Girl Scouts of Nassau County Girlfriends August 2024
Girlfriends is a publication of Girl Scouts of Nassau County
Since Girl Scout year 1918-1919
“Girl Scouts don’t just dream of a better world—they go out and make it.”
LAST YEAR,
our collective efforts led to an astounding 46,700 service hours, a testament to the Girl Scout spirit of service. Many of these hours go unrecorded, a true reflection of how service is ingrained in the Girl Scout experience. We also saw the power of our community in action with over 80,000 packages of cookies donated through last year’s Gift of Caring program, including Operation Cookie, which celebrated its 19th year this past May with even more cookies donated. And in 2023, 56 girls earned their Gold Award, 538 earned their Silver Award, and 308 earned their Bronze Award. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent our impact on the world. We take “making the world a better place” seriously and are making a difference.
The journey of making the world a better place is what drew me to Girl Scouts as a Girl Scout professional back in 1996. It is also what inspired me to return in 2017 as Chief Executive Officer. The importance of being in service to others is not just a role, it’s a personal journey. It’s a key part of being a Girl Scout, a Girl Scout volunteer or staff member, and a Girl Scout supporter. It’s about finding our purpose and making a meaningful impact in the world.
Being in service means using your resources, whether it is time or funding relationships, for the betterment of others. For our staff and volunteers, it allows them to make a difference for a cause they care about—Girl Scouts.
Our Girl Scouts have several ways to be in service and to make the world a better place. We can support our Girl Scouts by helping them find a cause they are passionate about and helping them plan small acts of kindness or a long-term sustainable project in their community.
This Girl Scout year, I invite us all to embrace the diverse opportunities to make a difference in our community. Girl Scouts can earn the Girl Scouts Give Back patch by engaging in a wide range of activities. From working with local senior citizens and hosting a dance party, to creating a community garden, doing a recycling project, or organizing a voter registration drive, the possibilities are endless. Girl Scouts can partner with first responders to share critical safety information, be a change agent and educate others on cyber security, fight food insecurity and do a food drive, or be a citizen scientist and tackle climate challenges facing our planet. The best thing about Girl Scouts is that there is something for everyone! Whether it’s working on service projects as troops or individually through Take Action projects or their Highest Awards projects, every Girl Scout can make a difference.
There are so many exciting adventures for our Girl Scouts to enjoy in the 2024-2025 Girl Scout year. Check out the Online Community (OLC), our website, and Possibilities for what’s to come. We want to welcome our new Girl Scouts to Girl Scouts of Nassau County and to our returning members—welcome back. We are THE place for girls to build their courage, confidence, and character to make the world a better place. —RMB
Meet GSNC’s Volunteer Training and Resource Associate
Hi!
I’m Lauren Patruno, the Volunteer Training and Resource Associate for Girl Scouts of Nassau County! I’m here to offer support and education about all things Girl Scouts to our amazing Girl Scout adults! I can provide assistance on a wide variety of Girl Scout topics, such as troop activities, badges, awards, and ceremonies. I also facilitate the Volunteer Resource Center’s (VRC) material loaning process!
I offer one-on-one appointments to meet with volunteers and caregivers to answer your questions, guide you through the Volunteer Toolkit, share program opportunities, and offer tips to keep troop planning girl-led!
Schedule an appointment with me when you’re ready to start planning the upcoming Girl Scout year.
I look forward to seeing you in the VRC!
Sign up here: bit.ly/vrc-appointment-2024
Borrow Badge Kits and Materials
Did you know GSNC’s Volunteer Resource Center (VRC) has materials available for loan to support volunteer planning? We offer ceremonial materials, teaching aids, badge kits, and Journey kits to help volunteers host special Girl Scout events and keep Girl Scouts engaged!
There are new materials available for loan in GSNC’s VRC!
Our lending library is expanding! We’ve added eight new Girl Scout Badge Kits to our inventory and have more in the works!
Our Volunteers can now borrow:
l Daisy Animal Observer Badge Kit
l Daisy Money Explorer Badge Kit
l Daisy My First Cookie Business Badge Kit
l Brownie Celebrating Community Badge Kit
l Brownie My Cookie Customers Badge Kit
l Junior Craft and Tinker Badge Kit
Stay Updated with GSNC’s Online Community (OLC)!
l Junior Social Butterfly Badge Kit
l Senior Game Visionary Badge Kit
Keep an eye out for upcoming additions to the Volunteer Resource Center on the OLC!
If you would like to borrow any of these new badge kits or other items from our inventory, you can submit a request for VRC materials!
Visit bit.ly/vrc-materialsrequest-2024
The following Girl Scout Badges have updated designs and requirements:
l Brownie First Aid
l Junior First Aid
l Cadette First Aid
l Senior First Aid
l Ambassador First Aid
The OLC is a member-only, private communication platform for GSNC troop leaders, caregivers, and service unit volunteers. Log in for news, events, and files relevant to your service unit, as well as council updates and program information.
Sounds great, right? Do you know how to log in? If not, we’re here to help. Contact customercare@gsnc.org to get started!
New Troop Leaders and Volunteers:
Please check your email inbox! You should have received your invitation to join the OLC from the sender no-reply@forumbee.com. If you’re unable to find the invitation email, check your spam folder. Follow the instructions and the link provided in the email. Your username is the email address you used for your Girl Scout’s registration.
Established Troop Leaders and Volunteers: Look for your email invite from no-reply@forumbee.com. Can’t find it?
Email customercare@gsnc.org and we’ll resend it to you!
Resources and Trainings for Girl Scout Adults
Girl Scout volunteers, parents, and guardians have access to a variety of resources and trainings that will empower and motivate them on their Girl Scout journey. These can be accessed anytime and anywhere when it fits your schedule. Learn what’s available!
