On March 12th, National Girl Scout Day is observed to honor the rich history of the Girl Scouts in the United States. The roots of this American organization trace back to 1912, when Juliette Gordon Low organized the inaugural Girl Scout Troop meeting. Since that historic moment, millions of girls have reaped the benefits of engaging in outdoor activities, participating in enrichment programs, and contributing to service projects through the Girl Scouts.

Today, the Girl Scouts boast nearly 4 million members and have established troops throughout the United States. The organization continues to empower and inspire young girls, fostering personal growth and community involvement.

History and Origins of National Girl Scout Day

1. Founding of the Girl Scouts:

   • The Girl Scouts organization was founded on March 12, 1912, by Juliette Gordon Low in Savannah, Georgia. Inspired by the Boy Scouts movement in England and her desire to create a similar organization for girls, Low gathered 18 girls for the first Girl Scout meeting. The group was originally called the Girl Guides, but it was renamed the Girl Scouts in 1913.

2. Juliette Gordon Low:

   • Juliette Gordon Low, affectionately known as "Daisy," was the visionary behind the Girl Scouts. She believed that girls should have the opportunity to develop physically, mentally, and spiritually, and she emphasized the importance of outdoor activities, self-reliance, and community service. Her legacy continues to inspire millions of girls and women around the world.

3. Growth of the Organization:

   • Since its founding, the Girl Scouts organization has grown exponentially, becoming one of the largest and most influential organizations for girls in the United States. Today, the Girl Scouts has millions of members, including girls from kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as adult volunteers who serve as leaders, mentors, and role models.

Significance of National Girl Scout Day

National Girl Scout Day is significant for several reasons:

1. Celebrating the Empowerment of Girls:

   • The day celebrates the empowerment of girls through the Girl Scouts organization, which has been instrumental in building confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of community among its members. The Girl Scouts provides girls with opportunities to learn new skills, explore their interests, and make a positive impact in their communities.

2. Honoring the Legacy of Juliette Gordon Low:

   • National Girl Scout Day honors the legacy of Juliette Gordon Low and her pioneering efforts to create an organization that has transformed the lives of millions of girls. Her dedication to the development and empowerment of young women continues to be celebrated on this day.

3. Recognizing the Impact of the Girl Scouts:

   • The day recognizes the significant impact that the Girl Scouts has had on society, from fostering leadership in girls to promoting values such as honesty, courage, and service. Many prominent women leaders, including politicians, business executives, and community activists, credit their time in the Girl Scouts with helping to shape their success.

4. Promoting Girl Scout Values:

   • National Girl Scout Day is an opportunity to promote the core values of the Girl Scouts, which include respect for others, responsibility, teamwork, and environmental stewardship. These values are instilled in girls through various activities and programs offered by the organization.

How to Celebrate National Girl Scout Day

There are many meaningful ways to celebrate National Girl Scout Day, whether you are a current or former Girl Scout, a volunteer, or someone who supports the mission of the Girl Scouts:

1. Participate in Girl Scout Activities:

   • If you are a member of the Girl Scouts, celebrate the day by participating in Girl Scout activities, such as troop meetings, service projects, or outdoor adventures. These activities reinforce the values and skills that are central to the Girl Scout experience.

2. Host a Juliette Gordon Low Party:

   • Honor the founder of the Girl Scouts by hosting a party or gathering in her memory. You can share stories about her life and achievements, and engage in activities that reflect her vision for the Girl Scouts.

3. Support the Girl Scout Cookie Program:

   • The Girl Scout Cookie Program is one of the most well-known and beloved traditions of the organization. Support the program by purchasing Girl Scout cookies or by promoting the sale in your community. The funds raised from cookie sales help support local Girl Scout troops and their activities.

4. Reconnect with Fellow Girl Scouts:

   • National Girl Scout Day is a great time to reconnect with fellow Girl Scouts, whether they are current members or alumni. Reach out to old friends from your troop, share memories, and reflect on the impact that the Girl Scouts has had on your life.

5. Volunteer with a Local Troop:

   • If you’re not already involved, consider volunteering with a local Girl Scout troop. Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting the activities and programs that help girls develop leadership skills and confidence.

6. Learn About Girl Scout History:

   • Take some time to learn more about the history of the Girl Scouts and the life of Juliette Gordon Low. There are many books, documentaries, and online resources that provide insights into the organization’s origins and evolution.

7. Promote Girl Scouts on Social Media:

   • Use social media to share your experiences with the Girl Scouts and to promote the values of the organization. Post photos, stories, and information about how the Girl Scouts has made a difference in your life or in your community. Use hashtags like #NationalGirlScoutDay to join the conversation.

8. Support Girl Scout Initiatives:

   • Beyond cookies, the Girl Scouts engage in a wide range of initiatives, from environmental conservation to STEM education. Support these initiatives by participating in local events, donating, or advocating for causes that align with the Girl Scout mission.

Fun Facts About the Girl Scouts

• First Girl Scout Handbook: The first Girl Scout handbook, titled "How Girls Can Help Their Country," was published in 1913. It included instructions on a variety of skills, from first aid to knot-tying.

• Famous Girl Scouts: Many prominent women were Girl Scouts in their youth, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, and astronaut Sally Ride.

• Girl Scout Uniforms: The Girl Scout uniform has evolved over the years, with different styles and colors for different age levels. Today, Girl Scouts can wear a sash or vest to display their badges and awards.

• Highest Award: The Gold Award is the highest achievement in Girl Scouting, awarded to Senior and Ambassador Girl Scouts who complete a significant community service project. It is equivalent to the Eagle Scout rank in Boy Scouts.

• Global Presence: While the Girl Scouts is primarily a U.S. organization, it is part of the global Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting movement, which includes millions of members in over 150 countries.

Conclusion

National Girl Scout Day is a celebration of the enduring legacy of the Girl Scouts organization and its impact on generations of girls. Whether through leadership development, community service, or the beloved cookie program, the Girl Scouts continues to empower young women to reach their full potential. By participating in activities, supporting local troops, and reflecting on the values that the Girl Scouts promotes, everyone can contribute to the spirit of National Girl Scout Day and honor the organization that has played such an important role in shaping the lives of millions of girls and women.