There is no greater investment than in the next generation
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri has raised $50 million in support of the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign!
We are excited about all that this campaign is making possible for our girls – capital improvements at our three camp properties; continuation and expansion of current programming as well as innovative new programming; scholarship assistance so that every girl has access to the Girl Scout leadership experience; and a significant investment in our endowment ensuring that Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri will be serving girls in our region for generations to come! Thank you to everyone who has supported this campaign with time, talent and treasure! We are forever grateful for your investment.
Program and Project Updates Made Possible by the Her Future is Our Future Campaign
2024 Program and Project Updates 
Equestrian Center Renovation
Campers participating in the Camp Cedarledge equestrian program this summer got to be some of the first Girl Scouts to enjoy recent improvements made to the Equestrian Center. The barn received new siding, trim and painting as well as new gutters, downspouts, and snow rails. The sawdust storage bin was replaced with a new concrete bin that resembles a large LEGO structure. Fans and new lighting fixtures with LED bulbs are welcome enhancements to the barn especially for Wrangler staff when wrapping up the program day, getting the horses settled for the night and preparing for the next day.
The project also included fencing replacement with new wooden pipe and coated wire mesh fencing around various paddocks. Six acres of pasture on the rolling hillside to the east of the barn and Walker Arena were cleared of vegetation and trees and replanted. This improvement provides a wide-open space for the pasture to grow and develop. New fencing and gates that created a sick bay and gathering area for the horses were also installed.
This fall, planning will begin on the installation of a participant parking area that will include two ADA parking spaces.
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is grateful for the generosity of an anonymous donor to the Her Future is Our Future Campaign for their contribution that made these enhancements possible.
Camp Fiddlecreek Prairie - Year 2
In January 2023, the Prairie at Camp Fiddlecreek was planted with a variety of seeds that thrive on a Prairie. A special group of the seeds that were planted and are now growing on the Prairie were selected by Girl Scouts and adults and represent their age level.
Those plants are:
- Echinacea, also known as Coneflower. There are two varieties, Purple Coneflower and Pale Pink Coneflower. These were selected by Daisy Girl Scouts.
- Black Eyed Susan. This plant is dependable and grows well and one that is easily recognized and was selected by Brownie Girl Scouts.
- Obedient Plan, also known as False Dragonhead. This plant is a member of the mint family and grows 3-4 feet tall and was selected by Junior Girl Scouts.
- Castilleja Coccinea, also known as Paintbrush or Prairie-Fire. This plant is known for its vibrant color and was selected by Cadette Girl Scouts.
- Rosin Weed, a member of the Aster family. This plant grows 3’-5’ tall and was selected by Senior Girl Scouts.
- Western Ironweed. This plant grows 2’-4’ tall and produces a cluster of purple flowers and was selected by Ambassador Girl Scouts.
- Blue Wild Indigo, also known as Baptisia Australis. A bushy plant with beautiful blue-purple flowers was selected by our adults.
These plants and others, Hairy Mountain Mint, a tall slender plant with a mint smell (think Thin Mints) and Bergamot, also known as Bee Balm or Horse Mint are a couple of others that are making their appearance this spring.
When visiting Camp Fiddlecreek be sure and make time to walk through the Prairie. As of late spring, the plants are growing, and a few have started to flower. Be sure and watch for more to come this summer.
Visitors to the Prairie will also see the impact the Prairie has on the environment. On a recent visit Barn Swallows and Killdeers were flying around the Prairie, butterflies were doing their job pollinating and a newborn fawn was getting its “legs” while walking through the Prairie.
The Prairie is funded through the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign. A special thanks to the Mysun Foundation and the Prairie Donors for their financial support of this project.
Edward Jones Adventure Center Grand Opening
Girl Scout members, staff and supporters gathered to celebrate the grand opening and ribbon cutting of the new Edward Jones Adventure Center on Sunday, April 21, made possible through the generosity of Edward Jones in their support of the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign.
The Edward Jones Adventure Center, located at Camp Tuckaho in Troy, Missouri, was a two-part project, involving the creation of a new High Ropes Challenge Course, as well as an Adventure Center with free play structures, so Girl Scouts of all ages can enjoy a self-propelled and unique play experience.
The first phase of the project was completed in 2021, with the installation of the new High Ropes Challenge Course, which gives Girl Scouts in middle school and high school an opportunity to have fun and share thrilling outdoor experiences with girls from across the area. For more than 40 years, the high ropes challenge course has been an iconic team building and leadership program for girls ages 12 through 18. The second phase of the project was the development and construction of the Edward Jones Adventure Center, a self-directed free play experience where girls of all ages can use their imaginations in the outdoors—while building confidence and immersing themselves in physical play like climbing, jumping, and swinging.
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is grateful to Edward Jones for their support of this important project!
Berges Family Creation and Imagination Station
As of March 21, construction at the Berges Family Creation and Imagination Station is officially underway! Beginning with the dredging of Walker Lake, this first phase is planned for completion in early June 2024. Groups and troops were notified of lake closure due to construction on March 25, 2024 via email.
Walker Lake will be pumped dry and the 7,000 + cubic yards of sediment that has accumulated there since the last time the lake was dredged in 1981 will be hauled to various locations on site at Camp Fiddlecreek. Walker Lake and the surrounding areas will be closed due to construction of the Berges Family Creation and Imagination Station from March 25, 2024, to June 1, 2025, to accommodate the construction schedule. Members are asked to respect the fenced off areas near the lake by not entering.