Volunteer Connections:
Volunteer Connections encompasses a ton of resources for all Girl Scout adults at all levels of experience! Read the blog or check your inbox for our monthly e-newsletter to discover Girl Scout planning resources, special council opportunities, and the latest tips and trends that will strengthen your personal and professional development!
Check out Volunteer Connections: bit.ly/gsnc-vol-connections-2024
Explore gsLearn:
gsLearn is the online training forum for Girl Scout volunteers. Explore training videos to expand your knowledge of Girl Scout traditions, ceremonies, the Highest Awards, troop management, and more!
Log in to get started: mygs.girlscouts.org/
Volunteer Toolkit:
The Volunteer Toolkit gives volunteers access to comprehensive meeting plans for badges and Journeys, along with their respective meeting aids and materials lists. Volunteers also have access to the Troop Year Planner to assist you in mapping out your entire year of badges, awards, and activities for your Girl Scout troop!
Learn more about what each Girl Scout level can do: mygs.girlscouts.org/
Volunteer Resource Center Relaunch Party:
During GSNC’s New Leader Welcome, we will also be hosting a relaunch party of our VRC! Volunteers, old and new, are invited to stop by the VRC to chat with our Volunteer Training and Resource Associate, connect with other volunteers, and check out the revamped look and the new additions to our expanding lending library!
Come see what the VRC has to offer: RSVP by scanning the QR code or visiting: bit.ly/VRC-Relaunch-Party-2024
Girl Scouts of Nassau County is excited to host our next New Leader Welcome on Wednesday, November 6! This open house event gives volunteers an opportunity to check out our service center, meet our staff, and learn about the support available to them. There will be staff from all departments on site to answer your questions and offer you guidance in planning your Girl Scout year! We are so thankful for our volunteers, and we can’t wait to meet you!
RSVP by scanning the QR code or visiting: bit.ly/gsnc-new-leaderwelcome-2024
Our Customer Care Team is Here to Assist You
Do you need help getting your troop ready to start the new 2024-2025 Girl Scout year?
Need help renewing yourself, your daughter, and/or your entire troop?
Make updates to your troop record.
Review day trip and overnight trip applications. Open/close/track troop bank accounts, or just have a Girl Scout question—we are here to help you!
New troops will need to set up a bank account for their troop.
Please follow the steps below to open a troop account:
1. Request a bank letter from council PRIOR to your visit to the bank. Allow council 3-5 business days to prepare the bank letter. There is a form on the GSNC website. You can use the link below or visit our “Forms” section. bit.ly/gsnc-bank-account-request
2. All leaders must complete the required background check and volunteer training PRIOR to initiating the process to establish a troop bank account.
3. All bank accounts require three signers: a) Troop accounts must have the two leaders and the service unit treasurer or service unit member. b) Service unit accounts are required to have two service unit members and the council’s CFO as the third signer.
4. Schedule an appointment with the preferred bank to have ALL three signers go to set up the bank account.
Banking Info for Leaders
5. Once the bank account is set up, please make sure the service unit treasurer has all of your bank account information.
Best Practices:
l Banking with a credit union is recommended, as they generally do not charge fees. However, it is best to check with the bank first as all rates differ.
l Seek advice from your service unit treasurer for a desired bank and any other financial inquiries you may have.
l If an existing troop or service team member(s) needs to change the signers on an existing bank account, please submit a request via the following portal: bit.ly/gsnc-bankaccount-request
l Service team members will replace the troop number with their service unit name.
l Use the “Special Instructions” box to indicate who is being added and removed.
l GSNC allows the use of Zelle during Product Program sales and troop transactions; we ask that leaders do not use less creditable apps like Cash App and Venmo.
l Be sure that the address on file with the bank is for the person you wish to receive the statements. Also, make sure the council is not the preferred mailing address and if necessary, request a debit card on the bank form.
l Remember, funds raised by the troop are not the property of any individual girl or adult, as it is considered “Troop Funds” belonging to the troop.
l Handling of money should always be transparent. Troop members and their families can request to review bank statements and transactions.
l At the end of each year, leaders are required to submit troop financials and the June bank statement, itemizing all transactions, to the council.
l If a troop disbands, they must follow the Disbanding Guidelines listed here: bit.ly/gsnc-troops-disband
In addition to completing a Disbanded Troop Checklist: bit.ly/gsnc-troop-disbanding
*Be sure to close the bank account and remit any remaining funds to GSNC in the form of a check.
you behind on putting those patches and badges on your uniform?
Girl Scouts of Nassau County’s 59th
Annual Meeting was held on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at Adelphi University. Thank you to the voting members who attended the meeting; your participation ensured that the council was able to elect new and returning members of our board of directors and board development committee. In addition, we received a Movement briefing from the NCS 2023 girl leadership cohort, presented the Trailblazer Trefoil award to long-time volunteer Susan Cannatella, and collected nearly 400 donations of food for the Adelphi Panther Pantry. Thank you to all our voting members for their generosity and support.
