Service Center Florence Service Center Charleston Service Center Florence Service Center Myrtle Beach Service Center Florence Service Center Myrtle Beach Service Center Stallsville UMC Summerville Florence Service Center Charleston Service Center Florence Service Center

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Reg. Deadline Thurs. July 30th Thurs. August 6th Thurs. August 13th Tues. September 1 st Thurs. September 3 rd Thurs. September 3 rd Thurs. September 17 th Thurs. September 24 th Thurs. October 1st Tues. October 6th Thurs. October 8th Thurs. November 5th Thurs. November 5th Thurs. November 5th Thurs. December 3rd Thurs. December 10 th Mon. January 4th Mon. January 4th Tues. January 5th Thurs. January 14th Tues. February 2nd Thurs. February 4th Thurs. February 11th Thurs. March 3rd Thurs. March 10th Thurs. March 31st Thurs. April 14th Thurs. May 5th Thurs. May 12th Tues. May 17th Thurs. June 2nd Thurs. July 7th Thurs. July 7th

Girl Scout Brownie Portfolio 2nd-3rd grade Date Sat. August 8th 2015 Thurs. August 13th 2015 Thurs. August 20th 2015 Tues. September 8 th 2015 Sat. September 12 th 2015 Sat. September 12 th 2015 Sat. September 26 th 2015 Sat. October 3rd 2015 Sat. October 10th 2015 Tues. October 13th 2015 Thurs. October 15th 2015 Thurs. November 12th 2015 Sat. November 14th 2015 Sat. November 14th 2015 Sat. December 12th 2015 Thurs. December 17th 2015 Sat. January 9th 2016 Sat. January 9th 2016 Tues. January 12th 2016 Thurs. January 21st 2016 Tues. February 9th 2016 Sat. February 13 th 2016 Thurs. February 18 th 2016 Sat. March 12th 2016 Thurs. March 17th 2016 Sat. April 9th 2016 Thurs. April 21st 2016 Sat. May 14th 2016 Thurs. May 19th 2016 Tues. May 24th 2016 Sat. June 11th 2016 Thurs. July 14th 2016 Sat. July 16th 2016

Time 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm

Who: Registered Girl Scout Leaders and Co-Leader Fee: $5 Deadline is 1 week (7days) before the class. Please use a Training Registration Form for this training.

Information covered includes The Girl Guide to Girl Scouting, Journey resources, parts of a meeting and recognitions.

Place Reg. Deadline Florence Service Center Thurs. July 30th Charleston Service Center Thurs. August 6th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. August 13th Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. September 1 st Grace Coastal Church Okatie Thurs. September 3 rd Florence Service Center Thurs. September 3 rd Christ Our King Mt Pleasant Thurs. September 17 th Grace Coastal Church Okatie Thurs. September 24 th Florence Service Center Thurs. October 1st John Wesley UMC West Ashley Tues. October 6th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. October 8th Charleston Service Center Thurs. November 5th Florence Service Center Thurs. November 5th Beaufort TBA Thurs. November 5th Florence Service Center Thurs. December 3rd Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. December 10 th Florence Service Center Mon. January 4th Beaufort TBA Mon. January 4th John Wesley UMC West Ashley Tues. January 5th Charleston Service Center Thurs. January 14th Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. February 2nd Florence Service Center Thurs. February 4th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. February 11 th Florence Service Center Thurs. March 3rd Charleston Service Center Thurs. March 10th Florence Service Center Thurs. March 31st Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. April 14th Florence Service Center Thurs. May 5th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. May 12th Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. May 17th Florence Service Center Thurs. June 2nd Charleston Service Center Thurs. July 7th Florence Service Center Thurs. July 7th

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Girl Scout Junior Portfolio 4th-5th grade

Date Sat. August 8th 2015 Tues. August 25th 2015 Thurs. September 10 th 2015 Sat. September 12 th 2015 Sat. September 12th 2015 Thurs. September 17 th 2015 Sat. October 3rd 2015 Sat. October 10th 2015 Tues. November 10th 2015 Sat. November 14th 2015 Sat. November 14th 2015 Thurs. November 19th 2015 Tues. December 8th 2015 Thurs. December 10th 2015 Sat. December 12th 2015 Sat. January 9th 2016 Sat. January 9th 2016 Sat. January 9th 2016 Thurs. January 21st 2016 Thurs. February 11 th 2016 Sat. February 13 th 2016 Sat. March 12th 2016 Thurs. March 17th 2016 Sat. April 9th 2016 Tues. April 12th 2016 Thurs. April 21st 2016 Sat. May 14th 2016 Thurs. May 19th 2016 Thurs. June 9th 2016 Sat. June 11th 2016 Tues. June 21st 2016 Sat. July 16th 2016 Tues. July 26th 2016

Time 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm

Who: Registered Girl Scout Leaders and Co-Leader Fee: $5 Deadline is 1 week (7days) before the class. Please use a Training Registration Form for this training.

Information covered includes The Girl Guide to Girl Scouting, Journey resources, parts of a meeting, the Girl Scout Bronze Award and other recognitions.

Place Reg. Deadline Florence Service Center Thurs. July 30th Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. August 18th Charleston Service Center Thurs. September 3 rd Grace Coastal Church Okatie Thurs. September 3 rd Florence Service Center Thurs. September 3 rd Charleston Service Center Thurs. September 10 th Grace Coastal Church Okatie Thurs. September 24 th Florence Service Center Thurs. October 1st Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. November 3rd Beaufort TBA Thurs. November 5th Florence Service Center Thurs. November 5th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. November 12 th Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. December 1st Charleston Service Center Thurs. December 3rd Florence Service Center Thurs. December 3rd Christ Our King Mt Pleasant Mon. January 4th Beaufort TBA Mon. January 4th Florence Service Center Mon. January 4th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. January 14th Charleston Service Center Thurs. February 4th Florence Service Center Thurs. February 4th Florence Service Center Thurs. March 3rd Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. March 10th Florence Service Center Thurs. March 31st Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. April 5th Charleston Service Center Thurs. April 14th Florence Service Center Thurs. May 5th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. May 12th Charleston Service Center Thurs. June 2nd Florence Service Center Thurs. June 2nd Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. June 14th Florence Service Center Thurs. July 7th Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. July 19th

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Girl Scout Cadette Portfolio 6th-8th grade

th

Sat. August 8 Thurs. August 27th Sat. September 12 th Sat. September 12th Tues. September 22 nd Sat. October 3rd Thurs. October 8th Sat. October 10th Tues. October 27th Sat. November 14th Sat. November 14th Sat. December 12th Sat. January 9th Sat. January 9th Tues. January 26th Sat. February 13 th Thurs. March 10th Sat. March 12th Sat. April 9th Thurs. April 14th Tues. April 26th Sat. May 14th Sat. June 11th Sat. July 16th

Date 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016

Time 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm

Who: Registered Girl Scout Leaders and Co-Leader Fee: $5 Deadline is 1 week (7days) before the class. Please use a Training Registration Form for this training.

Information covered includes The Girl Guide to Girl Scouting, Journey resources, parts of a meeting, Girl Scout Silver Award, and destinations.

Place Reg. Deadline Florence Service Center Thurs. July 30th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. August 20th Grace Coastal Church Okatie Thurs. September 3 rd Florence Service Center Thurs. September 3 rd Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. September 15 th Grace Coastal Church Okatie Thurs. September 24 th Charleston Service Center Thurs. October 1st Florence Service Center Thurs. October 1st Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. October 20 th Beaufort TBA Thurs. November 5th Florence Service Center Thurs. November 5th Florence Service Center Thurs. December 3rd Florence Service Center Mon. January 4th Beaufort TBA Mon. January 4th Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. January 19th Florence Service Center Thurs. February 4th Charleston Service Center Thurs. March 3rd Florence Service Center Thurs. March 3rd Florence Service Center Thurs. March 31st Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. April 7th Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. April 19th Florence Service Center Thurs. May 5th Florence Service Center Thurs. June 2nd Florence Service Center Thurs. July 7th

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Senior/ Ambassador Portfolio 9th-12th grade Date Sat. August 8th 2015 Sat. September 12 th 2015 Sat. September 12 th 2015 Tues. September 22 nd 2015 Thurs. September 24 th 2015 Sat. October 3rd 2015 Thurs. October 8th 2015 Sat. October 10th 2015 Sat. November 14th 2015 Sat. November 14th 2015 Thurs. November 19th 2015 Sat. December 12th 2015 Sat. January 9th 2016 Sat. January 9th 2016 Sat. February 13 th 2016 Thurs. March 10th 2016 Sat. March 12th 2016 Thurs. March 17th 2016 Sat. April 9th 2016 Tues. April 26th 2016 Sat. May 14th 2016 Sat. June 11th 2016 Sat. July 16th 2016

Time 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm

Registered Girl Scout Leaders and Co-Leader $5 Deadline is 1 week (7days) before the class. Please use a Training Registration Form for this training.

Information covered includes The Girl Guide to Girl Scouting, Journey resources, parts of a meeting, Girl Scout Gold Award, and destinations.

Place Reg. Deadline Florence Service Center Thurs. July 30th Grace Coastal Church Okatie Thurs. September 3 rd Florence Service Center Thurs. September 3 rd Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. September 15 th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. September 17 th Grace Coastal Church Okatie Thurs. September 24 th Charleston Service Center Thurs. October 1st Florence Service Center Thurs. October 1st Beaufort TBA Thurs. November 5th Florence Service Center Thurs. November 5th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. November 12th Florence Service Center Thurs. December 3rd Florence Service Center Mon. January 4th Beaufort TBA Mon. January 4th Florence Service Center Thurs. February 4th Charleston Service Center Thurs. March 3rd Florence Service Center Thurs. March 3rd Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. March 10th Florence Service Center Thurs. March 31st Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. April 19th Florence Service Center Thurs. May 5th Florence Service Center Thurs. June 2nd Florence Service Center Thurs. July 7th

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Planning Trips With Girls (Prerequisite for Troop Camping) Date Sun. August 9th 2015 Tues. August 11th 2015 Sat. September 12 th 2015 Sat. September 12 th 2015 Thurs. September 17 th 2015 Thurs. September 17 th 2015 Sat. October 3rd 2015 Tues. October 6th 2015 Sat. October 10th 2015 Tues. October 13th 2015 Thurs. October 22nd 2015 Sat. October 24th 2015 Sat. November 14th 2015 Tues. November 17th 2015 Thurs. November 19th 2015 Tues. December 8th 2015 Thurs. December 17th 2015 Sat. January 9th 2016 Sat. January 9th 2016 Tues. January 12th 2016 Thurs. January 14th 2016 Thurs. January 21st 2016 Sat. February 13 th 2016 Thurs. February 18 th 2016 Tues. February 23 rd 2016 Sat. March 12th 2016 Tues. March 22nd 2016 Thurs. March 24th 2016 Sat. March 26th 2016 Sat. April 9th 2016 Thurs. April 14th 2016 Sat. April 16th 2016 Thurs. April 21st 2016 Tues. May 10th 2016

Time 4pm-7pm 6pm-9pm 9am-12pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 9am-12pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 9am-12pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm 6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm

Who: Registered Girl Scout Leaders and Co-Leader Fee: $5 Deadline is 1 week (7days) before the class. Please use a Training Registration Form for this training.

Planning trips, staying in hotels, public building and self-contained buildings even at camp will be covered. “Safety Wise� Chapter IV in VE will be covered of this training along with information about Sandy Ridge.

Place Reg. Deadline Myrtle Beach Service Center Mon. August 3rd Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. August 4th Grace Coastal Church Okatie Thurs. September 3 rd Florence Service Center Thurs. September 3 rd Charleston Service Center Thurs. September 10 th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. September 10 th Grace Coastal Church Okatie Thurs. September 24 th Grace Coastal Church Okatie Tues. September 29th Florence Service Center Thurs. October 1st Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. October 6th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. October 15 th Christ Our King Mt Pleasant Thurs. October 15 th Beaufort TBA Thurs. November 5th Myrtle Beach Service Center Tues. November 10 th Charleston Service Center Thurs. November 12 th John Wesley UMC West Ashley Tues. December 1st Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. December 10 th Florence Service Center Mon. January 4th Beaufort TBA Mon. January 4th Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. January 5th Charleston Service Center Thurs. January 7th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. January 14th Florence Service Center Thurs. February 4th Charleston Service Center Thurs. February 11 th Myrtle Beach Service Center Tues. February 16 th Florence Service Center Thurs. March 3rd Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. March 15th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. March 17th Christ Our King Mt Pleasant Thurs. March 17th Florence Service Center Thurs. March 31st Charleston Service Center Thurs. April 7th Christ Our King Mt Pleasant Thurs. April 7th Myrtle Beach Service Center Thurs. April 14th Stallsville UMC Summerville Tues. May 3rd 54

Thurs. May 12th 2016 Tues. May 17th 2016 Sat. June 11th 2016

6pm-9pm 6pm-9pm 1pm-4pm

Charleston Service Center Myrtle Beach Service Center Florence Service Center

Thurs. May 5th Tues. May 10th Thurs. June 2nd

Who: Registered Girl Scout Leaders and Co-Leader Fee: $35 Troop Deadline is 2 weeks (14days) before the class. Please Camping use a Training Registration Form for this training.

(Prerequisite for this Anyone who is registering for Troop Camping must training is Planning Trips have already completed Planning Trips with Girls. with Girls) Participants must be present for the entire course.

All components of this training are essential and must be covered thoroughly. If you are more than 30 minutes late for these trainings you will not be given credit. All participants must be registered Girl Scouts.

Learn the basics of Troop Camping which includes different types of heat sources to use, cooking, knots, care of equipment, including tents, policy and procedures, progression of different skills, and other entry-level skills as well. Come, enjoy learning with others and share songs and s’mores at the campfire. This is an overnight experience. You will be sleeping in tents or cabins and it sometimes gets very cool. Please watch the weather reports. We do not cancel for weather. Be sure and eat before arriving at camp or bring your dinner with you. Check in is from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and training will start promptly at 7 p.m. This training session will end Sat. by 7 p.m. You will receive a confirmation and packing list 1 week prior to the training. Please check e-mail before you leave for camp for any last minute updates.

Date Time Place Reg. Deadline Fri. September 25 th-26th 2015 7pm-7pm James Island County Park Thurs. September 10 th Fri. October 16th-17th 2015 7pm-7pm Santee State Park Thurs. October 1st rd th Fri. October 23 -24 2015 7pm-7pm Sandy Ridge Thurs. October 8th

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Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Training Date Tues. September 15 th 2015 Thurs. September 24 th 2015 Thurs. October 8th 2015 Tues. October 20th 2015 Tues. November 10th 2015 Tues. November 17th 2015 Tues. January 12th 2016 Thurs. January 28th 2016 Tues. February 9th 2016 Thurs. March 10th 2016 Tues. April 19th 2016 Thurs. April 28th 2016 Tues. May 3rd 2016

Time 6pm-8pm 6pm-8pm 6pm-8pm 6pm-8pm 6pm-8pm 6pm-8pm 6pm-8pm 6pm-8pm 6pm-8pm 6pm-8pm 6pm-8pm 6pm-8pm 6pm-8pm

Who: Required for all registered Girl Scout Leaders and Co-Leader Fee: $5 Deadline is 1 week (7days) before the class. Please use a Training Registration Form for this training.

You will learn about the four major types of child abuse: physical, sexual, emotional, and neglect; how to recognize the clues and how to make a report to the proper authorities when indicated.

Place Reg. Deadline Charleston Service Center Tues. September 8 th Grace Coastal Church Okatie Thurs. September 17 th Kroger, Carolina Forest MB Thurs. October 1st Orangeburg TBA Thurs. October 13 th Florence Service Center Tues. November 3rd Beaufort TBA Tues. November 10 th Kroger, Carolina Forest MB Tues. January 5th Charleston Service Center Thurs. January 21st Beaufort TBA Tues. February 2nd Florence Service Center Thurs. March 3rd Charleston Service Center Tues. April 5th Myrtle Beach TBA Thurs. April 21st Florence Service Center Tues. April 26th

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Whatever your volunteer position, your hard work means the world to girls, to your council staff, and to Girl Scouts of the USA. We’re calling on all members of society to help girls reach their full potential, and you’ve answered that call. So thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.

Just as you’ll receive support throughout your volunteering experience, when you reach the end of the term you signed up for, you’ll talk with your support team about the positive parts of your experience, as well as the challenges you faced, and discuss whether you want to return to this position or try something new. The end of your troop year, camp season, overseas trip, or series/event session is just the beginning of your next adventure with Girl Scouting!

If you’re ready for more opportunities to work with girls, be sure to let your council support team know how you’d like to be a part of girls’ lives in the future—whether in the same position or in other, flexible ways. Are you ready to organize a series or event? take a trip? work with girls at camp? work with a troop of girls as a year-long volunteer? share your skills at a council office, working behind the scenes? The possibilities are endless, and can be tailored to fit your skills and interests.

You can find the Adult Recognitions Forms in the Forms Section pgs. 166-173.

Volunteer Appreciation Week—the third week in April—is set aside especially for you. Girl Scouts pay tribute to the volunteers who help girls make the world a better place. The week centers on the longstanding National Girl Scout Leaders’ Day (April 22).

In addition, Girl Scouts also celebrates Volunteers Make a Difference Week, in conjunction with Make a Difference Day, which takes place during the weekend in autumn that we set our clocks back.

Guidelines for Submitting Nominations for Adult Recognitions Each Service Unit needs to elect an Adult Recognitions Committee of at least 3 people depending on the size of your Service Unit. This committee needs to ensure that all Service Unit recognition nomination forms are filled out completely and submitted by the October 31st deadline***. This means as long as it is postmarked by October 31st it will be considered. All paperwork needs to be typed/printed and submitted complete. Recognitions Forms can be found in the Forms Chapter of Volunteer Essentials.

Reminder: Applications without the correct number of letters of endorsement will not be considered for review. The person submitting the nomination will be notified that the form was not complete.

Letter of Endorsement: A letter of endorsement provides detailed information about what the nominee has done to be recognized and also how this person went beyond the expectations of the position(s) held. This should be a formal letter, typed so it can be read easily.

Each Service Unit can submit two (2) nominations for Rookie of the Year, and as many as qualify for the Volunteer of Excellence. Please be sure that your nominee meets all of the requirements for the recognition you are submitting them for. If you have any questions contact your Volunteer Support Specialist.

All other recognitions are Board approved recognitions. They will be reviewed by a volunteer Council Adult Recognitions Committee and either recommended to the Board for approval or denied based on the criteria. Please ensure that nomination forms are completely filled out and that each *** NOTE MAJOR CHANGE 57

nominee meets the requirements for the recognition they are being nominated for. These forms are not reviewed before they go to the Committee.

Remember there is progression with the adult recognition just like our girl recognitions. Awards are not cumulative and each recognition should stand on its own. Usually it will take at least a year or more for an individual to earn a second recognition if the criteria is followed. Each recognition can only be earned once.

The recognitions are listed following the progression they should be awarded in.

Numeral Guards Numeral Guards are awarded to eligible adults in increments of five years (5; 10; 15; 20; …) and recognize years of girl and adult membership with GSUSA. Numeral Guards are presented at the Council Adult Recognition event only.

Volunteer Years of Service The Years of Service pin recognizes an adult member registered with GSUSA for her/his years of active volunteer service at five-year intervals (5; 10; 15; 20; …). Volunteer Years of Service pins are presented at the Council Adult Recognition event only.

Best Practices The Best Practice initiative is designed to recognize extraordinary programming for girls at the Troop and Service Unit level. There are four categories each: Community Action, Educational Adventures, Special Celebrations and Girl Scout Spirit. 1st, 2nd and 3rd place certificates will be awarded. Troop Best Practices are not reviewed by the Service Unit Adult Recognitions Committee. Submit your nomination directly to the North Charleston Service Center by October 31st for review by the Council Adult Recognition Committee. Please do not submit a repeat event or program. A Troop and/or Service Unit may only submit one (1) event or activity for consideration in each category.

Service Unit Approved Awards: Rookie of the Year Pin The Rookie of the Year pin recognizes the time, effort and dedication put forth by the leaders and /or Co-Leaders for their first year of service. Each Service Unit can submit 2 nominations.

Criteria          

The nominee is an active, registered adult Girl Scout.

All necessary paperwork is on file with Council (Volunteer Application, References, Job Agreement).

The nominee has successfully completed all the training requirements for the position held (Introduction to Girl Scouting, Girl Scouting 101 and Leadership Essentials, CAAP).

The nominee ensured that at least one adult is trained in the troop required trainings (, First Aid/CPR, Planning Trips with Girls) At least 5 girls, a Leader, Co-Leader and three (3) Committee Members are registered with the troop.

Completed one additional training or workshop (i.e. First Aid/CPR, Troop Camping, Grade Level Portfolio).

Participated in at least one council product sale.

Participated as a troop in a Service Unit and/or Council sponsored event.

Participated in at least one Take Action Project.

Troop had representation at a minimum of three (3) Service Unit Meeting.

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Nomination A nomination form is completed and submitted to the Service Unit Recognition Committee, along with supporting documentation indicating how the nominee meets the criteria. Two (2) letters of endorsement must accompany the nomination form. The recognition committee reviews the nomination documentation, than approves or denies it. The Service Unit Recognition Committee sends notification of the decision to the council for confirmation.

The Volunteer of Excellence Pin This pin recognizes volunteers who have contributed outstanding service while partnering directly with girls in any pathway to implement the Girl Scout Leadership Experience through use of the National Program Portfolio or who have contributed outstanding service in support of the council’s mission delivery to girl and adult members.

Criteria   

The nominee is an active, registered adult Girl Scout.

The nominee has successfully completed a term of service and all requirements for the position.

The nominee has performed beyond expectations for the position to deliver the GSLE to girls using the National Program Portfolio, or  The nominee’s performance has been beyond the expectations of the position and has supported the council’s mission-delivery goals in one or more of the following functional areas: Membership Development/Community Cultivation, Volunteer Relations and Support, Program, Leadership and Governance, Fund Development, and Council Support Service (such as IT, Customer Service, Merchandising, MarComm).  The nominee actively recognizes, understands, and practices the values of inclusive behavior.

Nomination A nomination form is completed and submitted to the Service Unit Recognition Committee, along with supporting documentation indicating how the nominee meets the criteria. Two (2) letters of endorsement must accompany the nomination form. The recognition committee reviews the nomination documentation, than approves or denies it. The Service Unit Recognition Committee sends notification of the decision to the council for confirmation.

Board Approved Awards: The Clara Keithler Pin The Clara Keithler Pin is presented to one individual for outstanding operational support. Clara Keithler was a volunteer for over 30 years with Girl Scouts of Carolina Low Country. She was a volunteer who was always there to lend a helping hand wherever needed.

Criteria  The nominee is an active, registered adult Girl Scout.  The nominee has successfully completed a term of service and all requirements for the position.  The nominee has worked for at least 3 years on a Service Unit Team or a Council Committee.

Nomination A nomination form is completed and submitted to the Council’s Adult Recognition Committee, along with supporting documentation indicating how the nominee meets the criteria. Two (2) letters of endorsement must accompany the nomination form. The recognition committee reviews the nomination documentation, then approves or denies it. The recognition committee sends notification of the decision to the council’s Board of Directors for confirmation.

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The Appreciation Pin The Appreciation Pin recognizes an individual’s exemplary service in support of delivering the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE). This service, which has had measurable impact on at least one geographic area of service, helps the council reach and surpass its mission-delivery goals for that area.

Criteria  

The nominee is an active, registered adult Girl Scout.

The service performed by the nominee is above and beyond the expectations for the position held, and made an impact in one or more geographic areas within the council’s jurisdiction.

Nomination A nomination form is completed and submitted to the Council’s Adult Recognition Committee, along with supporting documentation indicating how the nominee meets the criteria. Two (2) letters of endorsement must accompany the nomination form. The recognition committee reviews the nomination documentation, then approves or denies it. The recognition committee sends notification of the decision to the council’s Board of Directors for confirmation.

The Honor Pin The Honor Pin recognizes an individual’s exemplary service in support of delivering the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE), which has had measurable impact on two or more geographic areas of service, allowing the council to reach and surpass its mission-delivery goals.

Criteria  The nominee is an active, registered adult Girl Scout.  The service performed by the nominee is above and beyond the expectations for the position held and made an impact on two or more geographic areas within the council’s jurisdiction.

Nomination A nomination form is completed and submitted to the Council’s Adult Recognition Committee, along with supporting documentation indicating how the nominee meets the criteria. Three (3) letters of endorsement must accompany the nomination form. The recognition committee reviews the nomination documentation, then approves or denies it. The recognition committee sends notification of the decision to the council’s Board of Directors for confirmation.

Palmetto Pin The Palmetto Pin recognizes an individual who has delivered outstanding service benefiting the entire council.

Criteria  

The nominee is an active, registered adult Girl Scout.

The service performed by the nominee is above and beyond the expectations for the position held, and furthered the entire council’s goals.

Nomination A nomination form is completed and submitted to the Council’s Adult Recognition Committee, along with supporting documentation indicating how the nominee meets the criteria. Three (3) letters of endorsement must accompany the nomination form. The recognition committee reviews the nomination documentation, then approves or denies it. The recognition committee sends notification of the decision to the council’s Board of Directors for confirmation.

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Volunteer of the Year The Volunteer of the Year recognizes one individual, who has already earned the Palmetto Pin, for continued outstanding service to the entire council, with special focus on the membership year prior to the nomination.

Criteria   

The nominee is an active, registered adult Girl Scout.

The nominee has received the Palmetto Pin. The service performed by the nominee is above and beyond the expectations for the position held, and furthered the entire council’s goals.

Nomination A nomination form is completed and submitted to the Council’s Adult Recognition Committee, along with supporting documentation indicating how the nominee meets the criteria. Three (3) letters of endorsement must accompany the nomination form. The recognition committee reviews the nomination documentation, then approves or denies it. The recognition committee sends notification of the decision to the council’s Board of Directors for confirmation.

The Thanks Badge The Thanks Badge honors an individual whose ongoing commitment, leadership, and service have had an exceptional, measurable impact on meeting the mission-delivery goals and priorities of the entire council or the entire Girl Scout Movement.

Criteria  

The nominee is an active, registered adult Girl Scout.

The outstanding service performed by the nominee resulted in outcomes that benefitted the total council or the entire Girl Scout organization, and is so significantly above and beyond the call of duty that no other award would be appropriate.

Nomination A nomination form is completed and submitted to the Council’s Adult Recognition Committee, along with supporting documentation indicating how the nominee meets the criteria. Four (4) letters of endorsement must accompany the nomination form. The recognition committee reviews the nomination documentation, then approves or denies it. The recognition committee sends notification of the decision to the council’s Board of Directors for confirmation.

The Thanks Badge II The Thanks Badge II honors a previous Thanks Badge award recipient who has continued to provide exemplary service in a leadership role which resulted in a measurable impact benefitting the entire Girl Scout Movement.

Criteria   

The nominee is an active, registered adult Girl Scout.

The nominee has received the Thanks Badge.

The outstanding service performed by the nominee resulted in outcomes that benefitted the total council or the entire Girl Scout organization, and is so significantly above and beyond the call of duty that no other award would be appropriate.

Nomination A nomination form is completed and submitted to the Council’s Adult Recognition Committee, along with supporting documentation indicating how the nominee meets the criteria. Four (4) letters of endorsement must accompany the nomination form. The recognition committee reviews the nomination documentation, 61

then approves or denies it. The recognition committee sends notification of the decision to the council’s Board of Directors for confirmation.

“Juliette Spirit Award” This recognition is to honor one long serving individual of the Girl Scout Movement residing within the jurisdiction of Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina. The award consists of an appropriate certificate and a string of “Juliette’s Pearls”. These are the symbol of the pearls Juliette sold to keep Girl Scouting going during the Depression Era. Criteria   

The nominee is an active, registered adult Girl Scout.

The nominee has received all other Adult Recognitions that apply to the positions she/he has held.

Since receiving the other recognitions she/he has continued to serve GSESC continuously over an extended period of time.

Nomination A nomination form is completed and submitted to the Council’s Adult Recognition Committee, along with supporting documentation indicating how the nominee meets the criteria. Four (4) letters of endorsement must accompany the nomination form. The recognition committee reviews the nomination documentation, then approves or denies it. The recognition committee sends notification of the decision to the council’s Board of Directors for confirmation.

The President’s Award The President’s Award recognizes the efforts of a service team, committee, or volunteer team whose exemplary service in support of delivering the Girl Scout Leadership Experience surpassed team goals and resulted in significant, measurable impact toward reaching the council’s overall goals.

Criteria   

All service-team members are registered Girl Scouts.

All service-team members have met all requirements and expectations of the positions held.

The service-delivery team has significantly contributed to meeting one or more of the council’s missiondelivery goals.  The service-delivery team reflects the diversity of the target audience or area it serves, in girl and adult membership, in all pathways offered.  The service-delivery team actively recognizes, understands, and practices the values of inclusive behavior.

Nomination A nomination form is completed and submitted to the Council’s Adult Recognition Committee, along with supporting documentation indicating how the nominee meets the criteria. The recognition committee reviews the nomination documentation, then approves or denies it.

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Now that you’re a Girl Scout volunteer, you belong to a network of more than 1 million adults who share an important commitment: preparing girls to lead successful lives. During your time as a volunteer, you’ll have fun, meet new people, and learn by doing alongside girls at every step.

The Girl Scout program—what girls do in Girl Scouting—is based on the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE), a national model that helps girls become leaders in their own lives and as they grow. No matter where girls live or what their age or background, as Girl Scouts they are part of a powerful, national experience. As they build leadership skills, they also develop lifelong friendships and earn meaningful awards, two of many treasured traditions in the sisterhood of Girl Scouting.

Girl Scouting guides girls to become leaders in their daily lives, their communities, and the world—helping them become the kind of person exemplified by the Girl Scout Law. When girls—as the Girl Scout Law states—are “honest and fair,” when they “use resources wisely,” and know how to be “courageous and strong,” they can be more successful in everything they do. It may start in school and on sports teams, but research shows that the courage, confidence, and character they develop as Girl Scouts follows them throughout their lives.

Girl Scouting has a practical approach to helping girls become leaders:   

When girls lead in their own lives, they Discover their values and the confidence to do what’s right. This helps girls act in ways that make us proud, no matter where they are.

When girls lead in their communities, they Connect as they learn how to work with other people. This helps them get along better with others, resolve conflicts, and do better on group projects at school.

When girls lead in the world, they Take Action to change the world for the better.

Starting as young Girl Scouts, girls learn how to see problems—such as a food pantry in need of donations or an elderly neighbor who could use a hand—and come up with a solution.

In other words: Discover + Connect + Take Action = Leadership. And everything you do with girls in Girl Scouting is aimed at giving them the benefits of these Three Keys to Leadership.

More details about the benefits (or outcomes) Girl Scouts offers girls can be found in Transforming Leadership Continued, available online at www.girlscouts.org/research/publications/gsoutcomes/transforming_leadership_continued.asp

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Top Reasons Why Girls Should Get Outdoors Findings from the 2014 More than S’mores Report*

1

Girls really enjoy outdoor activities in Girl Scouts.

2 3 4

Monthly outdoor exposure contributes to girls’ challenge seeking and problem solving.

Girl Scouts who get outdoors are twice as likely to connect with and care for the environment than non-Girl Scouts.

Girls of color and girls in lower socioeconomic backgrounds report even stronger benefits from outdoor experiences.

“It was my first time on the water, in a lake. I was scared at first but when I st arted to paddle I got the hang of it .

I really loved it.”

10-year-old Girl Scout , Missouri

Because of Girl Scout s…

71% 48%

71% 29%

of girls tried anoutdoor activity for the first time.

of girls improved an outdoor skill.

of girls helped other girls do an outdoor activity.

of girls overcame a fear of an outdoor activity.

St art t he fun now! girlscout s.org/join *More Than S’mores, a 2014 study by the Girl Scout Research Institute, talked to nearly 3,000 Girl Scouts in fourth-through-eighth-grade.

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I Can’t Wait To is a multi-year campaign that focuses on getting the fun of Girl Scouts into the lives of young girls (K–5), their parents and caregivers, and you, the volunteer. We are heading into the second year of I Can’t Wait To, and the promotions, games, and contests keep coming.

Your council will be in touch with you and other volunteers about what is happening locally with this campaign, so keep an eye out!

At Girl Scouts, we know that when girls are given the opportunity, they change their world.

Every girl has an important role to play, and every girl deserves the confidence to achieve anything she sets her sight on. But we need help to ensure that girls in every U.S. zip code develop the confidence that Girl Scouts nurtures. That's why we've launched ToGetHerThere, the largest fundraising campaign for girls in history.

ToGetHerThere is a Movement wide fundraising campaign with the goal of raising $1 billion for girls by 2020. Every gift to every Girl Scout Council counts toward the goal. Together, we will get her there - to help lead her troop, her family, her community, her company, her country, and her world. To learn more about joining the largest campaign for girls visit girlscouts.org/invest.

Girl Scouting isn’t just about what we do; it’s also about how we do it. Over time, we’ve noticed that girls will give almost any activity a try, as long as the adults guiding them take the right approach. Girl Scout activities ask adult volunteers to engage girls in three ways that make Girl Scouting unique from school and other extracurricular activities: 

Girl-led: Girls of every grade level take an active role in determining what, where, when, why, and how they’ll structure activities. Of course, you’ll provide guidance appropriate to the age of the girls. Plus, you’ll encourage them to bring their ideas and imaginations into the experiences, make choices, and lead the way as much as they can.



Learning by doing: This means that girls have active, hands-on experiences. It also means they have a chance to think and talk about what they are learning as a result of the activities.

This kind of reflection is what helps girls gain self-awareness and confidence to dive into new challenges. So make sure girls always have a chance to talk with each other—and you—after an activity. It doesn’t have to be formal, just get them talking and see what happens.



Cooperative learning: Girls learn so much about themselves and each other when they team up on common goals. Plus, great teamwork helps girls in school now and on the job later.

Look for ways to help each girl contribute her unique talents and ideas to the team, help all girls see how their differences are valuable to the team, and coach girls to resolve their 65

conflicts productively.

We call these three methods “processes.” You might be wondering how to put these processes into action with the girls in your group. These steps should help you get started: 1. After you help girls choose a National Leadership Journey (there’s more information about those later in this chapter), make sure you get the adult guide that accompanies the Journey.

As you read through that guide, look at how the activities, conversations, and choice-making options are set up using the three processes. Once you start practicing the processes, you’ll probably find that they become second nature when you’re with girls.

2. If you haven’t already, watch Girl Scouting 101, our online introduction to volunteering with Girl Scouts. (Contact your council for the password.) If you’ve already watched Girl Scouting 101, you may want to review its “What Girl Scouts Do” section to brush up on the processes.

3. Want more detail about the processes? Take a look at the examples in Transforming Leadership Continued, available online at www.girlscouts.org/research/publications/gsoutcomes/transforming_leadership_continued.asp.

One last tip about using the processes: The girls’ time in Girl Scouting isn’t a to-do list, so please don’t ever feel that checking activities off a list is more important than tuning in to what interests and excites girls and sparks their imaginations. Projects don’t have to come out perfectly, and girls don’t have to fill their vests and sashes with badges; what matters most is the fun and learning that happens as girls make experiences their own.

You’ll use several books, awards, and online resources to bring the Girl Scout Leadership Experience to life with girls. We strongly recommend that each girl has her own books from the National Program Portfolio. These books—the Journeys and The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting—and national program awards—like badges and pins—are an important part of how Girl Scouting helps girls experience the power of millions of girls changing the world together.

As you use the National Program Portfolio with girls, keep in mind that Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) creates materials to serve our vast and diverse community of girls. To help bring topics off the page and into life, we sometimes provide girls and volunteers with suggestions about what people across the country and around the world are doing. We also sometimes make suggestions about movies, books, music, websites, and more that might spark girls’ interests.

