Girl Scout Council Realignment News

 

Girl Scout Realignment Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is the Girl Scouts realigning councils?

We are reorganizing councils to create the infrastructure necessary to prepare for the future of the Movement. This realignment will result in the optimal impact on leadership development for the largest number of girls and significantly increase the number of volunteers participating in Girl Scouting. We will be making two key changes over the next few years: First, we are revitalizing the Girl Scout program age levels, redefining what leadership means for girls, and updating some activity options. Second, we are offering more impactful experiences and flexible time commitment options for volunteers. We are making these changes nationwide to ensure that Girl Scouting is a full and consistent experience.

2. Why has the Girl Scouts decided to change now?

Girl Scouts of the USA has recently adopted a business strategy to build more strength throughout the Girl Scout Movement. As part of this initiative, councils throughout the country are realigning their boundaries to make the most effective use of our resources and to offer even more program opportunities to even more girls. Here in southeast Louisiana, we will be combining our strengths with our neighbors in Baton Rouge to form a new high-performance Girl Scout council. In this realignment we will offer some of the same programs girls have always enjoyed, and add even more exciting and rewarding opportunities. We are delighted to share this news with you, and we welcome your continued support.

3. How will my daughter's Girl Scout troop be affected?

Your daughter will remain in the same troop she is in, or as always, may choose to join a new troop at the end of the membership year (which is September 30 each year).

The current troop number may change, as there may be duplication of troop numbers. In this case, an additional number will be added to some troops (e.g., Troop 501 becomes 1501).

The most exciting immediate news is that our new council will be pooling volunteer and staff resources. This change will enable us to increase the number of program events offered and the locations we can offer them in, and it will afford all girls the chance to meet more Girl Scouts.

4. How will this affect which camps and properties my daughter attends?

The best news is that we will be able to offer more events, in more locations, and will be able to provide new offerings that give girls the opportunity to meet more friends.

The realigning councils manage properties that are available for troop camping and many other activities throughout the year. Each camp has a number of unique features, and we anticipate that troops will now have the opportunity to enjoy a greater variety of camping experiences. Because our first priority will be the smooth transition of members and operations, all properties will be reviewed at a later time to determine the most appropriate use of resources. Factors such as the conditions of the facilities, finances, location, and program options are used to make property decisions.

5. Where will meetings and trainings be held?

The practice of conducting trainings at various locations throughout the council jurisdiction will continue. New opportunites in different locations, online workshops and services, and more, will be enhanced.

In preparation for the realignment, our Girl Scout councils have been meeting to determine the best practices we currently have and to think even more broadly to create the optimal services and programs for our new council. Every aspect of service to girl and adult members is being examined and discussed. All input from girls, volunteers, and staff is being considered. Decisions will be made in the best interest of all concerned. The new council will depend on the valued contributions of adult volunteers.

6. Where do we now go to purchase Girl Scout items?

Until the councils are combined and realignment is complete in 2008, the current Girl Scout Shop locations will remain the same. Many decisions are in the planning stages, and the good news is we anticipated that there will be multiple revitalized Girl Scout Shops throughout the jurisdiction. Additionally, the our council plans to offer shopping online.