Girl Scout Week: Celebrating a Legacy of Leadership and Service
Girl Scout Week is an annual celebration honoring the founding of the Girl Scouts organization and its ongoing impact on girls’ lives. This special week recognizes the achievements of Girl Scouts past and present while promoting the values of leadership, community service, and personal growth.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: March 9-15, 2025
- Tagged as: Youth empowerment, leadership, community service
- What’s the hashtag?: #GirlScoutWeek
- When was it founded?: 1912
- Who founded it?: Juliette Gordon Low
History of Girl Scout Week
Girl Scout Week traces its roots back to the organization’s founding in 1912. Initially celebrated in the fall, it was moved to March in 1953 to coincide with the anniversary of the first Girl Scout meeting. The week-long celebration has since become a cherished tradition, allowing Girl Scouts to showcase their achievements and reaffirm their commitment to making the world a better place.
Timeline
- 1912: Juliette Gordon Low founds Girl Scouts in Savannah, Georgia
- 1919-1953: Girl Scout Week observed in the fall
- 1953: Girl Scout Week moved to March to include March 12, the organization’s birthday
- Present day: Girl Scout Week continues to be celebrated annually, inspiring new generations of girls
Girl Scout Week Dates
Year | Month and Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | March 9-15 | Sun-Sat |
2026 | March 8-14 | Sun-Sat |
2027 | March 7-13 | Sun-Sat |
2028 | March 12-18 | Sun-Sat |
2029 | March 11-17 | Sun-Sat |
2030 | March 10-16 | Sun-Sat |
Observed Girl Scout Week
Girl Scout Week is observed through various activities and events organized by troops, councils, and individual Girl Scouts across the United States. Each day of the week typically has a theme, such as community service, outdoor exploration, or STEM activities.
Many Girl Scouts participate in special ceremonies, including Girl Scout Sunday and Girl Scout Sabbath, which celebrate the connection between Girl Scouting and faith. Troops often engage in service projects, showcasing their commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.
Throughout the week, Girl Scouts wear their uniforms with pride, share their experiences on social media, and invite friends to learn more about the organization. It’s a time for reflection on the past and inspiration for the future of Girl Scouting.
Fun Facts About Girl Scout Week
- The first Girl Scout troop meeting was held on March 12, 1912, with just 18 girls.
- Girl Scouts have been selling cookies since 1917 as a way to finance troop activities.
- During World War II, Girl Scouts collected scrap metals, grew victory gardens, and helped the Red Cross.
- Girl Scouts introduced STEM-focused badges in 2011 to encourage girls in science and technology.
- The Girl Scout Law has been revised several times since 1912 to reflect changing societal values.
Quiz
- In what year was Girl Scouts founded?
- Who is the founder of Girl Scouts?
- What date marks the Girl Scouts’ birthday?
- When was Girl Scout Week moved to March?
- What does SWAPS stand for in Girl Scout tradition?
(Answers: 1. 1912, 2. Juliette Gordon Low, 3. March 12, 4. 1953, 5. Special Whatchamacallits Affectionately Pinned Somewhere)
FAQs
What is the purpose of Girl Scout Week?
Girl Scout Week celebrates the founding of the organization and highlights the impact of Girl Scouting on girls and communities.
Can non-Girl Scouts participate in Girl Scout Week?
While primarily for Girl Scouts, many activities are open to the public, allowing everyone to learn about and support the organization.
How can I support Girl Scouts during this week?
You can purchase Girl Scout cookies, donate to your local council, or volunteer your time and skills to support Girl Scout programs.
Are there specific activities for different age groups?
Yes, activities are often tailored to different Girl Scout levels, from Daisies to Ambassadors, ensuring age-appropriate engagement.
How does Girl Scout Week promote leadership?
The week showcases Girl Scout achievements and provides opportunities for girls to lead projects and events, reinforcing leadership skills.
Importance of Girl Scout Week
Girl Scout Week serves as a powerful reminder of the organization’s enduring mission to build girls of courage, confidence, and character. It provides a platform for Girl Scouts to demonstrate their leadership skills and commitment to community service.
This annual celebration also raises public awareness about the diverse programs and opportunities available through Girl Scouting. It inspires girls to pursue their passions, whether in outdoor adventures, entrepreneurship, or STEM fields.
Moreover, Girl Scout Week strengthens the bonds within the Girl Scout community, connecting current members with alumnae and supporters. It’s a time to reflect on the organization’s rich history while looking forward to its continued impact on future generations of girls.
Related
- National Girl Scout Day (March 12)
- World Thinking Day (February 22)
- International Day of the Girl Child (October 11)
- Women’s History Month (March)
- National Volunteer Week (April)