The dredging, which is much needed, will get the lake back to its original depth and improve and extend the recreational life of the lake.
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri wants to give members the opportunity to watch what is happening at the site of the Berges Family Creation and Imagination Center and learn about all the projects that are part of this site. A camera that provides a live feed of activities has been installed. It will be filming 24/7 through all phases of construction.
Berges Family Creation and Imagination Station
The Berges Family Creation and Imagination Station is officially underway! Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri recently received two approvals needed to begin work on this project.
For the past 18 months GSEM has been working with the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to complete various studies and site visits before permitting could take place. The location of the center, on Walker Lake and over intermittent streams needed USACE approval to ensure it did not impact waters of the U.S. (WOTUS). USACE made several onsite visits and GSEM’s project engineer conducted a water delineation study to ensure wetlands will not be impacted by the location of the Berges Family Creation and Imagination Station.
Another aspect of USACE approval involved an archaeological dig to determine if any cultural resources of the Osage tribe exist where the STEM Center is being built. There are none and with this and the outcome of the Water Delineation Study and site visits USACE approved our application.
Another permit to dredge approximately 7,000 cubic yards of sediment from the 2.77-acre Walker Lake was also approved. The dredging, which is much needed, will get the lake back to its original depth and improve and extend the recreational life of the lake. This means programs planned for the lake such as Sea Perch, a water robotics program will be able to use the lake for implementation.
The next approval came at the end of February from Franklin County Board of Zoning Adjustment (BOZA) when GSEM received a variance to build the Berges Creation and Imagination Station inside a 50-foot “stream buffer”. The land use guidelines in Franklin County require a review of the site plans before a permit can be approved whenever there is difference between plans and their guidelines. Once that occurs, a presentation is made to BOZA requesting a variance be approved to build. In February, GSEM attended the BOZA meeting in Union and received unanimous approval for a variance to build the Berges Family Creation and Imagination Center on the lake as planned. It was determined that there would not be an impact to the site.
Construction activities will begin in March and will take place during weekdays when camp is not being used for programs. Any information or potential impact to program sites will be communicated through council staff and camp supervisors. Members will also be able to watch the construction in real time thanks to a construction camera located nearby that will be filming progress.
Wayfinding and Signage
One of the projects identified through the Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri Master Plan and funded through the Her Future is Our Future Campaign is a standardized wayfinding and signage system for all camp properties. Camp Fiddlecreek will be the first camp to receive the new signs and wayfinding markers. We are approaching the installation by camp, starting with our smallest camp. The new system adheres to the updated Girl Scouts of the USA brand standards and will provide a contemporary, vibrant, and welcoming signage system for our members and guests.
A highlight and much-requested component of the project will be new maps and wayfinding for the trails at Camp Fiddlecreek. The trails will be identified and marked using GPS technology to ensure the maps line up with the flow and direction of the actual trails. There will be mile markers, points of interest and trail signs. We are providing a preview of what is to come for our members at Camp Fiddlecreek in early summer 2024.
Her Future is Our Future Recap
As we begin 2024, we want to take a look back at the progress we have made completing capital projects funded by the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign in 2023.
Adventure
Camp Cedarledge
- Improvements were made to the trail network and two new trails, one on Pioneer Mountain and a handicap accessible trail along the creek near Kiamecia were laid.
- The Marron Gap, a boulder climber and an Akadinda Percussion Play instrument were installed at Camp Cedarledge.
Camp Fiddlecreek
- The Level X Play Structure was installed on the site of the old Daisy’s Lodge.
Camp Tuckaho
- Edward Jones Adventure Center, five different play structures connected by walkways with two shade structures for gathering, were installed in the field behind the Maintenance Building creating opportunities for free play, interaction, and teamwork.
Infrastructure
Camp Cedarledge
- Gail’s Place received a makeover with new siding, roofing, and air conditioning.
- Four new kitchen shelters were built.
- New benches and tables were delivered to camp.
Camp Fiddlecreek
- New flooring was installed at the dining hall and Gaylord Lodge received new siding.
- Dogpatch, the hammock unit got a new home and kitchen shelter across from Myrtle’s Manor.
- New benches and tables were delivered to camp.
Camps Cedarledge and Tuckaho
- Feedback matters and how it is used matters more. GSEM responded to member feedback over the years and installed air conditioning in the dining hall and lodges at these two camps.
Camp Tuckaho
- New electrical service to Raccoon Ridge was installed.
- New benches and tables were delivered to camp.
Nature
Camp Fiddlecreek
- The Prairie was planted with seeds of flowers and grasses that grow on a prairie. Girl Scout Grow, so named to honor all levels of Girl Scouting, has flowers growing there that represent each level of Girl Scouting, including adults. By summer’s end the Coreopsis, Black Eyed Susan and Witchcraft were blooming.
What lies ahead in 2024!
The following is a short list of projects that will be happening in 2024:
- The Berges Family Creation and Imagination Station will be built at Camp Fiddlecreek.
- The Equestrian Center at Camp Cedarledge will see renovations to the barn, pasture, and fencing.
- There will be paving at Camps Tuckaho and Fiddlecreek.
- The first camp to receive new Wayfinding and Signage will be Camp Fiddlecreek. Installation is expected to be completed by summer 2024.
- New electric gates with video monitoring will be installed at all three camps in time for summer programs.
- Planning will begin for a new Health Lodge at Camp Cedarledge and STEM Center at Camp Tuckaho.