At GSUSA, we know that not every example or suggestion we provide will work for every girl, family, volunteer, or community. In partnership with those who assist you with your Girl Scout group— including parents, faith groups, schools, and community organizations—we trust you to choose reallife topic experts from your community as well as movies, books, music, websites, and other opportunities that are most appropriate for the girls in your area to enrich their Girl Scout activities.

We are proud to be the premier leadership organization for girls. While girls and their families may have questions or interest in programming relevant to other aspects of girls’ lives, we are not always the organization best suited to offer such information. Your council can recommend local organizations or resources that are best suited to do so.

Also note that GSUSA continuously reviews national program content to guarantee that all our resources are relevant and age appropriate, and that their content doesn’t include violence, sex, inappropriate language, or risky behavior. We value your input and hope that you will bring to your council’s attention any content that concerns you.

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National Leadership Journeys help Girl Scouts learn and practice the Three Keys, aid their communities, and earn leadership awards, progressing up Girl Scouting’s Ladder of Leadership as they do so. There are three series of Leadership Journeys, each about a different theme; the girls in your group can choose the theme that interests them most.

After the girls choose a Journey, spend an hour or two reading the companion adult guide. It’ll give you a feel for how to bring the Journey to life, and you’ll get ideas for the steps girls will take (with your support) to earn their leadership awards. Don’t worry; you don’t have to be any kind of expert to do a Leadership Journey with girls. You just need to be willing to dive in and enjoy the learning-by-doing experience with them.

Each Journey adult guide contains sample plans that you can customize to fit the needs of your group, whether you guide a troop, volunteer at a Girl Scout camp, mentor girls on a travel adventure, or engage with girls in a series or at an event. Each Journey also offers opportunities to enjoy the longstanding traditions of Girl Scouting, from ceremonies and songs to earning awards and skill badges.

In addition to the Leadership Journeys, girls at each Girl Scout grade level have their own edition of The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting—a binder full of information about being a Girl Scout and how to earn certain badges, including ones about financial literacy and the Girl Scout Cookie Program. Girls who want to earn more badges can add a Skill Building Badge Set tied to the theme of the Journey they’ve chosen.

When a Girl Scout earns a badge, it shows that she’s learned a new skill, such as how to make a healthy snack or take great digital photos. It may even spark an interest at school or plant the seed for a future career. Please remember that we don’t expect you to be an expert in the badge topics; just have fun learning by doing with the girls!

While you’re having fun, keep in mind: Badges are for educating girls, not for decorating their sashes and vests. The quality of a girl’s experience—and the skills and pride she gains from earning leadership awards and skill-building badges—far outweigh the quantity of badges she earns.

If you’re working with Girl Scout Daisies, please note that they earn Petals and Leaves (which form a flower) instead of badges.

There are several ways to supplement the National Program Portfolio and enhance girls’ time as Girl Scouts—and have fun while you’re doing it! A few of them are outlined below.

The For Girls section of girlscouts.org features a variety of videos, games, blogs, and other fun ways to enrich the GSLE. Girls will find opportunities to post their ideas for public service announcements on topics that matter to them and get inspired by watching short videos that tell the stories of women from all walks of life. If you work with Girl Scout Daisies and Brownies, you might like the site’s printand-play coloring and game pages—great for having on hand when energetic girls get together! Both girls and volunteers will have fun with Badge Explorer, an overview of all of the badges girls can earn.

For Girls is updated frequently, so check back often—and invite girls to do the same!

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Girls are welcome to develop and complete activities to make their own badge—a great way to explore a topic of personal interest. (In addition, girls who make their own badge will learn how to learn, which is an important skill to have in school, on the job, and in life!) Once girls check the Awards Log in The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting to make sure there’s not already a badge on the topic they want to explore, they’ll follow steps outlined in that handbook to complete the requirements for their very own badge. Even better, they can go online to design and purchase a badge that later arrives in the mail! For more information, check out the Make Your Own Badge website.

The Girl Scout Law includes many of the principles and values common to most faiths. And even though Girl Scouts is a secular organization, we’ve always encouraged girls to explore spirituality via their own faiths. Girls of all grade levels can now earn the My Promise, My Faith pin. By carefully examining the Girl Scout Law and directly tying it to tenets of her faith, a girl can earn the pin once each year she participates in Girl Scouting. You can find more about the requirements for this pin in The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting.

In addition to giving girls an opportunity to earn money to fund their Girl Scouting goals, taking part in the Girl Scout Cookie Program teaches girls five important skills that serve them throughout their lives: goal setting, money management, people skills, decision making, and business ethics. For more on everything involved in the Girl Scout Cookie Program, flip to the “Managing Group Finances” chapter of this handbook.

Being outside is a great way for girls to explore leadership, build skills, and develop a deep appreciation for nature. Whether they spend an afternoon exploring a local hiking trail or a week at camp, being outside gives girls an opportunity to grow, explore, and have fun in a whole new environment. For more information, visit www.girlscouts.org/program/basics/camping.

Sandy Ridge, owned and operated by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, is our resident camp located in Bennettsville, SC. The camp is on over 400 acres of beautiful sand hills. Facilities include sleeping units, swimming pool, two lakes, watercraft, an archery range, sports field, a clay pit and an air conditioned dining hall. Sandy Ridge hosts GSESC summer resident camp program, troop camping opportunities, training, and outdoor events and overnights for girls and adult volunteers.

From September to mid-May, Sandy Ridge is available for troop camping trips. Beginning in August 2014, all site reservations for Sandy Ridge will be made on-line, using the Active Works registration system. Detailed information about the reservation process and all that Sandy Ride has to offer for a troop camping experience can be found in the 2015-16 Sandy Ridge Information Packet for GSESC Girl Scout Groups, included in the Appendix for Travel Volunteers in Volunteer Essentials.

Sandy Ridge’s 2016 summer resident camp brochure will be released on December 14th , 2015.

Summer resident camp registration will begin on February 1st, 2016. An Early Bird Discount will be applied for summer resident camp registrations received February 1st through 7th, 2016. A limited amount of financial aid is available to help girls have a summer resident camp experience at Sandy Ridge. The financial aid application will be included in the summer resident camp brochure. The application must be submitted to the North Charleston Service Center by April 15th, 2016 to be considered.

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Sandy Ridge will have an open house on May 28th, 2016 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. This event will give girls and parents a chance to see Sandy Ridge’s facilities, personally meet the Camp Director, ask questions and register for camp if you have not previously. Make a weekend of it and plan to attend Sandy Ridge’s Spring Clean-Up Weekend May 20th – 22nd, 2016.

A variety of animals call Sandy Ridge home because they are part our new animal program. We are always looking for donations of aquariums, animal cages, animal supplies, and animal food. Please contact the Camp Director at chuckiler@girlscoutsesc.org or 843-479-6814 to find out what is needed.

Two of the Journey series—It’s Your World—Change It! and It’s Your Planet—Love It!—are available in Spanish, as are two new supporting books for Spanish-speaking volunteers to use with Spanishspeaking and bilingual Girl Scout Brownies and Juniors :¡Las Girl Scouts Brownies Cambian El Mundo! (Girl Scout Brownies Change the World!) and ¡Las Girl Scouts Juniors Apuntan a las Estrellas! (Girl Scout Juniors Reach for the Stars!). The books, which introduce the Girl Scout movement to these girls and their families, provide everything you need for a fun-filled year in Girl Scouting. For more information on these resources, contact your council.

The 1913 handbook, How Girls Can Help Their Country, lists two medals girls could earn for meritorious deeds related to saving a life: the Bronze Cross—presented when a girl had shown special heroism or had faced extraordinary risk of her own life to save another’s life—and the Silver Cross—presented for gallantry with considerable risk to a girl’s life. GSUSA has revised procedures to help Girl Scout councils formally recognize acts of heroism by Girl Scouts. Recognition may be given to any registered Girl Scout from 5 through 17 years of age, where evidence presented in accordance with prescribed regulations shows that she saved or attempted to save a life under circumstances that indicate heroism or risk of her own life. Recognition cannot be given to anyone who was in any way the cause of or contributory to the incident, or where it appears that the risk involved was merely in the performance of duty or in meeting of an obligation. Both Lifesaving Awards are approved by GSUSA and there is an application process. Applications for Lifesaving Awards must be requested within 60 days of the incident and submitted within 6 months after the incident occurred. Please contact GSESC’s Vice President of Girl Leadership Experience at 843-552-9910 ext. 2240 for more information and to request the Application for Lifesaving Awards.

Whether they're hiking, trying a new sport, or preparing tasty, nutritious snacks, Girl Scouts enjoy many fun ways to lead healthy lives. Health and fitness have been part of Girl Scouting since girls ran foot races in 1912! Through the National Program Portfolio—Leadership Journeys and The Girl's Guide to Girl Scouting for girls at all levels—girls develop leadership and build skills they can use now and in the future. Healthy living activities are woven throughout the Girl Scout program in varied ways to provide girls with choice and flexibility. In partnership with the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation, Girl Scouts has developed three "healthy habits" booklets for volunteers to use in conjunction with their Journey Adult Guides in the It's Your Planet—Love It! series. The booklets will help guide girls on their Journey as they learn to lead active, healthy lifestyles. Through the use of these free resources for Girl Scout Daisies, Brownies, and Juniors, Girl Scout volunteers and families can guide girls in fun, easy ways to achieve "energy balance". These booklets can be downloaded from http://www.girlscouts.org/program/journeys/booklets/.

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Girl Scout Juniors learn about various forms of energy and find out what it means to be energy efficient when they go on the Get Moving! Journey. Use this booklet to add a special focus to the Journey by discovering what the Maker Movement is and how it can bring exciting hands-on activities related to energy into the Journey. All that’s needed is imagination, creativity, some supplies, and a willingness to try new and different things. Making encourages creation and invention. It can be woven into any subject at any skill level and can help girls uncover their hidden STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math plus Art) talents—combining interests in math and art, science and theater, or engineering and design. The booklet can be downloaded from http://www.girlscoutsesc.org/forms/finish/18-additional-program-information/436-get-making-with-getmoving-booklet

BFF is designed to work with the aMAZE! Journey, Girl Scouts' highly acclaimed leadership program.

The aMAZE! Journey gives middle school girls valuable skills to develop healthy relationships, prevent bully behavior, and become peacemakers in their schools and communities. In BFF, girls get to explore thorny issues like peer pressure, stereotyping, gossip, and cliques through engaging roleplays, creative writing, games, and discussion exercises. They can also create and lead projects in their schools and communities to tackle bullying issues on their terms and turf! Healthy relationships are the solution to bully prevention. BFF inspires girls to lead one another—with friendship! For more information on BFF visit http://www.girlscouts.org/program/journeys/bff/ or contact GSESC’s Girl Leadership Experience Specialist at 843-552-9910 ext. 2360.

A STEM career and leadership series for high school girls to be used with GIRLtopia or BLISS: Live It! Give It! Journey books. ! For more information on Imagine Your STEM Future visit http://forgirls.girlscouts.org/imagine/ or contact GSESC’s Girl Leadership Experience Specialist at 843-552-9910 ext. 2360.

GSUSA, in partnership with the World Association of Girl Guide and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) and Dove, has launched Free Being Me, a global leadership program developed to give girls a safe space to strengthen their self-confidence. Using the It's Your Story, Tell It! Journeys, together with the Free Being Me curriculum, girls explore issues of beauty and body confidence and build their leadership skills. These exciting new activities center on a topic that girls are anxious to explore and are excited to Take Action on.

• Do you have an event coming up? Think about exploring issues related to body confidence utilizing these cutting edge activities!

• Do your girls love their It's Your Story, Tell It! Leadership Journey? They can take the themes of beauty and body confidence further through Free Being Me activities.

• Are your girls interested in exploring ideas of global beauty? Are they looking to make a connection with girls around the world? Girls around the world are participating in the Free Being Me activities, become a part of the movement!

Visit http://www.girlscouts.org/who_we_are/our_partners/initiatives/freebeingme/default.asp and http://www.free-being-me.com/ for more information.

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When a little boy asserts himself, he's called a “leader.” Yet when a little girl does the same, she risks being branded “bossy.” Words like bossy send a message: don't raise your hand or speak up. By middle school, girls are less interested in leading than boys—a trend that continues into adulthood.

Together we can encourage girls to lead. Visit http://banbossy.com/ to find out more and to download leadership tips/activities for girls, parents, and troop leaders.

All of this may seem overwhelming, but don’t worry. The next few pages give you an idea of what’s involved when you use the National Program Portfolio with girls at each Girl Scout grade level.

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In addition to the leadership awards tied to the Journeys and the National Proficiency badges, girls can show they belong by adding emblems to the front of their vests or sashes and participation patches on the back.  Emblems show membership in Girl Scouts, a particular council, a particular troop, or in some other Girl Scout group. These can be worn on the front of a sash or vest (see the diagram in the handbook section of The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting to see where these are placed). 

Participation patches represent activities girls have tried and are fun ways for girls to remember special events they’ve attended. Since these patches and pins aren’t tied to skillbuilding activities, they are worn on the back of a girl’s sash or vest.

You can purchase emblems and patches—along with badges and leadership awards—at your council’s Girl Scout shop or by visiting the GSUSA online shop. There, you’ll find a cool list of the earned awards for each grade level and a link that shows you exactly where girls can place their emblems, awards, badges, pins, and patches on their vests and sashes.

The Council Shops offer everything from uniform pieces to books, badges, patches, awards, apparel, and a variety of gift and collectable items. Come into the shop and check out the Girl Scout merchandise.

Our on-line store, which is accessible from our web site www.girlscoutshop.com offers all the items that you can get at our shops with the convenience of shopping whenever.

The shop also travels to many of the Service Units in our council. If you’d like to see about getting the shop to visit your area email susanrhyne@girlscoutsesc.org or call Susan at 843-552-9910 ext.

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Remember to support our council: All monies that are spent in GSESC shops or the on-line store goes to support the membership of Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina.

Council Shop North Charleston Service Center 7257 Cross County Rd. North Charleston, SC 29418 843-377-0879 800-868-9911 Fax: 843-552-6221 Email: susanrhyne@girlscoutsesc.org gsescshop@girlscoutsesc.org

Council Shop Hours North Charleston Monday, Tuesday Thursday 10:00am- 6:00 pm 78

The Girl Scout Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards are Girl Scouting’s highest awards. These awards offer girls relevant, grade-level-appropriate challenges related to teamwork, goal setting, and community networking and leadership. They also engage girls in building networks that not only support them in their award projects, but in new educational and career opportunities.

Like everything girls do in Girl Scouting, the steps to earning these awards are rooted in the GSLE. This is why, to earn each of these awards, girls first complete a grade-level Journey (two Journeys for the Gold Award or a Silver Award and one Journey). With Journeys, girls experience the keys to leadership and learn to identify community needs, work in partnership with their communities, and carry out Take Action projects that make a lasting difference. They can then use the skills they developed during a Journey to develop and execute projects for their Girl Scout Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards. Girl Scouts has just introduced a web app that takes girls step-by-step through the Gold Award requirements. Visit http://www.girlscouts.org/program/highest_awards/gold_award.asp to take a peek.

Did you know that a Girl Scout who has earned her Gold Award immediately rises one rank in all four branches of the U.S. Military? A number of college-scholarship opportunities also await Gold Award designees. A girl does not, however, have to earn a Bronze or Silver Award before earning the Girl Scout Gold Award. She is eligible to earn any recognition at the grade level in which she is registered.

As a Girl Scout volunteer, encourage girls to go for it by earning these awards at the Junior through Ambassador levels. Check out some of the award projects girls in your council are doing and talk to a few past recipients of the Girl Scout Gold Award. You’ll be inspired when you see and hear what girls can accomplish as leaders—and by the confidence, values, and team-building expertise they gain while doing so. And imagine the impact girls have on their communities, country, and even the world as they identify problems they care about, team with others, and act to make change happen!

All this, of course, starts with you—a Girl Scout volunteer! Encourage girls to go after Girl Scouting’s highest awards—information on the awards and guidelines for you to use when helping girls earn their awards are also available at www.girlscoutsesc.org, For The Girls tab. A Final Report is required from each girl who completes a Girl Scout Bronze, Silver or Gold Award. We recognize girls who earn their Girl Scout Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards at an annual celebration held in May. In order for girls to participate in the 2016 Older Girl Awards Ceremony on April 16th, 2016 the following deadlines need to be followed:  Girl Scout Gold Award Final Report approved by the Gold Award Committed by February 19th  Girl Scout Silver Award Final Report received by February 26th, 2016.  Girl Scout Bronze Award Final Report by March 4th, 2016.  Award Ceremony registration by March 14th, 2016.

If a girl is not finished with her award by the above dates she can be recognized at the 2016 ceremony.

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From the beginning of Girl Scouts, one prestigious award has recognized the girls who make a difference in their communities and in their own lives. The first of these awards, in 1916, was the Golden Eagle of Merit. In 1919, the name changed to The Golden Eaglet, and in 1920, the requirements for The Golden Eaglet were updated. The First Class Award existed for only two years, from 1938–1940, and was replaced in 1940 with The Curved Bar Award, the requirements for which were updated in 1947. In 1963, GSUSA re-introduced the First Class Award, for a girl who was an “all-around” person, with skills in many fields and a proficiency in one. Today’s highest award, the Girl Scout Gold Award, was introduced in 1980.

Other exciting initiatives and opportunities exist to support the GSLE. In the past, these have covered topics like the environment, robotics, and space exploration. You can find out how to engage your group in opportunities like these by contacting your council or by visiting www.girlscouts.org/program/basics and clicking on “Program Basics” on the left side of the screen.

Note that councils may offer different experiences, based on availability of resources and partners in your area.

Girls Go Techbridge Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina offers five Girls Go Techbridge kits full of hands-on activities to inspire girls in science and engineering!  Design Time This kit combines girls’ love of play and creativity with the engineering design process.

Working in teams, girls will brainstorm ideas and marketing plans.  Engineers to the Rescue Survival skills meet science as girls design water filters, wind-powered cranks, a messagecarrying car and safe shelter for a make-believe camping trip.  Make It Green Girls will learn about green design and construction and how they can change their habits to lessen their environmental impact.  Power It Up Girls will discover the world of electronics and circuitry through a series of hands-on investigations.  Thrill Builders Girls will explore simple machines in their everyday lives as they build a merry-go-round, a bean-bag toss and a race car.

While engaging in the engineering design process, girls can learn about green technology, simple machines, circuitry, soldering, potential and kinetic energy and much more. Each Girls Go Techbridge kit contains seven to eight hours of programming and includes hands-on activities, necessary supplies, information on careers and role models, and a leader guide. Training, while provided by GSESC for leaders and volunteers, is not required. The Girls Go Techbridge Kits are for Girl Scout Juniors through Girl Scout Ambassadors. The Girls Go Techbridge Check-Out form is included in the Forms section of Volunteer Essentials. For more information contact GSESC’s Vice President of Girl Leadership Experience at 843-552-9910 ext. 2240

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Role Models Matter Online Training Toolkit The Techbridge’s Role Models Matter Project, funded by the National Science Foundation, provides trainings and resources to role models just like you, to be more effective at inspiring others. Our role model program connects students with women working in the fields of science, technology and engineering. Fame isn’t a prerequisite to volunteering as a role model, just a willingness to share your story, to let girls hear firsthand what it’s like to have a career and what it takes to get there.

Thank you in advance for participating in the pilot of the Techbridge’s Role Models Matter online training. This training can be accessed at: http://techbridgegirls.org/rolemodelsmatter/ It contains fourteen modules to prepare STEM role models for doing outreach with girls.

Steps: When visiting the site for the first time, be sure to Sign Up at the top right corner of the home page. When it asks you to provide your affiliation please put: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina You will create your own username and eight-character password.

Before beginning any training modules, be sure to click on Sign In and enter your username and password to log on. Your username will appear in the upper right.

After entering a response please complete the questions within the training modules, hit Save so your responses are saved to your dashboard.

Required Modules (Please allow about 10 minutes to watch and respond.): The Role Model Impact Sharing about YOU! Suggested Modules Before facilitating hands-on activities, please complete these additional modules (Please allow an additional 10 minutes.): The Art of Questioning Giving Girls Feedback When you’ve completed all of the modules you wish, please go to My Dashboard by your login, and click Send My Responses. This will send an e-mail to the address you provided when you registered. Please take the survey at the bottom of the Toolkit home page (with all of the module options) as this is a critical part of our grant documentation.

Clicking redirects you to a Survey Monkey page (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/?sm=mui3FhyUL5zkZdRaoI5UihL8ZAZQRrM5XNp pRQ%2fKFM%3d) where you will select Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina from a list of choices. Check your e-mail and forward your Training Responses to your e-mail address. Your responses from the completed modules will then be shared with me via your e-mail.

If you have questions please contact Lesley Robinson at 843-552-9910 ext. 2240 or lesleyrobinson@girlscoutsesc.org

GSESC Goes LEGO Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina sponsors all-girl robotics teams to participate in FIRST LEGO League. Team formation happens in the spring/summer each year and the FIRST LEGO League season begins in August. Team formation is based on having adult coaches to work with the teams.

Visit http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/fll for more information on FIRST LEGO League. For more information on the GSESC Goes LEGO program contact GSESC’s Vice President of Girl Leadership Experience at 843-552-9910 ext. 2240 82

Introduce a Girl to Engineering Introduce a Girl to Engineering is a national movement that shows girls how creative and collaborative engineering is and how engineers are changing our world. Come join Citadel Cadets and Society of Women Engineers for an afternoon of hands-on, minds-on activities!!! Girl Scout Juniors and Cadettes will participate in an introduction to the world of engineering by celebrating “Introducing a Girl to Engineering Day.” Professional engineers and college students who are working towards their engineering degrees will be guiding girls in exciting new 2016 activities. GSESC’s 2016 Introduce a Girl to Engineering event will be held on February 28, 2016 at the Mark Clark Auditorium on the Citadel Campus, Charleston, SC. Registration will begin in November/December 2015. For more information contact GSESC’s Vice President of Girl Leadership Experience at 843-552-9910 ext.

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destinations Program See the country, see the world! Did you know girls have an opportunity to participate in events in many interesting locations all over our country and world through Girl Scout destinations? Want to learn more about destinations? If you know girls who are interested in learning more about the destinations program contact GSESC’s Vice President of Girl Leadership Experience at 843-552-9910 ext. 2240 and she will help schedule a meeting that works for your girls. For more information about destinations, visit http://forgirls.girlscouts.org/travel/. This webpage can be used to find the destinations event that is right for you. GSUSA updates the destinations webpage is usually by September of each year. Destinations applications are due to the North Charleston Service Center on November 13, 2015.

The South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program The South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program is an opportunity for Girl Scouts in high school to investigate how our government works. Girls who participate in the South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program will spend three days working as a page at the state house in Columbia, SC. This working experience is supplemented with Leadership Journey activities, training on legislative protocol and procedure, and networking with Girl Scouts throughout South Carolina.

Who: Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors (Grades 10 -12) When: March 7, 2016 - March 10, 2016. Application deadline December 1, 2015.

Where: Columbia, SC If you are interested in attending the South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program, please complete the 2016 Girl Application and send with a $7.00 application fee. Girls accepted to the Page Program will also be required to pay a program fee.The fee is TBA. Girls who are accepted into the South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program will be required to participate in a regionally offered training at the end of January 2016 as well as a follow-up refresher one week before the event. Adult chaperons are also needed for the South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program.

Any interested adults should submit a 2016 Adult Application by December 1, 2015. Adult chaperons are required to participate in all training sessions and be available for the entire South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program. The application materials can be found in the Forms section of Volunteer Essentials. For more information contact GSESC’s Girl Leadership Experience Specialist at 843-552-9910 ext. 2360.

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina College Scholarships Any high school senior who is a Girl Scout of Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina (GSESC) is eligible to apply for up to three scholarships that are offered by GSESC. The scholarships include:  The Grace Grady Scholarship – one $1,000 award for a Girl Scout with expressed financial need  The Lucille C. McCown Scholarship – one $1,000 award for a Girl Scout with at least five years of Girl Scout experience and who has earned either the Girl Scout Gold Award or the Girl Scout Silver Award  The Mary Dean Brewer Gold Award Scholarship – one $1,000 award, renewable annually for up to three years (up to $4,000 total), for a Girl Scout who has earned the Girl Scout Gold Award The scholarship application materials will become available on the GSESC website beginning in December 2015. The complete application packet, including all supporting materials, must be received in the North Charleston Service Center, 7951 Dorchester Road, North Charleston, SC 29418

by February 15, 2016 in order to be considered for any scholarship. For more information contact GSESC’s Girl Leadership Experience Specialist at 843-552-9910 ext. 2360.

Barbie and Me Sleepover!

Join us for the Barbie and Me Sleepover! Cost will include your very own Girl Scout Barbie, a continental breakfast, and an evening of self-esteem activities, crafts, Girl Scout songs, and a movie!

Girls will arrive Friday evening and split into rotating stations to do self-esteem activities and crafts.

We will all come together to watch a movie in our jammies while eating candy and popcorn. We will wake up on Saturday to a continental breakfast, more activities, and the girls get to meet their Barbies!

Which Barbie will you get? Barbie, Nikki, or Teresa? Who knows as each doll is beautiful but individual selection is not available. It will be a fun surprise to see which doll each girl receives. This sleepover is for Daisy & Brownie Girl Scouts and their adults (per Safety Activity Checkpoints ratios).

Dates and times are TBA, but we plan to have this event in the following areas:  Florence  Tri-County  Horry  Beaufort

The President’s Volunteer Service Award The President’s Volunteer Service Award is the premier volunteer awards program, encouraging United States citizens or lawfully admitted permanent residents of the United States through presidential recognition to live a life of service. The President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation (the Council) was established in 2003 to recognize the valuable contributions volunteers are making in our communities and encourage more people to serve. The Council created the President’s Volunteer Service Award program as a way to thank and honor Americans who, by their demonstrated commitment and example, inspire others to engage in volunteer service. The President’s Volunteer Service Award recognizes United States citizens and lawfully admitted permanent residents of the United States who have achieved the required number of hours of service over a 12-month time period – or cumulative hours over the course of a lifetime. Any individual, family or group that meets the program’s criteria can receive Presidential recognition for volunteer hours served over a 12-month period or over the course of a lifetime. For more information on the President’s Volunteer Service Award and the required number of hours needed to be recognized please visit http://www.presidentialserviceawards.gov/. Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina is a certifying agency and can help you certify your volunteer hours and order your earned recognition.

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Throughout the long history of Girl Scouts, certain traditions remain meaningful and important and are still practiced today. This section gives you an overview of annual celebrations in the Girl Scout year, as well as other revered Girl Scout traditions. Be sure to look in The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting and Leadership Journeys for more information on songs, outdoor activities, historical anecdotes, traditions, and ceremonies.

Girl Scouts celebrate several special days each year, which you’re encouraged to include in your group planning.  

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February 22: World Thinking Day (the birthday of both Lord Baden-Powell and Lady Olave Baden-Powell, the originators of Boy Scouts and the Scouting Movement worldwide).

March 12: The birthday of Girl Scouting in the USA. The first troop meeting was held in Savannah, Georgia, on this date in 1912. Note that Girl Scout Week begins the Sunday before March 12 (a day known as “Girl Scout Sunday”) and extends through the Saturday following March 12 (a day known as “Girl Scout Sabbath”).

Third week in April: Volunteer Appreciation Week centers on the long-standing National Girl Scout Leaders’ Day (April 22), but expands the definition of volunteers beyond troop leaders to include all the volunteers who work in so many ways on behalf of girls in Girl Scouting.

October 31: Founder’s Day (Juliette Gordon Low’s birthday).

World Thinking Day, first created in 1926, offers a special day for Girl Scouts and Girl Guides from around the world to “think” of each other and give thanks and appreciation to their sister Girl Scouts.

February 22 is the mutual birthday of Lord Baden-Powell, founder of the Boy Scout movement, and his wife, Olave, who served as World Chief Guide.

Today, girls honor World Thinking Day by earning the World Thinking Day award, which focuses on an annual theme selected by the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. They also show their appreciation and friendship on World Thinking Day not only by extending warm wishes but also by contributing to the Juliette Low World Friendship Fund, which helps offer Girl Guiding/Girl Scouting to more girls and young women worldwide.

Ceremonies play an important part in Girl Scouts and are used not only to celebrate accomplishments, experience time-honored traditions, and reinforce the values of the Girl Scout Promise and Law, but also to encourage girls to take a short pause in their busy lives and connect with their fellow Girl Scouts in fun and meaningful ways. Many examples of ceremonies—for awards, meeting openings and closings, and so on—are sewn right into the Journeys, including ideas for new ceremonies girls can create.

Girls use ceremonies for all sorts of reasons. Here’s a brief list, in alphabetical order, so that you can become familiar with the most common Girl Scout ceremonies: 

Bridging ceremonies mark a girl’s move from one grade level of Girl Scouting to another, such as from Junior to Cadette. (Note that Fly-Up is a special bridging ceremony for Girl Scout Brownies who are bridging to Juniors.)

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Closing ceremonies finalize the meeting, with expectations for the next. A closing ceremony may be as simple as a hand squeeze while standing in a circle.

Court of Awards is a time to recognize girls who have accomplished something spectacular during the Girl Scout year.

Flag ceremonies can be part of any activity that honors the American flag.

Girl Scout Bronze (or Silver or Gold) Award ceremonies honor Girl Scout Juniors who have earned the Girl Scout Bronze Award (Cadettes who have earned the Silver Award; Seniors or Ambassadors who have earned the Gold Award), and are usually held for a group and combined with council recognition.

Girl Scouts’ Own is a girl-led program that allows girls to explore their feelings and beliefs around a topic (such as the importance of friendship or the personal meaning they get from the Girl Scout Promise and Law) using the spoken word, favorite songs, poetry, or other methods of expression. It is never a religious ceremony.

Investiture welcomes new members, girls or adults, into the Girl Scout family for the first time.

Girls receive their Girl Scout, Brownie Girl Scout, or Daisy Girl Scout pin at this time.

Opening ceremonies start troop meetings and can also begin other group meetings.

Pinning ceremonies help celebrate when girls receive grade-level Girl Scout pins.

Rededication ceremonies are opportunities for girls and adults to renew their commitment to the Girl Scout Promise and Law.

Over time, any organization is going to develop a few common signals that everyone understands.

Such is the case with Girl Scouts, which has developed a few unique ways to greet, acknowledge, and communicate, some of which are listed here.

The idea of the sign came from the days of chivalry, when armed knights greeted friendly knights by raising the right hand, palm open, as a sign of friendship. To give the sign, raise the three middle fingers of the right hand palm forward and shoulder high (the three extended fingers represent the three parts of the Girl Scout Promise). Girls give the sign when they: 

Say the Promise or Law.

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Are welcomed into Girl Scouts at an investiture ceremony that welcomes new members.

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Receive an award, patch, pin, or other recognition.

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Greet other Girl Scouts and Girl Guides.

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The handshake is a more formal way of greeting other Girl Scouts, and is also an appropriate way to receive an award. Shake left hands and give the Girl Scout Sign with your right hand.

The quiet sign can be extremely useful to you as a volunteer, so teach it to girls during your first meeting. Raise your right hand high with an open palm. As girls in the group see the sign, they stop talking and also raise their hands.

Once everyone is silent, the meeting can begin.

The Girl Scout slogan is, “Do a good turn daily.” The Girl Scout motto is, “Be prepared.”

Whether singing around a campfire or joining a chorus of voices on the Mall in Washington, D.C., Girl Scouts have always enjoyed the fun and fellowship of music. In fact, the first Girl Scout Song Book, a collection of songs put together by girl members, was published in 1925.

Songs can be used to open or close meetings, enhance ceremonies, lighten a load while hiking, or share a special moment with other Girl Scouts. For tips on choosing and leading songs, go to http://www.girlscouts.org/program/gs_central/activity_ideas/songleading.asp.

A variety of songbooks are also available for purchase. Check out your council shop or visit the GSUSA online shop.

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If you’re working with girls who want to host an event—large or small—be sure girls are leading the event-planning, instead of sitting by passively while you or another adult plans the event. To get girls started, ask them to think about the following questions: 

What sort of event do we have in mind?

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Who is our intended audience?

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Will it be outdoors?

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Does the audience have to be invited, or can anyone come?

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What’s our main topic or focus?

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What’s our objective—what do we hope to accomplish at the end of the day?

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Will one or more speakers need to be invited? If so, who? How do we find speakers?

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Where will the event take place?

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Is there a charge for this venue?

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Is the venue large enough to accommodate the audience?

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Do we have to obtain permission to use this venue? If so, from whom?

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Are there adequate facilities for the audience? If not, how much will extra portable toilets cost, and how many do we need?

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Is there adequate parking or a drop-off point for girls?

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Do we need tables? chairs? podiums? microphones? speakers?

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What sort of entertainment will we provide?

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Will we provide or sell refreshments? If so, what kinds?

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How many chaperones will we need? Who will we ask?

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What emergency care do we need to plan for? Is the event large enough that local police and fire departments need to be notified?

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Do we need to purchase additional insurance for non–Girl Scouts?

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How will we advertise the event?

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What decorations will we use?

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Will we give away any keepsakes?

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Will we charge for the event?

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Who will set up the event?

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Who will clean up after the event?

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How will we determine whether the event was a success?

Ideas for girl-led events with family, friends, and community experts are also available in the Leadership Journey adult guides!

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As a Girl Scout volunteer, you’ll have the opportunity to guide girls of all backgrounds, behaviors, skills, and abilities. You’ll help her develop leadership skills she can use now and as she grows—all in a safe and accepting environment. This chapter gives you tips for doing just that.

When and how often to meet is up to you, your co-volunteers, parents, and girls: it may just be one time for this particular group of girls. Or, if you meet regularly, what day and time work best for the girls, for you, for your co-volunteers, and for other adults who will be presenting or mentoring? Once per week, twice a month, once a month? Is after-school best? Can your co-volunteers meet at that time, or will meetings work better in the evenings or on the weekends?

Where to meet can be a bit trickier: a meeting place needs to provide a safe, clean, and secure environment that allows for the participation of all girls. You might consider using meeting rooms at schools, libraries, houses or worship, community buildings, childcare facilities, and local businesses.

For teens, you can also rotate meetings at coffee shops, bookstores, and other places girls enjoy spending time.

Here are a few points to keep in mind as you consider meeting locations:         

Cost: The space should be free to use.

Size: Make sure the space is large enough accommodate the whole group and all planned activities.

Availability: Be sure the space is available for the day and the entire length of time you want to meet.

Resources: Determine what types of furnishings (table? chairs?) come with the room and ensure that the lighting is adequate. A bonus would be a cubby of some sort, where you can store supplies or a safe outdoor space for activities.

Safety: Ensure that the space is safe, secure, clean, properly ventilated, heated (or cooled, depending on your location), free from hazards, and has at least two exits that are well-marked and fully functional. Also be sure a first-aid equipment is on hand.

Facilities: Sanitary and accessible toilets are critical.

Communication-friendly: Be sure your cell phone works in the meeting space.

Allergen-free: Ensure that pet dander and other common allergens won’t bother susceptible girls during meetings.

Accessibility: Be sure the space can accommodate girls with disabilities, as well as parents with disabilities who may come to meetings.

If this is your first time asking for a Girl Scout meeting place, here are a few speaking points to get you started: “I’m a Girl Scout volunteer, with a group of ______ girls. We’re doing lots of great things for girls and for the community, like _____ and ______. We’re all about leadership—the kind that girls use in their daily lives and the kind that makes our community better. We’d love to hold our meetings here because ______.”

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Just being attentive to what girls are experiencing as they mature is a big help to girls. So take some time to understand the likes, needs, and abilities of girls at different ages.