To read more about our board and board development committee members, please visit our website gsnc.org/governance
National Delegate Open House
Wednesday, October 23, 2024 7:00 PM-8:30 PM
GSNC Service Center
GSUSA’s 57th National Council Session (NCS) will take place in Washington, D.C. in July 2026. GSNC is currently recruiting nominees, both adults and girls (14+), to serve as the national delegates who will represent our council at this triennial business meeting. National delegates will be elected at our 60th GSNC Annual Meeting in May 2025. Please join us at the National Delegate Open House to learn from current national delegates, council staff, and board development committee members about the nomination and election process, responsibilities and expectations, and the NCS experience. Space is limited, so register now! bit.ly/National-DelegateOpen-House-2024
Introducing the New Chair of the GLC:
Hello, I’m Caralinn B., the new chair of the Girl Leadership Committee. I have been on the Girl Leadership Committee for two years and helped to plan the recent financial literacy event held at Molloy University. Our aim is to plan events that are geared toward Girl Scout Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors. I have enjoyed every moment of planning these events for girls my age and I am so grateful for all of the oncein-a-lifetime relationships I have gained. As the new chair, I am excited to learn through the new journeys the committee and I will embark on this upcoming year. I will ensure that the committee has an educational and enjoyable time, while crafting impactful events for Girl Scouts.
Hey Girl Scouts!
Do you have an idea for a program you would love GSNC to offer? What types of activities do you think will appeal to your sister Girl Scouts? Has your troop done something recently that you think other girls would love? The Girl Leadership Committee wants to hear from YOU! Your input will inspire our plans for the upcoming year and help shape future Girl Scout program offerings. Share your thoughts in this brief survey and make sure your voice is heard.
Link to survey: bit.ly/GLC_Program_Survey_2024
What is I.D.E.A. Lab?
The Innovation, Diversity, Equity, and Access Lab (I.D.E.A. Lab) is dedicated to the improvement of services and increased accessibility for Girl Scouts. I.D.E.A. Lab program divisions consist of Art, Community Engagement, Social Emotional Learning, Sports, STEM, and the Traveling Trefoil. As we head into the new Girl Scout year, we’d love to share some of our program highlights from the 2023-2024 membership year! We’re looking forward to another incredible year and hope to see your Girl Scout at a future I.D.E.A. Lab program.
2nd Annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day with Adelphi University (B, J, C, S, A) Girl Scout Brownies, Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors practiced their track, soccer, volleyball, tennis, and golf skills with Adelphi University’s student athletes.
The Trefoil Files (All Levels) Girl Scout Cadettes navigated their way through their local library to uncover the missing password.
East Meadow Community Day (All Levels) East Meadow Community Day was a hit with making s’mores with the Traveling Trefoil.
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
Get ready for the Girl Scouts of Nassau County Film Festival coming in April 2025. Register for one of our Film Festival Bootcamp Programs and gain free admission to the festival. More details will be coming soon.
Who Can Enter:
Grades K–12
Current Girl Scouts Films may be submitted by individuals, groups, or troops
Video Requirements:
l Submissions will be accepted 12/1/2024-3/1/2025
l Theme: Honoring the Girl Scout Law.
l All videos should be three minutes or less with an aspect ratio of 1920x1080 widescreen (film your video horizontally).
l File size should be 300 MB or less.
l Use royalty-free music.
l Please upload either MP4 or MOV files.
The film should not contain any sensitive material in it (violence, language, crude or dark themes, or political messages). Please note: GSNC will review all film submissions prior to screening at the film festival, and reserves the right to request edits to any films that staff deem do not comply with the Girl Scout Promise and Law.
l Follow our current member safety guidelines and regulations.
l Avoid using brand names or logos in your film.
l All submissions should be sent to gsncfilmfest@gsnc.org
l We suggest creating a free account in WeTransfer to send the file.
l Any video submission must accompany a wufoo submission with a description of the movie.
bit.ly/gsnc-film-festival-submission
l Anyone who appears in a movie submission must have an active media release.
Girl Scouts of Nassau County Film Festival
GSNC and Hofstra’s 9th Annual STEM Conference Imagine Your Possibilities
Join us on Saturday, November 2, 2024, for our annual Imagine Your Possibilities STEM Conference. This one-day conference will give Girl Scouts in grades 5 through 8 an opportunity to learn and interact with STEM professionals. With the support of our conference partner and host, Hofstra University, Girl Scouts will participate in hands-on workshops led by women working in the STEM field. This conference allows our Girl Scouts to Discover, Connect, and Take Action through STEM. At Girl Scouts of Nassau County, we strive to create opportunities for STEM programming for Girl Scouts to take on some of the planet’s biggest challenges and problems— and help solve them. Registration opens September 2024.
GSNC Scarecrow Contest 2024
Girl Scouts of Nassau County will be hosting our First Annual Scarecrow Contest!
We encourage Girl Scouts, families, and troops of all levels to put your scarecrow-making abilities to the test. The idea is simple: come up with a concept for a scarecrow, build it, give it a trefoil, display it at your home, and upload a picture using #gsncscarecrow. The contest will run from October 1–October 31, 2024. Winners will be chosen by I.D.E.A. Lab’s Scarecrow Committee and will be announced during the week of November 11 to receive a special prize. Be creative and use your imagination! The Scarecrow Contest will officially be posted on the OLC in September. We can’t wait to see your artistic and innovative designs come to life in the Fall. For complete details and rules, please visit the OLC in September. All participants will receive a GSNC fun patch!
Summer Play-byPlay
Ouvrons grand les Jeux Translation: Games Wide Open
The motto for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games was Games Wide Open. This motto represented Paris’ non-traditional take on the games, which resulted in a more inclusive and remarkable event. Only 22 women participated in the 1900 Paris Olympic Games, the first summer games which allowed women to compete. This time around, a historic 50%—5,250 women!—competed in Paris! Not only did the Paris Olympic Games achieve gender equality in the number of athletes competing, but this also marked the largest Paralympic Games with 549 events.
Girl Scouts echoed this motto by:
l Supporting local women’s semi-professional teams
l Pioneering GSNC’s Flag Football League
l Setting new records in the Girl Scout Olympics with Adelphi University
l Walking around the world in 26.2 miles
Samoas or Thin Mints? These two tough cookies battled it out on the field to crown one champion per age group in GSNC’s Flag Football League. Thank you for being a good sport this summer!