2023 Program and Project Updates
Support for All Girls
Throughout the last two years, financial aid requests were at an all-time high for Girl Scout memberships and programing/camp participation with more than 52 percent of Girl Scouts requiring financial aid. That is more than half of all Girl Scouts in our region! Every girl deserves to be a Girl Scout and financial aid—offered to members due to support of the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign—provided GSEM with the ability to address barriers so all girls can participate fully in Girl Scout programs, activities, or camp. To learn more about Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri’s membership, activity, or uniform scholarships, click here.
Equestrian Center Renovation
Horseback riding has been a part of the Camp Cedarledge program for over 50 years. Since its inception, tens of thousands of girls have benefited through participation in this extremely popular program. GSEM’s equestrian program began operations on top of the hill where Gail’s Place is today. In 1996, with funding from the Sparking the Fire Campaign, it moved further up the hill to upper pasture where a new equestrian center and covered riding arena was built.
This winter, through the generosity of an anonymous donor to the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign, the Equestrian Center will again be the beneficiary of support that will fund needed renovations. This will, in turn, support the equestrian program helping Girl Scouts of all ages grow their skills, self-confidence and leadership. Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is grateful for this donation which will pave the way for continued improvements to the facility. The equestrian program will be up and operating as normal in spring 2024.
Berges Family Creation and Imagination Station – Project Update
Since last May when the groundbreaking for the Berges Family Creation and Imagination Station took place, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri has been working to complete the permitting phase for the project. The work to secure permits for this exciting new STEM center involves two different jurisdictions, Franklin County, and the United States Army Corp of Engineers (USACE).
Authorization from the USACE is needed because the site of the Berges Family Creation and Imagination Station falls under their jurisdiction. USACE protects waterways and streambanks and cultural resources. Several studies including an archaeological survey to identify any cultural resources are being conducted. It is anticipated the studies and survey will be completed in January and then dirt will start moving at the STEM center site.
A state-of-the-art construction camera has been installed at Camp Fiddlecreek so GSEM members and the community can watch the Berges Family Creation and Imagination Station construction in real-time and check in on progress throughout the building phase on the project. A link to the live feed will be available on the GSEM website and an announcement will be made once construction has begun and the camera is live.
A Day for Good with Spire
GSEM is proud to recognize Spire for their ongoing support of Camps Cedarledge and Fiddlecreek through the Her Future is Our Future Campaign and their Day for Good program.
A Day for Good allows a Spire employee to receive paid time off to volunteer for a not for profit of their choice. Beginning in fall of 2022, Spire employees have contributed one day a month to working on projects with the camp property staff, clearing brush and unwanted vegetation on the trails at Camps Cedarledge and Fiddlecreek. Spire’s most recent Day for Good at Camp Cedarledge provided the person power and equipment needed to help with clean up from a storm that came through camp last August. This storm caused downed trees and a power outage that delayed the opening of the last week of overnight camp by several days.
While the camp property team worked hard to get the camp program areas cleared there was still much left to do behind the scenes and around the Camp Office and Maintenance Building. The Spire crew brought with them the necessary equipment to saw downed trees into logs for campfires and move vegetation and remaining storm debris. Work like this takes time, equipment, and muscle and GSEM is grateful to Spire for their continued partnership.
Prairie Update
In late September donors supporting the Prairie project at Camp Fiddlecreek were invited to join Malinda Walters of Compass Native Landscapes, our Prairie horticulturist, out at camp to check on the progress of the Prairie. Malinda led the group on a walk through the Prairie, where the seeds of seven varieties of grasses and 29 Forbs (flowers) were planted last January. A few of the flowers and grass currently blooming are Black eyed Susan, Coreopsis and Witch Grass. The morning also included a visit to a special section of the Prairie, called Girl Scouts Grow, where seeds selected by each Girl Scout age level were planted in honor of our membership.
The seeds planted last January in Girl Scouts Grow are:
- The Blue Wild Indigo, Baptisia Australis was selected by our adult members
- Western Ironweed was selected by our Ambassadors
- Rosin Weed was selected by Seniors
- Castilleja Coccinea was selected by Cadettes
- Obedient Plant was selected by Juniors
- Black Eyed Susan was selected by our Brownies
- Echinaca was selected by our Daisies
Forest Health at Camp Fiddlecreek
Two years ago, as a result of the Her Future is Our Future Campaign, GSEM began working with the Missouri Department of Conservation to address the health of the forest at Camp Fiddlecreek. Through this partnership, we are working to thin the small cedars that are making it difficult for the oak and hickory to grow, and managing the removal and eradication of the invasive species, honeysuckle and autumn olive that has taken over portions of the camp. The map shows 5 areas of focus, 44 acres in total. Areas 1, 2 and 5 is where the small cedars will be thinned, and the removal of invasive species, particularly bush honeysuckle, will be done in areas 3 and 4.
GSEM thanks the Missouri Department of Conservation and their Habitat Specialist Crew for their ongoing efforts to keep this project moving and training our camp staff on how to incorporate these forest and land management practices at Camp Fiddlecreek.
Claire Bear Camp
This summer, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri was proud to offer the inaugural Claire Bear Camp, a week-long day camp for Girl Scouts ages 5-18 on the autism spectrum. With her support of the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign, Cynthia Heath, former GSEM board chair, generously made Claire Bear Camp possible, affectionately named after her great niece, Claire.