As you listen and learn along with girls, you may find it useful to review the highlights of their development. What follows are the developmental abilities and needs of girls at various grade levels.

You’ll also find these listed in the adult guide of each Leadership Journey. Plus, the activities in the Journeys are set up with the following guidelines in mind! Of course, each girl is an individual, so these are only guidelines that help you get to know the girls.

GSRI reports in More than ‘Smores that participating in casual outdoor activities in Girl Scouts, like playing, walking, or taking field trips in the outdoors made girls stronger problem solvers and challenge seekers. These outdoor experiences often place girls in new physical, psychological, and social situations that motivate curiosity and foster a sense of discovery. These challenges “require girls to become more self-aware and to cooperate, communicate, and solve problems.”

At the Girl Scout Daisy level (kindergarten and first grade), girls . . .

Have loads of energy and need to run, walk, and play outside.

Are great builders and budding artists, though they are still developing their fine motor skills.

Love to move and dance.

Are concrete thinkers and focused on the here and now.

Are only beginning to learn about basic number concepts, time, and money.

Are just beginning to write and spell, and they don’t always have the words for what they’re thinking or feeling.

Know how to follow simple directions and respond well to recognition for doing so.

This means . . .

They’ll enjoy going on nature walks and outdoor scavenger hunts.

Encouraging them to express themselves and their creativity by making things with their hands.

Girls may need assistance holding scissors, cutting in a straight line, and so on.

They might especially enjoy marching like a penguin, dancing like a dolphin, or acting out how they might care for animals in the jungle.

Showing instead of telling, for example, about how animals are cared for. Plan visits to animal shelters, farms, or zoos; meet care providers; or make a creative bird feeder.

You’ll want to take opportunities to count out supplies together—and, perhaps, the legs on a caterpillar!

That having girls draw a picture of something they are trying to communicate is easier and more meaningful for them.

Being specific and offering only one direction at a time. Acknowledge when girls have followed directions well to increase their motivation to listen and follow again.

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At the Girl Scout Brownie level (second and third grade), girls . . .

Have lots of energy and need to run, walk, and play outside.

Are social and enjoy working in groups.

Want to help others and appreciate being given individual responsibilities for a task.

Are concrete thinkers and focused on the here and now.

Need clear directions and structure, and like knowing what to expect.

Are becoming comfortable with basic number concepts, time, money, and distance.

Are continuing to develop their fine motor skills and can tie shoes, use basic tools, begin to sew, etc.

Love to act in plays, create music, and dance.

Know how to follow rules, listen well, and appreciate recognition of a job done well.

This means . . .

Taking your session activities outside whenever possible.

Allowing girls to team up in small or large groups for art projects and performances.

Letting girls lead, direct, and help out in activities whenever possible. Allow girls as a group to make decisions about individual roles and responsibilities.

Doing more than just reading to girls about the Brownie Elf’s adventures. Ask girls questions to gauge their understanding and allow them to role play their own pretend visit to a new country.

Offering only one direction at a time. Also, have girls create the schedule and flow of your gettogethers and share it at the start.

Offering support only when needed. Allow girls to set schedules for meetings or performances, count out money for a trip, and so on.

Encouraging girls to express themselves and their creativity by making things with their hands.

Girls may need some assistance, however, holding scissors, threading needles, and so on.

Girls might like to create a play about welcoming a new girl to their school, or tell a story through dance or creative movement.

Acknowledging when the girls have listened or followed the directions well, which will increase their motivation to listen and follow again!

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At the Girl Scout Junior level (fourth and fifth grades), girls . . .

This means . . .

Want to make decisions and express their opinions.

Whenever possible, allowing girls to make decisions and express their opinions through guided discussion and active reflection activities.

Also, have girls set rules for listening to others’ opinions and offering assistance in decision making.

Are social and enjoy doing things in groups.

Allowing girls to team-up in small or large groups for art projects, performances, and written activities.

Are aware of expectations and sensitive to the judgments of others.

Although it’s okay to have expectations, the expectation is not perfection! Share your own mistakes and what you learned from them, and be sure to create an environment where girls can be comfortable sharing theirs.

Are concerned about equity and fairness.

Not shying away from discussing why rules are in place, and having girls develop their own rules for their group.

Are beginning to think abstractly and critically, and are capable of flexible thought. Juniors can consider more than one perspective, as well as the feelings and attitudes of another.

Asking girls to explain why they made a decision, share their visions of their roles in the future, and challenge their own and others’ perspectives.

Have strong fine and gross motor skills and coordination.

Engaging girls in moving their minds and their bodies. Allow girls to express themselves through written word, choreography, and so on.

Love to act in plays, create music, and dance.

Girls might like to tell a story through playwriting, playing an instrument, or choreographing a dance.

May be starting puberty, which means beginning breast development, skin changes, and weight changes. Some may be getting their periods.

Being sensitive to girls’ changing bodies, possible discomfort over these changes, and their desire for more information. Create an environment that acknowledges and celebrates this transition as healthy and normal for girls.

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At the Girl Scout Cadette level (sixth, seventh, and eighth grades), girls . . .

This means . . .

Are going through puberty, including changes in their skin, body-shape, and weight. They’re also starting their menstrual cycles and have occasional shifts in mood.

Being sensitive to the many changes Cadettes are undergoing and acknowledging that these changes are as normal as growing taller! Girls need time to adapt to their changing bodies, and their feelings about their bodies may not keep up.

Reinforce that, as with everything else, people go through puberty in different ways and at different times.

Are starting to spend more time in peer groups than with their families and are very concerned about friends and relationships with others their age.

That girls will enjoy teaming-up in small or large groups for art projects, performances, and written activities, as well as tackling relationship issues through both artistic endeavors and Take Action projects.

Can be very self-conscious—wanting to be like everyone else, but fearing they are unique in their thoughts and feelings.

Encouraging girls to share, but only when they are comfortable. At this age, they may be more comfortable sharing a piece of artwork or a fictional story than their own words. Throughout the activities, highlight and discuss differences as positive, interesting, and beautiful.

Are beginning to navigate their increasing independence and expectations from adults—at school and at home.

Trusting girls to plan and make key decisions, allowing them to experience what’s known as “fun failure:” girls learn from trying something new and making mistakes.

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At the Girl Scout Senior level (ninth and tenth grades), girls . . .

This means . . .

Are beginning to clarify their own values, consider alternative points of view on controversial issues, and see multiple aspects of a situation.

Asking girls to explain the reasoning behind their decisions. Engage girls in role-play and performances, where others can watch and offer alternative solutions.

Have strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills, and are able to plan and reflect on their own learning experiences.

Girls are more than able to go beyond community service to develop projects that will create sustainable solutions in their communities. Be sure to have girls plan and follow up on these experiences through written and discussionbased reflective activities.

Spend more time in peer groups than with their families and are very concerned about friends and relationships with others their age.

That girls will enjoy teaming up in small or large groups for art projects, performances, and written activities. They’ll also want to tackle relationship issues through both artistic endeavors and Take Action projects. Alter the makeup of groups with each activity so that girls interact with those they might not usually pair up with.

Frequently enjoy expressing their individuality.

Encouraging girls to express their individuality in their dress, creative expression, and thinking.

Remind girls frequently that there isn’t just one way to look, feel, think, or act. Assist girls in coming up with new ways of expressing their individuality.

Feel they have lots of responsibilities and pressures—from home, school, peers, work, and so on.

Acknowledging girls’ pressures and sharing how stress can limit health, creativity, and productivity.

Help girls release stress through creative expression, movement, and more traditional stress-reduction techniques.

Are continuing to navigate their increasing Trusting girls to plan and make key decisions, allowing them to experience what’s known as independence and expectations from “fun failure:” girls learn from trying something new adults—at school and at home. and making mistakes.

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At the Girl Scout Ambassador level (eleventh and twelfth grades), girls . . .

This means . . .

Can see the complexity of situations and controversial issues—they understand that problems often have no clear solution and that varying points of view may each have merit.

Inviting girls to develop stories as a group, and then individually create endings that they later discuss and share.

Have strong problem-solving and criticalthinking skills, and can adapt logical thinking to real-life situations.

Ambassadors recognize and incorporate practical limitations to solutions.

Girls are more than able to go beyond community service to develop projects that will create sustainable solutions in their communities. Be sure to have girls plan and follow up on these experiences through written and discussionbased reflective activities.

Spend more time with peers than with their families and are very concerned about friends and relationships with others their age.

Girls will enjoy teaming up in small or large groups for art projects, performances, and written activities. They’ll also want to tackle relationship issues through artistic endeavors and Take Action projects. Alter the makeup of groups with each activity so that girls interact with those they might not usually pair up with.

Frequently enjoy expressing their individuality.

Encouraging girls to express their individuality in their dress, creative expression, and thinking.

Remind girls frequently that there isn’t just one way to look, feel, think, or act. Assist girls in coming up with new ways of expressing their individuality.

Feel they have lots of responsibilities and pressures—from home, school, peers, work, etc.

Acknowledging girls’ pressures and sharing how stress can limit health, creativity, and productivity.

Help girls release stress through creative expression, movement, and more traditional stress-reduction techniques.

Are continuing to navigate their increasing independence and expectations from adults—at school and at home—and are looking to their futures.

Trusting girls to plan and make key decisions, allowing them to experience what’s known as “fun failure.” Girls learn from trying something new and making mistakes.

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A safe space is one in which girls feel as though they can be themselves, without explanation, judgment, or ridicule. Girl Scout research shows that girls are looking for an emotionally safe environment, where confidentiality is respected and they can express themselves without fear.

The environment you create is as important—maybe more—than the activities girls do; it’s the key to developing the sort of group that girls want to be part of. The following sections share some tips on creating a warm, safe environment for girls.

Girl Scouting is for the enjoyment and benefit of the girls, so meetings are built around girls’ ideas.

When you put the girls first, you’re helping develop a team relationship, making space for the development of leadership skills, and allowing girls to benefit from the guidance, mentoring, and coaching of caring adults.

The three Girl Scout processes (girl-led, learning by doing, and cooperative learning) are integral to the girl-adult partnership. Take time to read about processes and think about how to incorporate them into your group’s experiences. (See the “Girl Scouting as a National Experience” chapter of this handbook for more about using the Journey adult guides.)

Girls look up to their volunteers. They need to know that you consider each of them an important person. They can survive a poor meeting place or an activity that flops, but they cannot endure being ignored or rejected. Recognize acts of trying as well as instances of clear success. Emphasize the positive qualities that make each girl worthy and unique. Be generous with praise and stingy with rebuke. Help girls find ways to show acceptance of and support for one another.

Girls are sensitive to injustice. They forgive mistakes if they are sure you are trying to be fair. They look for fairness in the ways responsibilities are shared, in handling of disagreements and in responses to performance and accomplishment. When possible, consult girls as to what they think is fair before decisions are made. Explain your reasoning and show why you did something. Be willing to apologize if needed. Try to see that the responsibilities, as well as the chances for feeling important, are equally divided. Help girls explore and decide for themselves the fair ways of solving problems, carrying out activities, and responding to behavior and accomplishments.

Girls need your belief in them and your support when they try new things. They must be sure you will not betray a confidence. Show girls you trust them to think for themselves and use their own judgment. Help them make the important decisions in the group. Help them correct their own mistakes. Help girls give and show trust toward one another. Help them see how trust can be built, lost, regained, and strengthened.

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Conflicts and disagreements are an inevitable part of life, and when handled constructively can actually enhance communication and relationships. At the very least, Girl Scouts are expected to practice self-control and diplomacy so that conflicts do not erupt into regrettable incidents. Shouting, verbal abuse, or physical confrontations are never warranted and cannot be tolerated in the Girl Scout environment.

When a conflict arises between girls or a girl and a volunteer, get those involved to sit down together and talk calmly and in a nonjudgmental manner. (Each party may need some time—a few days or a week—to calm down before being able to do this.) Although talking in this way can be uncomfortable and difficult, it does lay the groundwork for working well together in the future. Whatever you do, do not spread your complaint around to others—that won’t help the situation and causes only embarrassment and anger.

If a conflict persists, be sure you explain the matter to your volunteer support team. If the supervisor cannot resolve the issues satisfactorily (or if the problem involves the supervisor), the issue can be taken to the next level of supervision and, ultimately, contact your council if you need extra help.

Girls want someone who will listen to what they think, feel, and want to do. They like having someone they can talk to about important things, including things that might not seem important to adults. Listen to the girls. Respond with words and actions. Speak your mind openly when you are happy or concerned about something, and encourage girls to do this, too. Leave the door open for girls to seek advice, share ideas and feelings, and propose plans or improvements. Help girls see how open communication can result in action, discovery, better understanding of self and others, and a more comfortable climate for fun and accomplishment.

When communicating with girls, consider the following tips:   

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Listen: Listening to girls, as opposed to telling them what to think, feel, or do (no “you shoulds”) is the first step in helping them take ownership of their program.

Be honest: If you’re not comfortable with a topic or activity, say so. No one expects you to be an expert on every topic. Ask for alternatives or seek out volunteers with the required expertise. (Owning up to mistakes—and apologizing for them—goes a long way with girls.)

Be open to real issues: For girls, important topics are things like relationships, peer pressure, school, money, drugs, and other serious issues. (You’ll also have plenty of time to discuss less weighty subjects.) When you don’t know, listen. Also seek help from your council if you need assistance or more information than you currently have.

Show respect: Girls often say that their best experiences were the ones where adults treated them as equal partners. Being spoken to as a young adult helps them grow.

Offer options: Providing flexibility in changing needs and interests shows that you respect the girls and their busy lives. But whatever option is chosen, girls at every grade level also want guidance and parameters.

Stay current: Be aware of the TV shows girls watch, movies they like, books and magazines they read, and music they listen to—not to pretend you have the same interests, but to show you’re interested in their world.

One way to communicate with girls is through the LUTE method—listen, understand, tolerate, and empathize. Here is a breakdown of the acronym LUTE to remind you of how to respond when a girl is upset, angry, or confused.

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L = Listen: Hear her out, ask for details, and reflect back what you hear, such as, “What happened next?” or “What did she say?”

U = Understand: Try to be understanding of her feelings, with comments such as, “So what I hear you saying is . . .” “I’m sure that upset you,” “I understand why you’re unhappy,” and “Your feelings are hurt; mine would be, too.”

T = Tolerate: You can tolerate the feelings that she just can’t handle right now on her own. It signifies that you can listen and accept how she is feeling about the situation. Say something like: “Try talking to me about it. I’ll listen,” “I know you’re mad—talking it out helps,” and “I can handle it—say whatever you want to.”

E = Empathize: Let her know you can imagine feeling what she’s feeling, with comments such as, “I’m sure that really hurts” or “I can imagine how painful this is for you.”

Consider the following tips when working with teenage girls:         

Think of yourself as a partner, and as a coach or mentor, as needed (not a “leader”).

Ask girls what rules they need for safety and what group agreements they need to be a good team.

Understand that girls need time to talk, unwind, and have fun together.

Ask what they think and what they want to do.

Encourage girls to speak their minds.

Provide structure, but don’t micromanage.

Give everyone a voice in the group.

Treat girls like partners.

Don’t repeat what’s said in the group to anyone outside of it (unless necessary for a girl’s safety).

It’s amazing what you can learn when you listen to girls.

Since its founding in 2000, the Girl Scout Research Institute has become an internationally recognized center for research and public policy information on the development and well-being of girls. Not just Girl Scouts, but all girls.

In addition to research staff, the GSRI draws on experts in child development, education, business, government, and the not-for-profit sector. We provide the youth development field with definitive research reviews that consolidate existing studies. And, by most measures, we are now the leading source of original research on the issues that girls face and the social trends that affect their lives.

Visit www.girlscouts.org/research.

According to Feeling Safe: What Girls Say, a 2003 Girl Scout Research Institute study, girls are looking for groups that allow connection and a sense of close friendship. They want volunteers who are teen savvy and can help them with issues they face, such as bullying, peer pressure, dating, athletic and academic performance, and more. Some of these issues may be considered “sensitive” by parents, and they may have opinions or input about how, and whether, Girl Scouts should cover these topics should be covered with their daughters.

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Girl Scouts welcomes and serves girls and families from a wide spectrum of faiths and cultures. When girls wish to participate in discussions or activities that could be considered sensitive—even for some—put the topic on hold until you have spoken with parents and received guidance from your council.

When Girl Scout activities involve sensitive issues, your role is that of a caring adult who can help girls acquire skills and knowledge in a supportive atmosphere, not someone who advocates a particular position.

You should know, GSUSA does not take a position or develop materials on issues relating to human sexuality, birth control, or abortion. We feel our role is to help girls develop self-confidence and good decision-making skills that will help them make wise choices in all areas of their lives. We believe parents and guardians, along with schools and faith communities, are the primary sources of information on these topics.

Parents/guardians make all decisions regarding their girl’s participation in Girl Scout program that may be of a sensitive nature. As a volunteer leader, you must get written parental permission for any locally planned program offering that could be considered sensitive. Included on the permission form should be the topic of the activity, any specific content that might create controversy, and any action steps the girls will take when the activity is complete. Be sure to have a form for each girl, and keep the forms on hand in case a problem arises. For activities not sponsored by Girl Scouts, find out in advance (from organizers or other volunteers who may be familiar with the content) what will be presented, and follow your council’s guidelines for obtaining written permission. Sensitive Issues for Girls Parent Consent Form can be found in the Forms Chapter pg. 189. More information in Chapter IV “You Witness or Experience Abuse” Chapter IV pg 120.

Most parents and guardians are helpful and supportive and sincerely appreciate your time and effort on behalf of their daughters. And you almost always have the same goal, which is to make Girl Scouting an enriching experience for their girls. Encourage them to check out www.girlscouts4girls.org to find out how to expand their roles as advocates for their daughters.

The Girl Scouts Public Policy and Advocacy Office in Washington, D.C., builds relationships with members of Congress, White House officials, and other federal departments and agencies, continuously informing and educating them about issues important to girls and Girl Scouting. The office also supports Girl Scout councils, at the state and local levels, as they build capacity to be the voice for girls. These advocacy efforts help demonstrate to lawmakers that Girl Scouts is a resource and an authority on issues affecting girls. Visit the Advocacy office at www.girlscouts.org/who_we_are/advocacy.

Perhaps the most important tip for communicating with parents/guardians is for you to use “I” statements instead of “you” statements. “I” statements, which are detailed in the aMAZE Journey for Girl Scout Cadettes, tell someone what you need from her or him, while “you” statements may make the person feel defensive.

Here are some examples of “you” statements: 99

 

“Your daughter just isn’t responsible.”

“You’re not doing your share.”

Now look at “I” statements:  

“I’d like to help your daughter learn to take more responsibility.”

“I’d really appreciate your help with registration.”

If you need help with specific scenarios involving parents/guardians, try the following:

Is uninvolved and asks how she can help but “I do need your help. Here are some written seems to have no idea of how to follow through or guidelines on how to prepare for our camping take leadership of even the smallest activity, trip.”

Constantly talks about all the ways you could make the group better,

“I need your leadership. Project ideas you would like to develop and lead can fit in well with our plan. Please put your ideas in writing, and perhaps I can help you carry them out.”

Tells you things like, “Denise’s mother is on welfare, and Denise really doesn’t belong in this group,”

“I need your sensitivity. Girl Scouting is for all girls, and by teaching your daughter to be sensitive to others’ feelings you help teach the whole group sensitivity.”

Shifts parental responsibilities to you and is so busy with her own life that she allows no time to help,

“I love volunteering for Girl Scouts and want to make a difference. If you could take a few moments from your busy schedule to let me know what you value about what we’re doing, I’d appreciate it. It would keep me going for another year.”

A parent/guardian meeting, or a meeting of your friends-and-family network (as encouraged in many of the leadership Journeys) is a chance for you to get to know the families of the girls in your group.

Before the meeting, be sure you and/or your co-volunteers have done the following:  

  

For younger girls, arranged for a parent, another volunteer, or a group of older girls to do activities with the girls in your group while you talk with their parents/guardians (if girls will attend the meeting, too) Practiced a discussion on the following: Girl Scout Mission, Promise, and Law; benefits of Girl Scouting for their daughters, including how the GSLE is a world-class system for developing girl leaders; all the fun the girls are going to have; expectations for girls and their parents/guardians; and ideas of how parents and other guardians can participate in and enrich their daughters’ Girl Scout experiences Determined when product sales (including Girl Scout cookie activities) will happen in your council; parents/guardians will absolutely want to know Determined what information parents should bring to the meeting Used the Friends and Family pages provided in the adults guides for many of the Journeys, or created your own one-page information sheet (contact information for you and co-volunteers and helpers, the day and time of each meeting, location of and directions to the meeting place, what to bring with them, and information on how to get Journey resources—books, 100

 

awards, and keepsakes—and other merchandise like sashes, vests, T-shirts, and so on) Gathered or created supplies, including a sign-in sheet, an information sheet, permission forms for parents/guardians (also available from your council), health history forms (as required by your council), and GSUSA registration forms Prepared yourself to ask parents and guardians for help, being as specific as you can about the kind of help you will need (the Journey’s Friends and Family pages will come in handy here)

Every participant (girl or adult) in Girl Scouting must register and become a member of Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA). GSUSA membership dues are valid for one year. Membership dues (currently $15) are sent by the council to GSUSA; no portion of the dues stays with the council. The national membership dues are $15 per person and the council service fee is $15 for girls only; with a total amount of $30 per girl. Membership dues may not be transferred to another member and is not refundable.

Early Bird registration deadline for the upcoming membership year is June 30th. Girls are encouraged to register early to avoid the fall rush. Early registration helps ensure uninterrupted receipt of forms and materials from the council, helps girls and councils plan ahead, and gets girls excited about all the great stuff they want to do as Girl Scouts next year. Girl Scout grade level is determined by the current membership year beginning October 1.

Lifetime membership is available at a reduced rate. A lifetime member must be at least 18 years old (or a 17-year-old high-school graduate) and agree to the Girl Scout Promise and Law. You’re free to structure the parent/guardian meeting in whatever way works for you, but the following structure works for many new volunteers: 



 

As the girls and adults arrive, ask them to sign in. If the girls’ parents/guardians haven’t already registered them online, you’ll want to email or hand out information so they can do so.

If your council uses paper registration forms, you can pass them out at this time. Check with your council for its specific registration guidelines. You may also want to email or hand out a brief information sheet before or at this meeting.

Open the meeting by welcoming the girls and adults. Introduce yourself and other covolunteers or helpers. Have adults and girls introduce themselves, discuss whether anyone in their families has been a Girl Scout, and talk about what Girl Scouting means to them.

Welcome everyone, regardless of experience, and let them know they will be learning about Girl Scouts today. (If you’re new to Girl Scouting, don’t worry—just let everyone know you’ll be learning about Girl Scouting together!)

Ask the girls to go with the adult or teen in charge of their activity and begin the discussion.

Discuss the information you prepared for this meeting: o o o o o o o

All the fun girls are going to have!

When and where the group will meet and some examples of activities the girls might choose to do That a parent/guardian permission form is used for activities outside the group’s normal meeting time and place and the importance of completing and returning it How you plan to keep in touch with parents/guardians (a Facebook page or group, Twitter, email, text messaging, a phone tree, or fliers the girls take home are just some ideas) The Girl Scout Mission, Promise, and Law The Girl Scout program, especially what the GSLE is and what the program does for their daughters When Girl Scout cookies (and other products) will go on sale and how participation in 101

o o o o

 



product sales teaches life skills and helps fund group activities The cost of membership, which includes annual GSUSA dues, any group payments (ask your council), optional uniforms, and any resources parents/guardians will need to buy (such as a girl’s book for a Journey) The availability of financial assistance and how the Girl Scout Cookie Program and other product sales generate funds for the group treasury That families can also make donations to the council—and why they might want to do that!

That you may be looking for additional volunteers, and in which areas you are looking (be as specific as possible!) See pg. 143 of Appendix I For Troop Volunteers for Forming a Troop Committee Information as well as Forms Chapter pg. 197 for Troop Committee Sign-Up Form

If you are the Troop Leader registering girls online, you will need to send council a registration form with the parents signature. If the parent registers their child online, they do not need to fill out and send in a registration from.

Remind the group of the next meeting (if you’ll have one) and thank everyone for attending.

Hold the next meeting when it makes sense for you and your co-volunteers—that may be in two months if face-to-face meetings are best, or not at all if you’re diligent about keeping in touch with parents/guardians via Facebook, Twitter, text messages, email, phone calls, or some other form of communication.

After the meeting, follow up with any parents/guardians who did not attend, to connect them with the group, inform them of decisions, and discuss how they can best help the girls.

Girl Scouts embraces girls of all abilities, backgrounds, and heritage, with a specific and positive philosophy of inclusion that benefits everyone. Each girl—without regard to socioeconomic status, race, physical or cognitive ability, ethnicity, primary language, or religion—is an equal and valued member of the group, and groups reflect the diversity of the community.

Inclusion is an approach and an attitude, rather than a set of guidelines. Inclusion is about belonging, about all girls being offered the same opportunities, about respect and dignity, and about honoring the uniqueness of and differences among us all. You’re accepting and inclusive when you:       

Welcome every girl and focus on building community.

Emphasize cooperation instead of competition.

Provide a safe and socially comfortable environment for girls.

Teach respect for, understanding of, and dignity toward all girls and their families.

Actively reach out to girls and families who are traditionally excluded or marginalized.

Foster a sense of belonging to community as a respected and valued peer.

Honor the intrinsic value of each person’s life.

The Hispanic population is the largest-growing in the United States, which is why Girls Scouts has translated many of its publications into Spanish. Over time, Girl Scouts will continue to identify members’ needs and produce resources to support those needs, including translating publications into additional languages and formats.

As you think about where, when, and how often to meet with your group, you will find yourself considering the needs, resources, safety, and beliefs of all members and potential members. As you do this, include the special needs of any members who have disabilities, or whose parents or guardians have disabilities. But please don’t rely on visual cues to inform you of a disability: 102

Approximately 20 percent of the U.S. population has a disability—that’s one in five people, of every socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, and religion.

As a volunteer, your interactions with girls present an opportunity to improve the way society views girls (and their parents/guardians) with disabilities. Historically, disabilities have been looked at from a deficit viewpoint with a focus on how people with disabilities could be fixed. Today, the focus is on a person’s abilities—on what she can do rather than on what she cannot.

If you want to find out what a girl with a disability needs to make her Girl Scout experience successful, simply ask her or her parent/guardian. If you are frank and accessible, it’s likely they will respond in kind, creating an atmosphere that enriches everyone.

It’s important for all girls to be rewarded based on their best efforts—not on the completion of a task.

Give any girl the opportunity to do her best and she will. Sometimes that means changing a few rules or approaching an activity in a more creative way. Here are some examples of ways to modify activities:   

Invite a girl to complete an activity after she has observed others doing it.

If you are visiting a museum to view sculpture, find out if a girl who is blind might be given permission to touch the pieces.

If an activity requires running, a girl who is unable to run could be asked to walk or do another physical movement.

In addition, note that people-first language puts the person before the disability.

She has a learning disability.

She is learning disabled.

She has a developmental delay.

She is mentally retarded; she is slow.

She uses a wheelchair.

She is wheelchair-bound.

When interacting with a girl (or parent/guardian) with a disability, consider these final tips:      

When talking to a girl with a disability, speak directly to her, not through a parent/guardian or friend.

It’s okay to offer assistance to a girl with a disability, but wait until your offer is accepted before you begin to help. Listen closely to any instructions the person may have.

Leaning on a girl’s wheelchair is invading her space and is considered annoying and rude.

When speaking to a girl who is deaf and using an interpreter, speak to the girl, not to the interpreter.

When speaking for more than a few minutes to a girl who uses a wheelchair, place yourself at eye level.

When greeting a girl with a visual disability, always identify yourself and others. You might say, “Hi, it’s Sheryl. Tara is on my right, and Chris is on my left.”

Girls with cognitive disabilities can be registered as closely as possible to their chronological ages.

They wear the uniform of that grade level. Make any adaptations for the girl to ongoing activities of the grade level to which the group belongs. Young women with cognitive disorders may choose to retain their girl membership through their 21st year, and then move into an adult membership category.

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(Revised May 2015) In Girl Scouting, the emotional and physical safety and well-being of girls is always a top priority.

Here’s what you need to know.

You (the Volunteer), the parents/guardians of the girls in your group, and the girls themselves share the responsibility for staying safe. The next three sections provide more details on everyone’s responsibilities.

Every adult in Girl Scouting is responsible for the physical and emotional safety of girls, and we all demonstrate that by agreeing to follow these guidelines at all times.

1. Follow the Safety Activity Checkpoints.

Instructions for staying safe while participating in activities are detailed in the Safety Activity Checkpoints, available from your council. Read the checkpoints, follow them, and share them with other volunteers, parents and girls before engaging in activities with girls.

2. Points common to all Safety Activity Checkpoints include: Girls plan the activity. Keeping their grade-level abilities in mind, encourage girls to take proactive leadership roles in organizing details of the activity.

Arrange for proper adult supervision of girls. Your group must have at least two unrelated, approved adult volunteers present at all times, plus additional adult volunteers as necessary (this is dependent upon the size of the group and the ages and abilities of girls).

Adult volunteers must be at least 18 years old (or the age of majority defined by your state, if it is older than 18), and must be screened by your council before volunteering. One lead volunteer in every group must be female.

Get parent/guardian permission. When an activity takes place that is outside the normal time and place, advise each parent/guardian of the details of the activity and obtain permission for girls to participate.

Communicate with council and parents. Follow council procedures for activity approval, certificates of insurance, and council guidelines about girls’ general health examinations.

Make arrangements in advance for all transportation and confirm plans before departure.

Be prepared for emergencies and compile key contacts. Work with girls and other adults to establish and practice procedures for emergencies related to weather, fire, lost girls/adults and site security. Give an itinerary to a contact person at home; call the contact person upon departure and return. Create a list of girls’ parents/guardian contact information, telephone numbers for emergency services and police, and council contacts—keep on hand or post in an easily accessible location. Always keep handy a well-stocked first-aid kit, girl health histories and contact information for girls’ families. Check Safety Activity Checkpoints to determine the type of first aider needed.

Get a weather report. On the morning of the activity, check weather.com or other reliable weather sources to determine if conditions are appropriate. If severe weather conditions prevent the activity, be prepared with a backup plan or alternate activity, and/or postpone the activity. Write, review, and practice evacuation and emergency plans for severe weather with 104

girls. In the event of a storm, take shelter away from tall objects (including trees, buildings, and electrical poles). Find the lowest point in an open flat area. Squat low to the ground on the balls of the feet, and place hands on knees with head between them.

Use the buddy system. Using the buddy system, girls are divided into teams of two. Each girl is responsible for staying with her buddy at all times, warning her buddy of danger, giving her buddy immediate assistance if safe to do so, and seeking help when the situation warrants it. Girls are encouraged to stay near the group or buddy with another team of two, so in the event someone is injured, one person cares for the patient while two others seek help.

3. Report abuse. Sexual advances, improper touching and sexual activity of any kind with girl members, as well as physical, verbal and emotional abuse of girls is strictly forbidden.

Follow your council’s guidelines for reporting concerns about abuse or neglect that may be occurring inside or outside of Girl Scouting.

4. Travel safely. When transporting girls to planned Girl Scout field trips and other activities that are outside the normal time and place, every driver must be an approved adult volunteer and have a good driving record, a valid license and a registered/insured vehicle. Insist that everyone is in a legal seat and wears her seat belt at all times, and adhere to state laws regarding booster seats and requirements for children in rear seats.

5. Ensure safe overnight outings. Prepare girls to be away from home by involving them in planning, so they know what to expect. Avoid having men sleep in the same space as girls and women. During family or parent-daughter overnights, one family unit may sleep in the same sleeping quarters in program areas. When parents are staffing events, daughters should remain in quarters with other girls rather than in staff areas.

6. Role-model the right behavior. Never use illegal drugs. Don’t consume alcohol, smoke, or use foul language in the presence of girls. Do not carry ammunition or firearms in the presence of girls, unless given special permission by your council for group marksmanship activities.

7. Create an emotionally safe space. Adults are responsible for making Girl Scouting a place where girls are as safe emotionally as they are physically. Protect the emotional safety of girls by creating a team agreement and coaching girls to honor it. Agreements typically encourage behaviors like respecting a diversity of feelings and opinions; resolving conflicts constructively; and avoiding physical and verbal bullying, clique behavior and discrimination.

8. Ensure that no girl is treated differently. Girl Scouts welcomes all members, regardless of race, ethnicity, background, disability, family structure, religious beliefs and socioeconomic status. When scheduling, planning and carrying out activities, carefully consider the needs of all girls involved, including school schedules, family needs, financial constraints, religious holidays and the accessibility of appropriate transportation and meeting places.

9. Promote online safety. Instruct girls never to put their full names or contact information online, engage in virtual conversation with strangers, or arrange in-person meetings with online contacts. On group websites, publish girls’ first names only and never divulge their contact information. Teach girls the Girl Scout Internet Safety Pledge and have them commit to it.

10. Keep girls safe during money-earning activities. Girl Scout cookies and other councilsponsored product sales are an integral part of the program. During Girl Scout product sales, you are responsible for the safety of girls, money and products. In addition, a wide variety of organizations, causes and fundraisers may appeal to Girl Scouts to be their labor force.

When representing Girl Scouts, girls cannot participate in money-earning activities that represent partisan politics or are not Girl Scout–approved product sales and efforts.

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11. Promote online safety. Instruct girls never to put their full names or contact information online, engage in virtual conversation with strangers, or arrange in-person meetings with online contacts, other than to deliver cookies and only with the approval and accompaniment of a parent or designated adult. On group websites, publish girls’ first names only and never divulge their contact information. Teach girls the Girl Scout Internet Safety Pledge and have them commit to it.

12. Keep girls safe during money-earning activities. Girl Scout cookies and other councilsponsored product sales are an integral part of the program. During Girl Scout product sales, you are responsible for the safety of girls, money and products. In addition, a wide variety of organizations, causes and fundraisers may appeal to Girl Scouts to be their labor force.

When representing Girl Scouts, girls cannot participate in money-earning activities that represent partisan politics or are not Girl Scout–approved product sales and efforts.

CAUTION: When activities involve unpredictable safety variables, they are not recommended as Girl Scout program activities. These include but are not limited to:  Bungee Jumping  Parasailing  Flying in small private planes,  Riding all-terrain vehicles helicopters or blimps  Riding motorized personal  Go-Carting watercraft such as jet skis  Hang gliding  Skydiving  Hot air ballooning  Stunt skiing  Hunting  Outdoor trampolining  Motor biking  Zorbing  Parachuting

You want to engage each parent or guardian to help you work toward ensuring the health, safety and well-being of girls. Clearly communicate to parents and guardians that they are expected to: 

      

Provide permission for their daughters to participate in Girl Scouting as well as provide additional consent for activities that take place outside the scheduled meeting place.

This can include such activities as: product sales, including Digital Cookie; overnight travel; the use of special equipment; or sensitive issues.

Make provisions for their daughters to get to and from meeting places or other designated sites in a safe and timely manner, and inform you if someone other than a parent or guardian will drop off or pick up their child.

Provide their daughters with appropriate clothing and equipment for activities, or contact you before the activity to find sources for the necessary clothing and equipment.

Follow Girl Scout safety guidelines and encourage their children to do the same.

Assist you in planning and carrying out program activities as safely as possible.

Participate in parent/guardian meetings.

Understand what appropriate behavior is for their daughters, as determined by the council and you.

Assist volunteers if their daughters have special needs or abilities and their help is solicited.

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Girls who learn about and practice safe and healthy behaviors are likely to establish lifelong habits of safety consciousness. For that reason, each Girl Scout is expected to:      

Assist you and other volunteers in safety planning.

Listen to and follow your instructions and suggestions.

Learn and practice safety skills.