Girl Scout families kicked off the summer cheering for the Women’s Long Island Rough
Six teams competed in six events in the Girl Scout Olympics at Adelphi University. Congratulations to our gold medalists!
Still looking to stay active this summer?
There’s still time to complete GSNC’s Olympic World Tour Patch Challenge. Walk 26.2 miles by September 30, 2024 to earn your limited edition Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games patch. Learn more by visiting the OLC or scan the QR code.
Embrace Possibility this Mags&Munchies Season!
What is Mags&Munchies?
Mags&Munchies is a financial literacy program that allows girls to be entrepreneurs, offering family and friends the opportunity to purchase delicious nuts, snacks, chocolates, and magazines—right in time for the holiday season! This skill-building program supports our community’s youngest female entrepreneurs as they continue to make meaningful contributions to their communities, and develop the tools to become leaders.
Why Participate?
l Girls get to practice the five key entrepreneurial leadership skills— Goal Setting, Decision Making, People Skills, Money Management, and Business Ethics—before the Girl Scout Cookie season begins.
l Girls earn unique patches and rewards, and troops earn funds early in the Girl Scout year for Take Action projects, activities, supplies, events, and more!
l All funds stay local with some distributed as troop proceeds for troop activities and some to council to be used for programs, trainings, and financial assistance.
l It’s easy and fun! Items can all be ordered online. Girls can build a customizable avatar of themselves through the Mags&Munchies website and earn a patch that is unique just to them!
Great Gifts That Support a Great Cause!
l Ready to add to your Collectible Girl Scouts Tin Series? Add this year’s memory-box tin that comes with an all-time favorite, Mint Treasures!
l Looking for something new and different that will make the perfect snack? Vanilla Honey Roasted Pecans and Cheddar Caramel Crunch are available in the 2024 product lineup!
Care to Share
l Our Girls Scouts have constantly proven that giving back to the community is extremely important to them. Within the Mags&Munchies program, customers can donate to Care to Share and donations of nuts and snack items will go to local food pantries.
l Just three $7 donations earn a patch! If girls collect 20 $7 donations, they will earn a portable outdoor mat!
Patches and Rewards
Bring home the elephant and other cool rewards this season!
l Heart Necklace: when you sell 25 Nut/Snack items
l Small Elephant Plush or Diamond Art kit: when you sell 35 Nut/Snack items
l Large Elephant plush or pom-pom string lights: $600 in Total Orders
Don’t forget to check out the rewards panel on the nut order card to learn how to earn two personalized patches (created by you!) and these three awesome fit-together patches!
KEY DATES
l September 27: Online and in-person ordering starts
l November 3: Online and in-person ordering ends
l Early December: Mags&Munchies product distribution
l January: Rewards and patches scheduled to arrive
TopSeller Tips!
WARM Troop 1848 was one of our 2023 top-selling Mags&Munchies troops. Find out their tips for enjoying a successful Mags&Munchies season!
What did your troop learn while participating in the Mags&Munchies program?
We learned how to sell Mags&Munchies and that going door-to-door helped share these amazing goodies.
How did your troop use the proceeds earned?
We used the earnings to have a reward party that our troop leaders let us vote on. At the rewards party we had two hours of bouncing, laser tag, climbing, and dinner with our Girl Scout sisters. We also got a reward gift, and our leaders gave us a custom t-shirt with our troop number and Girl Scout logo on it. It was a fun filled day!
What was the troop’s favorite part of the Mags&Munchies program?
Our favorite part was being able to share these wonderful products with our community.
Do you have any tips for other troops on having a successful season?
The best tip that some of us use is that we share what our favorite Mags&Munchies items are. That’s how we get to sell a lot of items, and of course being cute does help. Lol.
Your Year in
9/27 Mags&Munchies program starts 9/29 GS Day at NY Jets game (vs. Denver Broncos)
Check out important dates, then fill in with your troop meetings,
10/31 Founder’s Day Juliette Gordon Low’s Birthday
January 2025
1/3 Girl Scout Cookie Program starts
1/20 Martin Luther King Day
May 2025
5/14 (tentative) GSNC Annual Meeting 5/26 Memorial Day
February 2025
Beginning of February
Camp registration opens Cookie booth sales start 2/14-2/16 National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend 2/22 World Thinking Day
June 2025
6/14 National Get Outdoors Day TBD Gold Award Ceremony! As members of our inclusive community, troops should refrain from holding any meetings, events, or Girl Scout activities during holiday observances. Scan the QR code for a complete list of holiday observances.
Girl Scouts
and council events that you can attend with your troop or family.
November 2024
11/3 Mags&Munchies program ends
11/11 Veterans Day
11/21 Raise a Glass Fall Fundraiser 11/28 Thanksgiving Day
December 2024
12/20 Shop closed for inventory
12/22 GS Day at NY Jets game (vs. Los Angeles Rams)
12/23-1/1/25 Closed for winter holiday
March 2025
Women’s History Month
3/9-3/15 Girl Scout Week
3/12 Girl Scouts’ birthday (113 years old!)
3/12 Legacy Brunch Spring Fundraiser
July 2025
July Camp Blue Bay Summer Camp Begins
7/4 Independence Day
April 2025
National Volunteer Appreciation Month
4/1 Early renewal period begins (Renew now to qualify for the Member Celebration)
4/3 Adult Recognitions Event
4/20-4/26 National Volunteers Week
4/22 Girl Scout Leader’s Day
4/26 GSNC Film Festival
August 2025
August Camp Blue Bay Summer Camp Ends 8/10 National S’mores Day!
