National Girl Scout Founders Day
National Girl Scout Founders Day is celebrated annually on October 31 to honor Juliette Gordon Low, the visionary founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA. This day commemorates her birthday in 1860 and her remarkable contributions to empowering girls through education, leadership, and outdoor activities.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: October 31
- Tagged as: Historical, Youth Empowerment, Leadership
- What’s the hashtag?: #GirlScoutFoundersDay
- When was it founded?: Officially recognized in 1920
- Who founded it?: Juliette Gordon Low
History of National Girl Scout Founders Day
Juliette Gordon Low, affectionately known as “Daisy,” founded the Girl Scouts in Savannah, Georgia, on March 12, 1912. Inspired by the Girl Guides movement in England and her meeting with Sir Robert Baden-Powell, founder of the Boy Scouts, she created an organization that encouraged girls to explore outdoor activities, develop practical skills, and foster leadership. Initially called “Girl Guides,” the name was changed to “Girl Scouts” in 1915. Despite societal resistance to girls participating in such activities at the time, Low’s determination led to a global movement that has since touched millions of lives.
Timeline
- 1860: Juliette Gordon Low is born on October 31 in Savannah, Georgia.
- 1912: Low organizes the first Girl Scout troop in the U.S. with 18 girls.
- 1915: The organization is officially renamed Girl Scouts of America.
- 1920: October 31 is officially recognized as Girl Scout Founders Day.
- 1927: Juliette Gordon Low passes away but leaves a lasting legacy.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 31 | Friday |
| 2026 | October 31 | Saturday |
| 2027 | October 31 | Sunday |
| 2028 | October 31 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | October 31 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | October 31 | Thursday |
Observed
This day is celebrated with various activities such as troop gatherings, outdoor adventures, community service projects, and birthday parties honoring Juliette Gordon Low’s legacy. Some traditions include wearing pearls (a nod to Low selling her pearls to fund Girl Scouts), standing on one’s head (a quirky tradition inspired by Low), and engaging in acts of kindness.
Fun Facts About National Girl Scout Founders Day
- Juliette Gordon Low was nicknamed “Daisy,” inspiring the youngest Girl Scout level’s name.
- She stood on her head every year on her birthday to prove she could still do it!
- She sold her valuable pearl necklace to fund the first national Girl Scout office.
- The first Girl Scout handbook included instructions for tying up burglars with rope!
- Today, there are over 2.5 million active members in the U.S., with millions more worldwide.
Quiz
- What year was the Girl Scouts founded?
- What was Juliette Gordon Low’s nickname?
- What activity did Juliette famously do on her birthday?
- What date is National Girl Scout Founders Day celebrated?
- What organization inspired Juliette Gordon Low to start the Girl Scouts?
(Answers:)
- 1912
- Daisy
- Stand on her head
- October 31
- The Girl Guides (England)
FAQs
- Why is October 31 significant for this day?
It marks Juliette Gordon Low’s birthday in 1860, honoring her legacy as the founder of the Girl Scouts. - What is the mission of the Girl Scouts?
To build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. - How can I celebrate this day?
Participate in troop activities, learn about Juliette Gordon Low’s life, or engage in community service projects.
Related
- National Girl Scout Day (March 12)
- World Thinking Day (February 22)
- International Day of the Girl (October 11)