Learn to “think safety” at all times and to be prepared.

Identify and evaluate an unsafe situation.

Know how, when and where to get help when needed.

Whatever the activity, from camping to cookies sales, adult supervision is required regardless of the grade level of the girls. The table below has been developed to show the minimum number of adults needed to supervise a specific number of girls (councils may also establish maximums due to size or cost restrictions). These adult-to-girl supervision ratios were devised to ensure the safety and health of all girls taking part in the activity. For example, if one adult has to respond to an emergency, a second adult is always on hand for the rest of the girls. It may take you a minute to get used to the layout of this chart, but once you start to use it, you’ll find the chart extremely helpful.

Group Meetings

Events, Travel, and Camping

Two unrelated adults (at least one of whom is female) for every:

additional adult to each additional:

Girl Scout Daisies (grades K–1)

12

1-6

6

1-4

Girl Scout Brownies (grades 2–3)

20

1-8

12

1-6

Girl Scout Juniors (grades 4–5)

25

1-10

16

1-8

Girl Scout Cadettes (grades 6–8)

25

1-12

20

1-10

Girl Scout Seniors (grades 9–10)

30

1-15

24

1-12

Girl Scout Ambassadors (grades 11–12)

30

1-15

24

1-12

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Two unrelated adults (at least one of whom is female) for this number of girls:

Two unrelated adults (at least one of whom is female) for every:

Here are some examples on utilizing the chart: If you’re meeting with 17 Daisies, you’ll need three adults, at least two of whom are unrelated (in other words, you and someone who is not your sister, spouse, parent, or child), and at least one of whom is female. This is determined as follows: for up to 12 Daisies you need two adults, and one more adult for up to six additional girls. Since you have 17 girls, you need three adults (2+1). If, however, you have 17 Cadettes attending a group meeting you need only two unrelated adults, at least one of whom is female, since the chart shows that two adults can manage up to 25 Cadettes.

In addition to the adult-to-girl ratios, please remember that adult volunteers must be at least 18 years old, or the age of majority defined by your state if it is older than 18.

Adult supervision for all girls also extends to any online activity. For additional information on online safety, please consult:  The “Computer/Online Use” Safety Activity Checkpoints  Girl Scout Internet Safety Pledge  Digital Cookie Terms & Conditions for Girls, Digital Cookie Terms & Conditions for Parents/Guardians and Digital Cookie Terms & Conditions for Volunteers

How parents decide to transport girls between their homes and Girl Scout meeting places is each parent’s individual decision and responsibility.

For planned Girl Scout field trips and other activities (outside the normal meeting time and place) in which a group will be transported in private vehicles keep in mind the following:  Every driver must be an approved volunteer at least 21 years old, and have a good driving record, a valid license and a registered/insured vehicle.  Girls never drive other girls.  If a group is traveling in one vehicle, there must be at least two unrelated, approved adult volunteers in the vehicle, one of whom is female. In addition, the girl-volunteer ratios in the “Knowing How Many Volunteers You Need” section must be followed.  If a group is traveling in more than one vehicle, the entire group must consist of at least two unrelated, approved adult volunteers, one of whom is female, and the girl-volunteer ratios in the “Knowing How Many Volunteers You Need” section must be followed. Care should be taken so that a single car is not separated from the group for an extended length of time.

Private transportation includes private passenger vehicles, rental cars, privately owned or rented recreational vehicles and campers, chartered buses, chartered boats and chartered flights. Each driver of motorized private transportation must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid operator’s license appropriate to the vehicle. In addition, state laws must be followed, even if they are more stringent than the guidelines here.

Anyone who is driving a vehicle with 12 or more passengers must be a professional driver who possesses a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Note, you must check with your council to determine specific rules about renting large vehicles. Fifteen passenger vans are not recommended.

Please keep in mind the following non-negotiable points regarding private transportation:  ***GSESC has a partnership with Enterprise in South Carolina. The Corporate Account number is XZ26618. The contract has to be signed “_____ (signature) on behalf on Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina”. Do not use the initials GSESC. The extra insurance offered by Enterprise is not needed; the troop is covered by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina. This partnership does not include Enterprise business at airports. Trip Approval Form found in the Forms Chapter pgs. 179-180.

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

Check with your council to make sure you are following accepted practices when using private transportation. This ensures that both you and your council are protected by liability insurance in the event of an accident.



If your council has given permission to use a rented car, read all rental agreements to be sure you comply with their terms and avoid surprises. For example, in many cases the minimum age of drivers is 25, and the maximum age is often under 70. In addition, make sure the car is adequately insured and you know who is responsible for damage to, or loss of, the vehicle. Finally, ensure you have a good paper trail that shows the vehicle rental is Girl Scout–related.



Obtain parent/guardian permission for any use of transportation outside of the meeting place.

When driving a car, RV or camper, take the following precautions and ask all other drivers to do the same:  Ensure all drivers are adults at least 21 years old  Girls should not be transporting other girls.  Never transport girls in flatbed or panel trucks, in the bed of a pickup, or in a camper-trailer.  Keep directions and a road map in the car, along with a first-aid kit and a flashlight.  Check your lights, signals, tires, windshield wipers, horns and fluid levels before each trip, and recheck them periodically on long trips.  Keep all necessary papers up to date including, but not limited to: your driver’s license; vehicle registration; any state or local inspections; and insurance coverage.  Wear your seat belt at all times, and insist that all passengers do the same. Girls under 12 must ride in the back seats.  Follow all the established rules of the road in your state, including the speed limit. Some additional guidelines include: keeping a two-car-length distance between you and the car ahead of you; not talking or texting on a cell phone or other personal electronic device while driving; not using ear buds or headphones while driving; and turning your lights on when your windshield wipers are on.  Plan rest stops every few hours and avoid driving for extended periods at night. If traveling with others, prearrange stopping places along the way. When planning longer trips, arrange for relief drivers.  Do NOT drive when you are tired or taking medication that makes you drowsy.

Check with your council for any other specific guidelines or requirements they have.

Girl Scout council‐sponsored product sales, which include magazines and nuts, as well as cookies, give girls proven opportunities to earn money and/or credits for their Girl Scout program activities.

These sales also contribute significantly to the girls’ local councils and communities through take‐action projects. In order to ensure the emotional and physical safety and well-being of girls, which is always a top priority in any activity, you need to read and understand the following guidelines.

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Ensure that the parents/guardians of all girls participating in product sales are fully informed about the activity including the:  Safety precautions in place  Need for appropriate clothing and/or supplies  Need for advance arrangements for all transportation and confirmation of these plans  Need for written permission from them in order for their daughter to participate  Location of designated sale areas, which are also communicated to the Council

Establish a relationship with your local Police Department to determine any support they may be able to provide during product sales, especially those related to cookie booths, and any safety precautions they might suggest. While Police Departments vary from state to state and city to city, many of them have resources such as:  School Resource Officers who have specific training for communicating with young people  Community Volunteers who may be able to assist by being present during booth sales Police departments can also provide information on areas and addresses to avoid, as well as access to known sex offender registries.

Regardless of the type of activity, you need to be prepared for emergencies involving girls or other adults. This should include having a first aid kit always available and making sure that if someone is injured and needs help, that one adult cares for the injured person while another adult seeks help.

Adults provide supervision and guidance for all grade levels, and must accompany Girl Scout Daisies, Brownies, and Juniors when they are selling, taking orders for or delivering products. Adults must be present at booth activities, regardless of the age of the girls (see also the section “Knowing How Many Volunteers You Need”).

Adults who oversee Girl Scout Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors must:  Be aware of how, when and where the girls are selling products  Be on call when girls are participating in product sales  Be readily available to them should they need assistance.  Help girls understand how to be safe in their surroundings, and always enforce the use of the buddy system Adult supervision for all Girl Scouts extends to any online activity. Consult the “Computer/Online Use” Safety Activity Checkpoints for specific information about safe online practices for all activities, and to obtain a copy of the Girl Scout Internet Safety Pledge.

Girls should always have a plan for safeguarding money, which includes such things as:  Not walking around with large amounts of money  Keeping the cash box against a wall or behind a barrier of cookie boxes 110

  

Not keeping money at home or school Giving cookie money to supervising adults, who will deposit the money as soon as possible ***Troops are allowed to accept credit/debit cards for cookie purchases from customers. Cookie price cannot be changed; however, the card processing fee can be assessed to the customer with the customer’s consent.

Using the buddy system, girls are divided into teams of two. Each girl is responsible for staying with her buddy at all times, warning her buddy of danger, giving her buddy immediate assistance if safe to do so, and seeking help when the situation warrants it. Girls are encouraged to stay near the group or buddy with another team of two, so in the event someone is injured, one person cares for the patient while two others seek help.

In order to ensure the safety of girls while selling door-to-door, you and the girls should become familiar with the areas and neighborhoods in which girls would like to sell. In addition, girls should:  Participate in door‐to‐door sales only during daylight hours  Wear a membership pin, uniform, or Girl Scout clothing (e.g., Girl Scout T‐shirt) to clearly identify themselves as Girl Scouts.  Avoid a house or person that makes them uncomfortable. They should walk away and find the next person/place that does not make them uncomfortable  Call 9-1-1 if they see someone that seems to be acting in a way that makes them feel unsafe. This could include, but is not limited to, any person who is staring at them for long periods, seems to be following them for no apparent reason or takes pictures of the them  Use safe pedestrian practices, such as crossing at corners and obeying walk signals  Not enter the home or vehicle of a stranger, and to avoid selling to people in vehicles (except at drive-thru cookie booths) or going into alleys  Should not carry large amounts of money (see “Plan for Safeguarding Money”, above)

Cookie booths are a traditional and fun way of selling Girl Scout Cookies. Booth locations are approved by councils, facilitated within council jurisdiction and you must follow all council guidelines with regard to setting up, manning and taking down a booth. . When setting up booth sales, it’s important that:  Adults are present at all times  There is adequate space at the booth for table, products and girls and to allow safe passage by pedestrians, bikes and cars.  Girls are a safe distance from cars. If possible, set up a safety barrier between cars and the booth—perhaps a few volunteers could park their cars in spaces near the booth location  The booth is not blocking a store entrance or exit  Girls and adults do not confront or engage an irate customer, but call local authorities for assistance

***NOTE MAJOR CHANGE 111

While girls can receive cash from buyers and make change, they should hand the money to an adult for safekeeping. It is important that cash is kept safe and out of sight. This can be accomplished by:  

Keeping the cash box against a wall or behind a barrier of cookie boxes Having an adult volunteer keep the money by, for example, securing it in a front‐facing pouch tied around her waist.

If someone takes money or cookies from your booth, do not attempt to physically recover the stolen items and do not allow the girls to do so. Instead, get a good description of the offender(s), call 911, and alert local security (if applicable). Make sure girls know what to do in case of theft. Report any incidents to your local council according to its guidelines.

For additional information about setting up a booth and safety and security suggestions, consult your council guidelines.

In order to make sure that girls are aware of how to safely use the Internet, you should discuss online safety issues with the girls and distribute copies of the Girl Scout Internet Safety Pledge (the pledge is available at the end of this document and at www.girlscouts.org). The girls should also take a copy of the pledge home and go over it with their parents. Both the girl and her parent should sign the pledge.

Girls must understand that the Internet is an open means of communication that anyone can access. As such, websites will often attract people other than their intended users. It is therefore imperative that any information that could jeopardize the safety and security of girls and adults not be disclosed on a website. The following measures will help to ensure girls’ online safety:  Girl Scouts should only use their first names  A Girl Scout’s last name, address, phone number, or e‐mail address should never be posted.

For Digital Cookie a girl may post her unique Digital Cookie URL on her Facebook page and may email it to friends and family (for additional information please refer to Safety Activity Checkpoint for Online Product Sales, Digital Cookie Terms & Conditions for Volunteers and Digital Cookie Pledge for Girls)  Always have a parent’s or guardian’s permission when using pictures of girls on a website.

This is especially important if the girl is under 13 years old  Do not post addresses of group meeting places, dates and times of meetings, events or trips on a website. Instead, an adult who wishes to communicate upcoming events with families of Girl Scouts should send an e‐mail to the families  Do not allow automatic posting of messages to a website. All postings to message boards, social media and guest books should have adult oversight, and be screened prior to posting live.  Ensure that websites do not show personal e‐mail addresses of girls, but use a troop, group or adult’s e‐mail.

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Girl Scouts use the Internet for a variety of reasons including the online marketing and sale of approved Girl Scout related products. Below are some key points to keep in mind for all online sales and marketing:  Girls must read, understand and accept the Girl Scout Internet Safety Pledge, prior to conducting any online sales or marketing activities, which is available at the end of the Computer/Online Use: Safety Activity Checkpoints  Girls may send e‐mail messages to alert friends and relatives about product sales and accept customer commitments via email  Social media sites may be used to market product, however, all applicable GSUSA and council guidelines must be followed  Girls writing product e‐mails or announcements online should sign with their first names only, their troop/group number or name and their council name.  Personal e‐mails or street addresses of girls should never be used. Instead, use one of the following: o A blind return address account where the girls’ name or personal e‐mail is not revealed to the customer and is instead hosted on a secure site o A group account, monitored by an adult o An adult’s e‐mail account, which is supervised by that adult  . Girls should never arrange in-person meetings with online contacts, other than to deliver cookies and only with the approval and accompaniment of a parent or designated adult.

For additional information and guidance please see the “Girl Scout Cookie/Council-Sponsored Product Sale: Safety Activity Checkpoints”, “Computer/Online Use: Safety Activity Checkpoints”, the Digital Cookie “Terms & Conditions for Girl Scouts”, “Terms & Conditions for Parents/Guardians” and “Terms & Conditions for Volunteers”.

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How can you, as a Girl Scout volunteer, determine whether an activity is safe and appropriate for Girl Scouts? Good judgment and common sense often dictate the answer. What’s safe in one circumstance may not be safe in another. An incoming storm, for example, might force you to assess or discontinue an activity. If you are uncertain about the safety of an activity, call your council staff with full details and don’t proceed without approval. Remember, the safety of girls is your most important consideration.

Prior to any activity, read the specific Safety Activity Checkpoints (available on your council’s website or from your support team in some other format) related to any activity you plan to do with girls. If Safety Activity Checkpoints do not exist for an activity you and the girls are interested in, check with your council before making any definite plans with the girls. A few activities are allowed only with written council pre-approval and only for girls 12 and over, while some are off-limits completely: 

Caution: You must get written pre-approval from your council for girls ages 12 and older who will: o Use firearms for target shooting (see Sport Shooting Safety Activity Checkpoints) o Take trips on waterways that are highly changeable or uncontrollable (See Whitewater Rafting Safety Activity Checkpoints)

CAUTION: When activities involve unpredictable safety variables, they are not recommended as Girl Scout program activities. These include but are not limited to:  Bungee Jumping  Parasailing  Flying in small private planes,  Riding all-terrain vehicles helicopters or blimps  Riding motorized personal  Go-Carting watercraft such as jet skis  Hang gliding  Skydiving  Hot air ballooning  Stunt skiing  Hunting  Outdoor trampolining  Motor biking  Zorbing  Parachuting When planning activities with girls, note the abilities of each girl and carefully consider the progression of skills from the easiest part to the most difficult. Make sure the complexity of the activity does not exceed girls’ individual skills. Bear in mind that skill levels decline when people are tired, hungry or under stress. Also use activities as opportunities for building teamwork, which is one of the outcomes for the Connect key in the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE).

Girl Scout health histories and records may be handled differently by each council. GSESC requires a girl health history form for girls attending resident camp and a list of immunizations. Parents’ are encouraged to share any medical or behavioral concerns with the camp director and/or the troop leader.

For various reasons, some parents/guardians may object to immunizations or medical examinations. Councils must attempt to make provisions for these girls to attend Girl Scout functions in a way that accommodates these concerns.

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It is important for you to be aware of any medications a girl may take or allergies she may have.

Keep in mind the following  Medication, including over-the-counter products, must never be dispensed without prior written permission from a girl’s custodial parent or guardian (your council can provide the necessary form).  Some girls may need to carry and administer their own medications, such as bronchial inhalers, EpiPens or diabetes medication. You must have documentation from the girl’s parent or guardian that it is acceptable for the girl to self-administer these medications  Common food allergies include dairy products, eggs, soy, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts and seafood. This means that before serving any food (such as peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, cookies or chips), ask whether anyone is allergic to peanuts, dairy products or wheat. Do this even if you are aware of which girls have specific allergies! Even Girl Scout Daisies and Brownies should be aware of their allergies, but double-checking with them and their parents/guardians is always a good idea.

Every registered Girl Scout and registered adult member in the Girl Scout movement is automatically covered under the basic Mutual of Omaha Activity Insurance plan upon registration.

The entire premium cost for this protection is borne by Girl Scouts of the USA, and the basic plan is effective during the regular fiscal year (October 1 to the following October 1). Up to 14 months of insurance coverage is provided for new members who register in the month of August.

This insurance provides up to a specified maximum for medical expenses incurred as a result of an accident while a member is participating in an approved, supervised Girl Scout activity. This is one reason why all adults and girls should be registered members. It is important to remember that nonregistered parents, tagalongs (brothers, sisters and friends) and other persons are not covered by the basic plan.

This insurance coverage is not intended to diminish the need for, or replace existing, family health insurance. When $130 in benefits has been paid under this plan for covered expenses, any subsequent benefits from the basic plan will be payable (up to the specified maximum) only for expenses incurred that aren’t covered under another insurance policy. If there is no family insurance or healthcare program, a specified maximum of medical benefits is available under the basic plan.

An optional Activity Insurance plan is available for Girl Scouts taking extended trips (longer than three days and two nights) and for non-members who participate in Girl Scout activities. These optional plans are secondary insurance that a council may offer to cover participants taking part in any council-approved, supervised Girl Scout activity. Contact your council to find out how to apply.

In some cases, your council may make this insurance mandatory, particularly for overseas travel.

Review the Girl Scouts insurance plan description here.

Leaders should always have an Insurance Claim Form as a part of the troop's supplies. In case of an accident, the doctor and the leader should complete the Claim Form. Make copies of the Insurance Claim Form found in the Forms Chapter pages 183-184 and mail two into Council and retain one copy for your records. For trips lasting more than two (2) nights, additional insurance must be purchased. Please use the Extra Insurance Request Form (Forms Chapter page 181). Within four (4) weeks prior to your trip or event, submit the Extra Insurance Form, your itinerary, list of participants, dates of the activity and a check made payable to GSESC (minimum premium is $5) for the cost of the optional insurance, along with a Trip Approval Form (Forms Chapter pgs. 179-180).

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OPTIONAL PLANS

RATE

PURPOSE

Plan 2 – Accident insurance for .11 per day per participant activities or events excluded under the basic plan special coverage for members and non-members

Provides accident insurance for events or activities not covered under the Basic Plan such as those lasting more than two nights (3 nights when one of the nights is a federal holiday).

If sickness insurance is desired, see Plan 3. Provides accident insurance for non-members participants in approved supervised activities.

Plan 3E, 3P, 3PI – Accident and 3E: .29 per day – sickness insurance activities or events Coordinates with any excluded under the basic plan Family health plan

Provides accident and sickness insurance for activities lasting more than two nights or when sickness insurance is needed in addition to 3P: .70 per day – Primary accident insurance, e.g. resident Coverage camp, core camps, Our Cabana, Wider Opportunities, longer trips, etc.

3PI: $1.17 per day – Non-members may be covered.

International Trips

How to File a Claim Every troop leader should carry the Activity Accident Insurance Basic Coverage Brochure and First Report of Accident/Injury (Forms Chapter pg. 186) form along with the girls' health records and permission slips on all outings.

When a girl sustains an injury at a Girl Scout activity, the leader completes the front page of the Insurance Claim form (Forms Chapter pgs. 183-184) and gives it to the doctor to complete the back page or attach his own form. The leader also completes the First Report of Accident/Injury form (Forms Chapter pg. 186). troop leader keeps a copy of each for her file and submits the originals and a copy to the North Charleston Service Center for filing with Mutual of Omaha.

Mutual of Omaha will act on the claim within a reasonable period of time.

Certificate of Insurance/Contracts Often Girl Scouts are requested to furnish a Certificate of insurance in order to use a facility. Any contract that is binding on the council may only be signed by those authorized by the board to sign legal or quasi-legal documents in the name of Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina. To avoid delays or cancellations, ask early whether or not a contract or certificate of insurance is required; if so, process immediately. Contact the North Charleston Service Center to request a certificate of insurance.

Review the Girl Scouts insurance plan description here or at http://www.mutualofomaha.com/girl_scouts_of_the_usa/forms.html

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The Safety Activity Checkpoints for most activities require having an expert on hand to help girls learn an activity. Please remember that all experts must be approved by your council. To make it a bit easier, many councils keep lists of local experts (such as sailing instructors) and facilities (such as roller skating rinks) they’ve already approved. If your council doesn’t keep these lists, you’ll have to present an expert for the council’s consideration. Some things to keep in mind:  

Does the person have documented training and experience? She or he should have documented experience for the activity in question, such as course completion certificates or cards, records of previous training to instruct the activity and letters of reference.

What does she or he need to be able to do? This person should have the knowledge and experience to make appropriate judgments concerning participants, equipment, facilities, safety considerations, supervision and procedures for the activity. At the very least, she or he should be able to give clear instructions to girls and adults, troubleshoot unexpected scenarios and respond appropriately in an emergency.

Although you hope the worst never happens, you must observe council procedures for handling accidents and fatalities. At the scene of an accident, first provide all possible care for the injured person. Follow established council procedures for obtaining medical assistance and immediately reporting the emergency. To do this, you must always have on hand the names and telephone numbers of council staff, parents/guardians and emergency services such as the police, fire department or hospital. Check with your council for emergency contact information.

IN THE EVENT OF SERIOUS ACCIDENT, MAJOR EMERGENCY OR FATALITY: Person in charge at the scene will: 1. Give priority attention to providing all possible care for the sick or injured person(s).

Immediately secure a doctor, ambulance, police and clergy as appropriate.

2. In the event of a fatality, notify the police, retain a responsible adult at the scene of the accident and see that no disturbance of victim or surroundings is permitted until the police have assumed authority.

3. Contact the Chief of Staff to report the emergency and to secure additional assistance, as well as for your legal protection.

4. Exercise care that no statements are made orally or in writing that could be interpreted either as an assumption or rejection of responsibility for the accident until all facts are known. Refer all questions (media and general public) to the Chief Executive Officer.

5. The adults in charge of the activity must notify parents of serious illness or accidents as quickly as possible.

6. In case of a serious accident during Girl Scout Service Center hours, you MUST contact one of the individuals listed below (in the order listed). After office hours contact, in the order listed, one of the individuals at her home.

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Florence Service Center- (843) 669-5174 or (800) 786-8704 Myrtle Beach Service Center – (843) 626-5190 North Charleston Service Center-(843) 552-9910 or (800) 868-9911 Melissa Cox, Chief of Staff- (843) 830-7277 Loretta Graham, Chief Executive Officer- (843) 614-2417 Stephanie Walsh, Director of Product Program – (843) 224-6450 Tina Carter, Regional Membership Director – (843) 303-2838 The North Charleston Service Center will secure additional assistance if needed, and will send the proper insurance claim form or contact the proper insurance agent.

After receiving a report of an accident, council staff will immediately arrange for additional assistance at the scene, if needed, and will notify parents/guardians, as appropriate. If a Girl Scout needs emergency medical care as the result of an accident or injury, first contact emergency medical services, and then follow council procedures for accidents and incidents. Your adherence to these procedures is critical, especially with regard to notifying parents or guardians. If the media is involved, let council-designated staff discuss the incident with media representatives.

In the event of a fatality or other serious accident, the police must be notified and a responsible adult must remain at the scene at all times. In the case of a fatality, do not disturb the victim or surroundings and follow police instructions. Do not share information about the accident with anyone but the police, your council and, if applicable, insurance representatives or legal counsel.

All forms necessary for accidents or injury can be found in the Forms Chapter pages 182-186.

As you know, emergencies can happen. Girls need to receive proper instruction in how to care for themselves and others in emergencies. They also need to learn the importance of reporting to adults any accidents, illnesses or unusual behaviors during Girl Scout activities. You can help girls by keeping in mind the following:   



Know what to report. See the “What To Do If There is an Accident” section earlier in this chapter.

Establish and practice procedures for weather emergencies. Know the type of extreme weather to expect in your area (e.g. tornadoes, hurricanes and lightning). Please consult with your council for the most relevant information for you to share with girls.

Establish and practice procedures for such circumstances as fire evacuation, lost persons and building-security issues. Every girl and adult must know how to act in these situations. For example, you and the girls, with the help of a fire department representative, should design a fire evacuation plan for meeting places used by the group.

Assemble a well-stocked first-aid kit that is always accessible. First-aid administered in the first few minutes can make a significant difference in the severity of an injury. In an emergency, secure professional medical assistance as soon as possible, normally by calling 911, and then administer first aid, if appropriately trained.

Emergencies require prompt action and quick judgment. For many activities, Girl Scouts recommends that at least one adult volunteer be first-aid/CPR-certified. For that reason, if you have the opportunity to get trained in council-approved first-aid/CPR, do it! You can take advantage of first-aid/CPR training offered by chapters of the American Red Cross, National Safety Council, EMP America, American Heart Association or other sponsoring organizations approved by your council.

Caution: First-aid/CPR training that is available entirely online does not satisfy Girl Scouts’ 118

requirements. Such courses do not offer enough opportunities to practice and receive feedback on your technique. If you’re taking a course not offered by one of the organizations listed in the previous paragraph, or any course that has online components, get approval from your support team or council prior to enrolling in the course.

A first-aider is an adult volunteer who has taken Girl Scout-approved first-aid and CPR training that includes specific instructions for child CPR. If, through the American Red Cross, National Safety Council, EMP America, or American Heart Association, you have a chance to be fully trained in firstaid and CPR, doing so may make your activity planning go a little more smoothly.

The Safety Activity Checkpoints always tell you when a first-aider needs to be present. Since activities can take place in a variety of locations, the presence of a first-aider and the qualifications they need to have are based on the remoteness of the activity. For example, if you take a two-mile hike in an area that has cell phone reception and service along the entire route and EMS (Emergency Medical Services) is no more than 30 minutes away at all times the first-aider will not need to have knowledge of wilderness first aid. If, on the other hand, you take the same two-mile hike in a more remote area with no cell phone service and where EMS is more than 30 minutes away, the first-aider must have knowledge of wilderness first aid (see the chart below).

Access to EMS

Minimum Level of First Aid Required

Less than 30 minutes

First Aid

More than 30 minutes

Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR)* *Although a WFR is not required, it is strongly recommended when traveling with groups in areas that are greater than 30 minutes from EMS.

It is important to understand the differences between a first-aid course, and a wilderness-rated course. Although standard first-aid training provides basic incident response, wilderness-rated courses include training on remote-assessment skills, as well as emergency first-aid response, including evacuation techniques, to use when EMS is not readily available.

Note: The presence of a first-aider is required at resident camp. For large events—200 people or more—there should be one first-aider for every 200 participants. The following healthcare providers may also serve as first-aiders: physician; physician’s assistant; nurse practitioner; registered nurse; licensed practical nurse; paramedic; military medic; and emergency medical technician.

Make sure a general first-aid kit is available at your group meeting place and accompanies girls on any activity (including transportation to and from the activity). Please be aware that you may need to provide this kit if one is not available at your meeting place. You can purchase a Girl Scout first-aid kit, you can buy a commercial kit, or you and the girls can assemble a kit yourselves. The Red Cross offers a list of potential items in its Anatomy of a First Aid Kit (note that the Red Cross’s suggested list includes aspirin, which you will not be at liberty to give to girls without direct parent/guardian permission). You can also customize a kit to cover your specific needs, including flares, treatments for frostbite or snake bites and the like.

In addition to standard materials, all kits should contain your council and emergency telephone numbers (which you can get from your council contact). Girl Scout activity insurance forms, parent consent forms and health histories may also be included.

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Sexual advances, improper touching, and sexual activity of any kind with girl members are forbidden.

Physical, verbal and emotional abuse of girls is also forbidden. All states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands have statues identifying persons who are required to report suspected child abuse to an appropriate agency. Therefore, if you witness or suspect child abuse or neglect, whether inside or outside of Girl Scouting, follow your council’s guidelines for reporting your concerns to the proper agency within your state.

For additional information please check the following resources:  U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Child Welfare Information Gateway: https://www.childwelfare.gov/can/ 

How to Report Suspected Child Maltreatment: https://www.childwelfare.gov/responding/how.cfm



Mandatory Reporters of Child Abuse and Neglect: https://www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/manda.cfm

Report concerns: There may be times when you worry about the health and well-being of girls in your group. Alcohol, drugs, sex, bullying, abuse, depression, and eating disorders are some of the issues girls may encounter. You are on the frontlines of girls’ lives, and you are in a unique position to identify a situation in which a girl may need help. If you believe a girl is at risk of hurting herself or others, your role is to promptly bring that information to her parent/guardian or the council so she can get the expert assistance she needs. Your concern about a girl’s well-being and safety is taken seriously, and your council will guide you in addressing these concerns.

Here are a few signs that could indicate a girl needs expert help:  Marked changes in behavior or personality (for example, unusual moodiness, aggressiveness, or sensitivity)  Declining academic performance and/or inability to concentrate  Withdrawal from school, family activities, or friendships  Fatigue, apathy, or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities  Sleep disturbances  Increased secretiveness  Deterioration in appearance and personal hygiene.  Eating extremes, unexplained weight loss, distorted body image  Tendency toward perfectionism  Giving away prized possessions; preoccupation with the subject of death  Unexplained injuries such as bruises, burns, or fractures  Avoidance of eye contact or physical contact  Excessive fearfulness or distrust of adults  Abusive behavior toward other children, especially younger ones

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There are four major types of child abuse recognized by South Carolina Law: Neglect, Physical, Emotional and Sexual. Neglect has four subcategories: Physical, Medical, Educational, and Emotional.

South Carolina Law states that it is abuse or neglect when a child is injured by an intentional act, or omission of an act (failure to protect).

Neglect: (There are four sub types of neglect) Neglect is failure on the part of the parent to provide for the child’s basic needs, including, but not limited to:  Physical: lack of appropriate supervision, exposure to unsanitary or hazardous living conditions or failure to provide necessary food or shelter  Medical: failure to provide necessary dental, medical or mental health treatment  Educational: failure to educate a child or attend to special education needs  Emotional: inattention to a child’s emotional needs, exposure to parental substance abuse or domestic violence PLEASE NOTE: What appears to be physical, medical or educational neglect may actually be a family in need of resources.

Physical abuse is characterized by any type of damage to the skin, including, but not limited to: punching, beating, kicking, biting, shaking, throwing, stabbing, choking, hitting (with a hand, stick, strap, or other object), burning, or otherwise harming a child.

Emotional abuse is any pattern of behavior that impairs a child’s emotional development or sense of self-worth. This includes, but is not limited to: constant criticism, threats, rejection, bullying, ignoring, isolating, corrupting, as well as withholding love, support, or guidance.

Sexual Abuse is any sexual or sexually provocative behavior by an adult toward a child, whether or not the child gives consent. This includes but is not limited to: fondling, penetration, incest, rape, sodomy, indecent exposure, commercial exploitation through prostitution, exposure to and/or production of pornographic materials, communicating in a sexual manner by phone or internet If you suspect child abuse: You should make a report if you have reason to believe a child’s physical or mental health or welfare has been or may be adversely affected. Reason to believe does not require conclusive proof, or proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

If a child discloses abuse to you: It is important for you to remain calm and in control of your feelings in order to assure the child that you believe them, and that something will be done to keep him or her safe. Listen; do not question the child, unless you know how to do a Minimal Facts Interview. Do not remove clothing to examine the child’s body unless you are a medical professional.

Do not confront the alleged perpetrator, or share with him/her what the child disclosed to you.

Immediately: Document what the child said to you and make the report to the proper authority. You will be asked to provide the information the child shared with you, the child’s name, address, parent’s name(s), names of siblings and any other people living in the home (if known).  Contact DSS if the alleged perpetrator is an adult who is a parent or other primary care giver. 

Contact local law enforcement if the alleged perpetrator is anyone else.

And AFTER making the report to the proper authority, if this involves a girl member of GSESC:

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

Contact GSESC, following the procedure on the emergency card. Fill out the First Report of Accident/Injury, Forms Chapter pg 186, and fax to the North Charleston Service Center ASAP.

DSS will, within 24 hours of the receipt of the report, commence an investigation. If you are concerned about the child’s immediate welfare, in addition to contacting DSS, contact local law enforcement. Law Enforcement Officers are authorized to place children in EPC when the officer has probable cause to believe that by reason of abuse or neglect the child is in substantial and imminent danger.

South Carolina Law requires certain professionals to report child abuse and neglect when it is suspected, and there are legal penalties when a Mandated Reporter does not report. GSESC encourages all staff, volunteers and Board Members who are adult members registered with GSESC to act “as if” they are a Mandated Reporters in order to protect children from child abuse and neglect.

Note that the SC Senate and House are in the process of adding camp counselor, scout leader and any other person whose duties require direct contact or supervision of children to the list of mandatory reporters. The new bill should be signed into law sometime soon.

By South Carolina Code 63-7-310 the following professionals are required to report suspected cases of child abuse and neglect.  physician, nurse, dentist, optometrist  medical examiner, coroner, and their employees  any other medical, emergency medical services, mental health or allied health professional  member of the clergy, Christian Science Practitioners, religious healers  school teacher, counselor, principal, assistant principal, school attendance officer  social or public assistance worker  substance abuse treatment staff  child care worker in a child care center or foster care facility  foster parent  police or law enforcement officer, juvenile justice worker  undertaker, funeral home director and employees  persons responsible for processing of films  computer technician  judge  volunteer non-attorney guardian ad litem

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Helping girls decide what they want to do, and coaching them as they earn and manage money to pursue their goals, is an integral part of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE). Your Girl Scout group plans and finances its own activities, with your guidance. At the same time, the girls learn many valuable skills that serve them throughout their lives.

Girl Scout groups are funded by a share of money earned through council-sponsored product sale activities (such as Girl Scout cookie activities), group money-earning activities (council-approved, of course), and any your group may charge. (This is in addition to the $15 annual membership dues that go to the national organization.) This chapter gives you the ins and outs of establishing a group account and helping girls manage their group’s finances, practice successful product-sales techniques, and understand how to collaborate with sponsors and causes.

For information and guidance on safety related to product sales see Chapter 4, Safety-Wise.

If your group is earning and spending money, the group needs to set up a bank account. If you’re taking over an existing group, you may inherit a checking account, but with a new group, you’ll want to open a new account. This usually happens when there is money to deposit, such as group dues or money from product sales or group money-earning activities. Consider these tips when working with a group account:     

Keep group funds in the bank before an activity or trip, paying for as many items as possible in advance of your departure.

Use debit cards during the activity or trip.

Make one person responsible for group funds and for keeping a daily account of expenditures.

Have one or more back-up people who also have debit cards, in case the main card is lost.

Handle a lost group debit card the same way you would a personal debit card: cancel it immediately

Follow your council’s financial policies and procedures for setting up an account. Most councilsponsored product sale activities have specific banking and tracking procedures.

Unused Girl Scout money left in accounts when groups disband becomes the property of the council.

Prior to disbanding, the group may decide to donate any unused funds to a worthwhile organization, to another group, or for girl activities. As when closing a personal account, be sure all checks and other debits have cleared the account before you close it, and realize that you may have to close the account in person. Turn remaining funds over to a council staff member.

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Each troop is required to have a troop checking account:     



Troop bank accounts should be opened in the name of the Troop and Council – for example: Troop #_____, Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina. Use the troop leader’s address.

The use of ATM/debit cards is permitted, however credit cards are not.

Troop bank accounts may not have overdraft protection.