Claire Bear Camp gave eight campers the opportunity to experience a week of new friends, outdoor adventure, and a sense of belonging in an inclusive and nurturing environment. Claire Bear Camp was held at Camp Fiddlecreek in Myrtle’s Manor; a site designed to be safe and accessible for campers. Campers had the opportunity to experience daily morning and afternoon round-up at the flagpole with Girl Scout pledges and songs; progressive skill learning through camp tasks, cooking and making snacks, and leadership actvities; and “challenge-by-choice” through adventure recreation like slingshots, hiking, swimming and playing on the new play structures, along with fun traditional camp crafts and games. A highlight of the week was a family day on the final Friday of camp, where campers’ family members/caregivers had the opportunity to experience many activities alongside their campers.
Claire Bear Camp also focused on developing new community partnerships to create and sustain future Girl Scout camp opportunities for girls with other diagnoses and medical conditions. In preparation for this summer, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri staff worked closely with a diverse group of supporters to develop this unique and modified camp, ensuring campers individual needs would be met. GSEM wants to extend a special thank you to the following volunteers, advisors, and staff whose hard work and expertise helped make Claire Bear Camp possible: Melissa Niedermann, Shayle Wigger, Darcy McCown, Sarah Hurst, Heather Schrick, Kristi Gianino, Jennifer Shaw, Sharolyn Crum, Byron Thurmond, and Aundreya Ottens.
Our members say it best: “Claire Bear Camp was beyond incredible for my Girl Scout, and I don’t know if I will ever be able to express my gratitude to everyone involved and to Cynthia Heath.” - 3rd grade camper caregiver
Edward Jones Adventure Center
Starting later this summer installation of additional play structures at Camp Tuckaho will be underway. Thanks to Edward Jones’ generous support of the Her Future is Our Future Campaign, the new Edward Jones Adventure Center will be constructed in the field behind the Camp Maintenance Office. This will include several play experiences and shade structures that will be connected by a pathway. We are excited to offer these new play structures at all three camps and are grateful for the support of partners like Edward Jones who are making this possible. Target completion date is late fall.
Trails at Camp Cedarledge
This month we are excited to announce trail renovations at Camp Cedarledge, funded by the Her Future is Our Future campaign, were completed in June.
Hiking and exploring the natural world are key components of Girl Scouting’s outdoor programs. The wooded hills, rocky ledges and open valleys that make up Camp Cedarledge give campers experiences of a lifetime.
A top priority of the Cedarledge trail renovation was to identify a location where campers of various abilities could experience a hike through the woods, and along the creek taking in the natural beauty of Camp Cedarledge. After much exploration an area near the permanent tent unit Kiamecia was identified as the perfect spot. A wide, trail bed of crushed limestone was laid making it possible for hikers to walk or travel with a walker or wheelchair. GSEM is grateful to the Jefferson Foundation for their support in making this trail possible.
Another goal of the renovation work was to clear the trails selected for renovation of debris and vegetation and to correct drainage, navigation issues and better manage erosion. Removal of rock along some trail beds was crushed to make navigation smoother, enhancing trail navigation.
A new trail off a little travelled area off Frontier Trail on Pioneer Mountain new trail was laid. The new trail winds through a very scenic and rocky portion of camp off Frontier Trail. Also within this area are rock formations and an overhang that will provide additional adventure activities for Girl Scouts.
An area at the beginning of Green Cathedral was moved to make navigation smoother and less strenuous.
With the completion of the trails at Cedarledge only Tuckaho trails remain. Plans are for those trails to be done within the next year. Watch for announcements in upcoming issue of the e-newsletter.
New Play Structures at Camp Cedarledge
As part of the Her Future is Our Future Campaign, new play structures were installed at all three camps. Camp Cedarledge recently received two new play structures located outside the dining hall, including a boulder climbing structure and an Akadinda, a percussion play musical instrument.
Both structures are for campers of all ages and offer a variety of experiences for campers while having free time in the outdoors. These two play structures join the two already installed at Camp Fiddlecreek. Since their introduction, members have shared positive feedback about how much they enjoy the opportunity to have free play with their friends. GSEM is grateful to the Dana Brown Charitable Trust for making these new structures at Camp Cedarledge possible.
Uniform Assistance Fund
For more than a century, Girl Scouts have proudly worn distinctive uniforms that symbolize the high ideals for which the organization stands. To further support families in need, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is proud to offer a Uniform Assistance Fund to all eligible Girl Scouts to purchase age-appropriate uniform pieces, including the sash (or tunic for our Daisy Girl Scouts), troop numerals, our Girl Scout Council identification set and an American Flag patch, due to support provided from the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign. All uniform assistance fund recipients will also receive complimentary heat press services to ensure the uniform will have the insignia appropriately placed and be ready to wear right away. By removing financial barriers for uniform pieces, all eastern Missouri Girl Scouts can develop essential leadership life skills while showing off their Girl Scout pride and feeling their best!
Dogpatch Has a New Home!
Dogpatch, the popular primitive hammock unit at Camp Fiddlecreek, has a new home, made possible by the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign. The unit was recently moved from the location along the creek in the woods along the west side of the lake where it’s been for many years to across the road from Myrtle’s Manor behind Monk’s Bathtub. Nestled in the woods, Dogpatch will accommodate 12 hammocks for Girl Scouts who like to sleep outdoors under the stars and be swayed to sleep.
The site that was Dogpatch will be called the Old Dogpatch Shelter. During the construction of the STEM Center, it will be used as a storage area for equipment and materials. Once the center is completed the shelter will become available for troops to reserve for a Day Outing.
