June/July Golden Link

LINK

The Official Publication of Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council | Volume 46 Issue 4

June/July 2020

The Golden

Helping People at all Times

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President of the Council and Chair of the Board Marguerite Woung-Chapman Chief Executive Officer Mary Vitek Chief External Affairs Officer Connie Chavez Visual Brand Manager Joanne Pastalaniec

Troop #105128 donated 10 cases of Girl Scout Cookies to Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office. See more Cookies4Heroes photos on page 4.

Mission Statement GSSJC: Girl Scouts builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place.

Pluralism Statement Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council is a pluralistic movement, committed to understanding our similarities and differences, building relationships and promoting a dialogue of acceptance and respect. Each individual involved must uphold the tenet that Girl Scouting is for all girls.

Circulation The Golden Link is published five times a year. It has a circulation of more than 44,000. The Golden Link is also available online at www.gssjc.org. The Golden Link reaches 26 Texas counties: Angelina, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Hardin, Harris, Houston, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Polk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Tyler, Walker, Waller and Wharton. To report address changes or if you have problems receiving The Golden Link call Customer Service at 713-292-0300.

Deadlines Deadline for submitting items is the first of the month two months prior to publication. GSSJC does not accept responsibility for unsolicited materials. Send news and photographs and Scrapbook photos to communications@sjgs.org.

Advertisements Advertising rates are available by calling 713-292-0314. Advertisements are accepted in good faith that all the information is correct.

Acceptance of advertising does not reflect endorsement of services or goods by the Council.

The Golden Link is published six times a year

by Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council, 3110 Southwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77098 713-292-0300 The Golden Link is also available to read online at www.gssjc.org/publications Copyright ©2020. All rights reserved.

Please recycle this publication.

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Contents

June/July 2020 3 3

From the Top Shop News

Summer Train-In Online, Saturday, July 18 See more information on page 20

Special Feature 4

Troops Deliver Cookies4Heroes

Features 6 6 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 12 12

Girl Scout Cookie Return Girl Scout at Home Print Activity Book Mask Giveaway The Citizen Badges Every Girl Scout Should Earn Here are a few of the activities that make the It’s Your World–Change It! Journey so rewarding Help Your Kids Take Action Against Racism Thank You Leaders!

Letter Writing Service Project Emergency Financial Aid Highest Awards Guidelines Extended Do You Know Girls That Want to Join?

Activities

13 Virtual Camp 13 Council Wide Camp-In 14 General Activities 14 Health 15 Highest Awards 17 Sports 17 STEM

Columns

19 Adult Trainings 22 Philanthropy 24 Around Camp

In Person and Virtual Camp Opportunities See more information on page 13

On the Cover Troop #153043 has been busy helping people around the community with Cookies4Heroes donation deliveries to Houston Methodist, Lake Olympia Middle School and Rosa Parks Elementary.

My Girl Scout Family: Like so many things right now, this introduction as your new president and chair of the board is very different than what I had envisioned several months ago. As I am writing this, our council, our nation and indeed the whole world are grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic and a reckoning with the pandemic that is racism. I echo the words of Sylvia Acevedo, CEO of Girl Scouts USA: Marguerite WoungIt is at times like these that girls, Chapman and the world, need Girl Scouting Chair of the Board and more than ever. Although it may President of the Council look different right now, being a Girl Scout continues to provide a sense of normalcy, safety and support as we navigate uncertainty and a new normal.

Girl Scouting’s 108-year history has borne out Sylvia’s stirring words time and again. I was recently inspired by stories of how Girl Scouts worked day and night to support their communities ravaged by the Spanish flu in the early 1900s and

by Gold Award Girl Scouts fighting against racism and for social justice – read their stories at girlscouts.org/goldaward.

In this moment, Girl Scouts are once again rising to the occasion and showing their leadership, courage and character by finding ways to help their communities and make the world a better place.

I am also motivated by how the Movement’s principles teach, encourage and set examples for how to respond to some of the most insidiousness aspects of these pandemics. What resonates most for me is encouraging our girls to not turn a blind eye to stereotypes or generalizations. When faced with the unknown or when afraid, people often look for someone to blame. Being a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural Houstonian myself, I am proud that our council is a pluralistic movement, geared towards teaching our girls that a person’s skin color, the language they speak and the country their family comes from has nothing to do with the amount of respect and kindness they deserve in this world.

Speaking of our council, I am incredibly proud of how it has pro-actively and decisively responded to this unprecedented crisis by prioritizing the health and safety of our girls, families, volunteers, staff and the communities at large. In responding to COVID-19, for example, the decisions were not easy and some were downright painful, such as suspending cookie sales, cancelling resident camp and postponing or digitizing eagerly anticipated programs and traditions. The roadmap for the start of my journey as your president and chair is clear: doing whatever it takes to navigate the council through its new normal and continue being the world’s preeminent leadership development program for women. Until we can safely resume in-person programs, our Girl Scouting from Home provides virtual programming that centers around four pillars of Girl Scouting: outdoors, STEM, life skills and entrepreneurship.

I am beginning my term as GSSJC president and chair with the same trepidation that we all have given our unprecedented times but mostly with excitement, hope and resolve that GSSJC will not only survive but thrive. Our council is fast approaching its 100-year anniversary, and I know that when we get there we will not only be celebrating what we have accomplished for our mission but also what we will be accomplishing for the next 100 years.

Forever Yours in Girl Scouting, Marguerite

From the

TOP

Curbside and Online Shopping Available!

Place your order via email to gssjcshop@sjgs.org or by calling the shop direct. Shops will offer retail orders with only curbside/ lobby pickup through pre-arranged appointment/pickup times from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Hours can change due to emergencies, weather or other factors. Please call before driving long distances. Virtual shopping options also available. As always, online shopping is also available!

Bay Area 281-282-6077 1300 A Bay Area Blvd., Ste. 106 Houston, TX 77058

Lufkin 936-634-4688 1202 College Dr Lufkin, TX 75904

Beaumont 409-832-0556, Ext. 1500 700 North St. Suite F Beaumont, TX 77701

Stafford 281-670-5982 12300 Parc Crest, Ste. 170 Stafford, TX 77477

Imperial Valley 281-447-8870 15800 Imperial Valley Dr. Houston, TX 77060

Westside 281-822-4250

Houston 713-292-0247 3000 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77098

531 FM 359 South Brookshire, TX 77423 Office and Resource Center Closures: All offices and camps are closed through July 31 except for specific appointments or offerings.

New Talk Show Just for Girls!

Be sure to check out Girl Scout of San Jacinto Council’s newest vlog on YouTube, Girl Scout Weekly, a video series created

by Girl Scouts for Girl Scouts. The series will feature council updates, fun activities, and so much more for our girls. If you haven’t, make sure to like and subscribe to our YouTube channel, youtube.com/girlscoutssanjacinto, so you don’t miss an episode! We have so many fun things in store.

Virtual Membership Kick-Off

August 8, 2020 Taking you into a new dimension of imagination and innovation, the virtual Girl Scout volunteering zone! Be prepared for 2021 by joining us for activities throughout the day/evening! Receive the latest news from council, take a virtual selfie with our council President and Chair of the Board, Marguerite Woung-Chapman, updates from outdoor training, program portfolio, workshops such as team building, online troop meetings, great girl planning, etc. Plan to show your Girl Scout and community spirit with a hat or headband! An evening campfire shared virtually across the council will close our day’s activities. Register on MyGS. June/July 2020 l The Golden Link 3

Special Feature

Girl Scouts Supporting the Community

Troop #137033 donated Girl Scout Cookies to University of Texas Medical Branch.

Molly F. of Troop #113035 loves helping others, sewing and Girl Scouts! Because the Girl Scout cookie season was cut short due to COVID-19 and many troops in our area had unsold cookies which translates to money out of the troop’s funds, Molly used her entrepreneurial skills and devised a plan to make masks and ask for a $5 donation. This $5 donation covered the cost of a box of Girl Scout Cookies that she donated to first responders in our area. Molly's troop was very successful in selling cookies and had no inventory but heard other troop's needed help reducing their inventories. She was able to help sell 10 cases of cookies.

Troop #152027 donated Girl Scout Cookies to Memorial Hermann Hospital to show appreciation and hopefully bring a smile to the faces of the doctors and nurses who are working on the front lines of this pandemic.

Troop #15185 donated Girl Scout Cookies to Fairbanks Kindercare Daycare.

They wanted to thank them for being a hero and allowing essential workers to still bring their kids so they can still take care of citizens in our community.

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Troop #123029 delivered Girl Scout Cookies to Houston Methodist Hospital COVID-19 units and the ER. The boxes were also stuffed with homemade cards for the hospital staff.

Thanks to the awesome donors, Troop #153062 was able to donate the last 30 boxes the troop cookie manager had on hand! Sofie M. delivered the Girl Scout Cookies to the Missouri City Fire Department Station 4.

Special Feature

Troop #15185 thanked the Harris County Juvenile Medical team downtown for providing continued medical for the youth in the community during this pandemic.

Troop #139018 of League City has been thanking our first responders.

Donations included 27 care packages sent overseas to our military heroes.

Each care package included six packages of cookies as well as a few other comforts, such as beef jerky and seeds. They also sent baskets to UTMB Galveston, Maternal Fetal Medicine Associates of South Texas, UTMB League City ICU, League City Police Department, a local nursing home and the HEB in Friendswood.

Troop #2240 donated cookies to the respiratory therapy team at CHI hospital in Lufkin.

Troop #113103 donated cookies to Houston Methodist Continuing Care Hospital HIDU unit.

Troop #123029 donated Girl Scout Cookies to Methodist Hospital.

See more photos on page 24!

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Features

Girl Scout Cookie Return

The much-anticipated date has arrived or at least it is scheduled!

It’s Girl Scout Cookie take-back day. The day you have all been patiently waiting for so you can finally get your living rooms and dining rooms back. Save the dates of July 11 and July 18. GSSJC will send out additional information about where and what time your troop can return cookies. Watch for text messages, emails, and an update in the Cookie – Troop section of the online community. But these days are for more than returning cookies.

Through a partnership with the Houston Humane Society, troops will be able to drop off much-needed pet food and pet supplies. What a great way to show your support for the community who supported us during the 2020 Cookie Program. Stay tuned for updates.