Troops may not borrow or request bank loans.

Bank signature cards must have at least four (4) signatures: that of the troop leader, assistant leader and two adults participating as a troop committee member. The signers must not be related. It is a GSESC board policy that all checks written on the account must have two signatures.

When opening an account, use GSESC’s Federal ID number, 57-0341216 Forms Chapter pg. 198

In addition:  Troop money may not be kept in personal checking accounts.  All troop funds must be deposited in the troop account.  All troop expenses are to be paid out of the troop checking account.  It is never appropriate to borrow money from the troop checking account.  All troops must have their own account, it is not appropriate for two or more troops to have the same checking account.  GSESC will charge a fee for bounced checks.  It is the responsibility of the troop leader to keep the troop account in good standing and not incur troop debt. Troops with troop debt may not participate in Product Sales.  THE TROOP LEADER IS RESPONSIBLE AND ACCOUNTABLE FOR TROOP FUNDS.

Unused Girl Scout money left in accounts when groups disband becomes the property of the council. Prior to disbanding, the group may decide to donate any unused funds to a worthwhile organization, to another group, or for girl activities. Girls may also decide to divide and move funds with girls who are transferring to other troops. As when closing a personal account, be sure all checks and other debits have cleared the account before you close it, and realize that you may have to close the account in person. Turn remaining funds over to a council staff member. Disbanded troop funds are kept in a special account for one year in case the troop decides to reactivate and troop numbers are held for two years.

GSESC Check Policy Council checks issued to adult volunteers, leaders, parents, troops, service units, etc. should be cashed or deposited within 90 days or the check will be considered void.

Please contact the Council Finance Dept. if a Council check is found that is older than 90 days.

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F A L L P R O D U C T S

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If you still want to participate in the 2015-16 Cookie Sale after the above date you can go online at www.girlscoutsesc.org and click join now at the top of the page.

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Did you know that the Girl Scout Cookie Program is the largest girl-led business in the country, with sales of more than $700 million per year for girls and their communities nationwide?

That’s right. The Girl Scout Cookie sale is the leading entrepreneurial program for girls: no university has produced as many female business owners as the Girl Scout Cookie Program has.

If you have a moment, watch the latest Girl Scout What Can a Cookie Do? video for an inspiring look into just how powerful those treats—and the girls who sell them—can be.

Council-sponsored product sales are really the best way for girls to earn money to pursue their goals: the sales are beloved by the community and come with program, sales, and marketing materials and support that help girls run a great business. And they’re an integral part of the GSLE. With every season of cookies, another generation of girls learns five important skills:     

Goal setting Decision making Money management People skills Business ethics

And most of all, girls gain a tremendous amount of confidence. It’s not easy to ask people to buy something—you have to speak up, look them in the eye, and believe in what you’re doing—all skills that help a girl succeed now and throughout the rest of her life.

Before beginning any cookies or other product sales with your group, refer to the cookies section of Girl Scout Central and www.girlscoutcookies.org

It has been decades since Girl Scouts began selling home-baked cookies to raise money. The idea was so popular that, in 1936, Girl Scouts enlisted bakers to handle the growing demand. For more on Girl Scout Cookie History, visit http://www.girlscouts.org/program/gs_cookies/history.asp Two commercial bakers are currently licensed by Girl Scouts of the USA to produce Girl Scout Cookies—Little Brownie Bakers and ABC/Interbake Foods—and each council selects the baker of its choice. Each baker gets to name its own cookies (which is why some cookies have two names) and gets to decide which flavors it will offer in a given year, besides the three mandatory flavors (Thin Mints, Do-Si-Dos®/Peanut Butter Sandwich, and Trefoils/Shortbread). For additional information on cookie varieties, including nutritional details, visit www.girlscoutcookies.org.

Each year, your council provides learning opportunities on the procedures to follow during each sale.

Your council also establishes guidelines and procedures for conducting the sale and determines how the proceeds and girl reward system will be managed.

Your council will provide a breakdown of “how the cookie crumbles” in your council. Please share this information with girls and their parents/guardians so everyone’s clear on how revenue raised through 127

product sales makes it possible for your Girl Scout council to serve girls. Proceeds resulting from product sales support program activities—in fact, council-sponsored product sales are a primary way in which your council raises funds to support Girl Scouting. The percentage of money to be allocated to participating groups (like yours) is determined by your council and explained to girls and adults as part of the product sale activity orientation.

The income from product sales does not become the property of individual girl members. Girls, however, may be eligible for incentives and credits that they put toward Council sponsored camps, programs.

Girls may earn official Girl Scout grade-appropriate rewards related to product sale activities, and each council may choose to provide items such as participation patches and rewards. The council plan for rewards applies equally to all girls participating in the product sale activity.

One critical task for each troop/group, is to keep excellent records and establish a clear accounting system for all money earned and spent. As the group’s volunteer, you’re in charge of making sure money is spent wisely, excellent records are kept (keeping copies of all receipts in a binder or folder), and all income is tracked, too. For older girls, your job is to oversee their work, as they learn to keep impeccable records.

The Girl/Adult Partnership Underlying all the lessons that girls can learn from their participation in the Girl Scout Cookie Program is the girl/adult partnership. Ideally, this is a partnership between the girl and her leader and between the girl and her parents or guardian. Adult members do not sell cookies, they participate only in supporting the direct involvement of girls.

During the Girl Scout Cookie Program the girl/adult partnership may look like this:     

An adult and girl working together to make plans and set goals.

An adult assisting a girl by giving her access to the information and training she needs but letting the girl do the selling and delivering of cookies.

An adult guiding a girl in understanding the finances and letting her practice the skills.

An adult advising a girl on how to market her cookies but allowing her to make her make her own decisions.

An adult helping a girl understand her responsibility to support her local council but ensuring that her participation is voluntary.

Safely Selling Girl Scout Cookies Girl safety is the top priority while selling Girl Scout Cookie and other products. Volunteers, Parents and girls should be familiar with and practice the following: Chapter 4 Safety Wise – Volunteer Essentials Girl Scout Cookie/Council – Sponsored Product Sale Safety Activity Checkpoints Safety Tips for Product Sales Computer/Online Use: Safety Activity Checkpoints

Cookie booths, or temporary sales set-ups in areas with lots of foot traffic, are a popular way for girls to sell cookies as a team. Your council may have established cookie booth locations; contact the council before planning a cookie booth of your own.

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Once you’ve gotten council approval, check out the booth site before the day of the sale. Talk to business owners in the area so they’ll know what to expect. Find out what security measures are in place—these may include lights for evening sales and whether a security camera watches the booth area—and where the nearest bathrooms are located. In addition, review the Girl Scout Cookie/Council-Sponsored Product Sale Safety Activity Checkpoints, as well as Chapter 4, SafetyWise to make sure you and the girls are as prepared as possible.

On the day of the sale, these tips will help make booth sales enjoyable for everyone:      

Ensure that you have adequate space at the booth (table, products, and girls) to allow safe passage by pedestrians, bikes, and cars.

Plan to have at least two adults and one girl at the booth at all times. From time to time, volunteers might want to take breaks or will have to accompany young girls to the bathroom, so make sure to have a few extra adults on hand.

Girls make all sales, except in cases where adults are helping Daisies handle money.

Respect the surrounding businesses by making sure your booth isn’t blocking a store entrance or exit.

Attract customers with colorful signs. Remind girls to be polite and to have their sales pitch ready for interested shoppers.

Report any suspicious people in the area to local security.

Your council may have a cookie donation program established where customers may purchase cookies for the sole purpose of having them donated to an organization coordinated by your council.

This is a great talking point for girls to share with their customers and a great way to help teach girls that the cookie program can make a big impact in their community and to others.

Here are some things to remember about cookie donations:    

All cookie donation programs must be approved by your council Donated cookies must stay within the council jurisdiction unless your council has the approval from other council jurisdictions Donated products cannot be resold and must be used in a responsible and ethical way.

Donated products are used in a way that does not undermine the work of councils or jeopardizes the integrity of the Girl Scout Brand

It has always been the practice of Girl Scout councils and the bakers to guarantee customer satisfaction with their cookies. If a customer for some reason is not satisfied with the quality of their cookies they can contact the baker via the number printed on the side of the box of cookies.

Troops/group should notify their council if they are aware of any customer dissatisfaction

Girls may use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, text messages, IMs, and emails as online marketing tools to let family, friends, and former customers know about the sale and collect indications of interest. All are effective ways that girls 13 and older can promote cookie and other product sales.

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Girls under 13 cannot independently set up online marketing sites. Girls under 13 can use their parent or guardians online sites with their approval and supervision.

The following sections detail how girls can use electronic marketing, social media, and group websites to gather sale commitments from family, friends, and previous customers. But first, please keep in mind that girls: 

  

Can market to and collect indications of interest from customers within their councils’ zip codes. Refer prospects that come from outside council jurisdiction to the council finder at www.girlscoutcookies.org. Family members and Digital Cookie sales are the exception to this rule.

Digital Cookie is the only approved online sales tool available for girls to use when selling cookies. Outside of Digital Cookie, girls cannot set up online sites where cookies are sold and money is exchange via the Internet.

Must sign the Girl Scout Internet Safety Pledge (available at http://www.girlscouts.org/help/internet_safety_pledge.asp) before doing any online activities, and all online activities must be under the supervision of adults.

Cannot expose their own or any other girl’s email address, physical address, or phone number to the public. When writing e-mail messages or online announcements, girls should sign with their first name only, along with their group number or name and their council name.

See Chapter 4, Safety-Wise for additional information and guidance regarding online product marketing and sales.

Troops whose girls meet age criteria (13 years or older) and have parental permission may set up a group Facebook page or website. This site must be approved by the council, yes, but it can be a fantastic way for girls to share information, market Girl Scout products, and talk about their Take Action projects.

Don’t violate copyright law by using designs, text from magazines or books, poetry, music, lyrics, videos, graphics, or trademarked symbols without specific permission from the copyright or trademark holder (and, generally, this permission is pretty tough to get!). Girl Scout trademarks (such as the trefoil shape, Girl Scout pins, and badges and patches) can be used only in accordance with guidelines for their use. (The Girl Scout trefoil, for example, may not be animated or used as wallpaper for a website.) Check with your council’s website for complete graphics guidelines and approvals.

Before you and the girls design a website, remember that the web is an open forum for anyone, including potential predators. Documented instances of cyberstalkers make it imperative that any information that could jeopardize the safety and security of girls and adults is not disclosed on a website. Please adhere to these guidelines to ensure the girls’ safety:   

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Use girls’ first names only.

Never post girls’ addresses, phone numbers, or email addresses.

Never, ever, ever post addresses of group meeting places or dates and times of meetings, events, or trips. (An adult volunteer who wishes to communicate upcoming events with families of girls should use email instead of posting details on a website, unless that site is password protected or is a closed/secret Facebook group.)

Always have a parent’s or guardian’s signature on a photo release form before using pictures of girls on a website.

Make yours a site that does not allow outsiders to post messages to the site, or make sure all postings (such as message boards or guest books) have adult oversight and are screened prior to posting live.

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Don’t violate copyright law by using designs, text from magazines or books, poetry, music, lyrics, videos, graphics, or trademarked symbols without specific permission from the copyright or trademark holder (and, generally, this permission is pretty tough to get!). Girl Scout trademarks (such as the trefoil shape, Girl Scout pins, and badges and patches) can be used only in accordance with guidelines for their use. (The Girl Scout trefoil, for example, may not be animated or used as wallpaper for a website.) Check with your council’s website for complete graphics guidelines and approvals.

Crowdfunding sites, such as GoFundMe.com, are a direct solicitation for cash and are not allowed.

It is important to remember the twofold purpose of the Girl Scout Cookie Program when selling cookies or other products. The primary purposes of these sales are to help girls grow and develop and to generate the revenue necessary to provide Girl Scouting to as many girls as possible. For this reason, girls should be directly involved in any sales that are made, whether in person or over the Internet.

Groups earn money for their troop in two distinct ways: 

The Girl Scout Cookie Program and other sales of Girl Scout–authorized products (such as Girl Scout cookies, calendars, magazines, or nuts and candy), organized by your council and open to all Girl Scouts. Girls can participate in two council-sponsored product sale activities each year: one of which may be the cookie sale and one other council-authorized product sale. All girl members who take part in any way of Girl Scouting (troop, camp, travel, etc.), including Daisies, are eligible to participate in council-sponsored product-sale activities, with volunteer supervision. Please remember: volunteers and Girl Scout council staff don’t sell cookies and other products—girls do.

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GSESC “Group money-earning” refers to activities organized by the group (not by the council) that are planned and carried out by girls (in partnership with adults) and that earn money for the group. Please see pages 132-133 in this chapter for Additional Group Money Earning Activities.

Girls’ participation in both council-sponsored product sale activities and group money-earning projects is based upon the following:       

Voluntary participation Written permission of each girl’s parent or guardian An understanding of (and ability to explain clearly to others) why the money is needed An understanding that money-earning should not exceed what the group needs to support its activities Observance of local ordinances related to involvement of children in money-earning activities, as well as health and safety laws Vigilance in protecting the personal safety of each girl (see Chapter 4 for guidance) Arrangements for safeguarding the money

There are a few specific guidelines—some required by the Internal Revenue Service—that ensure that sales are conducted with legal and financial integrity. To that end, consider the following reminders and cautions:

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All rewards earned by girls through the product-sale activities must support Girl Scout program experiences (such as camp, travel, and program events, but not scholarships or financial credits toward outside organizations).

Rewards are based on sales ranges set by councils and may not be based on a dollar-perdollar calculation.

Troops and Groups are encouraged to participate in council product sales as their primary money-earning activity; any group money-earning shouldn’t compete with the Girl Scout Cookie Program or other council product sales.

Obtain written approval from your council before a group money-earning event. Use Application for Troop Fundraising Project From on page 205 in Forms Chapter.

Girl Scouts discourages the use of games of chance. Any activity which could be considered a game of chance (raffles, contests, bingo) must be approved by the local Girl Scout Council and be conducted in compliance with all local and state laws.

Girl Scout Blue Book policy forbids girls from the direct solicitation of cash. Girls can collect partial payment towards the purchase of a package of Girl Scout Cookies and Girl Scout Fall Product Program products through participation in Council approved product sale donation programs.

Girl Scouts forbids product demonstration parties where the use of the Girl Scout trademark increases revenue for another business (For example: In home product parties). Any business using the Girl Scout trademark must seek authorization from GSUSA. Since 1939, girls and volunteers have not been allowed to endorse, provide a testimonial for, or sell such products.

When in an official Girl Scout capacity or in any way identifying yourselves as Girl Scouts, your group may not participate (directly or indirectly) in any political campaign or work on behalf of or in opposition to a candidate for public office. Letter-writing campaigns are not allowed, nor is participating in a political rally, circulating a petition, or carrying a political banner.

Group money-earning activities need to be suited to the age and abilities of the girls and consistent with the principles of the GSLE. Money earned is for Girl Scout activities and is not to be retained by individuals. Girls can, however, be awarded incentives and/or may earn credits from their Girl Scout product sales.

Funds acquired through group money-earning projects must be reported and accounted for by the group, while following council procedures.

Per the below schedule and during the membership year (Oct. 1 – Sept. 30), Girl Scout troops may conduct an approved money-earning project if they have participated in both the Council Cookie Sale and Fall Product Sale: Daisies None Brownies & Juniors One Older Girls More than one, with Council approval Money earning projects cannot be held during council product sales or during United Way blackout periods.

Obtain written approval from Grants/Development Manager before a group-earning event. Use Application for Troop Fundraising Project Form on page 205 in the Forms Chapter. GSUSA Accident Insurance only covers approved money-earning activities.

Acceptable money earning projects include: Collections/Drives:    

Cell phones for refurbishment Used ink cartridges turned in for money Christmas tree recycling Yard Sale 132

Food/Meal Events:   

Lunch box auction (prepared lunch or meal auctioned off) Themed meals, like high tea, Indian meal, Mexican dinner (if girls are earning money for travel, tie the meal to their destination) Bake Sale

Service(s):              

Service-a-thon (people sponsor a girl doing service; funds go to support trip) Babysitting for holiday (New Year’s Eve) or council events Raking leaves, weeding, cutting grass, shoveling snow, walking pets Cooking class or other specialty class Car wash Recycling Hosting an event, such as a games or badge workshop Making and selling craft items Ushering or helping in other ways at special events in the community Sponsoring dances, talent shows, fashion shows Group babysitting, such as at a Service Unit meeting, GSESC function, or community organization's event or meeting Putting on parties or story hours for children Hosting a face painting booth at a special event Gift wrapping

The best way to earn money for your group is to start with Girl Scout cookie activities and other council-sponsored product sales. From there, your group may decide to earn additional funds on its own.

Sponsors help Girl Scout councils ensure that all girls in the community have an opportunity to participate in Girl Scouting. Community organizations, businesses, religious organizations, and individuals may be sponsors and may provide group meeting places, volunteer their time, offer in-kind donations, provide activity materials, or loan equipment. The sponsor’s contribution can then be recognized by arranging for the girls to send thank-you cards, inviting the sponsor to a meeting or ceremony, or working together on a Take Action project.

In the event of a cash contribution for sponsorship, a Cash/In-Kind Form must be completed, along with the Troop Sponsorship Agreement, and returned with the donation check to the council. Checks from troop sponsors must be issued to Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina in order to be tax deductible. The council will then issue a check to the troop in the next check cycle. The amount of sponsorship cash funding is not to exceed current registration and council service fees per troop member per fiscal year. If the sponsor wishes to make an additional monetary donation, follow Unsolicited Cash Contribution guidelines.

When collaborating with religious organizations, Girl Scout groups must respect the opinions and practices of religious partners, but no girl should be required to take part in any religious observance or practice of the sponsoring group.

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For information on working with a sponsor, consult your council; it can give you guidance on the availability of sponsors, recruiting responsibility, and any council policies or practices that must be followed. Your council may already have relationships with certain organizations, or may know of some reasons not to collaborate with certain organizations. When you do find a sponsor, be sure to fill out a Sponsorship Agreement form, Forms Chapter pg. 201.

A troop or service unit may solicit IN-KIND donations to support Girl Scouting activities. Approval must be secured from the Grants/Development Manager before soliciting any in-kind contribution over $250 in order to avoid conflict with council level fundraising efforts.

Troops and Service Units should NOT solicit businesses, organizations or individuals for MONETARY support or grant funding for their troop or Service Unit. GSESC is a non-profit entity recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax-exempt charitable organization. Troops and service units are a subdivision of the council and do not have tax-exempt status. Opportunities for substantial council funding and grants should be referred to the Grants/Development Manager.

UNSOLICITED cash donations from non-sponsor businesses, organizations or individuals for monetary support of a troop or service unit MAY be accepted. Amounts over $250 must be issued to Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina in order to be tax deductible and ensure proper donor acknowledgement. Prior to the disbursement of the funds back to the troop/service unit, an explanation of the use of the funds will be required to ensure it benefits Girl Scouting and/or the community in general. The council will then issue a check to the troop/service unit in the next check cycle. The amount of the donation should be included as income on the annual Troop Finance Report. A Cash/In-Kind Form should be completed and returned along with the donation check to the Grants/Development Manager.

The Girl Scout Cookie Program is so well known in communities, it’s likely that your girls will already know a bit about it and want to get out there to start selling as soon as possible. But it’s important that the girls have a clear plan and purpose for their product-sale activities. One of your opportunities as a volunteer is to facilitate girl-led financial planning, which may include the following steps for the girls: 1. Set goals for money-earning activities. What do girls hope to accomplish through this activity? In addition to earning money, what skills do they hope to build? What leadership opportunities present themselves?

2. Create a budget. Use a budget worksheet that includes both expenses (the cost of supplies, admission to events, travel, and so on) and available income (the group’s account balance, projected cookie proceeds, and so on).

3. Determine how much the group needs to earn. Subtract expenses from available income to determine how much money your group needs to earn.

4. Make a plan. The group can brainstorm and make decisions about its financial plans. Will cookie and other product sales—if approached proactively and energetically—earn enough money to meet the group’s goals? If not, which group money-earning activities might offset the difference in anticipated expense and anticipated income? Will more than one group moneyearning activity be necessary to achieve the group’s financial goals? In this planning stage, engage the girls through the Girl Scout processes (girl-led, learning by doing, and cooperative 134

learning) and consider the value of any potential activity. Have them weigh feasibility, implementation, and safety factors.

5. Write it out. Once the group has decided on its financial plan, describe it in writing. If the plan involves a group money-earning activity, fill out an application for approval from your council and submit it along with the budget worksheet the girls created.

Remember: It’s great for girls to have opportunities, like the Girl Scout Cookie Program, to earn funds that help them fulfill their goals as part of the GSLE. As a volunteer, try to help girls balance the money-earning they do with opportunities to enjoy other activities that have less emphasis on earning and spending money. Take Action projects, for example, may not always require girls to spend a lot of money!

As with other activities, girls progress in their financial and sales abilities as they get older. This section gives you some examples of the abilities of girls at each grade level.

The group volunteer handles money, keeps financial records, and does all group budgeting.

Parents/guardians may decide they will contribute to the cost of activities.

Girls can participate in Girl Scout cookie activities and other council-sponsored product sales.

Daisies are always paired with an adult when selling anything. Girls do the asking and deliver the product, but adults handle the money and keep the girls secure.

The group volunteer handles money, keeps financial records, and shares some of the groupbudgeting responsibilities.

Girls discuss the cost of activities (supplies, fees, transportation, rentals, and so on).

Girls set goals for and participate in council-sponsored product sales.

Girls may decide to pay dues.

The group volunteer retains overall responsibility for long-term budgeting and record-keeping, but shares or delegates all other financial responsibilities.

Girls set goals for and participate in council-sponsored product sales.

Girls decide on group dues, if any. Dues are collected by girls and recorded by a group treasurer (selected by the girls).

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Girls budget for the short-term needs of the group, on the basis of plans and income from the group dues.

Girls budget for more long-term activities, such as overnight trips, group camping, and special events.

Girls budget for Take Action projects, including the Girl Scout Bronze Award, if they are pursuing it.

Girls estimate costs based on plans.

Girls determine the amount of group dues (if any) and the scope of money-earning projects.

Girls set goals for and participate in council-sponsored product sales.

Girls carry out budgeting, planning, and group money-earning projects.

Girls budget for extended travel, Take Action projects, and leadership projects.

Girls may be involved in seeking donations for Take Action projects, with council approval.

Girls keep their own financial records and give reports to parents and group volunteers.

Girls budget for Take Action projects, including the Girl Scout Silver or Gold Awards, if they are pursuing them.

When collaborating with any other organization, keep these additional guidelines in mind:

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Avoiding fundraising for other organizations: Girl Scouts are not allowed, when identifying ourselves as Girl Scouts (such as wearing a uniform, a sash or vest, official pins, and so on), to solicit money on behalf of another organization. This includes participating in a walkathon or telethon while in uniform. You and your group can, however, support another organization through take-action projects or by making a donation from your group’s account. And Girl Scouts as individuals are able to participate in whatever events they choose, as long as they’re not wearing anything that officially identifies them as “Girl Scouts.”

Steering clear of political fundraisers: When in an official Girl Scout capacity or in any way identifying yourselves as Girl Scouts, your group may not participate (directly or indirectly) in any political campaign or work on behalf of or in opposition to a candidate for public office.

Letter-writing campaigns are not allowed, nor is participating in a political rally, circulating a petition, or carrying a political banner.

Being respectful when collaborating with religious organizations: Girl Scout groups must respect the opinions and practices of religious partners, but no girl should be required to take part in any religious observance or practice of the sponsoring group.

Avoiding selling or endorsing commercial products: “Commercial products” is any product sold at retail. Since 1939, girls and volunteers have not been allowed to endorse, provide a testimonial for, or sell such products.

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Funding Girl Scouting is probably one of the most efficient ways to ensure that girls in our community have a valuable resource that helps them grow strong. In recent years, traditional sources of support are decreasing. In some areas, United Way allocations to Girl Scouting have been decreasing while our membership is growing and the need for the Girl Scout Program is increasing. 75% of national philanthropic giving comes from individuals. However, only approximately 33% of GSESC’s giving is done by individuals. Without the individual support Girl Scout alumnae, families, and our communities, the council will be unable to provide every girl an opportunity to be a part of Girl Scouting. This is why council fund development projects are of vital importance to the existence of Girl Scouting within our community.

GSESC currently has a variety of fund development projects. They are: 

G.I.F.T.: The GIFT campaign is the annual opportunity for Girl Scout families to support our Girl Scout council. Our families see first hand the positive impact Girl Scouts has on a girl's life. The financial support of our families is so important and inspires others to support our organization and powerful mission. Your contribution to the GIFT campaign helps offset costs for financial assistance for girls who might otherwise not be able to participate in Girl Scouts, training and support for leaders, property improvements to keep our camp and program centers safe and beautiful, program opportunities and events for girls of all ages and so much more! Families should consider their contribution to the GIFT campaign as in investment and choose an amount with which they feel comfortable.

Donations can be made on the registration forms or by completing the GIFT form on pg.

141.

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Targeted Audience Appeals - GSESC works with board members, individuals, alumnae, and corporations to raise funds and awareness for Girl Scouts locally.

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Centennial Circle of Giving - The Centennial Circle of Giving is an honorary giving circle to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of Girl Scouting. Our goal is to raise $100,000 with 100 people donating $1,000. Members are recognized in the following ways: GSESC web site, Facebook, Twitter, Newsletter, Annual Report.

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Campership: An annual campaign to give a “gift of camp” to a girl who is unable to afford this week of fun and friendship.

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Juliette Gordon Low Society: Named for Juliette Gordon Low, the society will provide an opportunity to form a network of support for today's Girl Scouts by gathering Girl Scout alumnae and women in roles of leadership in our community. When an individual's donation reaches $1,000 they will be inducted as a lifetime member of the society. All of this money is sent to GSUSA.

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Grace Grady Scholarship Fund: Awards a scholarship to an outstanding Girl Scout from GSESC. For more information, contact the Vice President of GSLE at 843-552-9910 ext.

2240.

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Lucille C. McCown Scholarship Fund: Awards a scholarship to an outstanding Girl Scout from GSESC. For more information, contact the Vice President of GSLE at 843-552-9910 ext. 2240.

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Mary Dean Brewer Gold Award Scholarship Fund: Awards a scholarship to an outstanding Girl Scout from GSESC. For more information, contact the Vice President of GSLE at 843552-9910 ext. 2240.

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Special Events: Fundraising events held during the year by the council throughout its 21 counties.

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United Way Partnerships - GSESC is a United Way partner agency in several areas of our council.

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Foundations and Grants: Generally, restricted funding for specific programs or projects.

Other opportunities to contribute: Include memorial and tribute gifts, planned gifts of stocks or life insurance, remembrances of the council in wills, in-kind donations and employee/employer matching gift opportunities. Tributes are a great way to recognize troop leaders, sponsors, etc.

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You choose Girl Scouting for your girl for a reason: You want the best for her. We deliver that. As a Girl Scout parent, you know that Girl Scouting helps ordinary girls do extraordinary things – you already see that in your girl. You know that together, we get a girl started on her path, and she can take it anywhere from there.

What you may not know is how crucial your financial support is to Girl Scouts.

It costs about $250 a year to support each girl who participates through a volunteer-led experience. The Cookie and Fall Sale net revenue, program, and camp fees raise a portion of that cost, but each year we need to raise funds to support the remaining cost per girl - to train and screen our volunteers, to purchase supplies, to offer events, and to bring Girl Scouting locally to your neighborhood.

In order to provide a positive experience for all girls, we count on members like you to support us locally through the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Family Giving G.I.F.T. Campaign. Simply put, your G.I.F.T. is an investment in something close to home and close to your heart: your girl.

Here’s how your gift benefits all girls, including yours:       

Programs to more than 10,000 girls in our 21-county service area Training and materials for 3,800 adult volunteers Spring and summer day and evening camps Scholarship opportunities for graduating Girl Scouts Science, technology, engineering, robotics and math programs Financial assistance so that all girls have the chance to participate in Girl Scouting Campership assistance

Just think about how much you spend on other short term activities – soccer, band, dance, and other extracurricular programs. Girl Scouts last the whole year and the impact of Girl Scouting on your girl lasts forever.

You can make your donation on your child’s Membership Form, via Paypal at www.girlscoutsesc.org, or complete the form below and send with your check or credit card information. Thank you!

Please detach here and return with your donation!

Mr./Mrs./Ms.__________________________________________________________Phone________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________City/State/Zip_________________________________________________________ E-Mail Address_____________________________________________________________________________ Name of Daughter(s) in Girl Scouts_____________________________________________________________ Troop #(s)______________________________________ o o o o o o

Yes, I value Girl Scouting in my daughter’s life! ___$1,000 ___ $500 ___ $250 ___ $125 ___ $75 ___ $50 ___$5 Other $_________________ My check for $_______________________ is enclosed. (Please make checks payable to Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina) Please charge my gift of $______________________ to my ___ VISA ___MasterCard ___ Discover Account #____________________________________________ Expiration Date___________________________ 3 digit Security Code________________ Signature______________________________________________________ Name on card_____________________________________________________ Yes, my employer ______________________________________________________will match my gift. The matching gift form ___is enclosed ___will be sent.

Thank you for your support!

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization as defined by the Internal Revenue Service.

Your gift is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Please complete and return to your troop leader or mail to the address below: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina * 2412 Pisgah Road * Florence, SC 29501 (843)669-5174 * (800)786-8704 139

1. What is Annual ”G.I.F.T.” Giving?

It is an opportunity for families and friends to support Girl Scouting. Donations to Annual Giving can be made by anyone at anytime. Money earned through Annual Giving stays in our council to support and enhance the Girl Scout experience of the girls.

Annual Giving is the council’s most important campaign because: 1. It shows the United Way and other grant administrators that those who know about and are involved in Girl Scouting feel it is a worthwhile organization.

2. It does not depend upon girls to sell anything.

3. The IRS requires, as a not-for-profit organization, 1/3 of our operating income come from “public support” and does not involve the sale of any product.

2. Who determines how the Girl Scout Council spends its money?

The volunteer finance committee reviews and recommends the annual operating budget and forwards it to the volunteer board of directors for approval.

3. I understand the council receives support from United Way. Why should I give to the Annual Giving Campaign?

United Way volunteers determine how much each member agency will receive based upon the priorities of the communities served by United Way. Each year there are more groups asking for a slice of the pie. Because of this United Ways are basing their funding decisions on outcome surveys, which is not only more time consuming, but more costly to track and implement.

4. What does my contribution do for my daughter?

Your contribution, along with others, provides materials, activities, volunteer training, volunteer, staff support, opportunity assistance, equipment and other services for your daughter and her troop. These contributions help to provide the portion of our budget not met through the Cookie and Fall Product Sales, United Way, grants and other traditional methods of money-earning.

5. What will my daughter get from these donations?

Services provided by the council include carefully selected and trained volunteers, Girl Scout Program resources and training materials. We also maintain several satellite offices and outdoor facilities. Opportunity assistance is available to any girl who otherwise (because of financial need) would not be able to participate in Girl Scouting. It can help pay for her GSUSA national membership dues, troop dues, to purchase a handbook or badge sash, to attend camp and other activities, go on a troop trip, or otherwise experience girl-focused activities where she can thrive in a supportive and non-competitive environment.

6. I give a lot of my time as a volunteer—isn’t that enough?

The gift of your time in invaluable—we appreciate it and Girl Scouting could not survive without it!

As a volunteer, you provide what money cannot buy and you are proving you believe in the value of Girl Scouting. However, we cannot continue to grow without financial support in order to provide special activities, trips, camping, insurance, training, etc.

7. I help my daughter sell cookies and nuts. I buy them myself also. Isn’t that enough?

Your purchases and efforts in the product sales are a great contribution. Together we must continue to diversify our income streams. It is important that together we build a sound and diverse financial environment and lessen our dependency on one specific source, as in the cookie sale. Without the financial support of parents, friends and local businesses, in addition to the product sales, Girl Scouting would suffer. Annual Giving contributions are critical to running the council.

8. What if the cookie sale brought in more money?

We need to increase our public support and adult-generated income. This can only be accomplished with adults doing more of our money-earning. The cookie sale continues to provide the majority of our income in addition to being a wonderful teaching tool for girls. Adult-generated income should provide half of all funding. We need to seek additional ways to support our council.

9. Will anyone else know how much I give?

We respect your donation as a private matter and the exact amount will not be disclosed. All contributors are recognized in the Annual Report by donation level, and not specific contribution amount. All gifts, regardless of size, are appreciated.

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Search to your heart’s content at: www.iSearchiGive.com If you shop online, you can help even more: www.iGive.com

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Abbott Laboratories ACE INA Foundation ADC Foundation Aetna Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. Alliance Bernstein Altria American International Group, Inc. (AIG) Ameriprise Financial AON Center Argonaut Group Inc. AT&T Automatic Data Processing, Inc. (ADP) AVAYA AXA Bank of America Bank One Corporation BD Associates BillMatrix Corporation Bituminous Insurance Companies Boeing Company, The BP Amoco BP Pensioners BRINK'S Brink's Home Security, Inc. Brink's Inc. Burlington Northern Santa Fe Cadence Design System, Inc. CARMAX Chevron/Texaco Choice Hotels International Chubb & Son CIGNA Cingular Wireless Cisco Systems, Inc. Citigroup CNA Colgate-Palmolive Company Computer Associates International, Inc. Cooper Industries

                                         

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Corning Incorporated Countrywide Dannon Company Deluxe Corporation Deutsche Bank Americas Ecolab, Inc. Eli Lilly and Company Emerson Electric Co. EOG Resources, Inc. Ericsson Inc. ExxonMobil Fannie Mae Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas First Tennessee/First Horizon FM Global GAP Gartner, Inc. General Mills General Re Corporation GlaxoSmithKline GMAC RFC Grainger Harley-Davidson Financial Services Home Depot, The Houghton Mifflin Company Hyperion Solutions IAC Foundation, Inc., The IBM Corporation IFF Foundation, The ING Foundation Intuit Foundation ITW - Illinois Tool Works Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies Johnson Controls Jones Lang LaSalle Jostens J.P. Morgan Chase Kaplan Inc. Kemper Insurance Companies Key Kimberly-Clark LandAmerica Foundation/LandAm erica Financial Group, Inc. Lennox International

                                   

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Levi Strauss LexisNexis Lubrizol Foundation, The Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company Mattel Children's Foundation May Department Stores, The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc., The Meadows Foundation, The Mellon Gift Matching Program Merck Company, The Merrill Lynch Microsoft MONY Life Insurance Company Moody's Foundation, The Motorola Murphy Oil Corporation NCR Neiman Marcus Group Network Associates Nissan Nokia Nordson Corporation Northern Trust Company, The Novartis PepsiCo Pfizer Pharmacia Prudential Financial Quest Diagnostic Radio Shack/Tandy Rockwell Collins Rosewood Foundation, The R. R. Donnelley Sabre Holdings Safeco Saint-Gobain Corp Sallie Mae Fund, The SAP Matching Gift Program SBC

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Simpson Manufacturing Co., Inc. Sprint Square D Starbucks State Farm Companies Steelcase Sun Microsystems Foundation, The Synopsys Tektronix Telcordia Technologies Temple-Inland Tenet Healthcare Texas Instruments Textron Thomson Tax & Accounting Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Tomkins Corporation, The Tyco UBS Union Pacific Corporation United Technologies UnumProvident Corporation UPS Foundation U. S. Bancorp Verizon Wachovia Washington Mutual Wellpoint West Williams Community Relations Yahoo YUM! Bran

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Girls and adults participating in troops can meet once a week, once a month, or twice a month for several months—how often is up to you and the girls. Troops can meet just about anywhere, as long as the location is safe, easily accessible to girls and adults, and within a reasonable commute (“reasonable” having different definitions in different areas: In rural areas, a two-hour drive may be acceptable; in an urban area, a 30-minute subway ride may be too long). In each meeting, girls participate in fun activities that engage them in the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE).