STEM Center Groundbreaking
On May 25, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri officially broke ground on The Berges Family Creation and Imagination Station, located at Camp Fiddlecreek in Labadie, Missouri. This project is being made possible by the Berges Family Foundation and their support of the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign.
The Berges Family Creation and Imagination Station will offer a vast array of Girl Scout program opportunities led by staff and expert community partners with backgrounds in science, technology, engineering, math, and the outdoors. It will also serve as a gathering place for members, volunteers, and community partners to come together. Some features of the new building will include a science lab, digital maker space, kitchen, outdoor classrooms, a large outdoor deck, and a podcast broadcast room.
Congratulations to Girl Scout Brownie, Mabrey M., whose submission inspired the final name for this special new structure.
Thank you to the Berges Family Foundation for their unwavering support of girl leadership development in eastern Missouri. Their generosity will ensure that girls across our region can continue to discover new talents, interests, and future STEM ambitions.
Kitchen Shelters Ready for Summer
Kitchen shelters serve a variety of different and important purposes for campers. The kitchen shelters are like the “family room” of the unit. It’s here where campers check in upon arrival, meals are prepared and served, meetings are held and fun is had. Thanks to the Her Future is Our Future Campaign, four kitchen shelters at Camp Cedarledge were demolished and replaced at Whispering Winds primitive unit, and Ahwenasa, Kiamecia, and Rocky Ledges. The next time you are at Cedarledge be sure and walk by and check them out!
Ameren Rural Troop Start Up
Thanks to generous support from Ameren Missouri through the Her Future is Our Future Campaign, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is continuing to reach girls in rural areas that are historically underrepresented. Ameren Missouri’s three-year commitment (Oct. 2020-Sept. 2023) provided start-up costs to begin a new troop, including staff support and volunteer training, membership fees, uniform pieces and program fees. New troops participate in the Girl Scout Cookie Program and raise funds to support their troop moving forward. In 2022, 519 new Daisy Girl Scouts were placed into 43 troops, each earning badges, engaging in community service, participating in camping programs and growing their leadership skills.
Schwab Volunteer Week Camp Maintenance Efforts
For the second year in a row, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri has proudly partnered with Charles Schwab during the annual Schwab Volunteer Week. This volunteer opportunity is the largest engagement program that mobilizes thousands of Charles Schwab employees in service to nonprofits across the country. Adopted as an annual event since 2004, Schwab Volunteer Week celebrates Schwab’s company’s culture of service, pride, and teambuilding – attributes that align seamlessly with the Girl Scout mission and values. This year alone, 60 “Schwabbies” ventured out to Camp Cedarledge and Camp Tuckaho, cutting and clearing brush from the roadways and trailways in preparation for the summer camp season as well as the groundbreakings on various capital projects connected to the Her Future is Our Future Campaign. We are grateful to Charles Schwab for their continued contributions of time, talent, and treasure, making the Girl Scout Leadership Experience unique and powerful for our eastern Missouri girls.
Claire Bear Camp
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is proud to offer Claire Bear Camp, a week-long day camp for Girl Scouts ages 5-18 on the autism spectrum, for the first-time July 31 through August 4, 2023. With her support of the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign, Cynthia Heath, former GSEM board chair, has generously made the Claire Bear Camp possible, affectionately named after her great niece, Claire.
Claire Bear Camp was created to give campers the opportunity to experience a week of new friends, outdoor adventure, and a sense of belonging in an inclusive and nurturing environment. Claire Bear Camp will be held at Camp Fiddlecreek in Myrtle’s Manor; a site designed to be safe and accessible for campers. Campers will have the opportunity to experience daily morning and afternoon round-up at the flagpole with Girl Scout pledges and songs; progressive skill learning through camp tasks, cooking, and leadership; and “challenge-by-choice” through adventure recreation and fun with camp crafts and games.
In addition to providing day camp for Girl Scouts on the autism spectrum, Claire Bear Camp will also focus on creating community partnerships to create future Girl Scout camp opportunities for girls with other diagnoses and medical conditions. Specifically in preparation for the summer 2023 Claire Bear Camp, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri staff are working closely with a diverse group of supporters to develop this unique and modified camp, ensuring campers individual needs will be met. The planning committee is currently comprised of special education teachers, an occupational therapist, a nurse, behavioral specialists, and parents of girls with autism. These individuals are collaborating with Girls Scouts of Eastern Missouri’s experienced Director of Camping Services, Melissa Niedermann, and Inclusion and Accommodation Specialist, Shayle Wigger (CTRS – a career and nationally certified recreational therapist), to create a typical, yet uniquely modified Girl Scout camp experience full of camp routines and activities. Claire Bear Camp staff and volunteers are being carefully selected, and the planning team will also provide the critical training, so that all campers receive the level of support they individually need to experience a successful, fun week at camp.
Lodges Are Ready For Summer
Lodges at Camps Tuckaho and Cedarledge have all been updated for summer with air conditioning. Air conditioning has been installed at Tuck Hall, Tuck East and West, Carver House, Sacajewa and Boone’s Loft at Tuckaho and Gail’s Place, Bright Star, Luckystone and Petite Chalet at Cedarledge. This improvement will offer girls a place to go and chill out during the heat of the day by relaxing and recharging in the cool comfort of the lodge before they return to their camp activities.