What other days are important to your family? Make this calendar your own by adding dates that you celebrate together every year!
The future is bright for our 51 most accomplished Girl Scouts recognized in this year’s Gold Award class! The Gold Award represents the culmination of each Girl Scout’s 80-hour project encompassing the creation, planning, and execution of an idea to benefit and sustainably impact their communities. As a council, we are so proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing what other extraordinary things they do as they progress into adulthood. Girl Scouts of Nassau County celebrated, honored, and awarded these exceptional young adults at the Gold Award Ceremony at Hofstra University on June 10, 2024. The ceremony included exhibits illustrating some of the wonderful creativity and ingenuity of the Gold Award in action.
Keynote speaker Deandra Denton, a corporate law associate and 2016 Gold Award Girl Scout, delivered a meaningful and personal address that encouraged the girls to continue their advocacy work in their communities. An excerpt from Deandra’s address is featured on page 14. Two scholarships were awarded during the ceremony, the Virginia A. Wills Gold Award Scholarship and the GSUSA Gold Award Scholarship. Both were awarded to Alexandra “Allie” McCormick, whose project, Operation: Art Therapy, addressed the issue of eliminating the stigma
surrounding mental health disorders, especially in children managing these issues. More details about Allie and her project are highligted [right.] The ceremony also recognized the passing of an appreciated, valued, and compassionate Gold Award mentor, Monica Pavlidis. Below, some photos from the event...
Congratulations to the 2024 Class of Gold Award Girl Scouts
Gold Award Scholarships
Virginia A. Wills Scholarship
Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors who earn the Gold Award tackle issues that are important to them and drive lasting change in their communities and beyond. Think of the Gold Award as a key that can open doors to scholarships, preferred admission tracks for college, and amazing career opportunities. Elana Wills has generously donated $1,000 in her mother Virginia A. Wills’s name to be awarded to one Gold Award Girl Scout per year.
This year, Alexandra McCormick is the sixth Girl Scout of Nassau County to receive the Virginia A. Wills Scholarship.
GSUSA Scholarship
GSNC is excited to congratulate Alexandra McCormick for being this year’s GSUSA Gold Award scholarship recipientas well! This $5,000 scholarship recognizes one Gold Award Girl Scout per council. Congratulations Allie!
Alexandra “Allie” McCormick addressed the issue of erasing the stigma around mental health, especially regarding mental health in children. She created an art therapy book for children, consisting of ways that children can help manage their mental health (specifically anxiety), and explained in a kid-friendly way what anxiety is. She held workshops for both parents and children, teaching them about ways to manage mental health using the book. Allie’s project is sustained with her website, which has free access to the book, along with other helpful resources.
A rising sophomore of Washington College, Allie participated in many clubs around campus such as
the Student Government Association, Student Events Board, and the Musicians Union. Her fondest Girl Scout memory is singing songs around the campfire with her Girl Scout sisters at Camp Blue Bay. While earning her Gold Award, she learned that with determination and persistence, if she set her mind to do something, she could accomplish anything.
Allie joined Girl Scouts in the first grade with her mom as her leader. Girl Scouts completely transformed her mom’s life, and she wanted her daughters to grow up surrounded by the same supportive environment. Allie became extremely involved, not because she was forced too, but because she genuinely loved everything Girl Scouting offers.
When asked what Girls Scouts means to her, Allie’s reply was, “Girl Scouts means the world to me. It has given me so many surreal opportunities that I wouldn’t have had anywhere else. For example, I was able to be in a Grubhub commercial for Girl Scout cookies, meet thousands of Girl Scouts from all around the world at the National Convention, and be on the news dozens of times. In a more literal sense, being a Girl Scout means being courageous, kind, compassionate, and persevering through challenges. Girl Scouts try to make the world a better place everyday and go through life with an open mind and heart.”
Allie’s advice for girls pursuing their Gold Award is to “celebrate the small achievements throughout the project. At first, 80 hours of work seems daunting, but once you hit the 10-hour mark you’re already more than a tenth of the way there! By celebrating reaching the smaller goals in my project, I was able to stay motivated and learn how to recognize and appreciate my progress and how far I’ve come. Another piece of advice would be to remember your “why.”
Asking yourself why you want to complete the project can really help put your impact into perspective, and help you become more passionate about your project. For example, my “why” was because I wanted to help children overcome the obstacles they face when they struggle with anxiety. By thinking of the impact my project could have on children, no matter how big or small, I was able to push through even the most challenging parts of my project. Essentially, here are my two golden rules for success when pursuing your gold—celebrate the small wins and always remember your why.”
Rande congratulating Allie with her GSUSA Scholarship check!
Elana Wills and Allie with her scholarship check.
A Message to our 2024 Gold Award Girl Scouts
Today, I want to talk to you about the power of your journey as Girl Scouts and the lessons you are learning along the way. I earned my Gold Award in 2016 and the journey since then has been nothing but wonderful. Whether being elected as Student Government Vice President of my alma mater, Hofstra University, or being the first in my immediate family to go to law school and now a practicing attorney in New York City, I attribute much of my success to being a Girl Scout. Girl Scouts taught me four invaluable things:
(1) embrace courage,
(2) embrace curiosity,
(3) embrace community, and
(4) embrace compassion.
First and foremost, being a Girl Scout means embracing courage. Pursuing the Gold Award challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and develop skills that have been invaluable in both my personal and professional life. From project management to public speaking, I gained confidence and resilience as I navigated the complexities of planning and executing a significant community service project. It takes courage to step out of your comfort zone, to try new things, and to stand up for what you believe in. Whether it’s speaking in front of a group, tackling a challenging project, or simply being true to yourself, remember that courage is not the absence of fear but the willingness to act in spite of it.