Troops provide a flexible way for girls to meet. Some ideas include:   

Fourteen Girl Scout Brownies who meet twice a month from November through March at a local community center Seven girls who are homeschooled and meet weekly as a Girl Scout Cadette troop Girls who meet together once a week at their juvenile detention center to participate in Girl Scout activities

You’ll want to involve other adults in the troop—there’s no need to go it alone or depend on too few adults! Many hands make light work, and the role is more fun when it’s shared. Think about the people you know whom you admire, who can connect with girls, who are dependable and responsible, and who realistically have time to spend volunteering. (Remember that these adults will need to register as Girl Scout members, fill out volunteer application forms, take online learning sessions, and review written resources.) Consider business associates, neighbors, former classmates, friends, and so on. If you have trouble finding reliable, quality volunteers to assist, talk to your volunteer support team for advice and support. And feel free to use the sample welcome letter and friends/family checklist in the Girl Scout Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Leadership Journeys to assist you in expanding your troop’s adult network.

Remember: Be sure every volunteer reviews and follows the 12 Girl Scout Safety Guidelines, available both in the Quick-Start Guide to this handbook and in the “Safety-Wise” chapter.

Your troop committee members might help by:     

Filling in for you Arranging meeting places Locating adults with expertise on a topic of special interest to girls Assisting with trips and chaperoning Managing troop records

A troop committee may be made up of general members or may include specific positions, such as:   

Cookie Manager: A volunteer who would manage all aspects of Girl Scout cookie activities Transportation Coordinator: The volunteer you’d look to whenever you need to transport girls for any reason; this person would have volunteers available to drive and chaperone Record Keeper: A treasurer/secretary rolled into one person—someone to keep track of the money and keep the books

Set up roles that work for you, and draw on other volunteers who possess skill sets that you may lack.

When you’re ready to invite parents, neighbors, friends, colleagues, and other respected adults to partner with you, send them a letter and invite them to their first troop committee meeting. See pg. 197 in the Forms Chapter for the Troop Committee Sign-Up Form.

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The sample sessions in the Leadership Journey adult guides will give you ideas about how to plan and hold successful troop meetings that allow girls to Discover, Connect, and Take Action as they have fun with a purpose. (See the “Girl Scouting as a National Experience” chapter of this handbook for more on the three processes.) Many volunteers find it helpful to think of meetings having six parts, as outlined below, but feel free to structure the meeting in a way that makes sense for you and the girls.

As Girls Arrive

Start-up activities are planned so that when girls arrive at the meeting they have something to do until the meeting begins. For younger girls, it could be coloring pages; teen girls might jot down a journal entry or just enjoy a little time to talk.

Opening

The opening focuses the meeting and allows girls to start the meeting. Each troop decides how to open their own meeting—most begin with the Girl Scout Promise and Law, and then add a simple flag ceremony, song, game, story, or other ceremony designed by the girls. Girl Scout Brownies, for example, might create a new tradition by skipping in a circle while singing a song. Ceremonies, even when brief or humorous, make Girl Scout time special. The Journey adult guides contain ideas about openings that correspond to Journey themes.

Troop business may include taking attendance, collecting dues, making announcements, and planning an upcoming event or trip. This is a good time for girls to Business take turns leading, especially as they grow up! (Some troops may move the business portion of the meeting to an earlier or later slot.)

Activities

Activities will depend on what the girls want to do in their troop and how they want to spend their collective time. Outdoor time is important, so encourage the girls to do an activity in a park or forest. If girls are interested in animals, encourage the girls to plan a visit to a zoo or animal shelter. As you engage in one of the three National Leadership Journeys, review the “Sample Sessions at a Glance” in the adult guide for Journey activity ideas.

Treats are an option some troops decide to include in their meetings and range from a bottle of soap bubbles or a jump rope to a food snack. If girls choose to include snacks, guide them to consider the health of a potential snack, as well as possible food allergies. Enlist the help of parents or guardians by asking them to sign up and bring a treat. You’ll also find plenty of snack ideas and signup forms in the adult guide of most Leadership Journeys.

Clean-up

Clean-up is a great habit for girls to get their meeting space back to the way it was when they arrived—maybe even cleaner! Girls can also take leadership of the cleaning themselves, deciding who does what. They might even enjoy the tradition of a kaper chart (a chore chart that lists all the chores and assigns girls’ names to each), so that everyone takes turns at each responsibility.

Closing

The closing lets the girls know that the troop meeting is ending. Many girls close with the friendship circle, in which each girl stands in a circle, puts her right arm over her left, and holds the hand of the girl standing next to her. The friendship squeeze is started by one girl, and then passed around the circle until it comes back to the girl who started it.

When the squeeze is finished, girls twist clockwise out of the circle lifting their arms and turning around and out of the circle. In addition, you may find some helpful, Journeyrelated closing ceremony ideas in the Journey’s adult guide.

You help each troop member do her part to ensure the meeting and activities are enriching and fun.

Based on their grade levels and abilities, girls may decide and plan opening and closing activities, 144

bring and prepare treats, teach songs or games, and clean up. As girls grow, they can show and teach younger members about Girl Scouting. They can also assist you in preparing materials for activities.

For trips, campouts, parent meetings, and multi-troop events, girls may be responsible for shopping, packing equipment, handing out programs, cleaning up, gathering wood, and so on. As long as you pay attention to grade level and maturity, what girls can do is endless!

Many troops employ a democratic system of governance so that all members have the opportunity to express their interests and feelings and share in the planning and coordination of activities. Girls partner with you and other adults, and you facilitate, act as a sounding board, and ask and answer questions. Girls from Daisies through Ambassadors will gain confidence and leadership skills when given the opportunity to lead their activities, learn cooperatively as a group, and learn by doing instead of by observing.

The following are some traditions troops have used for girl-led governance, but these are just examples. National Leadership Journeys offer examples of team decision-making, too. 

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Daisy/Brownie Circle: While sitting in a circle (sometimes called a ring), girls create a formal group decision-making body. The circle is an organized time for girls to express their ideas and talk about activities they enjoy, and you play an active role in facilitating discussion and helping them plan. Girls often vote to finalize decisions. If girls are talking over each other, consider passing an object, such as a talking stick, that entitles one girl to speak at a time.

Junior/Cadette/Senior/Ambassador Patrol or Team System: In this system, large troops divide into small groups, with every member playing a role. Teams of four to six girls are recommended so that each girl gets a chance to participate and express her opinions. Patrols may be organized by interests or activities that feed into a Take Action project, with each team taking responsibility for some part of the total project; girls may even enjoy coming up with names for their teams.

Junior/Cadette/Senior/Ambassador Executive Board: In the executive board system (also called a steering committee), one leadership team makes decisions for the entire troop. The board’s responsibility is to plan activities and assign jobs based on interests and needs, and the rest of the troop decides how to pass their ideas and suggestions to the executive board throughout the year. The executive board usually has a president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer and holds its own meetings to discuss troop matters. Limit the length of time each girl serves on the executive board so all troop members can participate during the year.

Junior/Cadette/Senior/Ambassador Town Meeting: Under the town meeting system, business is discussed and decisions are made at meetings attended by all the girls in the troop. As in the patrol and executive board systems, everyone gets the chance to participate in decision-making and leadership. Your role is to act as a moderator, who makes sure everyone gets a chance to talk and that all ideas are considered.

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How parents decide to transport girls between their homes and Girl Scout meeting places is each parent’s decision and responsibility.

For planned Girl Scout field trips and other activities—outside the normal time and place—in which a group will be transported in private vehicles: 

Every driver must be an approved adult* volunteer and have a good driving record, a valid license, and a registered/insured vehicle.



Girls never drive other girls.

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If a group is traveling in one vehicle, there must be at least two unrelated, approved adult volunteers in the vehicle, one of whom is female, and the girl-volunteer ratios in Volunteer Essentials must be followed.



If a group is traveling in more than one vehicle, the entire group must consist of at least two unrelated, approved adult volunteers, one of whom is female, and the girl-volunteer ratios in Volunteer Essentials must be followed. Care should be taken so that a single car (with a single adult driver) is not separated from the group for an extended length of time.

*“Adult” is defined by the age of majority in each state.

For more about driving, see the “Transporting Girls” section of the “Safety-Wise” chapter of this handbook.

Here is just one example of how you and the girls could set up your troop year.              

Hold a parent/guardian meeting.

Open a checking account, if needed.

Register all the girls in the troop.

Meet together for the first time, allowing the girls to decide how they can learn each others’ names and find out more about each other.

Kick off a Leadership Journey with the opening ceremony recommended in the first sample session, or a trip or special event that fits the theme. Have the girls brainstorm and plan any trip or event.

Enjoy the full Journey, including its Take Action project.

Along the way, add in related badge activities that girls will enjoy and that will give them a wellrounded year.

Have the girls plan, budget for, and “earn and learn” in the Girl Scout Cookie Program.

Help girls plan a field trip or other travel opportunity.

Encourage girls to plan a culminating ceremony for the Journey, including awards presentations, using ideas in the Journey girls’ book and/or adult guide.

Pre-register girls for next year.

Camp out!

Participate in a council-wide event with girls from around your region.

Have the girls plan and hold a bridging ceremony for girls continuing on to the next Girl Scout grade level.

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The end of the troop year doesn’t have to be the end of a girls’ time with Girl Scouting, or the end of your time with girls. Some girls may no longer have time for a full-year commitment and will be unsure what’s next for them. Others won’t be able to imagine their lives without this same group of girls.

Here’s how you can best reengage your troop: 



 

Some girls may want other options besides troops. That’s okay—Girl Scouts offers many ways to participate. Talk to girls about day and residence camp, travel opportunities, series offerings, and events your council may offer. Older girls, especially, enjoy these shorter-term, flexible ways to be Girl Scouts.

Some girls will be excited to bridge to the next grade level in Girl Scouting, and will look to you for guidance on how to hold a bridging ceremony. Even if you’re not sure of your continued participation with Girl Scouts (and we hope you will find lots of exciting ways to be involved, even if leading a troop no longer fits your life), be sure to capture their excitement and work with them to a plan a meaningful bridging ceremony.

If you plan to stay with this troop, but some girls are bridging to the next grade level, talk to your council about helping them decide how they’d like to continue in Girl Scouting—perhaps in series, events, or travel!

Talk to girls about earning their Girl Scout Bronze, Silver, or Gold Awards, which are opportunities for them to make a dramatic difference in their communities—and to have plenty to brag about with college admissions officers, too.

And what about you? If you want to stay with this troop, start working with them to plan their group activities next year. And if you’re a little worn out but are interested in staying with Girl Scouts in other, flexible ways, be sure to let your council know how you’d like to be a part of girls’ lives in the future.

Are you ready to volunteer at camp? help organize a series or event? take a trip? The possibilities are endless.

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Not only do some of the most memorable moments in a Girl Scout’s life happen while taking trips, but travel also offers a wealth of opportunities for girls to develop leadership skills. This appendix helps you prepare girls for local, regional, or international travel of any scope and duration.

To honor Juliette Gordon Low’s love of travel, of experiencing different cultures, and of making friends, Girl Scouts created the Juliette Low World Friendship Fund in 1927. Today, this fund supports girls’ international travel, participation in adult learning, and attendance at other international events— any event that fosters global friendships that connect Girl Scouts and Girl Guides from 145 nations.

Click here to find out more or to donate to the fund.

Girls love trips. And Girl Scouts is a great place for them to learn how to plan and take exciting trips, because travel is built on a progression of activities—that is, one activity leads to the next. Girl Scout Daisies, for example, can begin with a discovery walk. As girls grow in their travel skills and experience and can better manage the planning process, they progress to longer trips. Your Journey adult guide has a lot of other ideas about trips that bring the Journey to life. Here are some examples of the progression of events and trips in Girl Scouting’s Ladder of Leadership:  

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





Short trips to points of interest in the neighborhood (Daisies and older): A walk to the nearby garden or a short ride by car or public transportation to the firehouse or courthouse is a great first step for Daisies.

Day trip (Brownies and older): An all-day visit to a point of historical or natural interest (bringing their own lunch) or a day-long trip to a nearby city (stopping at a restaurant for a meal)—younger girls can select locations and do much of the trip-planning, while never being too far from home.

Overnight trips (Brownies and older): One (or possibly two) nights away to a state or national park, historic city, or nearby city for sightseeing, staying in a hotel, motel, or campground. These short trips are just long enough to whet their appetites, but not long enough to generate homesickness.

Extended overnight trips (Juniors and older): Three or four nights camping or a stay in a hotel, motel, or hostel within the girls’ home region (for example, New England, the Upper Midwest, the Southeast, the Pacific Northwest, and so on). Planning a trip to a large museum—and many offer unique opportunities for girls to actually spend the night on museum grounds—makes for an exciting experience for girls.

National trips (Cadettes and older): Travel anywhere in the country, often lasting a week or more. Try to steer clear of trips girls might take with their families and consider those that offer some educational component—this often means no Disney and no cruises, but can incorporate some incredible cities, historic sites, and museums around the country.

International trips (Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors): Travel around the world, often requiring one or two years of preparation; when girls show an interest in traveling abroad, contact your council to get permission to plan the trip and download the Global Travel Toolkit.

Visiting one of the four World Centers is a great place to start, but also consider traveling with worldwide service organizations. Recently, girls have traveled to rural Costa Rica to volunteer at an elementary school, to Mexico to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, and to India to work with girls living in poverty in urban slums.

Although some girls who are in a group (for example, a troop of Cadettes) may decide to travel together, opportunities exists for girls who are not otherwise involved in Girl Scouts to get together

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specifically for the purpose of traveling locally, regionally, and even internationally. Girls can travel regardless of how else they are—or aren’t—participating in Girl Scouting.

Girl Scout travel is an ideal way to offer girls leadership opportunities. Encourage girls to choose one of the three series of National Leadership Journeys. The Journey’s theme will give girls a way to explore leadership through their travels. Use the adult guide to incorporate activities and discussions that help girls explore the Three Keys to Leadership (Discover, Connect, and Take Action) as they plan their trip and eventually travel.

Tying your trip to the topic of a Leadership Journey is a cinch. For example, if Cadette girls have chosen MEdia, before their trip they can read online newspapers from the area to which they’re traveling—and evaluate when they arrive how well the media reflects the realities there. If Senior girls are using SOW WHAT, they can plan to observe agricultural practices in other parts of the country or around the world. Ambassadors using BLISS: Live It! Give It! can build a trip around dreaming big— and empowering others in their community to dream big, too.

If girls also want to complete skill-building badge requirements as part of their trip, they can. The most obvious example is the Senior Traveler badge, which fits perfectly into planning a trip. In addition, girls can explore other badge topics, depending on the focus of their trip. For examples, Cadettes can explore the food in other regions or countries for their New Cuisines badge, Seniors can find out about international business customs as part of their Business Etiquette badge, and Ambassadors can work on their Photography badge while documenting their trip.

Be sure to visit the “Girl Scouting as a National Experience” chapter in this handbook to find out more about the three exciting series of Journeys and The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting.

To ensure that any travel you do with girls infuses the Girl Scout Leadership Experience at every opportunity, limit your role to facilitating the girls’ brainstorming and planning—but never doing the work for them. Allow the girls to lead, learn collaboratively, and learn by doing (and by making mistakes). All the while, however, provide ideas and insight, ask tough questions when you have to, and support all their decisions with enthusiasm and encouragement!

If your group is thinking about travel, consider first whether the girls are mature enough to handle the trip. Determine a group’s readiness for travel by assessing the girls’: 

Ability to be away from their parents and their homes



Ability to adapt to unfamiliar surroundings and situations

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Ability to make decisions well and easily



Previous cross-cultural experiences

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Ability to get along with each other and handle challenges

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Ability to work well as a team

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Skills, interests, and language skills (where applicable)

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Before most trips, you and the girls will need to obtain council permission, although your council may not require this information for trips of one day with no overnight stay. Council permission from GSESC is required for all trips involving day trips to the ***Birthplace, overnight, extended-stay trips or trips involving the use of rented/borrowed/chartered vehicles. Trip Approval/Multiple Troop Event forms must be submitted three (3) weeks prior to the trip, four (4) weeks if additional insurance is required and eight (8) weeks prior for international trips. For trips lasting more than two [2] nights additional insurance MUST be purchased. To obtain insurance coverage, submit a completed Extra Insurance Request Form, your trip itinerary, list of participants, and a check made payable to GSESC (minimum premium is $5) at least four [4] weeks prior to your trip. All forms are available at any Service Center, online, or in your Volunteer Essentials. All Trip Approval/Multiple Troop Event Forms must be submitted to: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, North Charleston Service Center, 7257 Cross County Rd., North Charleston, SC 29418 Fax 843.552.6221. An email confirmation will be sent to the Troop Leader upon receipt of the form and an approval/denial email will be sent closer to the date of the trip. Failure to follow correct procedure and obtain council approval prior to a trip may result in the leader being personally liable in case of accident or injury as the Girl Scout insurance will be null and void. You can find the Processing Trip Approval/Multiple Troop Event Forms (Forms Chapter pg. 176) followed by Multiple Troop Event Form and Trip Approval Form (Forms Chapter pgs. 177-178 and pgs. 179-180) Encourage the girls to submit much of the information themselves, including the following:        

A detailed itinerary, including specific activities involved, mode of travel, and all dates and times Location and type of premises to be used Numbers of girls who will be participating (parental permissions must be obtained) Names and contact information for the adults participating Any other groups, organizations, consultants, or resource people who will be involved Participants’ skill levels, if applicable (language skills, backpacking or camping experience, and so on) Any specialized equipment that will be used, if applicable Required agreements or contracts (for example, hiring a bus, use of premises)

The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace in Savannah, Georgia, is a fantastic place for Girl Scout Juniors and older to visit. Reservations and council approval are required to take a group of girls to visit the Birthplace, and most educational opportunities are booked at least a year in advance, so book early! Families and individuals, however, do not need to reserve a tour in advance.

In addition, four lodges are available in England, Mexico, Switzerland, and India for use by Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, each with hostel- or dormitory-style accommodations. The world centers are operated by WAGGGS (World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts) and offer low-cost accommodations and special programs. They are also a great way to meet Girl Guides and Girl Scouts from around the world.

Closer to home, check with your council to see whether council-owned camps and other facilities can be rented out to the group of girls with which you’re working. ***NOTE MAJOR CHANGE

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To determine how many volunteer chaperones the girls will need with them on the trip, see the adultto-girl ratios. As you ask for chaperones, be sure to look for ones who are committed to:        

Being a positive role model Respecting all girls and adults equally, with no preferential treatment Creating a safe space for girls Prioritizing the safety of all girls Supporting and reinforcing a group agreement Handling pressure and stress by modeling flexibility and a sense of humor Creating an experience for and with girls Getting fit (appropriate to the trip)

Be sure every chaperone reviews and follows the 12 Girl Scout Safety Guidelines, available both in the Quick-Start Guide to this handbook and in the “Safety-Wise” chapter.

How parents decide to transport girls between their homes and Girl Scout meeting places is each parent’s decision and responsibility.

For planned Girl Scout field trips and other activities—outside the normal time and place—in which a group will be transported in private vehicles: 

Every driver must be an approved adult* volunteer and have a good driving record, a valid license, and a registered/insured vehicle.



Girls never drive other girls.



If a group is traveling in one vehicle, there must be at least two unrelated, approved adult volunteers in the vehicle, one of whom is female, and the girl-volunteer ratios in Volunteer Essentials must be followed.



If a group is traveling in more than one vehicle, the entire group must consist of at least two unrelated, approved adult volunteers, one of whom is female, and the girl-volunteer ratios in Volunteer Essentials must be followed. Care should be taken so that a single car (with a single adult driver) is not separated from the group for an extended length of time.

*“Adult” is defined by the age of majority in each state.

For more about driving, see the “Transporting Girls” section of the “Safety-Wise” chapter of this handbook.

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Whether the trip is a day hike or a cross-country trek, the basic steps of trip planning are essentially the same. It’s true that as the locale gets farther away, the itinerary more complex, and the trip of greater duration, the details become richer and more complex, but planning every trip—from a daylong event to an international trek—starts by asking the following:                 

What do we hope to experience?

Who will we want to talk to and meet? What will we ask?

Where are we interested in going?

When are we all available to go?

Will everyone in our group be able to go?

Are there physical barriers that cannot be accommodated?

What are visiting hours and the need for advance reservations?

What are our options for getting there?

What’s the least and most this trip could cost?

What can we do now to get ourselves ready?

How will we earn the money?

What’s the availability of drinking water, restrooms, and eating places?

Where is emergency help available?

What safety factors must we consider?

What will we do as we travel?

What will we do when we get there?

How will we share the Take Action story?

As girls answer these questions, they begin the trip-planning process. In time, girls can make specific arrangements, attend to a myriad of details, create a budget and handle money, and accept responsibility for their personal conduct and safety. Later, after they’ve returned from an event or trip, girls also have the chance to evaluate their experiences and share them with others.

If a Girl Scout Cadette, Senior, or Ambassador will be traveling alone during any part of a trip, use the opportunity to help her feel comfortable with and capable of being on her own. Always talk first with her parents to assess her maturity and ability to handle herself, and have them complete an emergency form. If she is flying, discuss the possibility of booking a nonstop flight to make her trip less stressful, and ask parents to contact the airline, which will make special arrangements for any unaccompanied minor. With the girl herself, develop a trip plan, discuss hotel security and safety, and talk about avoiding excess communication with strangers, not wearing a nametag, and avoiding exposing money or other items (such as smartphones, iPads, and iPods) that are attractive to pickpockets.

Be sure to discuss the following items with the girls and their parents before you leave on any trip (you may also want to put this information in writing and have girls sign it):     

Who her buddy is—and how the buddy system works What to do if she is separated from the group, whether by accident or because of a crime What to do if she loses something significant: money, passport, luggage How to report a crime What to do if emergency help is needed 152

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How to perform basic first-aid procedures How to deal with a large crowd (if applicable) What to do in the event of a crime What behaviors you expect—and what consequences exist for not living up to those behaviors

Share these safety tips with girls before you leave on any trip that involves a stay at a hotel, motel, hostel, or dormitory:  Always lock the door behind you, using the deadbolt and the chain or anchor.  Do not open the door for strangers; if hotel staff claims to be at the door, call the front desk to confirm.  Don’t mention or display your room number when in the presence of strangers.  Never leave jewelry, cameras, electronics, cash, or credit cards in your room.  Never leave luggage unattended in the hotel lobby (or in an airport or train or bus station).  When arriving at the hotel, locate emergency exits.  Keep a small flashlight on your bedside table, along with a small bag with your room key, wallet, passport, and cell phone. Take the flashlight and bag with you if you have to leave the room in an emergency.  If a fire alarm goes off, get out as quickly as possible. Don’t stop to pack your suitcase.  Before leaving your room, feel the door: If it is warm, do not open it. Stay in your room and stuff towels around the door. Call the hotel operator immediately. If the door is cool, proceed slowly out the door, looking for flames or smoke. Repeat these instructions for any door you encounter.  Contact the front desk to make sure girls’ rooms are cleared of any minibars or refrigerators.

Also be sure the hotel doesn’t provide access to inappropriate movies on TVs and does not allow long-distance calls. Alert the hotel management that underage girls are staying in the hotel, and ask them to contact you if any girls are seen out of their rooms after bedtime.

The end of this trip doesn’t have to be the end of a girls’ time with Girl Scouting. Some girls participate in Girl Scouting in all sorts of ways; others are excited only about travel. What lies ahead for them— and for you? 

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Girls who have never been involved in any other way besides travel may be looking for longerterm opportunities closer at home. Younger Cadettes may want to participate in resident camp, while Seniors and Ambassadors—as well as older Cadettes—will want to hear all about upcoming series and events at your council.

Girls who have traveled once tend to want to travel again. Be sure girls are aware that other travel opportunities, such as destinations, will exist for them in the years ahead. The great experiences they had on this trip may have prepared them for longer and more global trips in the future.

Girls may want to hear about the Girl Scout Silver and Gold Awards, which are opportunities for them to make a dramatic difference in their communities—and to have plenty to brag about with college admissions officers, too!

And what about you? If you’re ready for more opportunities to work with girls, be sure to let your council know how you’d like to be a part of girls’ lives in the future. Are you ready for a year-long volunteer opportunity with a troop? help organize a series or event? take another trip? The possibilities are endless.

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History of Sandy Ridge Girl Scout Program and Training Center 1963

Site was decided

1963 – 1965

Purchased 487 acres with cookie sale proceeds

1966

Development began with the entrance road, dam and conservation lake; purchased with cookie sale proceeds

1968

Troop House (renamed Grady Lodge in 1991); construction began in June with dedication in November; purchased with cookie sale proceeds

1969

Recreation lake built, 21acres; purchased with cookie sale proceeds

1970

Tall Timbers (10 tents, shelter and latrine) built; purchased capital campaign funds

1971

Summer Fun Days held (day events for girls)

1972

Resident camp started with small sessions – only using Tall Timbers as the unit.

Troop House (Grady Lodge) was used as Dining Hall, Health Center and Administration

1973

Ground broken in March – Boathouse, Administration Building, Health Center, Ranger’s House, Dining Hall, Windy Hill Shelter and the 5 cabins; purchased with capital campaign funds

1974

Name “Sandy Ridge” chosen – contest held to name the camp; name came from all the sand and the ridge that runs through camp.

1974

Whispering Pines shelter built

1975

Gregg Shelter built; proceeds donated by Santee Electric Co-op

1989

Pool built, purchased with cookie sale proceeds; amphitheater built, new bathrooms at Tall Timbers

1992

Ranger House remodeled, cabins built at Tall Timbers

2000

Grady Lodge bathrooms renovated

2006

Dining Hall renovated

2008

Floating dock installed, replaced stationary dock; grant received from the South Carolina Credit Union Foundation

2012 2013 2014

2015

Window air conditioners installed at Windy Hill and Whispering Pines Waterslides installed at lakefront Zip-line at lakefront installed, window air conditioners installed at Grady Lodge, new storage shed built, new and improved Trading Post located in the Health Center Dining Hall restrooms constructed; restroom renovations at the Health Center, Windy Hill, and Camp Administration Building; ceiling fans with lights at Tall Timbers, ceiling repaired and new lights at Grady Lodge, new convection over and fryer in Kitchen

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Grady Lodge GSESC Girl Scout Troop/Group Rental Fee: $65 per night

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Large building with wall heating units and window air conditioning Can accommodate 24 people (girls and adults), mixture of bunk beds and cots Meeting area for 50 people Kitchen with refrigerator, microwave, and stove/oven Bathroom with flush toilets (4) and hot water showers (4) Indoor fireplace Tables and chairs Outside fire ring Building and restrooms are wheelchair accessible

Health Center GSESC Girl Scout Troop/Group Rental Fee: $65 per night

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Large building with wall heating units and window air conditioning Can accommodate 15 people (girls and adults) Two bedrooms with two cots each; mattresses with no cots for the remaining in open room

Kitchen with refrigerator, microwave, and stove/oven Bathroom with flush toilets (5) and hot water showers (3) Outside fire ring Building is wheelchair accessible

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Windy Hill GSESC Girl Scout Troop/Group Rental Fee: $90 per night

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Cabin unit with 3 double cabins and a unit shelter

Cabins have wall heating units, window air conditioning, and ceiling fans Can accommodate 36 people (girls and adults) Mattresses with cots

Kitchen with refrigerator and stove/oven Bathroom with flush toilets (4) and hot water showers (4) Fireplace in shelter and outside fire ring Activity field and flag pole Shelter with activity area Cabins and unit shelter area wheelchair accessible

Whispering Pines GSESC Girl Scout Troop/Group Rental Fee: $65 per night

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Cabin unit with 2 double cabins and a unit shelter

Cabins have wall heating units, window air conditioning, and ceiling fans Can accommodate 24 people (girls and adults) Mattresses with cots

Kitchen with refrigerator and stove/oven Bathroom with flush toilets (2) and hot water showers (2)

Outside fire ring Activity field and flag pole Shelter with activity area Cabins are Wheelchair accessible

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Tall Timbers GSESC Girl Scout Troop/Group Rental Fee: $50 per night

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Cabin unit with 4 cabins Cabins have ceiling fan with lights Bathroom and shelter have electricity Can accommodate 32 people (girls and adults) Mattresses with cots

Kitchen with refrigerator and stove/oven Bathroom with flush toilets (3) and hot water showers (2) Outside fire ring Screened-in shelter with fireplace In an isolated area of camp No heat 1 cabin is wheel chair accessible

Additional Information for All Units   

No kitchen supplies are included at units (pots, pans, utensils, etc.)

Each campsite has the following tools: 2 brooms, 2 buckets, 1 shovel, and a rake.

1 roll of toilet paper per stall and first trash bag are provided. If you believe you will need more please be prepared to bring it with you. Cleaning supplies are not provided

Dining Hall – No Kitchen Use GSESC Girl Scout Troop/Group Rental Fee: $75 per day

Dining Hall and Kitchen Use GSESC Girl Scout Service Unit Rental Fee: $125 per day The kitchen is only available for Service Unit use.

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Guidelines and Procedures for Males Camping with Girl Scouts Males are often involved in the leadership of a Girl Scout troop. It is not uncommon for a man to be an assistant leader, a First Aider or the Troop Camper. Often a male Registered Adult will accompany a troop on a trip or campout. Common sense and prior planning will make the trip or campout with a male troop adult a positive experience. Follow these simple guidelines and enjoy your trip or campout.

Make sure you reserve a separate facility for the male. It is not appropriate for men to sleep in the same facility or use the same bathroom facilities with females on a Girl Scout outing. Camping facilities with separate male and female sleeping units and bathrooms are required for trip approval. If a male is coming with the troop to Sandy Ridge please contact the Camp Director at 843-479-6814 to discuss facility options. Males accompanying troops on overnight trips cannot be counted as part of the girl/adult ratio, per Safety-Wise Chapter IV in Volunteer Essentials.

Sandy Ridge Site Regulations Report to the Camp Ranger upon arrival. Please consult him when you need help with any of the facilities. He is ready and willing to render the assistance you need. If you have any questions about the facilities at Sandy Ridge please contact the Camp Ranger at 843-479-6742 or 843-6011352.

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Troops using facilities are required to review Safety-Wise Chapter IV in Volunteer Essentials and Safety Activity Checkpoints.

Tag-alongs are NOT allowed on Day Trips or Troop Camping Trips to Sandy Ridge.

Examples of Tag-alongs include unregistered brothers or sisters, babies and toddlers, and anyone else who is not a Registered Girl Scout. If Tag-alongs arrive with the troop they will need to leave immediately.

All participants must wear socks and closed-toes shoes while at Sandy Ridge. Sandals, flip-flops, or Croc-type shoes are NOT allowed to be worn by girls or adults.

Vehicles are to be parked in designated parking areas.

Pets are NOT allowed on Sandy Ridge Girl Scout Program and Training Center property.

Alcoholic beverages are NOT permitted on the premises.

Smoking is NOT permitted in any building at Sandy Ridge. Those wishing to smoke may only do so behind the Dining Hall or on the front porch of the Camp Administration Building. Smoking is never allowed in front of girls.

Emergency procedures are posted at each site. These procedures list what to do in case of an emergency and where to locate the nearest telephone.

All facilities are to be left CLEAN. Please bag up your trash and leave it outside your campsite for pickup. Cleaning supplies are not provided by Sandy Ridge. Please be prepared to bring your own.

Check-Out is at 11:00 a.m. Your Troop is not required to leave at 11:00 a.m. if you have other activities planned but you must Check-Out of your unit by 11:00 a.m.

The Camp Ranger must check you out of your site before you leave.

If your camping trip includes more than two (2) nights, extra insurance MUST be applied for through your Regional Volunteer Support Specialist and paid for four (4) weeks in advance. (Minimum premium is $5.00). All requirements as listed on Trip Approval and/or Multiple Troop Event Form must be met to receive insurance.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding Sandy Ridge’s Site Regulations please contact the Camp Ranger at 843-479-6742 or 843-601-1352.

If it looks like you are going to be arriving at a different time than what you listed on Site Reservation Application, please call the Camp Ranger at 843-479-6742 or 843-601-1352 and let him know what your new arrival time will be.

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Site Reservation Procedures for Sandy Ridge Girl Scout Program and Training Center 

Troops with product sale delinquencies will not be able to register for events, including Troop Camping experiences, until balance is paid in full.

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Troops must file a Troop Annual Finance Report for the 2015-2016 membership year with the Membership Registrar. Troops will not be able to participate in events, attend trips or participate in product program activities until this form is turned in.

1. GSESC will be utilizing the Active Works registration system for site reservations and site fee payments. Please visit www.girlscoutsesc.org and click on the ACTIVE button on the left hand side of our homepage to be taken directly to the Active Works registration system. All reservations must be made using the Active Works registration system at least three weeks prior to date of reservation.

2. After you complete your reservation and made your full payment using the Active Works registration system you will receive an e-mail from Active Works. This e-mail is not an approval or confirmation of your Troop Camping Trip. It is merely a notification stating that your reservation and payment were received.

3. A completed Trip Approval and/or Multiple Troop Event Form with information about your Troop Camping Trip must be submitted to your Regional Volunteer Support Specialist at least 3 weeks prior to date of reservation.

4. Your Regional Volunteer Support Specialist will review the Trip Approval and/or Multiple Troop Event Form and follow up with any questions. The trip must be approved by your Regional Volunteer Support Specialist before confirmation materials are sent out.

5. Once the Trip Approval and/or Multiple Troop Event Form is approved, your site reservation has been set using the Active Works registration system, and your full payment has been received you will receive confirmation of your Troop Camping Trip via e-mail. You must bring your confirmation information with you to Check-In with the Camp Ranger.

6. If you have any questions concerning the Site Reservation Procedures please contact the Camp Director at 843-479-6814.

7. Cancellation Policy: If you cancel your site reservation three weeks or more prior to the date of the reservation you will receive a 50% refund of the fees paid. If you cancel less than three weeks prior to your reservation you will not receive a refund.

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Sandy Ridge Activities There are tons of things to do during your time at Sandy Ridge! Reservations for all of the following activities must be made using the Active Works registration system. For more information contact the Camp Director at 843-479-6814.

Arts & Crafts There is a usage fee of $1 per person/per kit for arts and crafts. This money helps to restock the supplies. The kit will be placed at your site prior to arrival. Please return all equipment and unused supplies to the kit. Troops will be responsible for any missing equipment. The kit will be picked up after Check-Out. *SWAPS *POPTAB BRACELETS *TIE DYE --- The Tie Dye bin does not *PICTURE FRAMES *SAND ART include items for you to dye *WOOD ORNAMENTS *PAINTING *PET ROCKS *DREAM CATCHERS *JEWELRY MAKING *FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS *LANYARDS *BOTTLE CAP CANDLES

Animal Program Learn about animals that call Sandy Ridge their home. Live animals will be introduced. 90 minute program. $5 per person

Pool A certified lifeguard with CPR/First Aid certification must be present and cleared by the Camp Director upon arrival for all swimming activities. Certified lifeguards are available for $10 per hour, payable directly to the lifeguard at the time of your program. This fee is in addition to the pool usage fee listed below. *SWIMMING: $5 per person/per hour

Lakefront A certified lifeguard with CPR/First Aid certification must be present and cleared by the Camp Director upon arrival for all lakefront activities, with the exception of the clay pit. Certified lifeguards are available for $10 per hour, payable directly to the lifeguard at the time of your program.