Dining Halls at both camps are also being outfitted with air conditioning this spring just in time for summer.
We know from feedback from our members that this is a welcome and needed addition to our camp facilities.
We are grateful to the Regional Business Council for their support of this project and to all of our donors whose support of the Her Future is Our Future Campaign is making these improvements possible.
It’s Time to Play! Level X Play Structure Comes to Fiddlecreek and is Ready for Camper Use
This February, the Level X play structure was installed at Camp Fiddlecreek and is now available for members to use. Building on the popularity of the Spider Net Climber, this structure is located right down the lane from the Trefoil Inn and Myrtle’s Manor, where Daisy’s Lodge was located. It is appropriate for Daisies through Ambassadors. Just like the Spider Net Climber, it is a free-play experience for girls to enjoy without having a certified adult facilitating the experience or reservations required. Leaders and event staff will want to be sure and have adults present while girls are participating, as with all activities. We are grateful to the Mabee Foundation for their support of this project.
Specialty Troops
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is committed to providing the Girl Scout Leadership Experience to every girl in our region who wants it, regardless of income, family situation, or specialized therapeutic needs. To help achieve that goal, several Community Troops have been formed in collaboration with youth-serving, crisis-oriented organizations including Gateway 180, Epworth Children & Family Services and Marygrove. In addition to traditional troop programming, members of these “Specialty Troops” benefit from a specifically-curated curriculum that addresses the trauma that each has encountered in their lives and offers strategies and resources for navigating those challenges. This curriculum is led by a dedicated, experienced Community Troop Manager, LaTonya Logan, who has a background and education in the human services field. Support from the Her Future is Our Future Campaign will ensure that these specialty troops have the resources needed to continue providing a fun and impactful troop experience to girls in residential programs throughout the region.
Investment in the Community Troop Program
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is committed to ensuring that every girl who wants to be a Girl Scout has that opportunity—regardless of race, ability, or socioeconomic status. Through support from the Her Future is Our Future Campaign, GSEM is able to sustain and continue to invest in the Community Troop Program (CTP) to better meet the needs of all girls. Launched in 2014, CTP leverages Girl Scout staff members as troop leaders in areas where 75% to 100% of students receive free or reduced-price lunches. In 2022, membership in the CTP program saw a significant increase with more than 3,000 girls in 74 troops who participated, helping them develop the qualities and proficiencies needed to prepare them for success in life. Community Troop members earned 12,000+ badges on topics including Public Speaking, Designing Robots and First Aid.
Improving the Natural Habitat at Camp Fiddlecreek
Not only has the Her Future is Our Future Campaign provided resources to fund council camp projects, provide program and financial support and help build our endowment, it has also introduced new partners to Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri.
We are grateful to Missouri Department of Conservation (MOC) for their support in assessing the forest at Camp Fiddlecreek. Through their Timber Stand Improvement program, they looked at tree growth, overgrown and crowded areas that impact future growth and health of the forest to create a plan to improve the forest over time. Areas overgrown with invasive species such as bush honeysuckle, Autumn Olive and multiflora rose were identified and are now being treated and managed. GSEM receives support through programs offered by MDOC. Working in collaboration with the Missouri Department of Conservation is the Habitat Specialist Crew. Their role is to assist with the removal of invasive species such as bush honeysuckle, floribunda roses, and Russian Olive that can be found at Camp Fiddlecreek.
To get a view of the forest at Camp Fiddlecreek, be sure and hike the newly restored trails when visiting camp.
Camp Wayfinding and Signage
Each of Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri’s camps has an established wayfinding system that is supported with signage that directs visitors to units, program sites and buildings. As part of the Master Plan a comprehensive review of our system was completed to provide information for a future wayfinding and signage program for our camps.
Wayfinding will assist with organization branding and provide visitors with clear direction on vehicular and pedestrian circulation throughout the camp property.
Signage will use the Girl Scouts of the USA brand platform and standards to create a network of signs that will be recognizable by visitors when visiting any one of our camps. There will be several categories of signs ranging from Monument, entrance signs to each camp; Directional, representing a variety of locations at camp units to program site, and Interpretive signs that will provide information about the location, as well as educational information and wayfinding such as trail markers and natural sites. In addition, there will be specific templates for signs ranging from regulatory, speed limit, no parking, etc. and signs for program guidelines and procedures such as Swimming, Canoeing and adventure.
The Wayfinding and Signage program will extend beyond our camps to our Service Center where a special wall will be installed recognizing donors’ support of the Her Future is Our Future comprehensive campaign.
Camp Fiddlecreek will be the first camp to receive new wayfinding and signage later this year. Watch for additional information in upcoming issues of the e-newsletter.
Let’s Welcome Our New Accommodation Specialist
We are excited to welcome Shayle Wigger, GSEM’s Inclusion and Accommodation Specialist! As a member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion team, Shayle supports disability inclusion at GSEM, working with staff and caregivers to foster a more inclusive environment for Girl Scouts living with disabilities. This new role, made possible through support of the Her Future is Our Future campaign, will manage disability-related accommodations and serves as a subject matter expert for youth-centered accessibility, advising and training team members on how to best support girls of all abilities. As Inclusion and Accommodations Specialist, Shayle will play a key role in designing Claire Bear Camp, GSEM’s first ever camp designed for Girl Scouts on the autism spectrum.
