Girl Scouts of Nassau County Girlfriends December 2023

December 2023

Girlfriends Girlfriends is a publication of Girl Scouts of Nassau County

Bold.

When you think about what Juliette Gordon Low set out to do, bold is the only word that fits. As a young woman in the early 1900s, founding Girl Scouts was a big deal. Including “make the world a better place” at the heart of the Girl Scout Movement in the Girl Scout Promise was ambitious. How we have fulfilled the heart of the Movement comes in all shapes and sizes.

For our youngest Daisy Girl Scouts, it could be planting flowers or collecting recycling. As our young Girl Scouts continue their journey through Girl Scouts, their impact becomes more robust and sustainable.

As Girl Scouts identify community needs, earn our highest awards, and experience leadership opportunities, they leave a lasting mark on the world.

Our adult volunteers are committed to helping girls discover their interests and leadership potential. Adult role models bring Girl Scout programming to life and inspire girls to give back and be leaders in their own lives.

All of our Girl Scout families support us by volunteering, donating to our family campaign, or helping with activities. Our program and corporate and community partners assist us in taking our mission even further through access to resources, funding, and awareness.

As we move into 2024 and continue our 105th membership year, we look forward to building our capacity and expanding the way we serve the community and give back.

Together, we all do our small part to fulfill Juliette Gordon Low’s vision and continue giving back to make the world a better place. —RMB

KEY COOKIE DATES: January 2, 2024: Digital Cookie setup begins January 5, 2024: Cookie program begins! (both online and in-person) January 13, 2024: Cookie Rally at the Samanea Mall February 12, 2024: Initial Orders due February 24, 2024: Booth sales begin March 28, 2024: Cookie program ends (both online and in-person) Please watch for posts on the OLC (member.gsnc.org) and the GSNC website (gsnc.org) for the most up-to-date cookie program activities and information.

Listen to episode 11 of our podcast to find out how a GSNC troop gives back! https://bit.ly/3QnWqQR

Troop Click Troop 1395 recently celebrated the end of last year’s cookie season with a trip to Urban Air in Dix Hills. They are also wearing their NEW troop apparel tees!

Cookie season is almost here...

Girl Scout!

Whether you’re a social butterfly, creative thinker, or strategic innovator, every Girl Scout entrepreneur has their own kind of magic. And Girl Scout Cookie Season is the perfect time to harness that magic and achieve your goals!

It’s easier than ever to join the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world and be a part of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience! To get started with in-person sales, get your paper order card from your Girl Scout Cookie Volunteer. Or start to sell online with Digital Cookie. Scan the QR code to learn more or go to bit.ly/3S14yYv

Here are just a few ways the cookie program helps girls learn business, the Girl Scout way: l Girl-led—Girl Scouts take the lead in their budget, plans, and marketing techniques. l Cooperative Learning—Girl Scouts work together to set their goals, decide how to use their proceeds as a team, and overcome hurdles along the way. l Learning by Doing—Real-life, hands-on activities help Girl Scouts see how their experiences as cookie entrepreneurs can translate to their own career or business.

Own Your Magic and get inspired at the Cookie Rally on January 13, 2024 at Samanea Mall. Be on the lookout for information on how to register, and bring home a Cookie Rally patch and gift!!

Rewards:

2024 Operation Cookie/ Hometown Heroes Pin Fina You make an impact when you collect

Get the new Charm patch this season when you sell 25+ packages, and see if you can earn all the charms that come with it!

92% of girls believe they are smart enough to become an entrepreneur.

When they participate in the Girl Scout Cookie Program, they are one!

donations. Now make a statement with this Gift of Caring patch, earned with 25+ donation packages.

Charm Patch 25+ pkgs Techie Charm Cookie Boss Training Theme Charm 110+ Initial Order pkgs Axolotl Samoas Charm 500+ pkgs Booth Charm 5+ Booth pkgs Boxes Charm 5+ Donation pkgs

Aim higher and earn this exclusive GSNC Operation Cookie/ Hometown Heroes pin with 50+ donated packages.

This action patch with a rotating arm is magical!

Earn it with 150+ packages sold.

Make1 your pick when inch wide you sell 175+ packages this season! You can’t go wrong choosing between this awesome axolotl plush or this crossbody bag with two interchangeable straps!

Grab the order card from your Girl Scout Cookie Volunteer or go online to https://bit.ly/473jVUO to see all the magical rewards you can earn this season!

Girl Scout Camp Was an Amazing Experience for My Daughter

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As a parent, the decision to send my daughter to Girl Scout camp was one that filled me with excitement and a touch of nostalgia. I remembered my own camp experience fondly and hoped that she would create the same cherished memories. Little did I know that Girl Scout camp would be more than just a fun summer adventure—It would be a life-changing experience that positively shaped my daughter in numerous ways.