Girl Scouts at Home in Print Activity Booklet

GSSJC is developing activity booklets that will allow us to reach members who don’t have regular access to a computer and/or the internet. These booklets will be available in both English and Spanish and will assist girls in earning badges and petals (for Daisies).

New booklets will be provided every few weeks and will feature engaging, family friendly activities that can be done safely at home or outside with items that families likely have on hand. These will be mailed free of charge to Girl Scout members who are Daisies, Brownies, Juniors and Cadettes.

To subscribe, please email customerservice@sjgs.org and provide the name of the girl and the grade level she will enter in the fall. Also, indicate if you prefer to receive the booklets in English or Spanish.

Troop leaders, don’t miss this opportunity to receive free Girl Scout logo’d masks for your girls!

Troop leaders, don’t miss this opportunity to receive free Girl Scout logo’d masks for your girls!

You can receive free Girl Scout logo’d masks for your girls simply by meeting one of two renewal levels by the August 15, 2020 deadline.

First, your girls can receive these stylish Girl Scout masks by having 80% of the girls in your troop renew their membership for the upcoming membership year 2021 AND by adding at least one firsttime member to your troop by August 15, 2020. The first-time member must be a new girl member who registers for membership year 2021 and who has never been a Girl Scout before.

The second way the girls in your troop can receive the Girl Scout logo’d masks is if the troop maintains the same number of girls registered for the upcoming 2021 membership year including at least one new girl member. The number of members can be any combination of one or more new and renewed girls registered by the deadline.

Do not wait. The August 15 deadline is approaching fast and mask supplies are limited. The free mask offer is available to the first 10,000 girls who qualify!

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The Citizen Badges Every Girl Scout Should Earn

Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) launched the G.I.R.L. Agenda Powered by Girl Scouts, a nonpartisan initiative to inspire, prepare, and mobilize girls and those who care about them to lead positive change through civic action. The multiyear effort celebrates the Girl Scout legacy of civic engagement, and for the first time ever, we’re sharing these free, expert-curated resources beyond our 2.6 million members so we can reach as many girls as possible. The materials are derived from renowned Girl Scout programming that has driven generations of girls over the past century to become leaders.

Encouraging girls to speak up and advocate for the issues and ideas important to them is not new. In fact, even before women could vote in the United States, Girl Scouts could earn the Citizen badge by displaying their knowledge of government and how to get involved!

These Citizen badges–Good Neighbor, Celebrating Community, Inside Government, Finding Common Ground, Behind the Ballot, and Public Policy–engage girls in age-appropriate activities involving community service, public policy, government, voting, and more.

Over time, the badges build girls’ knowledge of local and global communities and show them how their actions as citizens make the world better for everyone.

Even more civic-minded badges will be released this summer. Check out the next Golden Link for more information.

Daisies Good Neighbor: With this badge, Daisies will explore the communities they belong to–from their roles as Daisies in Girl Scouts to their place as residents of their town. They’ll also learn how people work together to be good neighbors to one another.

Brownies Celebrating Community: Brownies who earn this badge will discover how communities celebrate their unique qualities and how supporting the people within communities can mean everything from looking for landmarks to marching in a parade. Girls will learn how their communities honor and observe their special traits as they celebrate their traditions.

Juniors Inside Government: Citizens are responsible for knowing the basics of government.

To earn this badge, Juniors will go beyond the voting booth and inside government by examining laws, reporting on issues, and deciding what it means to be an active citizen.

Cadettes Finding Common Ground: Cadettes will explore the challenges of finding common ground with those who have different opinions. Elected leaders often need to make compromises, so girls will investigate how negotiations happen by learning about civil debate, accommodations, mediation, and group decision making.

Seniors Behind the Ballot: Making your voice heard through voting is both a right and a responsibility, whether you’re voting for class president or our nation’s leaders. Seniors will learn about elections, investigate the ins and outs of voting, and help get out the vote.

Ambassadors Public Policy: Ambassadors have already learned about the need to speak up about issues important to them, but by taking the next step and exploring public policy, they’ll dive deeper into the laws and government actions surrounding specific issues.

Through advocacy, learning about public policy on a local or state level, and action, Ambassadors will learn firsthand how citizens can change the world.

By earning these badges in an all-girl, girl-led environment, girls build the confidence they need to become the civic-minded leaders of tomorrow.

To learn how your Girl Scout troop can get civically engaged, visit GIRLagenda.org and view the GSSJC weekly vlog on the GSSJC YouTube channel.

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Here are a few of the activities that make the It’s Your World–Change It! Journey so rewarding

In a Girl Scout Journey, awards link experiences, discussions, and ideas that girls explore together. As Girl Scouts progress from Daisy to Ambassador, their awards symbolize new and higher levels of achievement–and ultimately a deeper understanding of what it means to be a leader. All the steps girls take toward earning awards are built into each Journey. Guidebooks for parents and volunteers also suggest meaningful ways to help girls celebrate earning awards and reflect on their accomplishments.

Adult guides for each level provide help for coaching girls along the way, and include a Journey overview, sample sessions, ideas on choosing and conducting activities, details on awards and badges, links to multimedia, online resources and more. Books are available at all Girl Scout shops and online at gssjc.org/shop.

Welcome to the Daisy Flower Garden Daisies learn about the Girl Scout Promise and Law while exploring the world of gardening. They may plant a mini-garden, learn about composting, or find out how ladybugs help flowers. They could also take a field trip to a public garden or talk to a beekeeper about her work. The girls then plan a project to help others, such as planting vegetables in a community garden or flowers at a nearby hospital. Girls can earn three awards that recognize how they improved their community through their new gardening skills.

Agent of Change Juniors learn how they can change the world by exploring their own talents and learning about women who have made the world better. They might talk to an environmentalist who preserves animal habitats, take a field trip to a councilwoman’s office, paint a mural about women in history, or create a comic or TV script about a “Supergirl” who takes action on an issue. They then team up to become agents of change in their own community, perhaps by putting on a skit at school about using less energy or creating a sustainable “meal in a bag” solution for the local food bank. Girls can earn three awards that recognize what they’ve learned about using their own talents to help others and how they’ve made the world a better place.

GIRLtopia Seniors develop their own vision of an ideal world for girls and learn skills to make it a reality. They may visit a museum exhibit about women in history, invite a woman to talk about how she helps girls through her volunteer work, or create a short film that shows an ideal world for girls. They then create their own project, such as making a public-service announcement to encourage girls to exercise and eat well or organizing a letter-writing campaign to support a girl-friendly, empowering TV show. Girls can earn one award that recognizes what they’ve done to create their own version of GIRLtopia in their communities.

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Brownie Quest Brownies learn how to care for themselves, their families, their Girl Scout sisters, and their community. They may do an activity with their families to chart everyone’s special talents, play games at their troop meetings to learn how to work together, or do a fun “clue hunting” activity to learn the Girl Scout Law. They then choose a project to help others, such as visiting a nursery school to read to younger kids or teach them a game, creating a school skit about healthy eating, or making a presentation to their city council about fixing a broken sidewalk by their school. Girls can earn four awards that recognize what they’ve learned about themselves and how they teamed up to care for others.

aMAZE! The Twists and Turns of Getting Along Cadettes learn to develop good relationships, navigate cliques, and look past stereotypes. They may create artwork about friendship, invite an older girl to talk about how to be a good friend, or organize a friendship-themed movie screening and discussion. They then team up to develop a peace project, such as creating a friendship-skills workshop for younger girls, planning an annual intergenerational tea at a senior center, or organizing a “no gossip” day at school. Girls can earn three awards that recognize their new friendship skills and how they have passed them on to others.

Your Voice, Your World: The Power of Advocacy Ambassadors learn the skills needed to influence change, such as identifying community problems, researching issues, creating presentations, speaking in public, and developing social media campaigns. They may invite a public-relations professional to give them public-speaking tips, attend a weekend retreat to brainstorm what changes they’d like to see in the world, or talk to a lobbyist to learn how to advocate for change through government. They then take action on an issue they care about. They might make the case for more bike paths by presenting to their city council, create a social media campaign to encourage the use of reusable bags, or lobby government officials for notexting-while-driving laws. Girls can earn one award that recognizes what they’ve learned about using their voice to create change in the world.

Features

Help Your Kids Take Action Against Racism See more in the Raising Awesome Girls series at girlscouts.org

Whenever we see injustice, we all have a responsibility to confront it. Every day, no matter our background or our age, every single one of us has a role to play in taking on an unfair system while working to build a new one that truly works for all. Guiding our girls in learning to recognize and challenge structures and practices that fuel inequality and cause harm helps them play an active role in creating the positive change our society needs.

While we should be having conversations about race and racism regularly, checking in with your girl is crucial when racist violence claims lives and sparks widespread protest, grief and unrest around the nation.

Kids of all ages, backgrounds, and skin tones are feeling a range of emotions in response.

They’re sad, scared, angry and confused.

Having honest discussions about race is important for all families.

It’s vital to have them on a regular basis, even if you find it uncomfortable or you think your kids already know about racism and understand right from wrong.

Teach her to identify racism. To make discussion about race and racism a part of "normal" conversation in your home, start when your kids are young. According to Dr. Erin N. Winkler, who studies talking with children about race, it’s never too early to start. Young children start to reflect the bias prevalent in their society. In the U.S. that often means a bias toward whiteness. "If you look at the media they are consuming and what comes out of that–the princess or character they want to be for Halloween for example–you can see that it starts early," says Dr. Winkler.

So, what can you do? It’s important to pay attention to what’s in your home. Having toys, books, and shows you watch that feature diverse characters in a variety of roles can help balance a narrative from society that often only places white characters at the center.

Talking about who’s left out and who’s included, and how they’re treated when they are included, is important. When you read a book or watch TV with your girl, are there any diverse characters at all? If there are, how are they portrayed? Are they in a lead role? Do they reflect stereotypes or do they have dimension? Beyond characters in books and movies, when she’s in school and learning about history, whose history is she learning about?

Teach her the value of diversity and inclusion, and to embrace our differences. Saying "we’re all the same" or "I don’t see color" might be well-intentioned, but it perpetuates racism because it disregards part of people’s identities. Plus,

saying everyone is the same implies that everyone has the same experiences and is treated the same in our society–which statistics and the everyday discrimination faced by black people and other people of color show isn’t the case.

Instead, talk with your girl about how we can honor and celebrate our differences, and about how we all, with our unique backgrounds and experiences, bring beauty to the world in so many different ways.