Secondly, being a Girl Scout means embracing curiosity. Never stop asking questions, seeking knowledge, and exploring the world around you. The curiosity you have today will fuel the innovations and discoveries of tomorrow. So, embrace your inner scientist, artist, entrepreneur, and explorer, and never lose your sense of wonder.
Through my Gold Award project, I discovered a sense of purpose and fulfillment in serving others and making a difference in my community. Knowing that my efforts have contributed to positive change has instilled in me a deep sense of pride and satisfaction, motivating me to continue seeking opportunities to give back and make a difference in the world.
Thirdly, being a Girl Scout means embracing community. You are part of a sisterhood that spans not only Nassau County but also the entire globe. Take pride in the diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives within your troop and beyond. Lift each other up, support one another, and always remember that together, you are stronger.
The Gold Award journey provided me with opportunities to hone my leadership abilities. I learned how to effectively communicate my vision and collaborate with others to achieve
a common goal. These leadership skills have empowered me to take on leadership roles in various aspects of my life and have equipped me to make a positive impact in my community. Some of you may have faced unforeseen challenges while completing your Gold Award. The challenges I faced during the Gold Award process taught me valuable lessons in resilience and perseverance. I learned how to adapt to unexpected obstacles, overcome setbacks, and stay focused on my goals even in the face of adversity. These experiences have strengthened my resilience and equipped me with the confidence to tackle any challenges that come my way.
Lastly, being a Girl Scout means embracing compassion. Whether it’s lending a helping hand to a friend in need, volunteering in your community, or advocating for those whose voices are often unheard, never underestimate the power of kindness and empathy to change the world.
The Gold Award represents the pinnacle of achievement in Girl Scouting, a testament to dedication, leadership, and a commitment to making the world a better place. Each of these young women has demonstrated exceptional courage, resilience, and determination on their journey to this momentous achievement. You have already accomplished so much, but this is just the beginning. As you embark on the next chapter of your journey, remember the lessons you have learned through Girl Scouting— the importance of integrity, the power of collaboration, and the value of service to others. Continue to lead with courage and compassion. Continue to strive for excellence in all that you do. And above all, continue to be the change-makers and the trailblazers that our world so desperately needs.
Congratulations once again to each and every one of you. Your Gold Award is not just a symbol of your achievements; it is a beacon of hope, a reminder that one person truly can make a difference. —Excerpt from Deandra Denton’s Gold Award Keynote, June 10, 2024
Deandra Denton is an associate and member of the Investment Management Group at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP. Deandra joined Debevoise in 2023. She received her J.D. from the Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University. During law school, Ms. Denton was a Student Honors Intern at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and interned at the Office of the New York State Attorney General. She received her B.A. magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Hofstra University in 2020.
Deandra is a Girl Scouts of Nassau County Gold Award Girl Scout (2016).
Going for Gold
Girls who can earn their Gold Award:
l Are in ninth, tenth, eleventh, or twelfth grade
l Are a registered Senior or Ambassador
l Have completed two Senior or Ambassador Journeys, or have earned the Girl Scout Silver Award and completed one Senior or Ambassador Journey
The first step is to complete a Gold Award proposal. The proposal outlines the issue the Girl Scout is looking to address in the community, how she will make change to improve that issue, and how she will ensure that the change is maintained for the long term.
After a proposal is submitted to council, girls are scheduled for a one-on-one talk with their Gold Award mentor who will help them develop their project, and guide them through the Gold Award process. If the proposal is approved by the mentor, the girl can begin her project.
Each girl must complete 80 hours of work on their Gold Award project, and the final report is submitted to the council and reviewed and approved by their mentor. The mentor is the girls’ coach along the way, helping them find solutions to any problems that may occur.
You can learn more about this process by visiting gsnc.org/gold or by attending one of our Gold Award workshops at council.
Meet Gold Award Mentor Bonnie Parente
Bonnie Parente has been a mentor for over 10 years. We asked her to share her experience as a mentor.
What do you enjoy most about being a mentor? thoroughly enjoy hearing the girls tell me about their experiences in Girl Scouts. What I have enjoyed most is the many exceptionally talented, kind, successful women I have met amongst my co-mentors. It makes me so optimistic about our future to know that the young girls working on their Gold Award are also given the opportunity to meet successful, and dedicated women through the process.
Describe the relationship between a girl and her Gold Award mentor. We are the safety net so a girl doesn’t fall. If something goes wrong, we can help redirect the project, give the girls ideas about how to fix what went wrong, and get it back on track.
What makes a Gold Award project a “great” Gold Award project? If your project makes even one person smarter, more aware, or more capable of dealing with an issue, you have succeeded. A great Gold Award accomplishes something others weren’t willing to take on, and it reveals something about the girl doing the project. The project is a means to open yourself up. If you overcome a single challenge, for yourself or others, your project was truly great.
Why should girls pursue their Gold Award? What are the benefits? Girl Scouts is a journey like any other, or similar to hiking a mountain. The hike is fun; the journey is fun. The hike and the journey have many rewards. But why stop the hike before getting to the top? Why stop the journey before getting to the final destination? It’s like anything else in life. You started it (by being a Girl Scout); now finish it by getting to Gold! The benefits are the simple reward, the satisfaction that you made it to the top and reached your destination.
What advice do you have for people considering becoming mentors?
I am in many organizations. I’m the Mayor of East Williston, I’m Vice President of the Village Officials Association, a member of the St. Aidan’s Parish Rosary Society, and several other organizations. No other organization is like this. Our sole purpose is to help young women succeed in a very definitive goal, in a definitive amount of time. It’s exceptionally rewarding. There are no formal time commitments. You sign up when you can. You make your own schedule for following up with the girls. I love all of the roles I have in life, but this one holds a special place in my heart.