2022 Program and Project Updates
Coming This Spring to Camp Fiddlecreek – Free Play Structure
The photo above shows a rendering of the play experience structure coming soon to Camp Fiddlecreek. It will be located across the road from Trefoil Inn, previously the site of Daisy’s Lodge. This play experience will provide campers of all ages with an additional space to enjoy, play and have fun on their own while being at camp. Campers will excite in the challenges and adventure they will experience on this new structure. This play structure is scheduled to arrive in spring 2023. Stay tuned for updates in future editions of the e-newsletter.
Scholarships for All Girls
Girl Scouts believe in removing barriers to opportunity and making the world a better, fairer, more equitable place. That’s why Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is proud to offer increased financial aid to our members through the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign, so that all girls may participate fully in Girl Scout program activities and camp. The generous support of our campaign donors also makes possible the Uniform Assistance Fund which helps all girls look and feel their best, while they develop essential life and leadership skills. To learn more about Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri’s membership, activity or uniform scholarships, click here.
Air Conditioning at Camp
We are excited to announce that this summer, in time for the opening of summer camp, all of our lodges and dining halls at Cedarledge and Tuckaho will be air-conditioned! We know from requests from our members that having a place for campers to be able to enjoy mealtime in an air-conditioned dining hall, as well as have cool places to gather during the day will enhance our campers experience at camp. This much requested improvement is being made possible by community investment in Girl Scouts through the Her Future is Our Future Campaign. Watch for more information in the upcoming issue of 2023 Camp Adventure Guide to be released December 1, 2022.
Programs that Reach all Girls – Live from Girl Scouts
The Her Future is Our Future campaign is making possible the continuation of accessible programming for Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri members, like Live from Girl Scouts. This program allows girls from across eastern Missouri to access innovative, badge-earning program opportunities, right from their own homes. Developed during the pandemic, the first season the Live from Girl Scouts was a huge success and since then we have provided more than 10,000 program experiences to our Girl Scouts through three seasons. Season 4 kicked off this October and will offer another 18 badge-earning opportunities with material boxes mailed directly to homes. This program is valued at $30-$35 but thanks to community support girls pay only $10 to participate. These virtual opportunities can be used as a troop meeting for a group, or for families who want to help their Girl Scout explore a new interest or learn a new skill.
Innovative Program Opportunities, Brownie Bundle
The Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign is making possible the creation and expansion of innovative new program opportunities that will provide Girl Scouts and volunteers with the skills and support needed to encourage skill-building and badge earning opportunities. Based on the success of the Daisy Drop Box program and recommendations from troop leaders, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri will roll-out the new Brownie Bundle program in Fall 2023. Like the Daisy Drop Box, each Brownie Bundle will contain all the resources volunteers need to hold successful meetings each month, including step-by-step instructions and activity supplies. Stay tuned for more information coming in spring 2023!
Trail Restoration Project Ribbon Cutting Celebration
On September 19, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri and community partner, Spire, cut the ribbon on Camp Fiddlecreek’s Trail Restoration Project, made possible through Spire’s support of the Her Future is Our Future Comprehensive Campaign. To help celebrate the special day, volunteers from Spire performed maintenance on the trail, and will continue to do so as part of their on-going commitment to ensure the sustainability of the trails for girls today and long into the future. As part of the trail restoration project, 12 trail segments have been integrated into the total trail system at Camp Fiddlecreek and will provide Girl Scouts of varying abilities and skill levels the opportunity to experience the outdoors at camp.
STEM Center – Camp Fiddlecreek
The STEM Center at Camp Fiddlecreek is taking shape. Construction is expected to start in early 2023 and the center will sit on the west side of Walker Lake. The STEM Center will give Girl Scouts an immersive STEM experience, including features such as a science lab, digital maker space, and broadcast room for recording podcasts. It will also serve as a gathering place for our Girl Scouts where Program Partners can deliver innovative programs and Robotics teams can meet and practice. The design includes a kitchen to make snacks and meals and even an outdoor classroom. With the Prairie Grass development and Walker Lake a few steps away, outdoor program opportunities will be right outside the door. This STEM Center is one of two centers that will be built over the next several years and is planned to open in 2023. A second STEM Center will be built at Camp Tuckaho.
Ameren Rural Troop Start Up
Thanks to generous support from Ameren Missouri through the Her Future is Our Future Campaign, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is reaching more girls in rural areas. The Troop Start-Up model is simple – Ameren Missouri’s three-year commitment (Oct. 2020-Sept. 2023) provided the costs to begin a new troop, including staff support and volunteer training, membership fees, uniform pieces and program fees. Once formed, these troops have access to all of the resources GSEM offers, including the ability to participate in the Girl Scout Cookie Program and raise funds to support their troop moving forward. In the first two years of the program, Ameren’s generous support has made it possible for 584 girls to start their progressive skill-building journey as new Girl Scouts, with the support of 147 new Girl Scout volunteers. These new troops are already earning badges, engaging in community service, participating in camping programs and growing their leadership skills.
Uniform Assistance Fund
For more than a century, Girl Scouts have proudly worn distinctive uniforms that symbolize the high ideals for which the organization stands. Through the Her Future is Our Future Campaign an established Uniform Assistance Fund removes financial barriers so all girls can develop essential leadership life skills while looking—and feeling their best. The Uniform Assistance Fund makes available age-appropriate uniform pieces to families who need assistance purchasing uniform components such as sashes or tunics, troop numerals, American Flag patch and the council identification set.