One of the most notable transformations I witnessed in my daughter was her newfound confidence and independence.

Camp provided an environment where she was encouraged to take initiative, make choices, and embrace responsibility.

From planning her daily activities to helping with campfire cooking, she thrived in this atmosphere of self-reliance.

trails, swam in the beautiful bay, and gazed at star-filled skies. Camp instilled in her a deep love and respect for nature that she will carry with her always.

Camp wasn’t always smooth sailing, but my daughter faced challenges with a resilient spirit. She learned to adapt, overcome obstacles, and maintain a positive attitude in the face of adversity. These skills will serve her well in life.

This opportunity not only enriched her summer with adventure and fun, but also contributed to her personal growth and character development in countless ways. As a parent, I couldn’t be prouder of the person she is becoming, and I am grateful for the wonderful memories and life lessons she has gained from this incredible camp experience.

I am excited to see how it continues to shape her future.

The friendships my daughter formed at camp are something truly special. The shared experiences, late-night chats in the tents, and the sense of camaraderie created bonds that go far beyond the campgrounds.

Surrounded by the beauty of East Hampton, my daughter developed a deeper love for the outdoors. She explored the

Our camp brochure is coming in January. Be on the lookout!

Registration opens February 13, 2024.

Guidance and Support for Volunteers, Parents, and Girl Scouts Volunteer Connections Podcast: Listen to our Volunteer Connections podcast to learn about Girl Scout topics that include the cookie program, Girl Scouts traditions, and resources to help you plan your troop meetings. https://bit. ly/3QlC8Hv

Newsletter: All adult volunteers are sent a monthly e-newsletter. Check your inbox for information dedicated to strengthening your leadership journey.

Blog: Our Volunteer Connections blog offers an extension of resources that were talked about in each podcast episode.

All Things Girl Scouts Virtual Office Hours

Silver, or Gold Award.

Sign up: https://bit.ly/3QqxYhJ

gsLearn

Meet with GSNC’s Volunteer Training and Resource Manager to discuss Troop Management, the Volunteer Toolkit, planning your troop meetings, and more.

All registered GSNC volunteers have access to gsLearn! gsLearn provides guided videos and downloadable resources to help volunteers learn about topics like Girl Scout ceremonies, girl-led planning, Girl Scout days, and more!

Sign up: https://bit.ly/3Q1wjxD

Sign in: https://mygs. girlscouts.org/

Highest Awards Virtual Office Hours

After signing in, select the gsLearn tab from the menu, on the left-hand side of your screen.

Meet with GSNC’s Program Manager to discuss the Bronze,

Questions?

Email customercare@gsnc.org

2.5” x 1.75” GIRL SCOUTS OF NASSAU COUNTY

Cookie Talk

by Kelsey P. Do you think you can break expectations through the power of the cookie program?

Invite a friend to register and become a part of your troop’s adventure. The new member and each girl in your troop will get a new patch for her uniform!

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Add one or more new girls to your existing troop between December 15, 2023 and March 30, 2024 and each girl in your troop will receive the Add a Friend patch.

For more information, contact us at customercare@gsnc.org.

Planning a troop trip?

(That’s any Girl Scout activity outside your normal meeting place, day, and time!)

Yes, I think I can break expectations through the power of the cookie program. Throughout the years I tried different strategies. But the best strategy for me is the Cookie Booth. We set up a table with a special sign and Girl Scout Cookies.

We’ve tried different locations like in front of our house and at the corner of our street. But one day, a man named Alan came to buy cookies and offered to sell them in front of his store, the Laurel Laundromat. With his help, I found a great location to sell. Since I was selling so much, I lifted my goals a little higher. I sell cookies because it is fun to set goals and earn badges.

How can Girl Scouts ”Unbox the Future” through the Girl Scout Cookie Program?

In Girl Scouts last year, we learned the word “resilient.” I think that all girls need to use resiliency in order to unbox the future.

Girl Scouts can be resilient by selling cookies even when it’s cold outside and they don’t want to be in the cold. Also, if you’re shy, you can overcome your fear by selling and talking to people. And sometimes even if you’re tired of selling, you sell anyway.

What did you learn by participating in the Girl Scout Cookie Program?

Be sure to submit the appropriate online local or overnight trip application. To be approved for a trip, you must purchase Tagalong Insurance for the troop and the annual Troop Finance Report must be submitted.

I learned how to be a sister to the community, and that hard work pays off. I know that because earning badges feels like a big honor and I know how to be less shy talking to people. I have learned that if you treat people with respect, they treat you with respect. I have learned that being a Girl Scout is a big honor.

The Trip Request, Tagalong Insurance, and the Troop Finance Report forms can be found on our website gsnc.org under Members and then Forms and Documents.

