Leadership & Advocacy
To most girls, a leader is not just someone who has a certain set of skills and qualities; she is someone who pulls together a team, someone who sees the issue, and sets out to resolve it. She makes a difference in the world. The Girl Scout Program gives girls opportunities for leadership and encourages them to advocate for positive change. At GSOFCT, activities help girls hone leadership skills and introduce girls to females who are in leadership positions. Some of these include: It’s Up to You!, Journey Weekends, Girl Scout Day at the Capitol, and Get Inspired!
Outdoor Skills
There is a growing divide between children and the natural world that surrounds them. The outdoors has always been a part of the Girl Scout Program. Experiencing the outdoors and learning new skills in real-life situations build meaningful teams and confidence in girls. Today, as always, Girl Scouts are able to learn outdoor skills as well as connect to the natural world. Look for opportunities such as Letterboxing Hikes, Camp Chef Series, and the Earth Day Event.
Adventure
Girls will learn by doing in a fun and exciting format of ground games and initiatives, low and high ropes, and climbing opportunities. The program is facilitated by trained staff so that the girls learn how to problem solve, communicate, and become better team members. Skills learned will improve their social interactions and ability to share ideas; encourage them to think outside the box; create an understanding of how they are important in a group; and show how to handle and resolve conflicts. Girls become more confident by participating in activities that are personally challenging, build self esteem, and enhance leadership skills, all while having fun with their fellow Girl Scouts! Look inside for adventure activities such as Intro to Climbing, Extreme Climbing and Rappelling, and Adventure Days.
Cookies and QSP
The Girl Scout Cookie Program is not only an important, iconic part of the Girl Scout Experience, but it is also the largest girl-run business in the world! All Girl Scouts in Connecticut are invited to participate in both the Cookie Program and in the sale of nuts, candy, and magazines through the fall QSP Program. Participating in Product Sales programs introduces girls to important skills in goal setting, business ethics, decision making, money management, and people skills. Girls build upon these skills each year and can apply them in their future business and personal lives. A portion of the funds earned through the Cookie and QSP Programs helps fund troop treasuries so that girls have the resources to earn badges, explore new places, and provide service to their communities. Other funds are used by the council to provide trainings for adult volunteers, maintain camp properties, and provide additional programming for girls of all ages. Important information about Product Sales programs for girls, their families, and adult volunteers can be found online at gsofct.org. For more information about the Product Sales Programs, see page 54-57.
Program Resource Guide
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