Girl Scout Advantage

Girls need a safe, nurturing environment to help them grow strong -- physically, mentally and emotionally --and they can find it in the Girl Scouts. Girl Scouting encourages girls to make decisions, try new activities, give back to their communities and feel proud of their accomplishments. In the process, girls build confidence, increase self-esteem and clarify values.

Membership in Girl Scouting entitles girls to participate in Girl Scout program activities and other Girl Scout-sponsored events, with adults serving in a leader capacity. Both girls and adults are entitled (but not required) to wear the appropriate uniform and insignia, and to be covered by Girl Scout Activity Accident Insurance. In addition, adult members receive Girl Scout Leader , the official Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. magazine, and are entitled to receive training, consultation, and ongoing assistance.

Opportunities for Girls

• Growing Strong ... in Mind and Spirit: Statistical research supports the positive benefits of an all-girl environment on girls' self-esteem. Girls can explore careers, science, technology and sports without regard to gender-related stereotypes and in a supportive environment of their peers.
• Growing Strong ... in Personal Values: The council places great emphasis on reaching out to all girls. Embracing diversity is an essential component of the Girl Scout program.
• Growing Strong ... in Health and Body: Nutrition, physical strength, well being and health play critical roles in contributing to girls' overall self-confidence levels and ultimately influencing the lifestyle habits that they will adopt as adults. By positioning sports and other physical activities as an enjoyable part of life, Girl Scouting can make being healthy fun.

Active membership as a Girl Scout is granted to any girl ages 5-17 who:

• Has made the Girl Scout Promise and accepted the Girl Scout Law.
• Has paid annual membership dues - $10.00.
• Meets the applicable membership standards for appropriate age/grade levels.

Any girl who meets these membership requirements shall not be denied active participation in Girl Scouting because of race, color, ethnicity, creed, disability, national origin, or socioeconomic status.

Although most Girl Scouts are members of Girl Scout troops, girls may be members of Girl Scout groups or they may be registered as individual members. If you are interested in becoming a member, please call the service center at (318) 868-7322 or (800) 439-2342.