Empower her to challenge racism when she sees it. Racism isn’t always violent or overt. It appears in many forms, and it is rooted in the false belief that the white experience is standard and that white people are superior to others. Your community and what she sees every day in her world counts.

Also, some parents approach racism as a "settled issue," when it’s still very much an issue in the everyday lives of many families.

Racism didn’t end with the Civil Rights Movement.

Showing kids that people like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, as well as everyday people who’ve taken action against injustice, had roles in making change can help them understand we all have a role to play and that they can help make things better, says Dr. Winkler. It empowers them. "Teaching them to look for the people in the community who are helping, and showing them that there are people out there committed to making change now is also a great way" to engage kids.

Learn and take action together. Although families of different backgrounds come to these conversations from different places, one thing that can help many parents and caregivers is educating themselves to increase their understanding and comfort level.

Talk with your girl about the fact that you’re learning at the same time she is. Seeing that grownups don’t have all the answers either, and that you often have to do some work to find out the best ways to help, will show her that making meaningful change takes patience and dedication.

You can also talk with her about actions you’re taking for positive change as an adult, including voting. Let her know about things she can do or that you can do together as a family. Writing letters to your elected representatives urging them to support anti-racist policies (and holding them accountable for their actions) and connecting with groups in your community that are working for equality are just a few of the many ways you and your girl can help build a just world for all.

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Thank You Leaders

Girl Scouts reached out to share why their troop leader is awesome!

The girls of Troop #150004 wanted to thank their leader Jennifer Gloria.

From: Yvonne Nguyen I've only joined this year, but I really like making new friends.

Mrs. Jennifer is really nice and we do fun activities together!

Our Troop #114201 leader, Lauren Crenshaw, is amazing. She quickly adapted to virtual meetings and badges worked on in the meetings. She was a Girl Scout way back and jumped at the opportunity when the 16 girls were without a leader. She wanted to make sure no girls were left behind.

She shows patience, love and dedication to enrich and empower our girls. We just love her.

From: Alise Norris My troop leader has taught be how to be an active leader in our community. She has helped me with opening up to people which has allowed me to make so many new friends. We do a lot of things with our troop in our community and schools which include making gardens, donating to near by charities and volunteering to make a difference at different food banks and shelters. But most of all my troop leader has taught me that being me is the best version of anyone I can be!

To: Troop Leader Jessica Mumme From: Gretchen Gill, Troop #108094

From: Kalena Nguyen She is fully focused on the girls and creating a safe atmosphere for them to grow and thrive in! We absolutely love having her as a troop leader and look forward to the future.

Under normal circumstances, Jessica is an exemplary example of a Girl Scout. She goes to great lengths to keep our troop exciting and involved, planning outdoor camping trips all over our region, has the girls set goals to self-fund overnights at places like NASA, The Natural History Museum and (sadly now-postponed) SeaWorld.

From: Jaeda Israel Jennifer has been nothing short of amazing! She is so hands on with the girls. She gives everything her all and has been a great leader in my daughter’s life!

From: Melady Ton I joined with Kalena, and we do a lot of events and the meetings are fun. Mrs. Jennifer signs us up for camping trips and sleepovers, and we get cool patches. She taught us a lot of important things.

Prayers to your family and our Girl Scout family.

Take care and God bless, Jennifer Devereaux

In addition, she supports all of our girls by making sure that each and every one has the opportunity to join on these adventures, even if their parents are unable to attend. She has supported my family during my cancer diagnosis, including picking up my daughter to ensure that she was still able to be involved with the troop doing things like volunteering at the animal shelter and indoor rock climbing. All of this was before COVID-19 hit.

She has assembled a small but mighty team of seamstresses to sew reusable fabric masks to provide those that were left without. She coordinated requests for masks, procuring completed masks and then sending them via mail or curbside drop to those that needed them. What's more is that she included boxes of Girl Scout Cookies in these mask donations, donating all of our Cookies4Heroes boxes and the remainder of our unsold stock when the Cookie Program was halted. She is responsible for distributing more than 350 fabric masks and 10 cases of cookies, all as a donation to our frontline medical professionals. This effort included many of our Brownies helping make the masks and had the girls make cards and letters of encouragement to include in the packages.

She has continued to organize badge-earning opportunities for our troop, including a Zoom call to earn a cybersecurity badge. If all of that wasn't enough, she has embraced bringing an additional girl into our troop, bringing our total to 14, in the middle of this world chaos to keep the girl interesting in Girl Scouting. It is all of these reasons, and more, that I am inspired by and feel grateful to have my daughter in the capable hands of Girl Scout Leader Extraordinaire, Jessica Mumme.

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#GirlScoutsGiveBack

Letter-Writing Service Project

Girl Scouts have always stepped up in times of need and the current COVID-19 crisis is no different. We are proud of all that our Communities, troops, staff and girls have done so far to support our area– and the world–during COVID-19. Now, we are proud to share resources to engage in a Movement-wide letter writing campaign to support those in our area who need us most.

The idea is simple: girls write letters to people in nursing homes, senior residences and assisted living facilities, including the dedicated and heroic staff who are caring for them. This long-distance hug is a way to share your good thoughts with these vulnerable and loved community members.

Share your story of letter writing with the greater Girl Scouts Movement by sharing on social media with #GirlScoutsGiveBack.

Don't forget to visit our Girl Scouts Give Back page at girlscouts. org/nationalserviceprojects and log the number of letters you send to add them to the national campaign. Let’s see how many letters of love and care our movement can send!

Tips for Writing Letters to Seniors and Caretakers Tips for parents and/or leaders

1. After you pick a local facility to send your letters to, ask your girls (and their friends!) to write letters using the tips at right.

2. Decide how to collect and deliver your troop’s letters. You could collect the letters using no-contact practices and mail them or drop them off as a packet, have girls mail them individually or even deliver them via email. Do whatever is easiest and safest for you and your troop. If you decide to have girls mail them on their own, provide the council office address for them to use as the return address: 3110 Southwest Fwy., Houston, TX 77098.

3. Include a note to the facility staff explaining who your letters are for. A sample letter to the facility can be found below.

4. If your troop writes both “thinking of you” notes for residents and “thank you” notes for staff and caregivers, make sure to organize your package so that it is easy for staff to deliver letters to the right recipients.

5. Take a picture of your letter packet and post it to your social media networks using #GirlScoutsGiveBack, and be sure to tag @girlscouts and @gssjc

Sample Cover Letter to the Center

Dear [friend]:

Thank you for all that you’re doing to support your residents and fellow staff members during the COVID-19 crisis.

As a token of our appreciation, we’ve enclosed a few letters from local girls in Girl Scout Troop [XXXXXX] who wanted to send a long-distance hug and a heartfelt thank you. We hope that you will share these letters with your residents and staff and that they bring some joy and comfort to your community.

If you choose to share this occasion on social media, please tag @girlscouts and @gssjc and use #GirlScoutsGiveBack so that as our Movement is inspired by your hard work, we might also inspire others to send their thoughts and good wishes.

Thank you for allowing us to serve you during this time.

Best wishes, [name] Girl Scouts

Send a long-distance hug with a heartfelt letter to seniors, their caretakers and other people who can benefit from knowing that you’re thinking of them. See below for some recommendations on how to write and share these notes.

What should I know before I write my letter?

• Write it by hand. Giving your message a personal touch can show your reader how much you care.

• Make it neat. Make sure your recipient can read the wonderful words you write to them!

• Make it personal. Let your creative side shine with bright colors, glitter pens, drawings and other personal touches!

• Don’t write the date. While we often want to mark the date that we write letters, it may take longer than normal for this letter to be delivered.

What should I write about? “Thank you” or “thinking of you” - pick one! Are you writing to a resident at a nursing home? Want to thank a caregiver? Decide what type of note you’re writing and let the message guide your writing.

• Be kind and thoughtful. When you begin to write, think carefully about what you want to say and how you can spread kindness.

Consider how you can craft a unique message that comes from your heart. How can you make the card extra special?

• Be creative. Use your creativity, imagination and talents to make your note fun and unique! Consider drawing a picture, decorating your note or adding in a puzzle that you create or a game you love.

• Start with “Dear Friend.” Even if you don’t know your reader by name, starting with “Dear Friend” will make them feel special and cared for.

• Introduce yourself. Let your reader know who you are and why you’re writing.

• Send positive thoughts. Share your positivity and well wishes.

What do you hope for your reader right now? Is there anything you’d like to thank them for?

• Give some personal flair. Share something that only you can. Is there something you’ve been doing that you want that person to know about? Can you share a story that will make them happy?

• Avoid religion and personal views. Since we don’t know exactly who will receive your letter, make sure that your note is kind and broad–so that anyone who receives it will feel that it is meant for them.

• Sign your first name. Sign your name to the letter, but don’t share more personal information like your last name, home address or phone number.

If the reader knows your name and that you’re a Girl Scout, that’s more than enough.

June/July 2020 l The Golden Link 11

Features

Emergency Financial Aid

All of us at Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council are thinking of you and your loved ones during this time. We know that many families in our community are struggling to cope, not only with the fear of COVID-19, but the implications of job loss and a vulnerable economy.

During this uncertain time, girls need Girl Scouting more than ever. We need your support more than ever – to ensure every girl in our community has access to Girl Scouting regardless of her family’s situation or ability to pay.

We know there will be much need for Girl Scouting as girls deal with the stress of our current situation and its impact on their lives, and we expect an increase in the need for financial assistance as family situations change. During these times, families turn to trusted and accessible activities for their girls and we are prepared to meet their needs, serve our community and deliver our programming in ways that are safe and effective. Last year we awarded nearly $1 million in financial aid to help girls participate in Girl Scouting, and we know that the need will only increase as a result of COVID-19. To meet this need, we need your help.

Girl Scouts can make a huge difference right now in the lives of our girls. We can provide a sense of belonging to girls who are missing school and their friends, and safe spaces to grow their confidence We can Note written and by aleadership Girl Scoutskills.

Brownie who was able to participate GirltoScouts through financial build resilience, compassion and coping in skills help girls navigate throughaid. this new normal. Girl Scouting can provide a sense of calm in her life amidst all the uncertainty.

Our new virtual programming has been a great success, providing girls with the opportunity to participate in activities and earn badges even while they are out of school.