Are you interested in making a difference in a Girl Scout’s life? Do you want to guide girls to complete their Gold Award or provide expertise in key areas like health, education, the environment, science, or computer technology? We would love to talk with you further. Please reach out to us at customercare@gsnc.org for more information.
2024
Camp Blue Bay
This summer Camp Blue Bay offered a special four-day program where campers got to participate in a camp-wide Olympics. Campers represented seven countries, crafted their own gold medals, and participated in an Opening Ceremony. Our final day, we took it to the sports field for a series of Olympic games including soccer, badminton, golf, table tennis, and more!
Troop Camping
Novice Camper Weekend
October 18-20, 2024
Camp Blue Bay Olympics Session Recap
“We had a wonderful time during our troop camping trip to Camp Blue Bay! I think everyone enjoyed every minute of it. The girls got to experience outdoor adventures and further build bonds with their sister Girl Scouts. My daughter, GiGi said being able to bridge to Juniors while we were there made it extra special! Troop 2075 can’t wait to come back!”
Troop Leader Victoria M.
Fall Family Festival Overnight
October 26-27, 2024
Are you looking to experience troop camping but haven’t had the opportunity to participate in the required Outdoor Training? We have an opportunity just for you; troops can enjoy a trip to Camp Blue Bay and leaders can participate in the training while at camp. Over the weekend Girl Scouts will participate in a variety of activities led by volunteers and staff as they learn all about the traditions of Girl Scout camping. Meanwhile, Outdoor Training adults will spend the day learning everything they need to know about troop camping from our outdoor trainers.
Who: Open to all GSNC Brownie, Junior, and Cadette troops with appropriate adult coverage (adults participating in training will not count toward adult coverage).
Cost: $60 per person (includes Saturday breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack, and Sunday Breakfast)
Celebrate fall with your family at Camp Blue Bay. On Saturday morning take part in a series of messy, fun fall activities. After that, spend some time in the great outdoors, enjoy a packed lunch on the sports field, hike to the beach, or visit a local attraction on your own. After dinner, join us for a costume dance party and s’mores around the campfire.
The event can accommodate up to 200 people in platform tents. Limited indoor space (dormitory style Troop Houses) available upon request.
*Please note, adults taking the training will be required to attend virtual trip training and attend a pre-plan meeting prior to the weekend. SAVE THE DATE! National Take a Hike Day—November 17, 2024! Registration will open September 25, 2024!
2024-2025 Outdoor Training Schedule at a Glance
Trip Training
What is a Girl Scout trip, and how do you get ready for it? The Trip Training course will prepare leaders and trip coordinators to bring their troops/groups on any Girl Scout trip or activity.
Participants will become familiar with GSUSA Safety Activity Checkpoints, GSNC Policies, Standards and Guidelines, budgeting, timing, transportation, and other topics, so that the event is fun and safe for all.
Step 1 Trip Training
Please Note: Step 1 Trip Training is a prerequisite for Outdoor Camp Training
l Monday, March 10, 2025
l Tuesday, April 29, 2025
l Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Outdoor Camp Training
GSNC provides Outdoor Training courses to help Girl Scout volunteers prepare themselves and the girls they work with to enjoy outdoor experiences together. Training will introduce progression in the outdoors, review camp facilities, and provide basic skills for outdoor programs. Under the guidance of trained and enthusiastic adults, girls may take their first hike, build their first campfire, and sleep under the stars for the first time.
Step 2 Overnight Pre-plan Training
l Monday, September 30, 2024
l Tuesday, October 22, 2024
l Thursday, November 14, 2024
l Tuesday, January 14, 2025
l Wednesday, February 12, 2025
THANK YOU FOR POWERING A GIRL’S JOURNEY TO LEAD…
l Wednesday, March 26, 2025
l Monday, April 7, 2025
l Tuesday, April 22, 2025
Step 3 Mandatory Overnight
Saturday, May 3-Sunday, May 4, 2025
8:00 AM Sat–1:00 PM Sun
Cost: Mandatory Overnight Training fee to cover cost of food and program supplies is $30 per adult.
Daycare for your school-age children will be available during the Mandatory Overnight. All children attending will take part in a specially designed camp program during the day, while the adults participate in training. Parents and children will enjoy dinner, evening program, and overnight accommodations together.
Cost per child will be $20, and includes lunch and program fees. Registration for children must be done separately by mail. Space is limited and will be assigned on a first come, first served basis as the registration arrives with payment.
Camp Update
Camp guidelines, procedures, and program changes: Your camping skills must be updated every three years to enable you to take girls camping. The Camp Update course will review skills, provide up-to-date information on camp materials used, ecology, and environmental guidelines. (Required every three years)
l Tuesday, September 10, 2024
l Wednesday, December 4, 2024
l Tuesday, January 21, 2025
l Thursday, March 6, 2025
l Monday, May 12, 2025
Special thanks to all families who have generously supported Family Partnership giving as your daughter(s) participate in Girl Scouts. Your contribution paves the way for life-changing experiences and opportunities girls, regardless of background, location, or financial situation, will not find anywhere else.
For those families who consider donating, Family Partnership is an opportunity to champion the changemakers of today and tomorrow by directly providing financial assistance for membership fees, uniform components, books, badges, and supplies, to ensure every girl can navigate her own individual pathway to success.
