Girl Scouts of the USA

Girl Scouts of the USA. Founded by Juliette Gordon Low in Savannah, Georgia, it is the preeminent leadership development organization for girls in the United States. As a member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, it empowers millions of young people through experiential learning, outdoor adventure, and community service. The organization is renowned for its iconic Girl Scout Cookies sales program and its diverse, age-specific programming that fosters courage, confidence, and character.

History

Inspired by a meeting with Robert Baden-Powell, founder of the Scouting movement, and the work of the Girl Guides in the United Kingdom, Juliette Gordon Low established the first troop on March 12, 1912. The movement expanded rapidly, with early troops forming in locations like Washington, D.C. and New York City. The organization was incorporated in 1915 as the Girl Scouts, Inc., and received a congressional charter in 1950. Key historical figures include first national president Lou Henry Hoover, wife of President Herbert Hoover, and Louise A. Wood, who served as national executive director. Throughout the 20th century, it adapted to societal changes, integrating troops following the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education decision and creating new programs like the Girl Scout Senior level.

Organization and structure

The national headquarters is located in New York City, with a second major program center at the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace in Savannah, Georgia. Governance is provided by a National Board of Directors and a National Council, which meets triennially. The organization is decentralized into over 100 local councils, such as the Girl Scouts of Greater New York and Girl Scouts of Northern California, which manage camps, program delivery, and volunteer support. Key partners include the United Way of America and the U.S. Forest Service. Adult leadership roles are filled by volunteers, supported by professional staff like the Chief Executive Officer.

Programs and activities

The core program is divided into age levels: Daisies, Brownies, Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors. Central to the experience is the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, focused on three keys: Discover, Connect, and Take Action. Iconic activities include selling Girl Scout Cookies, an annual fundraiser that teaches business skills, and extensive outdoor programming at properties like the Edith Macy Conference Center. Girls pursue badges in fields ranging from science and technology to arts and civic engagement, and can earn the highest award, the Girl Scout Gold Award, comparable to the Eagle Scout rank.

Insignia and uniforms

Uniforms have evolved from the original blue serge to the contemporary mix-and-match collection, with each age level having distinct insignia. The iconic Girl Scout trefoil logo is a globally recognized symbol. Members wear earned badges, pins, and patches, including the Girl Scout Promise center, membership stars, and insignia for the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. Special uniforms are worn for formal events like the National Council Session. The Girl Scout Silver Award and Girl Scout Gold Award are denoted by special pins and recognitions.

Cultural impact and controversies

The organization is an ingrained part of American culture, celebrated by figures from Michelle Obama to Sandra Day O'Connor. Its alumni, known as Girl Scout alumnae, include prominent leaders like Hillary Clinton and Taylor Swift. The annual cookie sale is a major cultural phenomenon, supporting local councils. Controversies have included debates over transgender membership policies, religious concerns from groups like the Southern Baptist Convention, and legal battles over trademark protection for its cookies. It has also faced internal discussions regarding program modernization and maintaining relevance in the 21st century.

Category:Youth organizations in the United States Category:Scouting and guiding in the United States Category:Organizations based in New York City Category:1912 establishments in Georgia (U.S. state)