Thank you for your on-going support of girls through Girl Scouts. We are so grateful to have you as a champion, especially during these challenging times. We hope you will consider a donation to Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council now to ensure we can continue our life changing programs for our girls. Help us ensure we have the necessary funds to meet the increased demands for financial assistance at a time when our girls need us the most. We believe that every girl has the right to be a Girl Scout, and we hope you do too.

For more information, visit gssjc.org/donate or call 713-292-0282.

Highest Awards Guidelines Extended

GSUSA recognizes the impact of the COVID-19 closures and stay at home orders are having on Girl Scouts who want to earn the highest awards. To ensure all Girl Scouts who want to earn the highest awards this year have the opportunity, Girl Scouts is offering a three-month deadline extension from September 30 to December 31, 2020 for Girl Scouts who are graduating from 5th grade (Juniors who seek to earn the Bronze Award), 8th grade (Cadettes who seek to earn the Silver Award) and 12th grade (Ambassadors who seek to earn the Gold Award) this year. These Girl Scouts will bridge to the next program level officially on October 1, 2020 and, without this extension, would be no longer eligible to earn the Bronze, Silver or Gold Award, respectively.

GSSJC also has council-specific deadlines including the following: • 5th grade Juniors should have their projects completed and reporting form submitted to bronzeaward@sjgs.org by December 31, 2020.

• 8th grade Cadettes must submit their Intent Form by August 1, 2020, and once they receive council approval, they must complete their project and submit their Final Report by December 31, 2020. Forms must be emailed to silveraward@sjgs.org.

• 12th grade Ambassadors must submit their Project Proposal by July 1, 2020, and once they receive council approval, they must complete their project and submit their Final Report by December 31, 2020.

Reports must be submitted via GoGold Online. Graduating 12th grade Ambassadors should plan to have an adult membership in order to use the extension. We want every girl or adult to be a member if they are working on a Girl Scout activity. These Gold Award candidates may renew as an adult or choose Lifetime Membership.

12 June/July 2020 l The Golden Link

Note written by a girl who received financial aid.

Know Girls that Want to Join?

Note written by a Girl Scout Br

Their parents are invited to a virtual in Girl Scouts through financia recruitment event on Zoom. Use this link for all dates: gssjc.me/meetus For girls in grades 2 - 5: June 16 at 7 p.m. June 25 at 7 p.m.

July 8 at noon July 14 at 7 p.m.

For girls in grades preK - 1: July 1 at 4 p.m. July 21 at 6:30 p.m.

Recruitment events are also available in Spanish: Para niñas de 2do a 5to 16 de Junio a las 7 p.m.

25 de Junio a las 7 p.m.

8 de Julio a las 12 p.m.

14 de Julio a las 7 p.m.

Para niñas de Pre-Kinder a 1ro 1 de Julio a las 4 p.m.

21 de Julio a las 6:30 p.m.

Activities

Girl and Troop Activities Register for activities under the Activities tab in MyGS. Go to www.gssjc.org and select MyGS, log in to“Member Profile," then select Activities. If you have a question about your activity, contact 713-292-0370 or 1-800-392-4340. If you have a problem with your login, contact Customer Service at 713-292-0300 or registration@sjgs.org. Bring: For all events, bring Permission Slip F-204 and Medical Form F-185 for each girl and the Adult Emergency Form F-22 for each adult.

Attention Daisy Leaders! Look for the Daisy in this section for activities that Daisies can attend.

Look for this symbol in indicate a virtual program offering.

Explore the Outdoors at Home with Virtual Camps Virtual camps provide an all-girl online camp setting staffed with camp counselors ready to help girls explore a new journey or badge this summer. Interactive sessions will be week-long, two-hour per-day engagement opportunities. Girls are grouped by grade/level and get daily Girl Scout experiences while they build relationships with other girls. Included in their camp registration are access to the online camp, materials list for participating in activities, official Journey or badge book, T-shirt and patch. Summer camp may look different, but Girl Scouts is not canceled! In order to provide continued programming that is accessible during these tough times, we are adjusting the rate for some offerings. As a result, this activity is currently listed at a reduced price.

Who: ⓓ ⓑⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ When: Outdoor: June 22 - 26, STEM: June 29 - July 3 Where: Online Cost: $50 per girl Note: Be sure to update your mailing address and contact email in MyGS before registering. This will ensure your book, T-shirt and patch are mailed to the proper address and your meeting access link is sent the correct email. Mailed items may be delayed due to current shipping circumstances or date of registration. Supplies: After registration is complete, materials list and required Girl Scouts Online Safety Pledge will be available for download in MyGS My Activities. Computer, tablet or smart phone capable of running the virtual meeting is required. Need based device assistance is available. Please complete your registration and reach out to customer service to request a device. Please note that supplies are limited and are provisioned on a first come, first serve basis. A unique Zoom link will be sent to participants on the Friday prior to their first session meeting.

Free Council-wide Camp-In Camp-Out from Home Join other GSSJC families on June 26 from 5 – 8:30 p.m. for our first ever Camp-In Camp-Out! This free, super fun event will include setting up tents and blanket forts, songs and games, a STEM scavenger hunt, at-home versions of campfire dinners and s’mores and some special surprise guests – you won’t want to miss out! Register at gssjc.org/activities.

Join us at camp this summer!

Family Days at Misty Meadows Ranch Families of currently registered girls may bring their Girl Scout and up to four family members to join us for the day at Misty Meadows Ranch for activities such as archery, crafts, hiking and games. We’ll end the day with s’mores and a campfire. Families may choose to add horseback riding for an additional fee. This event includes both lunch and dinner. More dates may be added depending on demand.

Who: ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ When: July 6, July 7, July 8, July 9, July 10, July 13, July 14,

July 15, July 16, July 17 Cost: $45, plus optional add-ons Contact: customerservice@sjgs.org ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors

Me & My SPURS/STARS Girl Scout Day

These half-day equestrian-centered programs offer currently registered SPURS and STARS an opportunity to ride and be around the horses at Misty Meadows Ranch. Each SPURS or STARS Girl Scout must bring one adult chaperone who will not ride.

This event includes lunch. Registration information will be sent to all currently registered SPURS and STARS by mid-June.

Who: Registered SPURS and STARS When: July 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26 Cost: $40/girl, $10/adult Contact: customerservice@sjgs.org

June/July 2020 l The Golden Link 13

Activities

General Activities GSLI with AT&T (virtual event)

AT&T is a Fortune 10 company and world leader in communications, media and entertainment, and technology, serving millions of consumers and businesses globally. AT&T welcomes Girl Scouts to participate in a virtual Girl Scout Leadership Institute/Girls in Future Technologies Day (G.I.F.T. Day). The topic will be focused on “Seeing is Believing” and will focus on how thoughts and ideas coupled with actions turn into places and things. We will focus on how creative thoughts + design = construction. Girls will attend virtual sessions which will include panels with women in technology careers and keynote presentations.

Who: ⓢⓐ Where: Online When: June 26, 10 a.m. – noon Cost: $5/girl Contact: Megan Dodd, mdodd@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209

Health and Safety Weekend Mini-Event

Join us for an abbreviated version of our favorite annual event – Health and Safety Weekend! We will be offering select adult sessions on our regularly-scheduled weekend, and then are looking at hosting TWO sessions for girls during the 2020-2021 year. See below for a list of sessions being offered.

Who: Where: When: Cost:

Contact:

Adults (+ older girls for lifeguarding only) Camp Agnes Arnold July 31 – August 2 $75-$175, price varried by level, see online reregistration for more details Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org

Archery Instructor Training: If you want to facilitate archery for your troop, Community, or Region, this is the training for you.

Learn everything you need to know about shooting archery and facilitating girls on how to shoot safely. This session is one day (Saturday or Sunday) and includes lunch.

Canoe Certification Training: This training is needed to take girls canoeing on council camp properties and is for adults only.

Must be able to demonstrate swimming skills Friday night. The entire weekend is required (Friday at 7 p.m. - Sunday at noon).

For an additional $25 fee, participants will need to individually register themselves with the American Canoe Association before the training. This session is Friday evening – Sunday midday and includes lodging, Saturday meals, and Sunday breakfast/lunch.

14 June/July 2020 l The Golden Link

Snap Happy Juniors

Calling all Juniors! The Houston Center of Photography is offering online photography workshops to fulfill the Digital Photographer badge. The workshops will take place in the afternoons on select Sundays in June and July 2020 via the online platform of Zoom. Each session will consist of three weeks with one hour of instruction taking place each week.

For these workshops, an HCP instructor will guide the students through the various steps needed to achieve the badge and the instructor will provide assignments for the Girl Scouts to practice photography skills in between sessions.

Who: When: Format: Cost: Contact:

ⓙ

Session II: July 12, 19 and 26; 2 – 3 p.m.

Online, Zoom $40 (session consists of three Sunday classes) Heather Vandivort at hvandivort@sjgs.org

First Aid/CPR/AED Blended Red Cross Training: This session’s availability is dependent Red Cross safety standards.

This certification allows an adult to serve as a level 1 first aider and covers minor bumps and scrapes up to strokes and heart attacks. Students will be prepared to save a life. Blended Learning means that participants must complete components on their own before the weekend. Information will be emailed to participants at least 1 week before the event with information about how to complete their in-home portion. The in-person portion is a half-day and does not include a meal.

First Aid/CPR/AED Standard Red Cross Training: This session’s availability is dependent Red Cross safety standards. This certification allows an adult to serve as a level 1 first aider and covers minor bumps and scrapes up to strokes and heart attacks. Students will be prepared to save a life. Participants can choose the Full Training option where everything will be done in-person. This session is completely done in person and is all day Saturday; it includes lunch.

Rifle Range Safety: If you want to facilitate shooting for your troop, Community, or Region, this is the training for you. Learn everything you need to know about rifle shooting and facilitating girls on how to shoot safely. This session is Friday evening – Saturday and includes lodging, and Saturday breakfast/lunch.

Lifeguard Training: This certification allows adults or older girls to earn a lifeguarding certification so they can help their troop, Community, Region, or council ensure safety at swimming events. This session is Friday evening – Sunday midday and includes lodging, Saturday meals, and Sunday breakfast/lunch.

ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors

Activities

Health Dr. Girl Scout Virtual Workshop

Calling all Girl Scout Daisies and Brownies to play doctor for a day with the Little Medical School. During this activity, girls will learn the ins-and-outs of what it takes to care for their bodies. Daisies will earn their Gloria petal while Brownies earn their My Best Self badge.

Who: ⓓⓑ When: June 18; 10-11 a.m.

Cost: $13 Contact: Julia Shank, 713-292-0338, jshank@sjgs.org

Pet Vet Virtual Workshop Whether they are cute and cuddly or slimy and scaly, pets are so much fun.

If you hope to have a pet someday, this badge workshop will help you make sure it stays happy and healthy.

Learn all about an animals’ body language, sleeping habits, feeding schedules and more. Brownies will earn the Pets badge with the Little Veterinarian School.

Who: ⓓⓑ When: June 18; 11 a.m. - noon Cost: $13 Contact: Julia Shank, 713-292-0338, jshank@sjgs.org

Highest Awards Virtual Silver Award Training

This virtual webinar training is designed for troop leaders, advisors and parents who are looking to support Cadettes through the Silver Award process. Topics to be covered include project guidelines, submission deadlines, coaching tips and how to navigate pursuing the Silver Award despite the impacts of COVID-19. The webinar will be facilitated by two trainers and will include a PowerPoint presentation and time for Q&A. Who: Adults Where: Online When: July 25, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Cost: $5/person Max.: 50 Contact: Megan Dodd, silveraward@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209

Updated Travel info

All troop and group travel has been suspended until Sept. 7, 2020 and international travel has been suspended until Dec. 31, 2020. If your group plans to travel after this time, please turn in your forms and certificates to travel@sjgs.org for approval.

ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors

Earn a Highest Award!

Bronze. Silver. Gold. These represent the highest honors a Girl Scout can earn. All three awards give you the chance to do big things while supporting an issue you care about. You might plant a community garden at your school or inspire others to eat healthy foods for your Bronze, advocate for animal rights for your Silver, or build a career network that encourages girls to become scientists and engineers for your Gold. Whatever you choose, you’ll inspire others (and yourself). As you earn one of Girl Scouts’ highest awards, you’ll change your corner of the world–and beyond. The possibilities are endless.

Who: ⓙⓒⓢⓐ Learn More: Review the GSSJC project guides for more

information at gssjc.org/highestawards Contact: bronzeaward@sjgs.org, silveraward@sjgs.org

or goldaward@sjgs.org

Online Gold Award Orientation

Gold Award Orientation provides girls and adults with a comprehensive overview of the Gold Award steps and forms, tools for identifying and developing Gold Award projects that fall within the national guidelines and GSSJC’s process for Gold Award applicants. Orientation is required for girls pursuing their Gold Award and has moved online!

The online orientation is broken into sections and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete but does not need to be finished in one sitting. Girls may also refer back to it after it’s been completed. Girls are encouraged to complete one Senior or Ambassador Journey before attending orientation.

Who: ⓢⓐor girls in grades 9 – 12 and adults Where/When: Online Cost: $5/person Contact: Megan Dodd, goldaward@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209

Ready, Set, GOLD! (Virtual Event)

Are you a Senior or Ambassador wondering what it takes to be a Gold Award Girl Scout? If so, this virtual workshop is for you. Learn what makes a Gold Award worthy project, how to navigate the step-by-step process for approval and meet the supporting team of mentors. A panel of recent GSSJC Gold Award Girl Scouts will host a question and answer session and share their tips on developing a successful project. Don't miss this opportunity to discover all the benefits of going Gold.

Who: ⓢⓐ or girls in grades 9 – 12 When: June 29, 2 – 3 p.m.

July 8, 7 – 8 p.m.

Cost: $5/girl Max: 50 Contact: Megan Dodd, goldaward@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209 Note: This workshop is meant as an introduction to the Gold Award process and does NOT replace the required Gold Award Orientation.

June/July 2020 l The Golden Link 15

Activities

Gold Award Celebrations

You are invited to help celebrate the new Gold Award Girl Scouts The Gold Award is the highest award a Girl Scout Senior and Ambassador can achieve, and we are so excited to honor each of these girls who earned their Gold Award between April 1, 2019 and March 31, 2020 at these two special events! Join us as we support and honor our Gold Award Girl Scouts as they take the reins of leadership and create meaningful and lasting change in the world.

Congrats Gold Award Girls!

So proud!

Yea!

Gold Award Parade

You Did It!

First, let's celebrate our Gold Award Girl Scouts with a parade! Gold Award Girl Scouts will be honored by driving through campus in their decorated cars and we need YOU to come support them from the sidelines. Supporters are encouraged to bring posters, pom poms and noise makers to cheer the girls as they drive by! We are very excited to have this unique opportunity to celebrate our honorees in person. Rest assured we will do everything we can to ensure the safety of all in attendance and that all COVID-19 guidelines are followed.

Who: ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐAdults Where: Houston Baptist University, Houston When: July 18, 10 a.m. - noon Cost: Free Contact: Megan Dodd, mdodd@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209

Notes: Registration is required. There is a separate registration for the recipients and their family/friends. Once registered, you will receive a map of the parade and instructions on where to park.

Virtual Gold Award Ceremony

Join us in a virtual ceremony as we award, recognize and honor our Gold Award Girl Scouts. Family, friends, Girl Scouts leaders, Gold Award project advisors and Girl Scouts are invited to join virtually to witness and celebrate our Gold Award Girl Scouts!

Who: ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ Adults Where: GSSJC’s YouTube Channel and social media When:

July 26, 2 p.m.

Cost: Free Contact: Megan Dodd, mdodd@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209 Notes: Registration is not required.

16 June/July 2020 l The Golden Link

ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors

Activities

Sports Green Starlettes Drill Team 2020-2021 If you love to dance, this team is for you. You’ve seen them perform at Rockets’ games, parades and several public events and now it’s your chance to join this award-winning dance team. The Green Starlettes do not require previous dance experience and do not have tryouts. All girls, grades 4-12, who are interested can be a part of the team. The Green Starlettes creates a non-competitive atmosphere for the girls to practice dance techniques, team spirit and valuable leadership skills. We have 11 divisions to choose from, so find one near you. Teams meet once a week to practice for parades and events.

Who: ⓙⓒⓢⓐ Cost: $38/girl Contact: Heather Vandivort at hvandivort@sjgs.org OR

Theresa Alexander at green_starlettes@yahoo.com.

You can also visit greenstarlettes.com for more information.

STEM Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271 We are working to expand virtual STEM offerings and are currently in discussions with our partnered vendors to create workshops that can be done through a virtual setting. Keep an eye on our activity page for new opportunities like: • Board Game Badge Workshop • Digital Game Design Badge Workshop • Computer Expert Badge Workshop • Think Like a Programmer Journey • Fling Flyer Badge Workshop • Brownie Robotics Badge Retreat • Crane Design Badge Workshop • Think Like an Engineer Journey • Home Scientist Badge Workshop • Designing Robots Badge Workshop

Daisy Robotics Workshop

Spend time at Microsoft completing steps toward robotics badges. In this workshop, girls will complete How Robots move by learning what goes into a robot and how they work. They will also complete portions of the What Robots Do and Design a robot badges by exploring how we use robots in daily life and then plan and design a digital robot prototype. How Robots Move badge is included.

Who: When: Where: Cost:

ⓓ

Aug. 1, 1 – 3 p.m.

Microsoft Store-Galleria, Houston $15 (cost covers Girl Scout fees)

ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors

Model Car Badge Workshop

Designing and testing is the name of the game in this workshop where Daisies earn the Model Car Design Challenge badge through this workshop. Girls explore engineering, friction and more when they build and test a model car. Badge is provided to attendees.

Who: When: Where: Cost:

ⓓ

Aug. 15, 9 – 11 a.m.

Idea Lab – Spring Branch $23

Think Like an Engineer Journey

Learn what engineers are and what they do. Girls get the chance to build a fairy house, puff mobile and use critical thinking to span a canyon. Girls will complete all Journey requirements except the Take Action project and will receive the Think Like an Engineer award. Girls will complete the Take Action project and receive the Take Action award on their own.

Who: ⓓ When/Where: Aug. 9, 1 – 3 p.m.; Idea Lab – Pearland Cost: $23

Space Science Explorer Badge Workshop Get ready to blast off on an adventure! Daisies will explore the sun, observe the moon, and meet the stars. Participants can expect hands-on activities and they will receive the badge at the end of the workshop.

Who: ⓓ When: August 1, 9 – 11 a.m.

Where: Idea Lab, Bellaire Cost: $23

Inventor Badge Workshop

Do you ever wonder what it takes to come up with a new kind of phone or a new way to power a lightbulb? This workshop will help you discover how inventors make new things! The best part will be that you get to become an inventor yourself while you discover creative ways to think and experiment. Badge is provided.

Who: When: Where: Cost:

ⓑ

Aug. 1; 9 – 11 a.m.

Idea Lab – Spring Branch $23

Race Car Badge Workshop

Picture Yourself behind the wheel while you test a car of your own construction. You will be challenged to design a car that can speed past the others. Brownies will earn their Race Car Design Challenge badge through this workshop (badge provided).

Who: ⓑ When: Aug. 16, 9 – 11 a.m.

Where: Idea Lab-Pearland or Energy Corridor Cost: $23 June/July 2020 l The Golden Link 17

Activities

Inventor Badge Workshop

Do you ever wonder what it takes to come up with a new kind of phone or a new way to power a lightbulb? This workshop will help you discover how inventors make new things! The best part will be that you get to become an inventor yourself while you discover creative ways to think and experiment.

Badge is provided to attendees.

Who: When: Where: Cost:

ⓑ

Aug. 1; 9 – 11 a.m.

Idea Lab – Spring Branch $23

Brownie Robotics Workshop

Spend time at Microsoft completing steps toward robotics badges. In this workshop, girls will explore how we use robots in daily life and then plan and design a digital robot prototype. They will also share their prototype with others and learn about robotics competitions. Attendees will receive the Showcasing Robots badge.

Who: ⓑ When: Aug. 9, 1 – 3 p.m.

Where: Microsoft Store-Baybrook Mall, Friendswood Cost: $15

Digital Photographer Badge Workshop

It seems like almost every gadget can take a digital photograph, from phones to laptops to (of course) digital cameras. But do you know how to get the most out of your digital device and what it takes to capture an amazing photo? Learn all that and more in this Digital Photographer workshop. Badge is provided to attendees.