An instructor, with certification, or documented experience must be present during the following activities. For more information please refer to Safety Activity Checkpoints. *CANOES *KAYAKS A certified lifeguard with CPR/First Aid certification must be present and cleared by the Camp Director upon arrival for all lakefront activities, with the exception of the clay pit. Certified lifeguards are available for $10 per hour, payable directly to the lifeguard at the time of your program. *STANDUP PADDLE BOARDS *PADDLE BOATS *WATER SLIDES *LAKE ZIPLINE *POND EXPLORATION *CLAY PIT *FISHING – Girl Scouts are allowed to fish at Sandy Ridge. No equipment is provided and you must release everything that is caught.

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Great Pee Dee River Canoe Trip Guided, 5-6 hour canoe trip on the Great Pee Dee River. Must be 12 years or older. Coolers and ice will be provided so you can pack lunches to eat while on the river. A minimum of 3 weeks’ notice is required. $20.00 per person, up to 12 people

Other Activities *SPORTS EQUIPMENT Sandy Ridge has a large variety of sports equipment from badminton to our large earth ball. *HWY 98 AND OTHER TRAILS Feel free to use camp trails at your leisure. *AGGIE’S TRAIL AND TEAM BUILDING A 2 hour team building and low ropes program with certified instructor. Troops are not allowed on Aggie’s Trail without a certified instructor. $20 per participant *ARCHERY Must have a certified USAA archery instructor who is cleared by the Camp Director upon arrival. $3 per participant if Troop supplies instructor $6 per participant if an instructor is needed *HIGH ROPES COURSE Camp Pee Dee allows us to use their high ropes course and zip line. Troops must provide own transportation to Camp Pee Dee, which is 2.5 miles away. Participants must be 11 years old or older. Troops must have a minimum of 10 participants. A release, signed by parent/guardian is required for each girl participant. A minimum of 3 weeks’ notice is required. $20 per participant

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Forms Form Title Page Agenda Suggestion for the Delegate Assembly 164 Annual Meeting and Adult Recognition Registration Form 165 Adult Recognition Forms 166-173 Annual Service Unit Finance Report 174 Service Unit Owned Equipment Form 175 Processing Trip Approval Forms and Multiple Troop Event Approval Forms 176 177-178 Multiple Troop Event Approval Forms Trip Approval Form 179-180 Extra Insurance Request 181 How to File a Claim 182 Insurance Claim Form 183-184 Fraud Statements 185 First Report of Accident/Injury 186 Training Registration Form 187 Child Release Authorization 188 Sensitive Issues for Girls Parent Consent Form 189 Girl Permission Slip 190 Year Long Parental Permission Form for Girl Scout Activities 191-192 Financial Assistance for Membership Fees – Girls only 193 Financial Assistance for Membership Fees – Adults only 194 Honor Troop Application 195-196 Troop Committee Sign-Up 197 Troop Bank Account Information Form 198 Annual Troop Finance Report (and Troop Disband Form) 199 Troop Owned Equipment Form 200 Sponsorship Agreement 201 Cash/In-Kind Donation Form 202 Worksheet for Projecting Troop Income and Expenses 203-204 Application for Troop Fundraising Project 205 Event and Activity Report 206 Volunteer Agreement 207 Girl Leadership Forms: Girl Recognition Ceremony Registration Form 208 Girl Recognition Ceremony - Summary Form 209 Girl Event Registration Form – Troop 210 Girl Event Registration Form – Individual 211 Page Program Flyer 212 Page Program Girl Application 213 Page Program Adult Application 214 Techbridge Checkout Form 215 Role Models Matter

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Agenda Suggestion For the Delegate Assembly

Name

Service Unit

Address City Phone (home)

Zip (work)

PROPOSED SUGGESTION

STATEMENT OF TOPIC, QUESTION OR ISSUE

REASONS

PLEASE NOTE: The deadline for submission of this form is March 5th,2016.

Signature of Delegate

Date

Office Use Only

Approved

Disapproved

Comments

Signature of Board Chair

Date

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Registration for 9th ANNUAL COUNCIL MEETING and Adult Recognitions of the

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Saturday, April 16th, 2016 Registration begins at 9:30 a.m., arrive by 9:45 a.m.

Meeting begins at 10 a.m. – Adult and Older Girl Recognitions end at 4 p.m.

Location TBA Please use this form to register for the event and to tell us if you will be receiving a numeral guard. Lunch will be served between the Annual Meeting and the Recognitions. The deadline to register for the event and to tell us your years of service is March 31st,2016. Return this form and $15 lunch fee, if applicable, by March 31st to: Girl Scouts of ESC ATTN: Debbie Persin 7257 Cross County Rd N. Charleston, SC 29418 Check all that apply: ___ Delegate (Girl)

___ Board of Directors/Board Development Committee

___ Delegate (Adult)

___ Nominee to Board/Bd Dev Com

___ Alternate

___ Visitor

Numeral Guard (in 5 year increments) ________ (combined years as a girl and adult Girl Scout) Years of Service (in 5 year increments) ________ (years as an active registered adult Girl Scout)

___ Yes, reserve lunch for me; I have enclosed $15 Name: _______________________________________________ Email: ______________________ Service Unit #: _________Troop: ____________ Phone: ___________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip: ____________________________________________________________________ Signature: _______________________________________________________ Date: ____________

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Best Practices Application The Best Practices initiative is designed to recognize extraordinary programming for girls on the Service Unit or Troop level. Programs will be judged in one of four categories on the Service Unit and Troop level. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place certificates will be awarded. ***Deadline to apply is October 31st annually. Events must have occurred between October 1st 2014 and September 30th 2015. NO LATE ENTRIES OR PREVIOUS INCLUSIONS WILL BE CONSIDERED. Troop Best Practices are not reviewed by the Service Unit recognitions committee. Complete the application and submit to: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, North Charleston Service Center, 7257 Cross County Rd, North Charleston, SC, 29418.

Service Units and Troops may only submit ONE entry per category. Please print or type legibly.

THIS PROGRAM SHOULD BE JUDGED AT THE FOLLOWING LEVEL (MUST CHECK ONE): SERVICE UNIT ____________ TROOP # __________ GRADE LEVEL__________ SERVICE UNIT________ THIS PROGRAM SHOULD BE JUDGED IN THE FOLLOWING CATEGORY (CHECK ONLY ONE): COMMUNITY ACTION—Programs that address a specific need in the local community EDUCATIONAL ADVENTURES—Programs that teach girls a specific skill as part of the GSLE through the National Program Portfolio SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS—Programs that are focused on recruitment and/or retention of girls and adults as part of the GSLE through the National Program Portfolio GIRL SCOUT SPIRIT—Programs based on the Girl Scout Promise and Law Name of Event: ____________________________________________________________________________________ Describe a specific impact this Program ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Date _______________

Site ______________________________

Number of Participants ________ What did the cost include?

Time_______________________

Cost per Person __________

________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Program Coordinator ___________________ Email ____________________Phone #___________________ Troop Leader__________________________ Email ____________________Phone #___________________ A PICTURE THAT DEMONSTRATES THE EXCITEMENT, INTENSITY OR SPIRIT OF THE PROGRAM MUST BE INCLUDED FOR APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED. Please use additional pages if necessary. ***NOTE MAJOR CHANGE

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Rookie of the Year Directions:

Fill in all blanks. Be specific. Please print/type. The nominator should forward completed form and two letters of endorsement to the Service Unit Recognitions Committee.

Deadline for submission will vary by Service Unit but will be before the council deadline.

Note that all Service Unit level Recognitions have to be submitted by the Service Unit no later than ***October,31st.

Each Service Unit can submit 2 Rookies per year.

Information on Nominee: ________________________________________________________________________________________ Last Name First Name Service Unit & Troop # ________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ________________________________________________________________________________________ City Zip Phone # ______________________________________________________ E-mail Address 1. First year or second year as a registered Girl Scout leader/assistant leader 2. Volunteer application and three (3) references & current Job Agreement are on file at the North Charleston Service Center.

3. Dates completed Introduction to Girl Scouting, Girl Scouting 101 and Leadership Essentials. _____________________ _________________________ _____________________________________ 4. Troop Certification [Trained adults working with troop, does not have to be nominee]

First-Aid & CPR___________________________________________________________________________ [Trained Adult, Place and Date Course Taken]

Planning Trips with Girls____________________________________________________________________ [Trained Adult, Place and Date Course Taken]

Troop Camper____________________________________________________________________________ [Trained Adult, Level(s), Place and Date Course Taken]

Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention________________________________________________________ [Trained Adult, Certifying Organization and Date Course Taken]

5. At least 5 girls, leader, assistant leader and 3 committee members registered with the troop: Yes __ No___ 6. Date and name of an additional training completed (i.e. Ceremonies, Grade Level Portfolio). ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________

***NOTE MAJOR CHANGE

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7. Name of council product sale and date the troop participated in: ________________________________________________________________________________________ 8. Name of Council or Service Unit event and date the troop participated in: ________________________________________________________________________________________ 9. Name of Take Action project and date the troop participated in: ________________________________________________________________________________________ 10. Name of Service Unit and dates he/she attended at least three Service Unit meetings: ____________________________________________________________ Date_______________________ Date_______________________ Date_______________________ Nominated by Name (individual or group contact):______________________________________________________________ Address:_________________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (home) :____________________( work) ________________ (e-mail)_______________________ Service Unit Name_________________________________________________________________________ Names of nominating individual(s) or group supplying letters of endorsement: __________________________________________________________Date__________________________ __________________________________________________________Date__________________________ Thank you for your time and consideration.

For Service Unit Recognitions Committee Use Only _____The Service Unit Recognitions Committee approves this nomination _____The Service Unit Recognitions Committee denied this nomination

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Service Unit Approved Adult Recognitions Nomination Form: Volunteer of Excellence Directions:

Fill in all blanks. Be specific. Please type/print. The nominator should forward completed form and two letters of endorsement to the Service Unit Recognitions Committee.

Deadline for submission will vary by Service Unit but will be before the council deadline.

Note that all Service Unit level Recognitions have to be submitted by the Service Unit to Council no later than ***October 31st.

I have carefully read the recognition criteria and feel the following person should be considered for:

Volunteer of Excellence ** ** Attach 2 letters of endorsement to application (person submitting endorsement letter cannot fill out nomination form) Information on Nominee: ________________________________________________________________________________________ Last Name First Name Service Unit ________________________________________________________________________________________ Address City Zip ________________________________________________________________________________________ Email Phone # ________________________________________________________________________________________ Present position in Girl Scouting ________________________________________________________________________________________ Other/former Girl Scout positions held:

If the nominee worked directly with girls, please describe how she/he has delivered outstanding service to deliver the Girl Scout Leadership Experience through the National Program Portfolio.

If the nominee worked indirectly to support the council’s mission and goals, please describe the specific impact made in one or more of the following functional areas: Membership Development/Community Cultivation, Volunteer Relations and Support, Program, Leadership and Governance, Fund Development, and Council Support Service (such as IT, Customer Service, Merchandising, and MarComm).

Attach additional pages, if necessary.

***NOTE MAJOR CHANGE

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1. Description of service rendered and who benefited: ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________

2. Reasons this service was beyond expectations of position held: ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ 3. Indicate how service helped move the council or Service Unit toward its mission and goals: ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Nominated by Name (individual or group contact):____________________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (home) :___________________( work) _______________ (e-mail)________________________ Service Unit Name_________________________________________________________________________ Names of nominating individual(s) or group supplying letters of endorsement: __________________________________________________________Date______________________ __________________________________________________________Date______________________ __________________________________________________________Date______________________ __________________________________________________________Date______________________ Thank you for your time and consideration.

For Office Use Only _____The Service Unit Recognitions Committee endorses this nomination _____The Service Unit Recognitions Committee denied this nomination

170

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Board Approved Adult Recognitions Nomination Form Directions:

Fill in all blanks. Be specific. Please type/print. The nominator should forward completed form and letters of endorsement (appropriate number of required endorsement letters must be attached when submitted) by ***October 31st to: Recognitions Committee North Charleston Service Center 7257 Cross County Rd. North Charleston, SC 29418

I have carefully read the recognition criteria and feel the following person should be considered for: Clara Keithler Pin ** Appreciation Pin ** Honor Pin *** Palmetto Pin ***

Volunteer of the Year*** Thanks Badge**** Thanks Badge II**** Juliette Spirit Award****

** Attach 2 letters of endorsement to application *** Attach 3 letters of endorsement to application **** Attach 4 letters of endorsement to application Information on Nominee: ________________________________________________________________________________________ Last Name First Name Service Unit ________________________________________________________________________________________ Address City Zip ________________________________________________________________________________________ Email Phone # ________________________________________________________________________________________ Present position in Girl Scouting ________________________________________________________________________________________ Other/former Girl Scout positions held:

Please state how this person exemplifies the purpose of the Girl Scout movement in order to qualify for this award.

Be as detailed and specific as possible listing qualifications and particular instances. Please include service needed to qualify for award. Attach appropriate number of letters of endorsement.

1. Description of service rendered and who benefited: ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ ***NOTE MAJOR CHANGE

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2. Reasons this service was beyond expectations of position held: ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ 3. Indicate how service helped move the council or Service Unit toward its mission and goals: ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Nominated by Name (individual or group contact):____________________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (home) :___________________( work) _______________ (e-mail)_________________________ Service Unit Name_________________________________________________________________________ Names of nominating individual(s) or group supplying letters of endorsement:

__________________________________________________________Date__________________________ __________________________________________________________Date__________________________ __________________________________________________________Date__________________________ __________________________________________________________Date__________________________ Thank you for your time and consideration.

For Office Use Only _____The Adult Recognitions Committee endorses this nomination _____The Adult Recognitions Committee denied this nomination _____The Board approves this nomination _____ The Board denies this nomination

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Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina President’s Award Nomination Form Name of Service Unit: __________________________________________________________________ Name of Service Unit Chair: _____________________________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone: (home) __________________ (work) ____________ E-mail address____________________  All Service Team Members are active, registered Girl Scouts: Yes ___ No ___  All Service Team Members have met the requirements and expectation of positions held (i.e. training, paperwork on file, submission of reports).

Yes ___ No ___  The Team reflects the diversity of the target audience or area it serves, in girl and adult membership, in all pathways offered.

Yes ___ No ___ Describe how the Team has delivered outstanding service that has significantly contributed to meeting one or more of the council’s mission-delivery goals. Please name the goals. _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________

Describe how this Team actively recognized, understood, and practiced the values of inclusive behavior. _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please attach any supporting documentation to indicate how the Team met the criteria for this award (i.e. membership data, Service Unit event information, Service Unit volunteer support resources etc.)

For Office Use Only _____The Adult Recognitions Committee endorses this nomination

Signature of Board Chair: __________________________________________________________________ Signature of CEO: _________________________________________________________________________ _____ The Adult Recognitions Committee denies this nomination Reason Denied: _______________________________________________________________________

173

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Annual Service Unit Finance Report Please complete and submit, along with your most recent bank statement, to GSESC by October 15th, 2016. This report must cover October 1st, 2015 to September 30th, 2016. Also attach the Service Unit Owned Equipment Form if applicable.

Year: 2015-2016

Service Unit name:

SU #:

Bank name:

Branch:

Bank Account #:

Bank Routing #:

Debit Card #: Type of account:

Checking

Savings

Account signers’ names: Service Unit records are in the physical possession of: Name: ____________________________________ Adress: ___________________________________

Phone: ____________________________________ Email: ____________________________________

Service Unit equipment is in the physical possession of: Name: ____________________________________ Phone: ___________________________________ Adress: ___________________________________ Email: ____________________________________ Income Beginning Balance (Oct 1st)

$

Expenses Camping/Trips

$

Camping/Trips

$

Programs/Events

$

Programs/Events

$

Donations

$

Donations

$

Postage

$

Money-earning activities

$

$

Other (describe on back or attachment)

$

Total income:

$

Supplies/Materials Other (describe on back or attachment) Total expenses:

$ $

Total income: $ __________ - Total expense: $ __________ = Balance on hand by Sept 2015: $ _________ If balance exceeds $500, how does the troop plan to use the funds?

Completed by:

ST Position:

Service Unit Chair Signature:

Date: Date:

Status of other SU resources: Supplies and equipment owned by SU are listed on the attached Service Unit Owned Equipment Form.

174

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Service Unit Owned Equipment Form 20

- 20

Membership Year

Instructions: Please complete and submit along with the Service Unit Annual Financial Report to GSESC by October 15th. Please list anything that is SERVICE UNIT OWNED, including quantity and location of the items. Please do NOT include items that need to be replaced or replenished on a regular basis such as paper, crayons, glue, etc.

Service Unit Service Unit Chair’s Name ___________________________

Phone

Street Address, City, State, Zip Email Address Location where items are stored: Books Item

Craft Supplies Qty

Item

1.

1.

2.

2.

3.

3.

4.

4

5.

5.

6.

6.

7.

7.

8.

8.

9.

9.

10.

10.

Camp Equipment

Misc.

Item

Qty

Item

1.

1.

2.

2.

3.

3.

4.

4

5.

5.

6.

6.

7.

7.

8.

8.

9.

9.

10.

10.

175

Qty

Qty

Processing Trip Approval Forms and Multiple Troop Event Approval Forms 1. The form must be filled out completely.

2. Always include a list of all the girls and adults participating in the event or attending the trip. A participant is defined as anyone (girl or adult) attending or transporting girls other than their own to and/or from any event.

In this case, all the girls and adults must be registered. Registrations must be delivered to any Service Center.

3. For adult/girl ratios check Safety-Wise Chapter IV in Volunteer Essentials. Note: Multiple troop events require 2 trained adults per grade level.

4. Only the Troop Leader’s Name (01) should appear at the top of the form where indicated.

5. The Emergency contact is someone who is NOT going on the trip. Please give their name, address and phone number. (Note: The emergency contact should have a list of telephone numbers for all the girls’ parents or alternate adult if the parent is attending the event).

6. For trips lasting more than two [2] nights additional insurance MUST be purchased. To obtain insurance coverage, submit an Extra Insurance Request Form, your trip itinerary and a troop check made payable to GSESC (minimum premium is $5) at least four [4] weeks prior to your trip.

7. If the vehicle is borrowed or chartered a copy of the Certificate of Liability Insurance and a copy of the driver’s license must be submitted.

8. ***GSESC has a partnership with Enterprise in South Carolina. The Corporate Account number is

XZ26618. The contract has to be signed “_____ (signature) on behalf on Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina”. Do not use the initials GSESC. The extra insurance offered by Enterprise is not needed; the 9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

troop is covered by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina. This partnership does not include Enterprise business at airports.

Anyone transporting girls other than their own in private vehicles must be a registered adult Girl Scout, possess a current driver’s license, and carry liability insurance coverage on their vehicle. Their name, license and insurance information should appear in ‘driver’s section’.

A valid certified CPR & First Aid person must accompany each troop during travel to and from the event and for the entire trip. Submit a copy of both certification cards, if it is not already on file at the North Charleston Service Center.

Those troops using Doctors or Nurses should include a copy of their professional license with the Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Form. This will take the place of a CPR & FA person. (Note: For multiple troop events that will have a healthcare station, list the name of the lead healthcare person and the contact information in this section of each Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Form.)

If the trip or event involves swimming activities, submit the Lifeguard and CPR & FA certifications for Professional Rescuer.

Please review the Activity Checkpoints specific to the activity. Contact your local Service Center for any questions.

All troop activities that occur away from the normal meeting place require written parental permission. Please do not send permission slips with this form. Keep permission slips with the troop’s records.

Additional information: Troop Leaders and Assistant Troop Leaders need to have the following information on file at the North Charleston Service Center:  Volunteer application including completed background check and current year’s Job Agreement  Copy of training card for leaders who began before 9/1/07 (if not available please contact the Volunteer Support Specialist)  Required training includes:  Introduction to Girl Scouting (mandatory for leaders who began after 10/1/07)  Girl Scouting 101 online training  Leadership Essentials  Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Training  Planning Trips with Girls  Troop Camping (if camping or dealing with open fire)  CPR & FA **Disclaimer: Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Forms must be approved by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina. Failure to submit a Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Form or if it has been denied, your trip or event will not be covered by Girl Scout insurance should an accident, injury or sickness occur and you may be personally liable.

Send Trip and Multiple Troop Event Approval Forms to: Girls Scouts of Eastern South Carolina c/o Volunteer Support Specialist 7257 Cross County Rd., North Charleston, SC 29418 FAX: 843-552-6221 ***NOTE MAJOR CHANGE

176

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Multiple Troop Event Approval Form Form 1 This form has two parts. The Event Coordinator should complete Form 1 only. Participating troops should fill out Form 2 only. A completed Multiple Troop Event Approval Form is required for all events involving day trips to the Birthplace, overnight, extended-stay trips or trips involving the use of rented/borrowed/chartered vehicles only.

Submit three (3) weeks prior to the event, four (4) weeks if additional insurance is required. Events must be approved by the Volunteer Support Specialist. For trips lasting more than two [2] nights additional insurance MUST be purchased. To obtain insurance coverage, submit a completed Extra Insurance Request Form, your trip itinerary, and a check made payable to GSESC (minimum premium is $5) at least four [4] weeks prior to your event. All forms must be submitted to: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, North Charleston Service Center, 7257 Cross County Rd, North Charleston, SC 29418 Fax 843.552.6221.

Date

Service Unit

Event Name

# of Girls

# of Adults

List the participating Troop #s:

Event Coordinator

Phone

Destination

_______

Beginning Date of Trip

Email ________

_____Ending Date of Trip

_________

Overnight accommodations: Place

Phone#

Type of Transportation If vehicle is borrowed or chartered a Certificate of Liability Insurance must be attached for approval.

Flight, Train, Bus, and/or Ship (attach copy of itinerary) Recreational vehicle Troop rented or chartered vehicle (Note: Corporate Account with Enterprise #XZ26618 Driver’s Names

Driver’s License #

Private vehicle(s) Parent Drop-off & Pick-up Other:_ Automobile Insurance Policy #/Carrier/Telephone #

Event CPR & First-Aider_

Phone#

Certified Lifeguard (if swimming)

Phone#

Has Safety-Wise Chapter IV in VE been reviewed to ensure all requirements for health and safety will be met?

Yes

No

Have Permission Slips been received for every girl participating in this trip? Yes _ No Did you have girls participate in planning this event?

Discuss how girls participated in the planning of this trip.

Event Coordinator Signature

Date

**Disclaimer: Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Forms must be approved by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina. Failure to submit a Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Form or if it has been denied, your trip or event will not be covered by Girl Scout insurance should an accident, injury or sickness occur and you may be personally liable.

177

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Multiple Troop Event - Troop Participant List Form 2 Complete this form (one per troop) for all troops attending Multiple Troop Event. Troops complete this form only and submit to council three (3) weeks prior to the event and four (4) weeks if additional insurance is required. Forms must be submitted to: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, North Charleston Service Center, 7257 Cross County Rd, North Charleston, SC 29418 Fax 843.552.6221.

Troop #

Event Name

Event Date

(At least one Troop Camper is required for every camp site) Troop Leader

Phone/Email

Check all that apply: Troop Camper

Planning Trips w/Girls

Assistant Leader

Certified CPR

Certified FA

Child Abuse Awareness

Phone/Email

Check all that apply: Troop Camper

Planning Trips w/Girls

Other Trained Adult

Certified CPR

Certified FA

Child Abuse Awareness

Certified FA

Child Abuse Awareness

Phone/Email

Check all that apply: Troop Camper

Planning Trips w/Girls

Certified CPR

Emergency Contact Name

Phone #

Address

Type of Transportation .

If vehicle is borrowed or chartered a Certificate of Liability Insurance must be attached for approval Private vehicle(s) Parent Drop-off & Pick-up Other:

If Flight, Train, Bus, and/or Ship (attach copy of itinerary) vehi Recreational vehicle cle Troop rented or chartered vehicle (***Note: Corporate is Account with Enterprise #XZ26618 borr Driver’s Driver’s License # Automobile oweNames d or cha rter ed Girls Adults a 1.

1.

Cer tific 2.

2. ate of 3.

3.

Liab ility 4.

4.

Ins 5.

5. ura nce 6.

6. mu st 7.

7. be atta 8.

8. che 9.

9. d for 10.

10._ app rov Leader’s al

Insurance Policy #/Carrier/Telephone #

Date

Signature

***Disclaimer: Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Forms must be approved by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina. Failure to submit a Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Form or if it has been denied, your trip or event will not be covered by Girl Scout insurance should an accident, injury or sickness occur and you may be personally liable.

178

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Trip Approval Form A completed Trip Approval Form is required for all trips involving ***day trips to the Birthplace, overnight, extended-stay trips or trips involving the use of rented/borrowed/chartered vehicles. Trip Approval Forms must be submitted three (3) weeks prior to the trip, four (4) weeks if additional insurance is required and eight (8) weeks prior for international trips. All trips must be approved by the Volunteer Support Specialist.

For trips lasting more than two [2] nights additional insurance MUST be purchased. To obtain insurance coverage, submit a completed Extra Insurance Request Form, your trip itinerary, list of participants, and a check made payable to GSESC (minimum premium is $5) at least four [4] weeks prior to your trip. Insurance forms are available at any Service Center, online, or in your Volunteer Essentials. All Trip Approval Forms must be submitted to: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, North Charleston Service Center, 7257 Cross County Rd, North Charleston, SC 29418 Fax 843.552.6221. An email confirmation will be sent to the Troop Leader upon receipt of the form and an approval/denial email will be sent closer to the date of the trip.  Troop Outing  Troop Outing Council Sponsored Type of Event (check one): Date

Service Unit

Leader’s Name

Troop #

# of Girls

Email

# of Adults

_ Phone #

Address

___

Emergency Contact Name

Phone #

Cell #

Address

___

Destination

Accommodations

Beginning Date of Trip

Ending Date of Trip

___

Type of Transportation    

If vehicle is borrowed or chartered a Certificate of Liability Insurance must be attached for approval.

  

Flight, Train, Bus, and/or Ship (attach copy of itinerary) Recreational vehicle Troop rented or chartered vehicle (***Note: Corporate Account with Enterprise #XZ26618

Driver’s Names

Driver’s License #

Private vehicle(s) Parent Drop-off & Pick-up Other:

Automobile Insurance Policy #/Carrier/Telephone #

Certified CPR & First-Aider

Phone#

Troop Camper

Phone#

Planning Trips w/Girls (non-camping trips)

Phone#

Child Abuse Awareness _

Phone#

Certified Lifeguard (if swimming)

_

_ Phone#

nd

Please list the name of the 2 trained adult attending your trip.

Has Safety-Wise Chapter IV in VE been reviewed to ensure all requirements for health and safety will be met?

Have Permission Slips been received for every girl participating in this trip?

Yes

Yes

No

No

Discuss what girls will learn or what badge requirements will be met as a result of this trip.

Discuss how girls participated in the planning of this trip.

Leader’s Signature

Date

**Disclaimer: Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Forms must be approved by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina.

Failure to submit a Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Form or if it has been denied, your trip or event will not be covered by Girl Scout insurance should an accident, injury or sickness occur and you may be personally liable. ***NOTE MAJOR CHANGES 179

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Trip Approval Form Participant List Complete and attach this form to the Trip Approval Form.

Girls

Adults

1.

1.

2.

2.

3.

3.

4.

4.

5.

5.

6.

6.

7.

7.

8.

8.

9.

9.

10.

10.

11.

11.

12.

12.

13.

13.

14.

14.

15.

15.

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina North Charleston Service Center Attn: Volunteer Support Specialist 7257 Cross County Rd. North Charleston, SC 29418 Fax: (843) 552-6221

***Disclaimer: Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Forms must be approved by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina. Failure to submit a Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Form or if it has been denied, your trip or event will not be covered by Girl Scout insurance should an accident, injury or sickness occur and you may be personally liable.

180

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Extra Insurance Request Form Registered Girl Scouts (girls and adults) are covered by accident activity insurance through Mutual of Omaha Insurance Co (Ba sic Coverage Plan 1). For all trips longer than two (2) nights, extra insurance must be obtained for trip or event approval. Each day of this trip must be covered, including travel days. Extra insurance is also required for events where non-members will be in attendance. This form, along with a troop check (made out to GSESC) and an itinerary, must accompany your Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Form four (4) weeks before the trip or event to give enough time to complete any missing training or paperwork. Submit paperwork to the North Charleston Service Center, 7257 Cross County Rd., North Charleston, SC 29418. Fax 843.552.6221.

Troop #

Service Unit Leader_

Phone (H)

(W)

Address & Zip Type of activity: Location: Dates: From:

To:

Total number of participants: ______________________(attach list to Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Form) Level of coverage:

Plan 2

.11 per day per participant

Plan 3E .29 per day per participant Plan 3P .70 per day per participant Plan 3PI 1.17 per day per participant # of participants X # of days X rate plan =$

accident accident and sickness, supplemental accident and sickness, primary accident and sickness, international trips ($5 minimum) Rates subject to change.

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Extra Insurance Request Form Registered Girl Scouts (girls and adults) are covered by accident activity insurance through Mutual of Omaha Insurance Co (Ba sic Coverage Plan 1). For all trips longer than two (2) nights, extra insurance must be obtained for trip or event approval. Each day of this trip must be covered, including travel days. Extra insurance is also required for events where non-members will be in attendance. This form, along with a troop check (made out to GSESC) and an itinerary, must accompany your Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Form four (4) weeks before the trip or event to give enough time to complete any missing training or paperwork. Submit paperwork to the North Charleston Service Center, 7257 Cross County Rd., North Charleston, SC 29418. Fax 843.552.6221.

Service Unit

Troop #

Leader_

Phone (H)

(W)

Address & Zip Type of activity: Location: Dates: From:

To:

Total number of participants: ______________________(attach list to Trip or Multiple Troop Event Approval Form) Level of coverage:

Plan 2

.11 per day per participant

accident

Plan 3E .29 per day per participant accident and sickness, supplemental Plan 3P .70 per day per participant accident and sickness, primary Plan 3PI 1.17 per day per participant accident and sickness, international trips # of participants X # of days X rate plan =$ ($5 minimum) Rates subject to change.

181

182

183

184

185

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina First Report of Accident/Injury Complete all information and attach to completed GSUSA Mutual of Omaha Claim Form.

Submit immediately to: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, North Charleston Service Center, 7257 Cross County Road, North Charleston, SC, 29418.

Name of Injured ___________________________________Age ________ Troop #__________ Parent/Guardian’s Name Address Home Phone _________________________________Work Phone Injury/Accident occurred: Date

Time_

_ _____________________

Location

___

Describe how the injury/accident occurred and the nature of the injury involved

Who gave the first aid?

_

Describe first aid given:

Was injury caused by disobeying any rule or regulation in force at the time of the injury/accident?

Was the injured person negligent?

If so, in what way?

Was an object or equipment connected with the injury/accident_

What?

How? Did unsafe activity by an individual contribute to injury/accident?

Explain:

Witnesses: The events described above are true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Signature Date ___________________________ Home Phone

____Work Phone

186

___________________________

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Training Registration Form Return form to: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, 7257 Cross County Rd, N. Charleston, SC 29418 Fax # 843-552-6221, must have credit card information.

If you have any questions call the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina at 843-5529910 or 1-800-868-9911. We will email confirmations up to 24 hours prior to training. All training fees are non-refundable.

Deadline is one week prior to any training unless otherwise stated. You must register and pay the fee before the class. Trainers can only prepare materials for those who have registered.

Please print all information legibly and fill in all information: Service Unit level)

Troop #

Program Level: D B J C S A (circle one grade

Course Name: Course Time:

Course Date: Location

Course Fee

(if applicable)

Name

Day Phone

Address

Troop Position Code

City/State/Zip E-Mail Payment information: Cash:

Check number

Money Order____________________

Credit Card (Please circle one): Visa MasterCard Card Number___________________________________________ Expiration Date: _____________Signature__________________________________________ 187

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Child Release Authorization As a safety precaution, advanced written and dated notification must be provided by the person who brings the child to the meeting, activity or event, before any child may be released to another individual.

I give my permission for _____________________________________________to be released to (Child’s Name) _on (Name/Phone #)

(Date)

Parent/Guardian Signature

Parent/Guardian contact number

Date

Alternate contact number

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Child Release Authorization As a safety precaution, advanced written and dated notification must be provided by the person who brings the child to the meeting, activity or event, before any child may be released to another individual.

I give my permission for _____________________________________________to be released to (Child’s Name) _on (Name/Phone #)

(Date)

Parent/Guardian Signature

Parent/Guardian contact number

Date

Alternate contact number 188

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Sensitive Issues for Girls Parent Consent Form PLEASE COMPLETE AND RETURN TO YOUR DAUGHTER’S TROOP LEADER Name

Telephone#

Address City Age

State Troop #

Age Level

Zip Code Date of Activity

I give permission for my daughter,

,to participate in

troop activities that pertain to

.

I understand that the activities will follow the guidelines established by Girl Scouts of the USA, adopted by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, and are appropriate for my daughter’s troop level.

Parent/Guardian Signature

Date

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Sensitive Issues for Girls Parent Consent Form PLEASE COMPLETE AND RETURN TO YOUR DAUGHTER’S TROOP LEADER Name

Telephone#

Address City Age

State Troop #

Age Level

Zip Code Date of Activity

I give permission for my daughter,

,to participate

in troop activities that pertain to

.

I understand that the activities will follow the guidelines established by Girl Scouts of the USA, adopted by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, and are appropriate for my daughter’s troop level.

Parent/Guardian Signature

Date

189

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Girl Permission Slip This form must be used for any activity, which does not take place at the regular troop/group meeting time and/or involves transportation.

My daughter _______________________has my permission to participate in________________on (date) She is in good physical condition, has no recent exposure to a contagious disease and has not had any serious illness or operation since her last health examination. She has my permission to participate in the total activity (except as noted): Any prescribed medication/instructions to be administered during this event_________Anyallergies_____________________________________________________________ During this activity I can be reached at: Location ________________Phone:_________________________ Name: ______________________________Relationship_______________________________________ If I cannot be reached in the event of an emergency, the following person(s) are authorized to act on my behalf: Name__________________ Relationship Phone______________ Physician’s Name ______________________________________Phone _________________________ Parent/Guardian Signature ______________________________________Date ___________ RELIGIOUS PREFERENCE FOR NON-MEDICAL CARE I, Parent/Guardian of would prefer that no medical care be given to my child in an emergency. In case of illness or injury, please contact: Religious/Spiritual Leaders Name:_______________________________________________________________________________ Signature of Religious/Spiritual Leader ____________________________Date ______________ PHOTO/AUDIO/VIDEO RELEASE FORM I being parent/guardian of hereby consent that photographs and other media in which she appears may be used by Girl Scouts of the USA, its assigns or successors, in whatever way they may desire, including audio/visual projections and television; furthermore, I hereby consent that such photographs and the plates from which they are made shall be their property, and they shall all have the right to sell, duplicate, reproduce, and make other uses of such photographs and plates as they may desire, free and clear of any claims whatsoever on my part. Parent/Guardian Signature ________Date ____________ INFORMATION FOR PARENTS (PLEASE KEEP FOR YOUR RECORDS) Girl’s Name Service Unit Troop ATTENTION PARENTS: This form does not absolve the parent/guardian of the responsibilities of being available as stated. As parent/guardian, the leader will expect to be able to reach you at the location specified on this form.

Event and Location Date Phone Time and Place of departure Time and Place of return Trip Coordinator_ Phone First Aider Chaperone Chaperone Chaperone Each girl will need (include any expense) Dress for the weather: Equipment and clothing_ In case of emergency/changes, the leader will notify Phone Who will then notify parents?

Leader Signature Phone Assistant Leader Signature Phone 190

Year-Long Parental Permission Form for Girl Scout Activities Held Within Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Area Your daughter will have various opportunities to participate in Girl Scout Activities with Troop ______ throughout the year.

In each case, the specifics of the activity, associated costs and transportation details will be communicated to you via email or handouts at troop meetings. Signing this permission slip and arranging for your daughter to attend the activity will constitute the written permission necessary for all activities taking place within the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina area. This form does not cover sensitive topics, high risk activities (such as camping, rock climbing, skiing, etc) and other activities that take place outside of the council area. A separate permission form is required for these activities.