Camp Fiddlecreek – Prairie Grass
The development of the Prairie at Camp Fiddlecreek is underway! In July the layout of the prairie outside the Dining Hall Multi-Purpose Building at Camp Fiddlecreek was completed by Compass Native Landscape, the council’s partner on the Prairie Grass Development Project.
Based on recommendations from volunteers, the prairie will include sections and walking paths for programming and nature exploration, and immersion. There will be a 19,000 square-foot section in the middle of the prairie that will allow for a gathering area to be used for traditional events such as flag ceremonies and lunches on the hillside, as well as a sledding lane during winter snows. When visiting Fiddlecreek this summer and fall please take time to visit the site, walk it, experience it and imagine how it will grow and develop.
The first year it sleeps, the second year it creeps and the third year it leaps is the rule of thumb for prairie development.
Camp Cedarledge – Trail System
This summer the first step in the development of the trails at Camp Cedarledge was an assessment of the existing trails. The network of trails at Cedarledge encompasses more than five miles of camp property. There are numerous points of interest, ecological sites and rock formations that are part of the system. The preservation of the unique ecological areas on the trail such as Elephant Rocks and Natural Bridge Trail will be enhanced with informational signs that will help campers learn along the way. Camp Cedarledge provides an opportunity for primitive trails for the more experienced hiker to more developed trails for those new to hiking. Work on this network of trails will begin later this year. Watch for more information and updates through the e-newsletter and social media posts.
Camp Cedarledge and Camp Fiddlecreek – Play Experiences
Our family of free play structures is growing! Building on the success of the Spider Net Climber at Camp Fiddlecreek we are adding two new play structures: one at Camp Fiddlecreek and one at Camp Cedarledge. These play structures will provide another destination where campers can go to have fun and make new friends. They will add a new element to a camper’s outdoor experience. Campers will use their imagination to play on the structures and try new things that they can do independently at their own pace. Both play structures will be available for girls 5-18. Locations for the structures are being finalized and will be announced in next month’s e-newsletter.
Camp Fiddlecreek – Prairie Grass
“The first year it sleeps, the second year it creeps and the third year it leaps!” This is how the development of a prairie is often described.
The two-acre hillside outside the Dining Hall Multipurpose Building at Camp Fiddlecreek is the site of the Prairie Grass Development Project. Preparation of the site for the prairie is beginning this summer. Based on recommendations from a group of volunteers, the prairie will include sections for programming and nature exploration and immersion, walking paths, a lane for sled riding in the winter and a gathering area for events where camp traditions such as flag ceremonies and lunch on the hillside can continue. Over the course of several years this area will come alive with many different native plants.
All Camp Properties – Gates and Security
In the coming months, all three camp main entries will have new gates equipped with video monitoring and keypad entry systems to ensure the security and safety of our Girl Scouts. Above is a rendering of what to expect.
Launch Into Girl Scouts – Pre-K Program
Starting Kindergarten is a big step and thanks to PNC’s support of the Her Future is Our Future Campaign, preschool girls can register for this robust Pre-K program and get a head start on learning as they try new things, make new friends, and go on new adventures, virtually and in-person. Each participant receives packets delivered right to their door throughout the summer that include themed activities. A champion for early childhood education, PNC is helping Girl Scouts develop the next generation of leaders and cultivating entrepreneurship opportunities.
Camp Fiddlecreek – Trail Restoration
The trail restoration project at Camp Fiddlecreek is now complete! Whether climbing the stairs up one of the hills on the Trail of the Rising Sun/Borderline Trail, traversing Ridge Top Trail or exploring Mossy Top, the trails at Fiddlecreek represent the rich history of this camping property. The newly-renovated trails offer girls of all ages a challenging adventure and immersion into the natural beauty of Fiddlecreek. Troops and groups that are registered for camp for the day or weekend can use the trails while on site.
Girls hiking the trail will experience a variety of switchbacks that take them through the woods and help them navigate steep terrain. There are small creek fords, which are rocks placed at low-lying creeks and on wetter portions of the trail that aid with navigation. The new trails also have several log bridges that were added to improve the hiking experience for members.
Signage and wayfinding are another focus of the trail restoration at Camp Fiddlecreek and member input has been an integral part of the process.
Signage will be high-visibility and let users know they are entering a trail, as well as provide information about the trail. Girls will be able to chart their progress by following the mile markers and directional signage. New signage, maps, trail programs and interpretative information will be introduced later this year.
The trail restoration project at Camp Fiddlecreek was made possible by Spire, as part of the Her Future is Our Future Campaign. In addition to funding support, Spire employees will perform maintenance on the trails such as clearing vegetation and limb removal.
Camp Tuckaho – Adventure Center
Thanks to the generosity of Edward Jones, as part of the Her Future is Our Future Campaign, in the spring of 2021 a new High Ropes Challenge Course opened at Camp Tuckaho.
Council has now entered the design phase of the Edward Jones Adventure Center at Camp Tuckaho. This center will give Girl Scouts of all ages an opportunity to be challenged, have fun and share experiences with other Girl Scouts. The cornerstone of the Adventure Center will be free play elements where girls can have a self-propelled, independent experience. More updates will be forthcoming as the project progresses.
Camp Cedarledge – Archery Range
Camp Cedarledge’s new ADA accessible Archery Range opened this June! Girl Scouts of all abilities attending overnight and troop camp throughout the summer will have the opportunity to participate in archery programs at the new range located in the field near Cliff’s End and Golden Glade.
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is grateful to Bass Pro/Cabella’s for their support of this project as part of the Her Future is Our Future Campaign.
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