Who: Cost: When: Where:

ⓙ

$15 (cost covers Girl Scout fees) Aug. 8 Microsoft Store-Baybrook Mall, Friendswood

Entertainment Technology Badge Workshop

Connect to your favorite entertainment through exploring the technology behind it! Technology isn’t always computers and screens – it is also how things are made and tested. Discover a hands-on approach to technology through constructing an animation, experimenting with centrifugal course and making 3D glasses. All badge steps are completed, badge is provided.

Who: When: Where: Cost:

ⓙ

Aug. 15, noon – 2:15 p.m.

Children’s Museum of Houston $20

18 June/July 2020 l The Golden Link

Activities

Cybersecurity Basics Badge Workshop

Welcome to the world of cybersecurity at this fun day taught by industry professionals! To earn the Cybersecurity Basics badge, Juniors explore how computers send and receive information when sending messages by making binary bracelets. Then, they will discover how sending messages may be open to attack or danger, what protocols are, how to create them and what malware is - all through fun and innovative hands-on methods. Badge is provided.

Who: ⓙ When: Aug. 2, 9 a.m. – noon Where: Idea Lab – Energy Corridor Cost: $23

Think Like a Programmer Journey

Find out how programmers solve problems in this hands-on workshop by addressing everyday problems and trying things our yourself. You will discover computational thinking through tangrams, mad libs and suncatchers while they learn more about algorithms and variables present in cybersecurity. Also, create a personal innovation to discover rapid prototyping. All Journey requirements will be completed except the Take Action project and girls will receive the Think Like a Programmer badge.

Who: When: Where: Cost:

ⓙ

Aug. 9, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Idea Lab-Bellaire $23

Product Designer Badge Workshop

Explore and create innovations in the Children's Museum Maker Annex. You will get the chance to investigate what makes products great, how to improve products already on the market and more. The best part is that you will be able to be an innovator yourself and troubleshoot your solution. All badge steps are completed, badge is provided to attendees.

Who: ⓙ When: Aug. 1, noon – 2:15 p.m.

Where: Children’s Museum of Houston Cost: $20

Digital Movie Maker Badge Workshop Movies tell stories, and this workshop will help you tell your own tale. This is your chance to show others how you see the world while you utilize fun and innovative software and your own videos.

This workshop is intended as a unique and fun way to complete editing processes where girls edit footage to create a movie.

Who: ⓒ When: Aug. 15, 1 – 3 p.m.

Cost: $15 Where: Microsoft Store-Galleria, Houston ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors

Activities

Robotics Competition Season Info.

GSSJC’s robotics teams compete through the international FIRST organization where girls build and code models and robots that compete against other teams in the area.

Competition begins in September and will end between December and March, depending on the level and success of the team. Please review the online signup page for detailed information about what girls do during the competition season. Sign-up will open May 1. To learn more about the organization GSSJC competes through, visit firstinspires.org. For full information (especially if you are new to competitive robots), view GSSJC Robotics Competition Team Essentials, available on the GSSJC forms page.

Who: ⓓ ⓑⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ Cost: Price varies by level Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271 Important Dates: • Sign up now through Aug. 14 – **Signing up toward the end of the sign-up period leaves placement subject to available team spots which may not be in your geographic area.** • Now through July 31– Teams, once full, may begin meeting on a TBD-by-team schedule over the summer. Location, day of week, and time of meetings are set by coaches and will vary by team.

• Aug. 1 – Aug. 14 Team registration will be wrapping up (registration ends Aug. 4) and teams will be finalized and start (if they have not already) meeting in early August.

•

Aug. 1 FIRST launches the 2020-2021 season- Team Meetings Teams meet weekly; location, day of week, and time of meetings are set by coaches and will vary by team.

Teams may meet less often over the summer if the team is formed early. Girls and parents should expect that teams will meet at least once a week (typically on a weekend) for 2-4 hours depending on the level.

• Expo and Informational: available soon, held virtually in June • Coach Training: available soon, held virtually in late June

or early August • End of Season TBD by level and team success. If teams do not advance beyond the first round of competition, seasons typically end as follows: FLL Jr.: Dec-Jan, FLL: Dec-Feb, FTC: Feb-Mar • Team Formation: Teams are formed via: a) girls sign up individually and are placed based on level and geographic location, b) girls in a GSSJC Community come together into one team, c) girls in a troop sign up as a team, d) a team from the previous season returns in full or partially (see GSSJC Robotics Competition Team Essentials available on the GSSJC forms page - for full details on team formation).

Forensics Weekend Girl Planning Board

Are you interested in helping plan and facilitate Forensics Weekend? Apply to be on the Girl Planning Board. We are excited you are considering this step for in your girl leadership experience. Applications are now available and are due by July 17.

Who: ⓒⓢⓐ When: TBD (Aug.-Nov.) planning dates and December camp weekend Where: Girl Scout Center, Houston and Casa Mare, Seabrook Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org

Adult Trainings ate!

the d e v a S

Fall Volunteer Conference November 13 – 15

The Fall Volunteer Conference (tentatively scheduled at Camp Agnes Arnold) is a great way for new and seasoned leaders to get ideas for troop meetings and outdoor program. It’s a fun way for new leaders to see and experience camp and to network with troop leaders from across the Council. An experienced leader is sure to find new and creative ways to enhance skills. Volunteers and community partners offer a wide range of workshop in areas such as troop programming, behavior management, the outdoors, technology, STEM and Girl Scout fundamentals. Volunteers experience a weekend of Girl Scout camp fun, learning, networking and inspiration! ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors

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Columns

Summer Train-In Online!

Saturday, July 18

Cost: $6 per class Place: Online Register: The courses require that you register through MYGS for each specific course(s). Once registered, you will receive an email with the webinar invite, instructions and appropriate resources.

Track 1

Daisy Brownie Program Leadership Training – This training is designed for leaders who are NEW to the troop leadership role working with girls in grades K-3. Leaders will learn how to work with girls in a girl-led, learning by doing environment that will incorporate Girl Scout program from two levels – Daisy and Brownie. Participants can see the progression in characteristics of each age group and learn about earned awards, troop government, field trip and service project readiness, ceremonies and more with the use of available program resources. This course includes information about the National Program Portfolio presented in “Getting Started with Girl Guides and Journeys.”

Volunteer Toolkit – Daisy (NEW) This course will feature a demonstration of the Volunteer Toolkit (VTK) including creating a year plan, accessing the Journey and badge resources, adding to the calendar through activities, planning meetings for Daisies. A discussion of how troops are using VTK will finish out the time.

Volunteer Toolkit – Brownie (NEW) This course will feature a demonstration of the Volunteer Toolkit (VTK) including creating a year plan, accessing the Journey and badge resources, adding to the calendar through activities, planning meetings for Brownies. A discussion of how troops are using VTK will finish out the time.

Track 2

Volunteer Toolkit – Junior (NEW) This course will feature a demonstration of the Volunteer Toolkit (VTK) including creating a year plan, accessing the Journey and badge resources, adding to the calendar through activities, planning meetings for Girl Scout Juniors. A discussion of how troops are using VTK will finish out the time. If you are able, bring an electronic device so you can access your toolkit during the demo.

Volunteer Toolkit – Multi-Level (NEW) This course will feature a demonstration of the Volunteer Toolkit (VTK) including creating a year plan, accessing the Journey and badge resources, adding to the calendar through activities, planning meetings for Daisies-Juniors. A discussion of how troops are using VTK will finish out the time.

Partnering with Juniors – Adults new to the Junior leadership role are encouraged to attend this course. This course designated to provide specifics on working with girls in grades 4-5. It includes various forms of troop government, characteristics of the girls, the girl/adult partnership, tips on girl planning and more. Information on the National Program Portfolio is presented in the course Getting Started with the Girls Guides and Journeys and is NOT included.

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Track 3

Partnering with Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors – This training is highly recommended for NEW leaders working with Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors program levels or leaders moving to Cadette leadership. Leaders will learn their role as an advisor to girls who are in grades 6-12. Gain insight on how girls this age think, guide them in girl planning and when to step back so girls can develop leadership skills. Discover ways to become teen savvy, how to talk to girls about the 3T’s (Touchy Teen Topics) and the importance of maintaining confidentiality with troop members. NOTE: Information on the National Program Portfolio is presented in the course Getting Started with the Girls Guides and Journeys. Information on earning the Silver Award is now in a separate course and is NOT included.

Mean Chicks, Cliques and Dirty Tricks Revisited – Let’s face it, the girl world is tough. Cliques, snobs, Facebook stalkers, Twitter twits, Instagram photos/videos, gossip, name-calling, showing off and cyberbullying are issues girls face today. Learn real world tips and strategies to deal with these mean girls and bullies. This course is designed for you as the adult to learn strategies to take back to train your girls to take action.

Make the World a Better Place – How can service become more than parents picking up canned goods to donate? Learn to inspire girls to plan meaningful service projects, guide them to discover the root cause of an issue and how to elevate simple service to a take action project. Walk away with a better understanding of the difference between a service project and a take action project and ideas for service for all Girl Scout levels.

Track 1

Track 2

Daisy/Brownie Program Leadership Training 8:30 a.m. – noon

Volunteer Toolkit Junior 9 – 10 a.m.

Volunteer Toolkit Multilevel 11 a.m. – noon

BREAK Volunteer Toolkit - Daisy 1 – 2 p.m.

Volunteer Toolkit Brownie 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.

BREAK Partnering with Juniors 1 – 3 p.m.

Track 3

Partnering with Cads/Srs/Ambs 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Mean Chick, Cliques & Dirty Tricks Revisited 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

BREAK Make the World a Better Place 1:30 – 3 p.m.

Columns

The Service Team Training Day is still on– with a virtual flare!

Due to guidelines in place by the council office for the month of June, the Saturday training day required a change in plans. The following course will be offered in standalone virtual training format.

Fee: $6 per course Place: Online Register: The courses require that you register through MYGS for

each specific course(s). Once registered, you will

receive an email with the webinar invite, instructions and

appropriate resources.

Track 1

Event Basics – Learn to prepare yourself in the planning and implementation of successful events that are NOT camping or overnight. Required for any volunteer serving in the event chair role. This course is a pre-requisite to Weekend Event Planning.

