As a volunteer, Girl Scout training is one of the many resources available to you. Whatever your Girl Scout role, you help bring Girl Scouting to the girls in our council, and are vital to the success of the organization.
Training will help you gain skills and confidence to meet your volunteer responsibilities, and help you have an interesting and exciting Girl Scout experience. You may find our training useful in your personal and professional life as well!
Volunteer Development Program
Learning opportunities are organized through the Volunteer Development Program (VDP). The VDP provides courses that are appropriate for volunteers at all levels of experience.
Courses offered through the VDP are listed in the GSEM Course Catalog published in the winter and summer:
- Equip Leaders, Co-leaders and Assistant Leaders with the information and resources needed to successfully manage a troop/group.
- Provide skills training.
- Offer enrichment opportunities.
- Help meet safety criteria required for specific activities.
Resources to help you to become the best Girl Scout volunteer you can be include:
- Introduction to Girl Scouting -- this online course will give you an overview of Girl Scouts.
- Become a Learning Facilitator -- you can help other volunteers learn about Girl Scouting! Individuals interested in becoming a learning facilitator must complete a Trainer Application and attend a series of two job orientation courses. Learning Facilitator candidates then co-train with an experienced facilitator who serves as their mentor.
- Additional Courses are sometimes scheduled after the GSEM Course Catalog has been printed. Check here to find the latest additions.
- Online/Home Study Courses are available through the council Web site and from district home study coordinators and district training managers.
- Financial Assistance -- registered adult Girl Scout volunteers can receive assistance funds to attend educational and/or personal enrichment opportunities.
Course Registration
Complete registration information can be found in the GSEM Course Catalog
Online registration is available for select courses:
- Enter the Members-Only section of the GSEM Web site, click on Register for Programs/Training. In the Activity drop down menu, select Training Course.
Mail registration is also available for ALL courses.
Courses are taught by trained volunteers. Learning opportunities are provided through the generous support of the corporate community, individuals and the United Way of Greater St. Louis, as well as the council product sale activities.
**IMPORTANT INFORMATION**
If you are seeking certification to obtain remaining VDP Keys, NOW is the time to register for those needed courses. The current certifications will be retired after the spring of 2010.