Participation in product sales requires a separate form specific to each sale.

My daughter

has my permission to participate in all Girl Scout Activities within the Girl

Scouts of Eastern South Carolina jurisdiction with the registered adult leaders of Troop

from ______________

(date) through ____________ (date). She is in good physical health and has not had any serious illnesses or operations since her last health examination. She has received all necessary immunization and vaccinations. I understand that if my daughter is found using drugs or alcohol or is behaving in a manner which is dangerous to herself or event participants, I will be called to come and get her immediately.

I can generally be reached at the following contact numbers: Home # (

)

-

Cell # (

)

-

Work #(

)

-

If I cannot be reached in the event of an emergency, the following person is authorized to act in my behalf: Name Home # (

Relationship to girl )

-

Cell # (

)

-

Name Home # (

Work #(

)

-

)

-

Relationship to girl )

-

Cell # (

)

-

Physician’s Name

Work #(

Phone # (

)

-

Physician’s Address Family Medical/Hospital Insurance

Policy #

I give my permission for the adult in charge of the activity to take my daughter to a medical facility, if necessary. In case of emergency, if none of the above can be contacted, I consent to treatment for my daughter under the supervision of and as deemed necessary by a physician licensed under the Medical Practice Act. I agree to the release of any records necessary for treatment, billing, or insurance purposes. I will not allow my daughter to attend if she has been exposed to any contagious disease or if, for any reason, I do not consider her to be in good physical condition.

Signature of Parent/Guardian Printed Name

Date

191

Year-Long Troop Health Information Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina and its volunteers make every effort to provide a safe and secure environment during group meetings. A typical Girl Scout meeting and/or program event may involve songs, active games, refreshments, skits, arts and crafts, and lively discussions. This form does not cover sensitive topics, high risk activities (such as camping, rock climbing, skiing, etc) and other activities that take place outside of the council area. A separate permission form is required for these activities. Participation in product sales requires a separate form specific to each sale. Extended trips or other physically demanding activities may require additional health history and contact information.

We encourage you, as the parent/guardian, to share information with the leader that may affect your child’s health or safety while in our care. Completion of this form is optional. All information listed is confidential and should only be shared with persons who have a need to know in order to protect the health and safety of all participants. Completed forms are to be destroyed at the end of every membership year, September 30.

Girl’s Name

Date

Girl’s Height

Girl’s Weight

Girl’s Date of Birth

EMERGENCY/TRANSPORTATION CONTACT INFORMATION—Include parent/guardian completing form.

NAME

RELATIONSHIP TO GIRL

THIS PERSON IS AN EMERGENCY CONTACT

PHONE Day : (

)

Evening: ( Cell: (

)

-

Yes

No

Yes

No

-

Yes

No

Yes

No

)

Evening: ( Cell: (

)

Day : (

MY DAUGHTER MAY BE RELEASED TO THIS PERSON

)

)

-

SPECIAL NEEDS AND HEALTH INFORMATION—Include any information or special needs that will help the adults in charge to better care for your child, including medications needed and diagnosis if appropriate (all this information will be kept confidential between adults in charge).

Allergies (animals, food, insects, medication, etc.) and how to respond to a reaction

Dietary Needs Medications Physical Limitations Other Concerns I give permission for my daughter to take over the counter medication(s) checked below according to the manufacturer’s instructions and at the dosage appropriate for her weight and/or age.  Acetaminophen (Tylenol)  Decongestant (Sudafed)  Antacid (Tums)  Expectorant (cough drops/suppressant)  Antidiarrheals (Pepto-Bismol)  Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)  Antihistamine (Claritin)  Ibuprofen (Motrin)

Signature of Parent/Guardian _____________________

Date _____________________

192

Registrar Use Only

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP FEES GIRLS ONLY

Batch Date: ______/______/______ Batch #: ______________________ Registrar Initials: _______________ # of Girls Posted: _______________ Total Amount Dues $____________

Girl Scouts welcomes and respects people from all backgrounds and abilities. We recognize some families may not be able to pay the entire $30 annual membership fee. Financial Assistance may be Amount requested and is based Total CSF $_____________ availability of funds and the financial need of the family. Please know a request for assistance does not guarantee aid will be given. Please remember: Troops may use money from their troop accounts to pay for girls annual membership dues. We encourage troops to make this a part of their financial planning each year.

Please allow 30 days to process application request.

Membership Year ____________________________Troop # ____________ Service Unit # _____________________ Troop Leader ______________________________ Phone _____________ Email ______________________________ If no troop, Parent Name _____________________ Phone _____________ Email ______________________________ Please be sure each girl totals $30.

INDICATE

SOLD COOKIES?

NAME

AMOUNT PAID

AMOUNT REQUESTED

Please check.  New

 Re-registering

 Yes

 No

$

$

 New

 Re-registering

 Yes

 No

$

$

 New

 Re-registering

 Yes

 No

$

$

 New

 Re-registering

 Yes

 No

$

$

 New

 Re-registering

 Yes

 No

$

$

 New

 Re-registering

 Yes

 No

$

$

 New

 Re-registering

 Yes

 No

$

$

 New

 Re-registering

 Yes

 No

$

$

 New

 Re-registering

 Yes

 No

$

$

 New

 Re-registering

 Yes

 No

$

$

TOTAL $

$

Please fill out another form if more than 10 girls.

Attach all completed registration forms and a copy of your receipt if partial payment is being made.

Date ________________Requested by ________________________________________________________________ Date ________________Approved by Regional Director of Membership _______________________________________

193

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP FEES ADULTS ONLY

Registrar Use Only Batch Date: _____/______/______ Batch #: ______________________ Registrar Initials: _______________ # of Adults Posted: _____________ Total Amount Dues $____________

Girl Scouts welcomes and respects people from all backgrounds and abilities. We recognize some adults may not be able to pay the entire $15 annual membership fee. Financial Assistance may be requested and eligibility is based on availability of funds and financial need. Only adults who are leaders or co-leaders may request help for membership fees. Please know a request for financial assistance does not guarantee that aid will be given.

Please remember: Troops may use money from their troop accounts to pay for girls annual membership dues.

We encourage troops to make this a part of their financial planning each year. Please allow 30 days to process your request.

Membership Year ___________________________________Troop # ________ Service Unit # _______________

Troop Leader ______________________ Phone ______________________ Email_____________________________

INDICATE

INDICATE

 New

 Re-registering

 Leader

 New

 Re-registering

 New

NAME

AMOUNT PAID

AMOUNT REQUESTED

 Asst. Leader

$

$

 Leader

 Asst. Leader

$

$

 Re-registering

 Leader

 Asst. Leader

$

$

 New

 Re-registering

 Leader

 Asst. Leader

$

$

 New

 Re-registering

 Leader

 Asst. Leader

$

$

 New

 Re-registering

 Leader

 Asst. Leader

$

$

 New

 Re-registering

 Leader

 Asst. Leader

$

$

 New

 Re-registering

 Leader

 Asst. Leader

$

$

$

$

TOTAL

Attach all completed registration forms and a copy of your receipt if partial payment is being made.

Date _______________ Requested by__________________________________________________________________ Date _______________ Approved by Regional Director of Membership________________________________________

194

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Honor Troop Application 20__- 20 Purpose:

The award is designed to recognize troops that have made the extra effort to participate in many facets of the Girl Scout program.

To Qualify: Girl Scout Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior and Ambassador Troops must fulfill all requirements. You may not use the same activity to fulfill two (2) requirements.

The Award: Qualifying troops will receive a certificate.

Time Frame: The following criteria must be met between October 1 st and September 30th concurrent with a membership year. Applications should be mailed to the Regional Director of Membership for approval by October 15th.

1. Troop meets standard size as stated in VE Ch. IV Safety-Wise # of girls 2. Troop leader and assistant leader have taken training during the year. Describe: 01_

Date

01_

Date

02_

Date

02_

Date

3. Troop Committee has at least 3 registered troop committee members. List: _,

_,

4. Troop must have representation at 75% of all Service Unit meetings: Our troop was represented at

of

Service Unit meetings.

5. Troop has requested a certificate to recognize their sponsor. Date_ 6. Troop participated in at least one council sponsored fundraiser: QSP Cookies 7. Troop participated in a Take Action project for the community. Date: Describe:_

_

_____ _

8. Troop has had two outdoor experiences appropriate for grade level.

1.

Date_________________

2.

Date_________________

195

9. Troop participated in at least one activity on the Service Unit/Council level.

Describe: Date_____________ 10. Troop has worked on at least one Journey book and earned the appropriate award.

Date 11. Girls planned and carried out an investiture, rededication or bridging ceremony.

Describe:

Date

12. Troop uses a form of government to promote leadership and skill development.

Form of government used: Example of how this form of troop government was used:

13. If bridging, troop participated in 2 bridging activities with a sister troop(s).

1.

Date_________________

2.

_Date_________________

14. Girls bridging from one grade level to the next were secured placement in a troop.

Date_______________ 15. Troop participated in Early Bird by registering before June 30 th, or re-registered on time (by October 1) for current membership year.

Early Bird

On Time

Date

This troop has satisfied the requirements necessary to become an Honor Troop.

Leader’s signature Grade Level

Troop #

_Date

Submit this entire completed form to the Regional Director of Membership for approval

by Oct 15th.

RDM Signature ________________________________________________

196

TROOP COMMITTEE SIGN-UP Position

Description

Troop Leader

Keeps troop records and submits required reports.

Works with girls and assistant leader to plan meetings.

Attends troop and Service Unit meetings.

Completes required council training courses.

Registers as 01.

Assistant Troop Leader

Works with girls and Leader to plan meetings Attends troop and Service Unit meetings.

Completes required council training courses.

Registers as 02.

Troop Product Sale Manager

Attends product sale trainings.

Plans and runs annual cookie sale for troop.

Completes required council training courses.

Registers as 03.

Troop Record Keeper

Helps with record keeping and paperwork Maintains individual girls’ record sheet Registers as 03

Troop Treasurer

Keeps track of bank account activities.

Keeps records of all financial transactions for the troop.

Register as 03.

Troop Sponsor Liaison

Finds sponsor for troop.

Keeps sponsor informed of troop activities.

Registers as 03.

Troop Camp Manager

Helps girls plan for camping trips.

Attends Campouts.

May drive if needed.

May take troop camp training and/or First Aid training.

Registers as 03.

Accompanies troop on field trips or special events.

May drive if needed.

Registers as 03.

Makes sure every girl has volunteered to bring a snack.

Contacts hostess for next meeting.

Registers as 03.

Troop Chaperone

Troop Snacks Manager Communication/ Telephone Tree Manager

Troop Shopper Troop Crafts Manager

Passes messages on to parents via phone or email.

Serves as an emergency contact when troop is traveling.

Issues troop newsletter with information of detailing upcoming trips, event and accomplishments of girls.

Registers as 03.

Shops for troop supplies as needed.

Registers as 03.

Works with leader and assistant leader to plan crafts and activities that the girls have chosen.

May attend meetings to help with crafts and activities. ďƒ° Registers as 03.

197

Volunteer

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Troop Bank Account Information Form PROCEDURES FOR GIRL SCOUT TROOP BANK ACCOUNTS 1. Re-registering Girl Scout troops must have a troop bank account. There should be four signatures on the signature card with two (2) unrelated signatures required on a check. Troop funds should not be kept in a personal checking and/or savings account. A re - registering troop must turn this form in upon registration.

Troop bank account information forms are to be completed by each troop, not as a group of troops.

2. New Girl Scout troops must have a troop bank account within the first (1) months of registering. The Troop Bank Account Information form needs to be turned in immediately using this form. Complete and return this form to the North Charleston Service Center.

3. The following procedures are to be used to open a checking and/or savings account: 1. Troop bank accounts should be opened in the name of the Troop and Council. Use the troop leader’s address; for example: Troop # ___ Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina.

2. According to banking and IRS regulations each troop bank account must have an identification number.

Do not enter your social security number. Use the council Federal Identification Number: 570341216.

5. Return to the North Charleston Service Center, 7257 Cross County Rd., North Charleston, SC 29418 within 60 days.

6. Turn in a copy of a voided check to council as soon as new checks are received.

Troop #:

Level:

Service Unit:

Date:

Leader’s Name: Telephone # - Day:

Evening:

Bank Name: Bank Branch:

Telephone #:

Account Number – Checking: Account Number – Savings: There should be four signatures on the signature card with two (2) signatures required on a check.

Name: Position: Phone #: 1.

2.

3.

4.

Name of person keeping funds:

Phone #:

Address of person keeping funds: FOR OFFICE USE ONLY DATE REC'D: 198

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina

Annual Troop Finance Report (and Troop Disband Form) Please complete and submit, along with your most recent bank statement, to GSESC by October 15th, 2016. An Annual Troop Finance Report must be on file with GSESC in order for troops to register for Council Sponsored Programs, including product sales. This report must cover October 1st, 2015 to September 30th, 2016. Also attach the Troop Owned Equipment Form if applicable.

Year: 2015-2016 Service Unit name: Troop #: Leader name:

Assistant Leader name:

Bank name:

Branch:

Bank Account #:

Bank Routing #:

Debit Card #: Type of account:

Checking

Savings

Account signers’ names: Income

Expenses

Beginning Balance (October 2015)

$

GSUSA registrations

$

GSUSA registrations/Troop Dues

$

Donations

$

Sponsorship/donations

$

Programs/Events

$

Product Sales profits

$

Troop activities

$

Money-earning activities

$

Troop supplies/materials

$

Other (describe on back or attachment)

$

Other (describe on back or attachment)

$

Total income:

$

Total expenses:

$

Total income: $ ____________ - Total expense: $ ____________ = Balance on hand by Sept 20165: $ ____ If balance exceeds $250, how does the troop plan to use the funds?

Print Name:

Signature:

Date:

If troop is disbanding, please complete this section.

This past year, this troop disbanded. Complete the following:

Month: Year: Reason: lack of leadership girls bridged to become adult Girl Scouts lack of girl members reorganized/combined with troop/group # ____ other: ________________________ Status of other troop resources: Supplies and equipment were disbursed by troop prior to disbanding.

Supplies and equipment were not disbursed and are listed on the Troop Owned Equipment Form attached.

Attached is a cashier’s check in the amount of the remaining troop funds made payable to Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina.

Change my Troop Leader status to: Active Inactive Transfer to Troop # _____ Change my Assistant Troop Leader status to: Print Name:

Active

Signature:

Inactive

Transfer to Troop # _____ Date:

For office use only: Please check each item when completed: Troop account closed.

Troop bank balance $0.

Troop Leader status changed.

Assistant Troop Leader status changed.

199

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Troop Owned Equipment Form 20 - 20 Membership Year Instructions: Please complete and submit along with the Annual Troop Finance Report to GSESC by October 15th . List anything that is TROOP OWNED, including quantity and location of the items. Please do NOT include items that need to be replaced or replenished on a regular basis such as paper, crayons, glue, etc.

Service Unit

Troop #

Grade Level

Leader’s Name

Phone

Street Address, City, State, Zip

_

Email Address ____________________________________________________________________ Location where items are stored: ___________________________________________________ Books Item

Craft Supplies Qty

Item

1.

1.

2.

2.

3.

3.

4.

4

5.

5.

6.

6.

7.

7.

8.

8.

9.

9.

10.

10.

Camp Equipment

Miscellaneous

Item 1.

Qty

Item 1.

2.

2.

3.

3.

4.

4

5.

5.

6.

6.

7.

7.

8.

8.

9.

9.

10.

10.

200

Qty

Qty

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Sponsorship Agreement Instructions:

Read purpose and responsibilities listed below and discuss with your selected sponsor. Complete agreement form and turn in to GSESC: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, North Charleston Service Center, 7257 Cross County Rd, North Charleston, SC, 29418. You will receive a Sponsorship Certificate for you to present to your sponsor.

PURPOSE OF SPONSORSHIP Sponsors can provide troop meeting places, volunteer time, equipment, scholarships or funding (up to the current membership and council service fee per troop member per year). Sponsors help the Girl Scout council ensure that all girls in the community have an opportunity to participate.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COUNCIL To provide and administer the Girl Scout program within the framework of national policies and standards and to supervise all volunteers, troops and Service Units.

To interpret to the sponsoring group the national and local Girl Scout policies and standards, especially those regarding troop and Service Unit programs, standards and finances.

To interview, select, train and place interested adults including those suggested by the sponsoring group.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SPONSOR To adhere to national and local Girl Scout policies and standards.

To assign and/or recommend adult members of the sponsoring group to serve on the troop committee or service team.

To assist the troop or Service Unit in finding a meeting place that conforms to Girl Scout policies and standards and aid in maintaining qualified leadership.

To encourage girls to attend camp and to participate in Girl Scout activities beyond their own troop through assistance, financial or otherwise.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF TROOP OR SERVICE UNIT To perform appropriate services for its sponsor such as ushering, performing flag ceremonies, waiting tables, aiding in carrying out yard cleaning projects, etc.

Please note: in the case of sponsorship in the form of a cash gift, the check must be made payable to Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina in order to be tax deductible. In addition to this form, please complete the Cash/In Kind Donation Form and return to council with the check. The council will issue a check to the designated troop.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENT I/we hereby agree to serve as a sponsor for Troop # or Service Unit . As a sponsor, we agree to the responsibilities as outlined by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina for troop sponsorships for the 2014-2015 membership year.

NAME OF SPONSOR (INDIVIDUAL OR ORGANIZATION) ADDRESS OF SPONSOR PHONE

DATE

Cash Sponsorship: YES NO Sponsorship Amount: $ In Kind Sponsorship: YES NO Description Cash Donation in Excess of Sponsorship: YES NO Amount $ This sponsor wishes to receive an official receipt from the council for tax purposes TROOP LEADER OR SERVICE UNIT CHAIR NAME DATE

201

Date:

PHO

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Cash / In-Kind Donation Form INSTRUCTIONS: To record cash and in-kind contributions, complete all information and submit to: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, Attn: Fund Development, 2412 Pisgah Road, Florence, SC 29501 or email patbaxley@girlscoutsesc.org.

See Fund Development Policies regarding solicited and unsolicited cash and in-kind contributions for troops and service units.

1. Date of donation:_______________________ 2. Donation description:________________________________________________________________ 3. Donation value: Cash/Check: $_____________________________ In Kind – Value Amount: $____________________ [ ] Check made payable to GSESC attached for reimbursement to Troop/Service Unit 4. Company, organization, or individual making donation:_____________________________________ Contact Name at company/organization:____________________________________________ Signature of donor:______________________________________________________________ Address:______________________________________ City:____________________________ State:_______________ Zip:___________________ Phone: (____)______________________ [ ] GSESC has permission to publically acknowledge this donation.

5. Event /other donated for:_________________________________________________________ 6. Recipient contact information: If applicable: Service Unit:________ Troop #:_________ Leader:_______________________ Name:_____________________________________________ Position:___________________ Address:________________________________________ City:__________________________ State:_____________ Zip:____________________ Phone: (____)_______________________ Anyone else involved in contribution:_______________________________________________ 7. Has a “thank you” been made? [ ] Yes [ ] No If yes, what type of thank you? [ ] Card [ ] Letter [ ] Verbal By whom:__________________________________ When made:_________________________ 202

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Worksheet for Projecting Troop Income and Expenses Here is a worksheet to help plan the troop budget for a year. First, figure out your proposed expenses based on the plans your troop has for the year. You may add other items you might need.

PROPOSED EXPENSES: Troop Meeting Equipment – Do you need things like tools for hand arts, Supplies for the first-aid kit, etc.? ………………………………………………………..

$

Troop Library – Which records or books do you need? How much do they cost? ...

$

Ongoing Program – Will you need money for community service projects, troop camping activities or other long-range plans? ………………………………….

$

Contingency – Allow some money for spur-of-the-moment ideas and unexpected opportunities, or as a revolving fund to help new members unable to pay their full share. ………………………………………………………………………………………

Special Plans – Troop trips, participation of troop members in council-wide events, etc. ………………………………………………………………………………...

$ $

Other (list):

$ _______ $ _______ $ ____________ TOTAL PROPOSED EXPENSES:

$ ___________

Then, figure out a plan to get the Troop Income to match the Proposed Expenses.

TROOP INCOME: TROOP DUES Perhaps dues will cover all of the troop’s Proposed Expenses. To find out, complete the following steps: (a) Total Proposed Expenses ……………… $ (b) Number of girls in troop ………………….

$

(c) Total amount from each girl ……………..

$

(c) Total amount from each girl ……………..

$

(d) Number of troop meetings ………………

$

(e) Dues from each girl per meeting.............

$

203

(“a” divided by “b”)

(“c” divided by “d”)

Worksheet for Projecting Troop Income and Expenses Continued: Can all girls in the troop pay this amount (e) each meeting? If not, what amount can they pay? Write this amount on line “x” below. To find out how much income can be expected, multiply “x” by “b”. (x) Amount of dues per meeting each girl can pay ….

$

(b) Number of girls in troop …………………………….

$

(y) Total troop income per meeting ……………………

$

Then, multiply “y” by “d”: (y) Total troop income per meeting ……………………

$

(d) Number of troop meetings …………………………

$

(z) Amount available from troop dues ………………...

..................................

Other Sources of Troop Income (1) The Girl Scout Cookie Sale can be a profitable experience. (j) Number of boxes of cookies each girl can sell …... (b) Number of girls in troop …………………………….

$ _____________ $ _____________

(k) Profit per box ………………………………………...

$

(l) Multiply “j” by “b” by “k” for total income from the Cookie Sale …………......………....

_____________

.................................

(2) The Fall Product Sale can also be a good source of troop income. (m) Number of items each girl can sell ………………. (b) Number of girls in troop …………………………….

$ _____________ $

(o) Multiply “m” by “b” by “n” for total income from the Product Sale ………………………………………….

_____________

.................................

For Total Troop Income, add: Total income from troop dues

$

Total income from the Product Sale

$ TOTAL TROOP INCOME =

TO BALANCE YOUR TROOP BUDGET:

2. Total Income

=$

$ ____________

$

Total income from the Cookie Sale

=$

$ ____________

$ _____________

(n) Profit per item ………………………………………..

1. Proposed Expenses

$

Now, if “1” exceeds “2”, what are ways to balance your budget?

204

$ _____________

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina

APPLICATION FOR TROOP MONEY-EARNING PROJECT This form is to be used by troops which would like to hold money-earning activities in addition to the council-sponsored Fall Product and Cookie Sales Program. A specific need for the additional income must be indicated on this form and approval must be received prior to holding the proposed money-earning activity. Troops must have participated in both the Cookie Sale and Fall Product Sale and then can conduct an approved money earning project during the membership year (Oct 1-Sept 30) per the following schedule in the Fund Development Policies: Daisies – None; Brownies and Juniors – One; Older Girls – More than one, with Council approval. Before completing, please review Volunteer Essentials - Managing Group Finances for appropriate activities.

Troop # _______________ Level __________________ # of Girls in Troop ______________ Service Unit _______________________ Leader’s Name ______________________________________________ Phone #_____________ Email Address____________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address City Zip Code About your project: Describe your project (please be specific)_____________________________________________________________________________ How will girls be involved in this project?_______________________________________________________________________________ Date and location of project? _______________________________________________________________________________________ What troop program or activity will this project fund? __________________________________________________________________ Dollar goal (income minus expenses) $_______________________________________________________________________________ Project Budget: Total cost for planned troop activity

$____________________

Amount already saved for activity

$____________________

Difference (amount still needed)

$____________________

Estimated income from this activity

$____________________

Check all that apply: o Girls have been involved in the planning and budgeting of the project o Parent/guardian permission has been obtained for all girls in the project. o Troop has turned in previous year’s finance report to council. o The troop has participated in the most recent Cookie Sales Program. Income: $____________________ o The troop has participated in the most recent Fall Product Program. Income: $_________________ o The project will not be carried out during the Cookies Sales Program or during Fall Product Program.

o o o o o o o o

The project does not include direct solicitation of cash.

Does not include a game of chance (raffle, drawing).

Does not endorse/promote any business.

Does not involve the sale of commercial items.

Does not raise money for another charity or organization.

Girl Scout Daisies are not involved in the this money-earning project.

The troop will receive 100 percent of the proceeds earned.

We agree to follow GSESC and GSUSA policies and standards in Volunteer Essentials and Safety Wise.

We understand that this is a request for approval. We will not make final arrangements until we have received approval from GSESC. We have also reviewed Volunteer Essentials – Managing Group Finances.

Girl Representative Signature: ______________________________________________________ Date: ______________________ Leader’s Signature ________________________________________________________________ Date: ______________________ Fill out form completely and send to: Staff use only Fund Development 2412 Pisgah Road, Florence, SC 29501 Request is _________ approved _______denied; Reason for denial___________________ Fax: 843-669-08221

205

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Event and Activity Report (EAR) We want to know about exciting events, community service events and activities happening in your Troops and Service Units!

Program, event or activity: Service Unit: Who: When: What: Number of: Girl Scouts participating: __________ Adults participating: __________ Summary of Activities: (Please include photos and names from left to right in photos, if possible) *

Contact Person and Phone #: E-Mail: *By submitting this form, you consent that any information or photos included can be used by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina. This includes placement in advertisements, newsletters, social media and on our website.

Please send this information to council within two weeks of the event: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina North Charleston Service Center 7257 Cross County Rd. North Charleston, SC 29418

206

Volunteer Agreement _____ /_____Year The council agrees to:  Provide the volunteer with a copy of the volunteer policies  Provide the volunteer with a position description, an appointment letter and a volunteer agreement  Provide orientation, learning opportunities and resources to prepare the volunteer for the position  Provide ongoing support, guidance, feedback and performance evaluation  Provide a self-appraisal process for recording volunteer service and assessing experience  Give recognition for contributions to the council and Girl Scouting The volunteer agrees to:                 

Register as a member of Girl Scouts and comply with membership requirements Provide information to update application and contact information as changes occur Provide updated information that may affect background-screening results Participate in council and GSUSA orientations, position-related courses and learning opportunities Meet with appropriate groups/teams as agreed upon for ongoing support and evaluation Devote sufficient time and energy to fulfill the outlined position requirements Return all Girl Scout funds and equipment in my possession to the appropriate individual upon the expiration of my term Ensure necessary records are kept and reports submitted; such as (dues, attendance, individual girl recognitions, financial report, leader survey, troop trip approval, permission slips) Work in co-operation with the membership staff and council volunteers Be guided in all actions by the Girl Scout Mission, Promise and Law Support the Girl Scout Leadership Experience and the national program portfolio Remain informed about and comply with the most current policies, procedures and guidelines of Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina and Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) Affirm that Girl Scouts welcomes members of diverse demographics (race, ethnicity, age, sex, socioeconomic, veteran, etc.) and respect their individual differences Acknowledge that the volunteer position is voluntary and that Girl Scouts does not provide monetary compensation Demonstrate patience, fair-mindedness, enthusiasm and understanding Refrain from negative comments, harassment and retaliation toward one another via social media, text messaging and/or in person Insuring that all registered adults in troop have a completed background check

I have read the above information and promise to adhere to these rules and regulations.

In any organization, situations may arise that make it necessary to consider releasing a volunteer from an assignment. GSESC reserves the right to immediately release an adult from a volunteer position as it deems appropriate, with or without notice or stated reason.

Service Unit_____________________________ Email _____________________________ Name_______________________________ Phone (H) _____________ (W) _____________ Address_____________________________________________________________________ City/State Zip Position Title_______________________________

___________

Troop __________

d, b, j, c, s, a

Volunteer Signature______________________________________ Date________________

207

208

209

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Girl Event Registration Form---Troop Event Name: ______________________________________________________________________________ Date: __________________________________________ Time: _____________________________________ Service Unit: ______________________________

Troop #: __________ Grade Level(s): ________________

Leader’s Name: ____________________________________________________________________________ Best Contact Phone Number: _________________________ Email: __________________________________ Mailing Address: _____________________________________City, State, Zip: _________________________ Name of First Aider Attending: ________________________________________________________________ How Do You Want to Receive Your Event Confirmation (circle one):

Postal Mail

E-mail

List names of all participants and indicate girls and adults with a “G” or an "A".

  

Registrations must be received in the North Charleston Service Center with payment and a minimum of two adults to be processed. Submit the registration form by the registration deadline in event description to: North Charleston Service Center 7257 Cross County Road North Charleston, SC 29418 Fax: 843-552-6221 North Charleston Service Center

Indicate the amount of money enclosed for each participant.

Indicate total fee enclosed for each participant and total columns.

If Leader is not attending event please place a star next to the adult who is the point of contact in the list below. Provide contact information for them as well.

7951 Dorchester Road

EVENT PARTICIPANTS (use back of form for additional names if needed) Girl or Adult

Girl’s Grade

Amount of North Charleston, SC 29418 Money Total Fee For Office Use Only Enclosed Enclosed

Names of Girls & Adults Attending

Fax: 843-552-6221

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

TOTALS # of girl Girl Scouts attending

$

$

Total Amount Enclosed $

(Cash/Check)

________________ # of adult Girl Scouts attending

Credit Card (circle)

_____________ TOTAL # participants

Card # __________________________________________________

Expiration Date: _________ 3 or 4 digit code on back of card: _________

Visa

MasterCard

Discover

Amount to charge: $__________________

Please use the reserve side of this form to include any information we need to know about your troop.

I understand that the event fee(s) are non-refundable and all persons attending must be registered members of Girl Scouts of the USA. Signature:

Date:

210

____________

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Girl Event Registration Form---Individual This registration form is used for any event which an individual girl wishes to register for.

The girl may be registered as a Girl Scout Juliette (individually registered Girl Scout) or be a member of a troop. Individual girls may attend/participate in Girl Scout events if a parent or guardian attends with them, unless otherwise stated. The parent/guardian must be a registered Girl Scout adult.

Event Name: _____________________________________________________________________________ Date of Event: ________________________________ Time of Event: ______________________________ Girl’s Name: _____________________________ Age: _________ Grade Level: Phone: ______________________________

D

B

J

C

S

A

E-mail Address: ____________________________________

Mailing Address: __________________________________________________________________________ City: ______________________________________________________ State: _______ Zip: ___________ How would you like to receive your confirmation?

Postal Mail

E-mail

Registered as a member of Troop # _______ or as a Girl Scout Juliette member ______________ A registered Girl Scout adult parent/guardian must accompany an individual Girl Scout to an event.

Name of adult attending the event: _____________________________________________________________________ Is the contact information for the adult the same as for the girl?

Yes

No

If no, please list contact information: ___________________________________________________________ Girl Event Fee: ____________ Adult Event Fee: ___________ Total Included: ________________ Please Circle Payment Type

Cash

Check

Credit Card #__________________________________ Exp. Date _______

Credit Card Security Code (3 or 4 digits on back of card) _______

Registration must be received in the North Charleston Service Center with payment to be processed. Submit the registration form by the registration deadline in event description to: North Charleston Service Center, 7257 Cross County Road North Charleston, SC 29418. Fax 843-552-6221 Please use the reserve side of this form to include any information we need to know about your girl.

I understand that the event fee(s) are non-refundable and all persons attending must be registered members of Girl Scouts of the USA. Signature: _____________________________________________________ Date: For Office Use: Cash $

Date

Receipt # Check $

Credit Card $___________

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Posted By ___________________

The South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program

The South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program is an opportunity for Girl Scouts in high school to investigate how our government works. Girls who participate in the South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program will spend three days working as a page at the state house in Columbia, SC. This working experience is supplemented with Leadership Journey activities, training on legislative protocol and procedure, and networking with Girl Scouts throughout South Carolina.

WHO: Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors (Grades 10 -12) WHEN: March 7, 2016 – March 10, 2016.

WHERE: Columbia, SC If you are interested in attending the South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program, please complete the 2016 Girl Application and send with a $7.00 application fee.

Application Deadline is Tuesday, December 1, 2015 Please submit your registration to the following address: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, 7257 Cross County Road, North Charleston, SC 29418 *Important Note: Girls accepted to the Page Program will also be required to pay a program fee.

That fee is TBA. Girls who are accepted into the South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program will be required to participate in a regionally offered training at the end of January or early February 2016.

Adult chaperones are also needed for the South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program. Any interested adults should submit a 2016 Adult Application by Tuesday, December 1, 2015.

Adult chaperones are required to participate in the training session and be available for the entire South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program.

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2016 Girl Application South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program Please type or print clearly and legibly. Fill out application completely. Return completed application by Tuesday, December 1, 2015, with the $7.00 application fee, to: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, North Charleston Service Center, 7257 Cross County Road North Charleston, SC 29418.

Girl’s Name: (Last)

(First)

(Preferred name)

Home Address: (Street, Apt.#) Girl’s Telephone Number:

(City)

(Zip Code)

Girl’s Email: (including area code)

Parent/Guardian Name:

(for all correspondence)

Parent/Guardian Email:

Parent’s Telephone Number: ____________________________________________________________________ GSESC

GSSC-MM

Troop/Group #:

School:

Present Grade:

(circle your council)

Please use an additional sheet of paper for your responses to #1-8 1. List any Girl Scout recognitions you have received in the last three years.

2. List your extracurricular activities and any recognitions earned.

3. List the location and date of any travel trips you have taken, including destinations.

4. List and briefly describe any training you have received through Girl Scouts or other community organization such as PA training, first aid certification, etc.

5. List any leadership role/title and organization you have held in the past 2 years.

6. List your favorite service projects/take action projects you have participated in during the past three years: 7. Attach Girl Scout Silver Award project summary (if earned) 8. Attach Girl Scout Gold Award project summary (if earned or if underway) *Questions #9 and #10 are required information.

9.

My House District Number is ____ Name of State House Representative: _______________________

10.

My Senate District Number is ____Name of State Senator:___________________________________ If you do not know your representative or senator, go to http://www.scstatehouse.net/cgi-bin/zipcodesearch.exe and type in your zip code +4 11.

Have you previously participated in the South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program?

No

Yes

************************************************************************************************** Council Staff: I verify that the above named applicant is a registered member of GSUSA. I further recommend her to serve and know that she will set a good example and uphold the Girl Scout Promise and Law. Signature___________________________________________________________Date_________________ 213

2016 Adult Application South Carolina Honorary Legislative Page Program Please type or print clearly and legibly. Fill out application completely. Relate your answers to being a Girl Scout Legislative Page Program chaperone. Return completed application by Tuesday, December 1, 2015 to: Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina, North Charleston Service Center, 7257 Cross County Road North Charleston, SC 29418.

Name: (Last)

(First)

(Preferred name)

Home Address: (Street, Apt. #) Telephone Number: Council Name:

(City)

(Zipcode+4)

Email: Council Contact Name and #

1.

Circle all that apply: Current First Aid/CPR; Cadette/Senior/Ambassador grade level trained; Health, Safety, Risk Management Training; Leadership; Other: ___________________________

2.

Describe all Girl Scout volunteer experiences that would relate to chaperoning Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors away from home. __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________

3.

List activities and recognitions received through Girl Scouts, school, church, or community. __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________

4.

List the destination, age group, and year of any travel trips you have chaperoned. __________________________________________________________________________________

5.

My House District number is _______ Name of State Representative: __________________________

6.

My Senate District number is ______ Name of State Senator: _________________________________ If you do not know your representative or senator, go to http://www.scstatehouse.net/cgi-bin/zipcodesearch.exe and type in your zip code +4

7.

Have you previously participated in the Girl Scout Legislative Page Program?

No

Yes

When _____________________________________________________________________________ ************************************************************************************************ Council Staff: I verify that the above named applicant is a registered member of GSUSA. I further recommend her to serve and know that she will uphold the Girl Scout Promise and Law and set a good example for the girls.

Council Staff Signature___________________________________________________Date_______________________ 214

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