What was your overall experience?

Questions: Contact customercare@gsnc.org.

Troop Click

During Fire Prevention Week in October, Troop 2210 had an enriching experience learning about fire prevention and the tools and techniques used for staying safe. They participated in live demonstrations and interactive activities.

Thankful to all the Baldwin Fire Department volunteers for keeping us safe!

To share your photos, email us at marketing@gsnc.org.

Include your troop number and the name of the girl(s) featured in the photo.

This was a positive experience. We made people’s day brighter and I know that because they said it! My relationship with my mom grew bigger and stronger during the years and my brother, Wesley, wanted to help, too. He was our muscle man and tried to lift all of the cases, even though he was only six. Everyone in my family helped out including my dad. He would dance around and call out “Girl Scout Cookies” right next to me! We always give Alan (the store owner) the last box of cookies and he doesn’t accept it. So instead we run in, put the box on the counter and run out yelling, “Thank you!”

What is your favorite part of the Girl Scout Cookie Program?

My favorite part of the Girl Scout Cookie Program is making people happy. They always say, “Oh, yes! You just made my day. I’ve been looking all over for these!” My face always lights up in delight.

How did your troop use the proceeds earned?

We used the money from the cookie program for our trip to Hofstra University Ropes Course for our last bridging ceremony. We are looking into donating some money for a local charity in the fall.

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A special thank you to all our partners and sponsors!

Help Girl Scouts Shine!

Donate Today.

A lovely time was had by all at our Wine and Dine event on November 16. We are grateful to all who came out and supported Girl Scouts!

To hear their stories, scan the QR code on the right.

#HelpHerShine

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SAVE THE DATE! | Friday March 15, 2024 | Legacy Award Brunch

Highest Awards Corner Check out our podcast episode to learn more!

In November, Girl Scouts participated in workshops to review the requirements for the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards. Each workshop included tips from girls who earned these awards in prior years. The group discovered the difference between a community service project and a Take Action project. We look forward to seeing these projects make an impact in our communities!

For the higher awards, one of the core elements is that projects qualify as Take Action projects. The main difference is the impact the project has in the community. A community service project is a one-time initiative. A Take Action project has a long-term impact on the community that extends after the Girl Scout has completed her highest award project. See examples below left:

Community Service

Take Action Projects

Make first aid kits

Promote healthy living through a community service fair

Hold a food drive

Start a community garden that can provide fresh vegetables to the homeless

Donate books to a local school

Organize a tutoring session at an elementary school with senior citizens helping students learn to read

A Take Action project is a chance for girls to partner with others in their community to solve a problem.

Girls learn how to: l Get to the root cause of issues l Mobilize and engage community members and volunteers l Create lasting change in their communities

TRIBUTE FUND In memory of:

110 Ring Road West Garden City, NY 11530

Alyce Beth Vaccaro (Freeport leader) — Suraj Sharma

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

Dates to Remember

Kelly Hill Chief Advancement Officer 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.

December 1

National Women Supporting Women Day

December 22

GSNC Shop closed for inventory

December 25January 1

GSNC Service Center and Shop closed for holidays

January 15

Referrals for Board Development Committee and Board of Directors due

January 15 March 15

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Legacy Brunch

Girlfriends

December 2023 l Issue 6

The International Appreciation Fair is in February!

This February, Girl Scout Brownies and Juniors are invited to honor different cultural beliefs and traditions through exploration, learning, and understanding at GSNC’s International Appreciation Fair. Girl Scouts will have a chance to showcase their knowledge of various cultures, whether it be one they admire or their own. Utilizing their creativity, research, and public speaking skills, girls will teach guests about different cultures’ cuisine, traditional dress, music, dance, and more! In addition to listening to other perspectives from their own, all participants will build a framework for practicing cultural competence.

Keep an eye out for more information and how to register for the International Appreciation Fair on our website, www.gsnc.org/programs, and the OLC!

Follow Us On

Carol Gorst (60+ year Hicksville Girl Scout and one of the Founding Members of the GSNC Living History Committee) —Mary Agoglia, Patricia Amoroso, Dianne Auci, Helen Chase, Kelly Hill, Josephine Jachniewicz, Anna Lenz, Jean Mackee, Peter and Virginia Paolino, Donna Rivera-Downey

Flag Football League Draft Night Flag Football League for Girl Scout Juniors is coming this summer! The first eight service units, twelve girls per team, to sign up will be divided into two conferences.

The top teams from each conference will compete in the championship to crown the overall winner. The league schedule, additional league details, and conferences will be announced at Draft Night in February at council. Keep an eye out on the OLC for more information!

If you are interested in coaching your service unit team, please fill out this form with your team’s roster: https://bit.ly/3Q3pJXw