A Girl Scout leader helps girls in developing the necessary life
skills to become the best they can be. The leader encourages girls to
manage tasks, to challenge themselves and cheers their
accomplishments. Journey resources, The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting
and Program standards, found in Volunteer Essentials and established
by the national organization, are guides for troops in judging and
improving the quality of program for girls. They are intended to help
leaders by indicating practices which experience has shown to be
effective in achieving a well-rounded troop program; a “Troop of the
Most!” Troop program should meet the needs and interests of girls, and
include opportunities for:
- A wide variety of fun activities
- Individual and group participation
- Value development and skill building
- Interaction with troops at the same and different levels.
- Exploration of potential roles of women
- Understanding and appreciation of several cultures other than their own
- Active participation in the community
Some responsibilities and requirements of a troop leader that do not directly touch on program, yet are vital for the troop’s well-being are:
- Recruits troop volunteers—hold parent meetings at least once a year to keep parents informed about program activities and to gain support for the troop
- Registers troop during assigned registration time
- Maintains current troop records
- Manages troop finances
- Participates in the annual cookie program
- Meets membership requirements
- Abides by national and local Girl Scout policies, standards and procedures
- Complete the Leader Prep Series—New Troop Leader Training, Grade Level Training and Troop Money Management
- Maintains knowledge of the troop level program through participation in Girl Scout adult education courses
- Attends and participates in Service Area meetings
Girls and their leaders should work as partners in planning a balance of activities that are girl-led. All girls should take part in service activities or projects. Such activities or projects should be based on the interest of the girls and the needs of the community. For more ideas, programs and activities within Girl Scouts and GSUSA visit girlscoutssoaz.org.
To see requirements, visit the form!