Renewal Specialist – Your role as renewal specialist is all about keeping your volunteers and girls engaged in troop program. Developing a strategy for your community to make Early Bird and On-Time renewal registration meet the needs of the families and members is a key component of the role.

Roster Specialist – This course is designed for the Community roster specialist role. Topics include supporting the Community leadership team and service team members with accurate information provided by the Looker platform and how the role interacts with the duties of other service team members.

Track 2

Community/Region Treasurer – Training for the Community or Region treasurer. Topics include budgeting, financial reporting and management of the Community or Region finances. This course is not suitable for volunteers in the role of troop treasurer.

Community Financial Specialist – Required training for the role of Community financial specialist. Topics include educating volunteer in council financial guidelines and online submission of the registration of bank account (Online Community) and annual troop/group financial report (VTK).

The Many Faces of Mentoring – Explore the different mentoring programs and help you assess which one will be the most effective in your Community. Required for the mentoring team lead.

Thanks a Million – This course will provide you with information on the council and national recognitions and responsibilities of the Community and Region adult recognitions committee. Designed for the Community or Region recognition team roles.

Courses - Track 1 Courses - Track 2 Courses - Track 3 Event Basics 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.

BREAK

Join us online!

Track 3

Renewal Specialist 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Roster Specialist 2 – 3:30 p.m.

Community/Region Treasurer 10 a.m. – noon BREAK

Community Financial Specialist 1–3 p.m.

The Many Faces of Mentoring 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.

BREAK

Thanks a Million 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.

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Success to Significance

Join us at our 10th annual Success to Significance Luncheon. On October 15, we will celebrate those who exemplify the values of Girl Scouting and help raise tomorrow’s generation of women leaders. We are excited to be joined

by Girl Scout Alumnae and dedicated healthcare professional, Doctor Jennifer Arnold. Dr. Arnold is a neonatologist and Medical Director of the Simulation Center at John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. She has received countless awards for her work in medical education and has appeared on multiple television programs including the docu-drama The Little Couple, Oprah and Doctor Oz among many others.

We are excited to welcome her as this year’s keynote speaker of Success to Significance as she is the definition of what it means to fight the odds and become a true change maker of tomorrow.

To join us at Success to Significance, visit gssjc.org/s2s or contact Princess Zambrano at pzambrano@sjgs.org or 713-292-0358.

Philanthropy

Emerald Circle Scholarships For Gold Award Girl Scouts

The Emerald Circle is GSSJC's membershipbased, scholarship selection committee established in 1992. Since its establishment, it has awarded 536 scholarships totaling $720,000 to Girl Scouts who have earned the Gold Award.

This year, The Emerald Circle awarded $27,000 to 22 seniors.

Recipients were required to have completed their Gold Award before applying, and to submit a scholarship application that includes a resume, essay and description of their Gold Award project.

2020 Emerald Circle scholarship recipients are: • The Judy Kunkel Memorial Scholarship for $3,000 presented in memory of Judy, a longtime Girl Scout volunteer and professional was awarded to: Abigail Plunkett, who was also a Goodykoontz Scholar • The Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation Scholarship for $2,500 honoring the Alkeks, Texas philanthropists involved in various community issues, especially in support of education, was awarded to: Maria Buendia, also a Goodykoontz Scholar • The Robert H. and Joanne M. Williams Family Scholarship for $2,000, funded since 2002 by a GSSJC family with three daughters, all of whom earned the Gold Award, was awarded to: Grace Hornung, also a Goodykoontz Scholar • The Emerald Circle Gold Award Scholarship for $1,500 was awarded to: Katherine Clark, also a Goodykoontz Scholar The Emerald Circle Gold Award Scholarship for $1,000 were presented to: Emma Chestnut - Goodykoontz Scholar Chloe Spiller - Goodykoontz Scholar Mireille Murphy Caroline Moren Chelsea Aldrich Caetlin Ometzburger Himadri Gunarathna Arkadia Berdich Rania Banerjee Maia Catterall Abigail Shelby Jordan Scott Rachel Zararevicz D’Yani Gates Jamie Liang Ashley Lane Ellen Crawford Hannah Timmreck

Six recipients designated as Goodykoontz Scholars were recipients whose Gold Award projects exemplify the Girl Scout Promise and Law. The designation honors lifetime Girl Scout Dorothy Goodykoontz, founder and past president of The Emerald Circle.

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Columns

Calling All Graduates Girl Scouts helps girls develop their full potential and builds a positive foundation for girls to develop friendships and memories that can last a lifetime. If your girls are looking for other ways to stay involved in Girl Scouting and get to know other alums in the area, they can join the Alumnae Association. Alums are invited to events, go on trips together, complete service projects and so much more. You can even take part in joining one of our pre-existing special interest groups (or create your own) where you will be surrounded with phenomenal leaders – like you!

The best part? It is completely free! Head over to the Girl Scouts of USA’s alums section to read and learn about how other alums leveraged their experience beyond Girl Scouts.

Congratulations to all graduating high school seniors–we cannot wait to see what you do next.

Make Your Mark at Camp!

Honor Your Special Girl Scout or Troop

Looking for a unique gift for the Girl Scout in your life? Pavers and plaques are a great way to commemorate an important milestone, like earning the Gold Award, your troop's graduation or to celebrate a member’s years in Girl Scouting.

All proceeds from the pavers and plaques will continue the legacy of Girl Scouting through the GSSJC Endowment Fund. This means more camping, field trips and leadership opportunities can be provided for girls who need the extra support. For more information, visit gssjc.org/donate or call 713-292-0346.

Thank You, GSSJC Donors!

Jan. 1 –Feb. 29, 2020

$100,000 – $499,999 Silver The George Foundation

Karen and Ken Soh Women Executives of Houston

$25,000-$49,999 Ambassador Standard Industries

$250-$999 - Brownie BP Energy Company Bright Funds Kay Champiomont Chevron Phillips Chemical Company Rudy T. and M. Susanne Dismuke Charitable Fund Claudia W. Hayslip Elizabeth G. Henzler Hines Interests Limited Partnership Honeywell Foundation Valerie Jalufka David Kreidler & Kenneth Wiesehuegel Charitable Fund Byrd Larberg Katherine P. Lavery Mary H. Lee Kristy Nagel Safeway Inc. Margaret S. Sheriff Barbara S. Sklar Katherine M. Tamer Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey United Way of Midland County

$10,000-$24,999 - Senior Harry E. Bovay Jr. Foundation George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation $5,000-$9,999 - Cadette Mary Louise Dobson Foundation Gulf Coast Medical Foundation Patty and Randy Keys Michelle and Joseph Raab $1,000-$4,999 - Junior Albemarle Foundation BASF Corporation Roberto J. Bayardo Meg Britton Darcie Durham Girl Scouts of the USA Doris E. Hill K. Daniel and Delores James Hinkle Corrie B. Jenkins Bette B. Lehmberg Laurie Markoe

For any questions about the donor list, contact Suzanne Boak at 713-292-0273 or sboak@gssjc.org. Honorariums listed are $25 and above.

Wells Fargo Claire Williams Memorials In Memory of Cindy Dillon Candy L. Simons In Memory of Dorothy Goodykoontz Barbara S. Barnes Richard Bauman Gena Blanchard Marlene M. Edwards FROSCH Travel Martha Gehring Hines Interests Limited Partnership Augusta Levine Sherry & Izzy Mendenhall Kathy Pearson Linda W. Petersen Karen P. Saenz Margaret S. Sheriff Barbara, Kathy & Allison Sklar Kathy Skrehart Katherine M. Tamer Carol G. Victory Sara L. Walker Martha I. Whitsel Claudia B. Wilkinson In Memory of Judy Kunkel Kathleen Williford

In Memory of Darlann Rial Laurie Markoe

In Honor of Donna Marshall Delores J. Hinkle

In Memory of Elaine Vincent Winnie D. Morris

In Honor of Maria Isabel Martinez Delores J. Hinkle

Honorariums In Honor of Alice Bohlae Delores J. Hinkle

In Honor of April Moncrieff Delores J. Hinkle

In Honor of Pat Bradley Valerie Mogas

In Honor of Steve Richter Delores J. Hinkle

In Honor of Lena Drawhorn Delores J. Hinkle

In Honor of Melanie Rippentrop Delores J. Hinkle

In Honor of Nancy Flatt Delores J. Hinkle

In Honor of Mary Ryder Delores J. Hinkle

In Honor of Jean Janssen Delores J. Hinkle

In Honor of Mary Vitek Delores J. Hinkle

In Honor of Corrie Jenkins Delores J. Hinkle

In Honor of VRC Delores J. Hinkle

In Honor of Debbie Lewis Delores J. Hinkle

In Honor of Genevieve Walls Delores J. Hinkle

In Honor of Yvonne Macik-Hill Harriet Pittman

In Honor of Noreen Wasserman Delores J. Hinkle

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Columns

Camp Agnes Arnold’s Adult Training Center Improvements

Around Camp

Did you know that there is a training facility at Camp Arnold where we train volunteers to be great campers? The Adult Training Center (ATC) building received much-needed maintenance improvements. We replaced aging and damaged exterior siding and window frames. New leaf guard gutters were installed on the east side of the building to move rainwater away from the ATC. We replaced a sliding glass door with an easier opening French door. Trainers now have a lockable storage area to secure their equipment. New wider doors were added inside the building as well as an ADA-compliant bathroom. This bathroom makes it easier for someone in a wheelchair, for example, to use. The door is wider. The light switch plates and sink are lower. Metal grab bars are along the wall near the toilet to prevent falls. The kitchen received new countertops and bottom kickboards. The ATC also has an outdoor training unit built just like the camping unit you’ve probably stayed in. New volunteers get handson experience in tent units and cooking in a kitchen shelter.

We replaced damaged wood in a bathroom, replaced toilet partitions, added new countertops and painted the building.

A new large cabinet was built at the kitchen shelter. We hope new volunteers enjoy the updates to the ATC and have a great learning experience there.

What is the name of the oldest horse in our herd?

Oakie is a 33-year-old ure T rivia t American a N Quarter Horse Gelding. Oakie’s age in human years would be 93. Oakie was previously a high school rodeo horse, and was donated to the council in the fall of 2008. He enjoys Senior Feed and soft peppermints when it’s a special occasion. His favorite thing to do is trail ride on a sunny day. Oakie is special to many girls because they meet him for the first time as a Brownie in Love Hug and Groom, and as they move up to Juniors he is usually the first one they get to ride. Oakie has carried many different types of riders from riders with disabilities to nervous first-time riders and even advanced riders learning to trot and canter. He is about to shed his furry coat and will need lots of grooming time from campers.

