Many of my friends have asked, "Why am I still a Girl Scout?" Here are my top 10 reasons...

 

1. I still get to sell Girl Scout cookies!

            Girl Scout cookies remain an anticipated treat every year and I get the chance to see people's faces light up when I hand them a box of cookies.

 

2. I can make my Girl Scouting experience my own.

            Girl Scouts isn't what it used to be. You don't have to be in a troop to be a Girl Scout but there are many pathways that a girl can cho ose from to get involved. I'm a PEG (a postal express Girl Scout), I get all of my information about Girl Scouts through mail or e-mail and don't have to attend troop meetings. You can be a Girl Scout by participating in Destinations or camping or Urban Girl Scouts (for girls who don't have a troop in their area) , whatever works best for you!

 

3. I get to learn life skills.

           Girl Scouts teaches me things that will be useful forever. From owning my own business, to cooking, to learning to be more creative, Girl Scouts always gives girls the opportunity to explore their interests, no matter what they might be.

 

4. Community Service

          Through the Gold Award (more on that later) and programs throughout the year and for adults there's Spectrum which gives you numerous opportunities to volunteer, there are always chances to volunteer. Community service is something that doesn't need to be enforced but it's in the nature of Girl Scouting; it's just something you do.

 

5. Networking

          Since I am getting older, I am beginning to see the importance of meeting different leaders, women, adults, and other girls. There is so much to learn and gain from others.

 

6. Friendships

         This kind of is on the same note as networking, but I've met so many people that I wouldn't have met if not for Girl Scouts and I have gained so many friends. When I was in a troop, this allowed me to stay connected with girls that I had known forever and we continued to grow through the changes of middle school and high school. 

 

7. Awards/Scholarships

        Because I am in the college process this is really important to me. Girl Scouts is going on its 100th year, it's a respected organization and colleges will recognize a girl's commitment and achievements in Girl Scouting. The Gold Award is the most prestigious award in Girl Scouting but there are so many other opportunities as well for a girl to excel. 

 

8. Opportunities

       Sure Girl Scouts might be famous for their cookies, but there are so many events, and programs for girls to participate in as well. Go see for yourself!  http://www.girlscoutsem.org/

 

9. Leadership

       Observing my troop leaders and volunteers and those who work for Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri, I believe I've learned what it takes to be a leader. Not only did I observe but I've learned by earning badges and selling cookies too. 

 

10. Empowerment

       When I was a kid I heard a lot about Juliette Low, congress women, doctors, and leaders that were all Girl Scouts. Now, when I am in a meeting or a function where Girl Scouts are present I am reminded of these important women and I feel proud that one day we too will accomplish great things.

 

....those are my reasons I am still a Girl Scouts. What are yours?