With the upcoming 2024-2025 Membership Year beginning October 1, we ask for your support once again. For any donation of $20.25 or more, your daughter(s) will receive a Family Partnership Participant patch. If your donation is $40 or more, she receives a second patch for “Going the Extra Mile,” and her troop receives a 15% rebate credit for GSNC Shop use.
To donate to Family Partnership:
l Scan the QR code or visit gsnc.org/donate
l During your online registration/renewal, at the final payment screen, you will be asked to contribute to Girl Scouts.
Girl Scouts of Nassau County thanks you for your partnership!
THIN MINT SPRINT
Jones Beach State Park Field 1 5K Race and Family Fun 1-mile Walk/Run
Sunday, September 15, 2024
To register or learn more, visit: bit.ly/gsnc-thin-mint-sprint-2024
Raise
Glass
to Girl Scouts of Nassau County Fall Fundraiser
Thursday, November 21, 2024
6:00 PM-9:00 PM The
To register or learn more visit: bit.ly/gsnc-raise-a-glass-fall-2024
Ways to Volunteer
Whether you can give a few hours, a few weeks, or a few months, volunteering with Girl Scouts is rewarding!
Be the troop leader that supports her every week— the one that watches her smile get bigger as she grows more confident. Mentor a Girl Scout Cookie professional during cookie season so she can earn enough to reach the goals she and her troop set. Or work with other adults to provide the kind of behind-the-scenes support that makes it possible for her to make amazing new memories at Girl Scouts.
There are so many ways to get involved with Girl Scouts!
l Troop leader
l Troop Mags&Munchies manager
l Troop cookie manager
l Troop outdoor trained adult
l Service unit volunteer
l Event photographer
l Council camp program volunteer
l Gold Award mentor
l Living History Committee volunteer
Scan the QR code, or visit gsnc.org/ volunteer to learn how.
Do You Believe in the Power of Girl Scouts?
Consider Leaving a Lasting Legacy With a Planned Gift...
The first planned gift in the Girl Scout Movement came from our founder, Juliette Gordon Low. After converting the carriage house of her home into the first Girl Scout national headquarters, she gifted the property to Girl Scouts in her will. Carry on her renowned legacy and make Girl Scouts a beneficiary of your estate plans by becoming an official member of the Juliette Gordon Low Society.
As a member of the Juliette Gordon Low Society, you will receive:
l Recognition as a society member
l Invitations to special events hosted by Girl Scouts
l Updates about the work of Girl Scouts, nationwide and in your community
l The joy of knowing that your gift will impact girls for future generations to come
Did you know that making a planned gift to Girl Scouts can include naming Girl Scouts of Nassau County as the beneficiary of any of the following:
l Will
l Living Trusts
l Retirement Plan
l Charitable Gift Annuity
l Donor-Advised Funds
l Life Insurance Policy
4th
AwardLegacy Brunch
l Charitable Remainder Trust
l Charitable Lead Trust
l Remainder gift of real estate
l Any other gift that benefits Girl Scouts in the future
Should you decide to include Girl Scouts of Nassau County in your plans, please use our:
Legal name: Girl Scouts of Nassau County, Inc.
Address: 110 Ring Road West, Garden City, NY 11530
Federal tax ID: 11-2041443
If you would like to learn more about planned giving email Dianne Auci at Funddevelopment@gsnc.org Wednesday, March 12, 2025 The Heritage Club at Bethpage 10:00 AM-12:30 PM Save the Date for Our
When you include the Girl Scouts in your estate plan, your generosity provides a place for girls to practice the skills she’ll need to lead in every sphere in life. Your gift helps girls prepare themselves to become the leaders of tomorrow; to see that their potential is unlimited; and to pursue their dreams.
Thank you for ensuring this girl-led, life-changing experience will continue; launching girls into a lifetime of leadership and building positive change—for them, for you, and for all of us.
110 Ring Road West Garden City, NY 11530
POSTMASTER:
Send address changes to Girlfriends, 110 Ring Road West, Garden City, NY 11530
Girlfriends (USPS 135-280), is published quarterly with a special issue in August.
Girl Scouts of Nassau County, Inc.
110 Ring Road West, Garden City, NY 11530
Periodicals Postage Paid at Garden City, NY 11530.
Andrea Elder-Howell, Esq.
President and Chief Volunteer Officer
Randell Marie Bynum
Chief Executive Officer
Cassie Colgan
Marketing and Communications Director
Anna Lenz
Senior Creative Manager
Designed by Anna Lenz
Girl Scouts of Nassau County, Inc., an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Agency, is a member of Long Island’s United Way, Inc. Village of Hempstead CDA, United Community Fund of Great Neck, and The Community Chest of Port Washington.
To check out our Annual Report visit bit.ly/gsnc-Annual-Report-2023
Girlfriends
August 2024 l Issue 4
Nominate an Outstanding Volunteer!
olunteers who participate, encourage, and support the Girl Scout Movement are the foundation of our organization. Girl Scouts of Nassau County greatly values the thousands of volunteers who make Girl Scouting a reality. Let’s acknowledge those that demonstrate the greatest passion and commitment toward promoting the importance of supporting Girl Scouts.
Help us recognize volunteers who go above and beyond by nominating a leader, service team manager, troop cookie manager, or other worthy volunteer for an Adult Recognitions Award.
To nominate a volunteer, visit bit.ly/gsnc-adult-recognitions-2025 or scan the QR code.
The Adult Recognitions nominations form will be open on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. The submission deadline for awards, with the exception of Volunteer of Excellence, is Monday, December 23, 2024
If the committee approves the award, the volunteer will be invited to the GSNC Annual Adult Recognitions Award Ceremony in early April.
Jens Franzen (GSNC long-standing volunteer and husband of former staff and JGLS member, Judi Franzen) —Anonymous Donors