Here’s a question for next time: Since we’ve focused on our oldest horse in the herd, let’s trot around Misty Meadows Ranch for a bit.

What is the name of the smallest horse in our herd?

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Spurs Advisory Board President Erin S. with Oakie.

Lilly R. with a Oakie dressed as a unicorn.

Emme R. riding Oakie.

Send brooms to camp as a great service project

One of the most successful service projects at camp has been receiving donated brooms for our council camps. It may not seem like much but when you multiply the number of camps times the units needing brooms it’s a lot!

Nearly 800, not counting lodges, pools, kitchen shelters and shower buildings. WOW! If your troop would like to donate some brooms we are always glad to receive them. Smaller brooms (not push brooms, but the corn variety) which are easier to handle by girls are especially needed since they are the primary users. You may bring them with you when you come to camp or drop them off at the 3110 Southwest Freeway office when it is safe to do so. We’ll see that they get where they are needed. It makes a great service project, so keep those brooms coming – and thanks a million!

Special Feature

Girl Scouts Supporting the Community

Troop #21722 donated cookies to the Houston Food Bank.

Troop #127118 donated to Sheriff's Office/Night Shift.

Troop #146021 donated cookies to Ben Taub Hospital.

Troop #2240 donated cookies to the nurses at Woodland Heights hospital in Lufkin.

Troop #156077 donated cookies to a grocery store in Palacios.

Troop #109096 donated cookies to a fire station.

Troop #132036 donated 60 packages of cookies to the Baytown testing site for all the healthcare and first responder workers.

Troop #109123 donated cookies to the nutrition staff who continues to feed families daily during the pandemic.

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Special Feature Troop #12293 donated cookies to Heritage Trace.

Troop #152097 held a snack and thank you card drive for Memorial Hermann staff.

Troop #133107 donated to Sunset Methodist Food Bank.

Troop #109117 delivered cookies to Houston Methodist Hospital Willowbrook.

Amber D. and Aubrey D. of Troop #29062 donated five cases of cookies to the Fort Bend Sheriff's Department.

Troop #149039 donated cookies to the VA Hospital, Memorial Hermann Hospital and Autumn Leaves Memory Care.

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Special Feature Troop #111016 donated 30 packages to the Willowbrook Methodist Labor and Delivery Department.

Natalia R. donated Girl Scout Cookies to a local Kroger store manager on behalf of her Troop #151016.

Troop #129027 donated cookies to Fort Bend Sheriff 's Department, Willowfork Fire Department, Kroger’s Pharmacy, Katy Fire Department and Katy Police Department.

Troop #143187 donated cookies to the Friendswood Fire Department.

Troop #112102 donated cookies to Cy-Fair Fire Station #10.

Troop #17642 donated cookies to a local retirement community care givers. The girls had a chance to say thank you to the people that take care of the seniors in our community.

Troop #104137 had fun brightening a few people’s day. They got to thank community members for taking care of us during such an unimaginable time.

Troop #144127 donated cookies to West Brazos EMS.

Isabelle C. of Troop #127012 donated cookies to Houston Fire Station 59. The troop also delivered to Memorial Hermann ER at Memorial City.

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Special Feature

Troop #28263 recently participated in a service project that they planned and executed while adhering to social distancing. They contacted Shared Dreams, an organization that supports FBISD, and created gift bags for 13 call center employees. Each girl decorated bags and delivered them around Houston.

Troop #117055 delivered 120 packages of cookies to the volunteers at the Atascocita Volunteer Fire Department.

Troop #143187 donated three cases to the healthcare workers at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic in Pasadena.

Troop #24233 donated five cases to the Oak Forest Kroger. One of their former employees passed away just before the new year and he was also a family friend to one of the girls in the troop. The cookies were donated in his memory.

His mother joined them for the presentation and the employees were very touched and extremely grateful for the cookies.

Troop #114168 has been busy delivering cookies to people in the community.

Troop #111085 donated 60 packages of cookies to HCA Houston Healthcare North Cypress.

Troop #123009 donated 74 boxes of Girl Scout Cookies to the Pearland Neighborhood Center.

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Special Feature Troop #114009 and a sister troop donated 100 packages of Girl Scout Cookies to Kuehnle Elementary for teacher appreciation week.

Troop #114011 delivered cookies to Klein ISD Police Department at the food drive being held by Klein ISD Nurses.

Troop #118102 made cookie donations to the Montgomery County Precinct 3 constables.

Troop #16007 donated cookies and sent out a big thank you to residential trash and recycling collectors, local Amegy Bank employees, a landscaping company and a nurse that works at Memorial Hermann Hospital.

Troop #144115 donated Girl Scout Cookies to the UTMB Angleton campus.

Troop #104156 donated cookies to the HEB in Crockett and Houston County Nursing Home along with some chalk notes.

Troop #127051 delivered cookies to the St. Lukes Medical Clinic.

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Special Feature

Troop #156077 donated 60 packages to Palacios Police Department and the Palacios Community Hospital.

The Ponderosa Fire Department was very appreciative of their donated cookies from Troop#114011.

Troop #126175 donated cookies to Houston Fire Department Station 57. They were happily surprised with their cookies.

Troop #151046 donated cookies to Memorial Hermann Medical Group.

Isabella Q. from Troop #106304 donation to The Woodlands Methodist Hospital.

Raven W. from Troop #27310 donated cookies to Military Moms and Wives of Brazoria County.

Troop #111109 donated to Houston Methodist HospitalWillowbrook.

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Brittani D. of Troop #12734 donated cookies to Fort Bend County Sheriff Department above and the Cloverleaf Fire Department.

Special Feature Troop #147003 donated cookies to a local HEB store.

Troop #129085 donated cookies to Grace Fellowship Church's Serving Our Seniors, where they service 22+ Senior Living facilities and their caregivers. Not only did their troop choose to donate their Eat. Share. Show Communities We Care. cookies, but so did another troop. They also gave the church some kindness stones and a poster a Daisy made for her Using Resources Wisely petal. While it wasn't possible for the troop to get together for the delivery, they are looking forward to visiting with the Grace Fellowship leadership once quarantine restrictions are lifted.

Troop #112115 donated Girl Scout Cookies to You Belong Food Pantry in Houston.

Troop #106266 donated five cases of cookies to Northwest Hospital.

Isabella Q. from Troop #106305 dropped off Girl Scout Cookies to two fire stations.

Troops #127051 delivered Girl Scouts Cookies to Kroger in their area.

Troop #7368 donated 37 packages of cookies to HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake, and another 37 packages to their local Kroger store, along with thank you notes and signs.

Troop #117055 donated 10 cases of cookies to Humble ISD Child Nutrition employees and other staff helping feed meals to children, including coaches and officers.

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Special Feature

Troop #13018 donated cookies to a local hospital.

Troop #151046 donated cookies.

Troop #151046 donated cookies to Methodist Hospital.

Troop #152007 used troop funds to donate 22 packages of cookies to the nurse case managers at MD Anderson.

Troop #107115 donated 10 cases of cookies to HEB 722 in Magnolia.

Troop #17066 donated cookies to Memorial Hermann Care Center.

Troop #114011 donated cookies to Methodist Willowbrook Hospital's ICU staff.

Troop #147041 donated cookies to The Medallion Assisted Living Facility.

Troop #139012 donated cookies to Houston Methodist Clear Lake.

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Special Feature Troop #143015 made nurse survival kits for a local nursing facility they regularly volunteer for in their community. With the help of their troop leaders, the girls donated a variety of snacks, soups, herbal tea, lip balm and even made cloth masks for all 45 Nurses and CNAs at the facility.

They also made cards and donated cookies for the residents.

Troop #120126 donated cookies to Methodist Hospital-Willowbrook.

Troop #24472 donated cookies for Gallery Furniture to use in their community food distribution program. Mattress Mac purchased another 200 packages from the troop upon their delivery.

Troop #157129 donated cookies to Memorial Hermann Hospital - TMC Environmental.

Troop #134007 donated cookies to The Bridge over Trouble Water in Pasadena, a shelter for women and their children.

Troop #129118 donated cookies to The Legacy at Falcon Point.

Troop #113103 donated cookies to HEB, PetsMart, Lowe's and Home Depot.

Troop #158131 donated cookies to the Houston ISD Police Department.

Troop #7721 donated to Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital in Nassau Bay.

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Special Feature Troop #106348 donated Girl Scout Cookies to the Kroger on Cypress Creek Parkway.

Troop #110128 delivered cookies to the PHI Air Med3 unit in Victoria.

Troops #106005 and #106198 donated 16 cases of Girl Scout Cookies to Methodist Willowbrook Hospital and 32 cases to Harris County Jail Downtown, eight cases to our local Kroger on Treaschwig and eight cases to Memorial Hermann Hospital in The Woodlands.

Girl Scout Cookies were donated to Feeding the Frontlines, a nonprofit started by Sarah Watson to feed first responders in Houston.

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Troop #123029 delivered cookies to Houston Methodist Hospital COVID-19 units and the ER. The boxes were stuffed with cookies and homemade cards for the hospital staff.

Troop #153062 donated cookies to Texas Children's Hospital's Wallace Tower cancer unit. Troop friend Audrey McKim is the child play coordinator and was gracious enough to deliver the cookies to the Oncology medical staff.

Special Feature

Troop #24988 donated Girl Scout Cookies to local heroes.

Troop #26045 donated Girl Scout Cookies to the University of Texas Medical Branch as well as the UTMB testing center on Harborside. They also donated two case to Shriners Hospital in Galveston and to Kroger employees and chalked the walk at many first responders houses.

Troop #113103 handed out Girl Scout Cookies to the trash collectors with Waste Corporation of Texas.

Troop #13116 donated Girl Scout Coookies to Modica Bro’s Store.

Since Bronwynn wasn’t able to sell all of her 800 cookie goal, she decided to donate the rest to the Houston Food Bank.

Troop #11704 donated five cases of Girl Scout Cookies to HCA Kingwood Hospital.

Troop #119027 donated Girl Scout Cookies with thank you cards made by the girls to the cafeteria workers who have been giving meals to students of Aldine.

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