We are always identifying new initiatives that allow us to share the value that the
Girl Scout Leadership Experience can provide to new potential members. One recent initiative that began in January, is our new collaboration with many local public libraries across Southeastern New England to not only spread the news about how invaluable Girl Scouts is, but to also offer valuable free programming for young readers within our communities. After all, libraries are the foundation of knowledge in every city, town, or village—and let’s face it—they’re the very glue that holds us all together. As we work to develop these partnerships, we’re welcoming any and all new ideas on how better to increase our membership.
In February, Southgansett Service Unit Manager Carolyn Dyer, helped to enlist a few amazing troops to help with the Maury Loontjen’s Memorial Library in Narragansett during a special program taking place during their
regularly scheduled Popsicle Book Club program
which has anywhere from 12-15 kids ages K-2nd
grade. Several of the attending Girl Scouts ranging
from Cadette to Senior, read
HERE COME THE GIRL SCOUTS by Shana Corey,
(illustrated by Hadley Hooper) to the young
readers.All of whom had their own copy of the
book to follow along. After the story, the Girl Scouts
shared their favorite Girl Scout experiences and
answered questions for the curious girls who
seemed especially excited to hear all about the
camping and traveling, collectively. After the Q&A,
the participants eagerly participated in craft
activities (in the Girl Scout theme, naturally); including making their own daisies out of green, white, and gold pipe cleaners and designing and making their very own friendship bracelets. Followed by a snack of Thank-A-Lots, and a cool glass of apple juice, the families who attended were excited to learn more about Girl Scouts. So much so, that we were able to enlist two co-leaders and form a Daisy troop that very night. All around, the event was an immediate success! We couldn’t be more thrilled here at GSSNE and can’t wait to see what’s in store next.
New Membership and Community Development Specialist, Emily Howe (and mother of two) explains, “Working with members in our community, like children’s librarians, demonstrates to young girls the importance of being a part of a community and working with others. We are very excited for the partnerships we’ve begun building and look forward to building more in the coming months.”
That’s exactly right, we say.