Girl Scouts program offers ‘Welcome Troops’
September 17, 2023
Volunteers representing local Girl Scout troops in McKinleyville, Arcata, Eureka, Freshwater and Trinidad recently joined over 130 other volunteers from all over the Girl Scouts of Northern California Council at a summit in San Rafael to learn about new GSUSA programs, event planning, outdoor activities and ideas for the coming year in Girl Scouts.
The new CEO, Bri Seoane, introduced herself and gave opening remarks about the importance of volunteers in the largest girl-led leadership organization in the nation.
“Just as school is starting so is the Girl Scout calendar. While some troops are taking new members, there is always a need for more troops in our area to serve girls,” said Cheryl Kingham, leader support manager for the Redwood Service Unit, who attended the summit along with Jeannette Upton, Michelle Buckman and Jennifer Kennedy.
One way to give more girls an opportunity to explore Girl Scouts is to join one of three area Welcome Troops starting for girls and parents interested in learning more about what it means to be a Girl Scout. Registered girls are also eligible to attend the larger area-wide events such as archery clinics, the Juliette Low Birthday Halloween Carnival, a spa night party and a holiday craft event.
One Welcome Troop meets at Pacific Union Elementary School in Arcata at 3:30 p.m. every first and third Thursday in September, October and November. There is a short parent meeting after each meeting. This troop is led by Girl Scout staff and volunteers for five meetings while parents are trained to take over troop leadership. Parents must be present for the entire meeting.
A second Welcome Troop meets at 3 p.m. at Freshwater Elementary School every second and fourth Friday in September, October and November and the third Welcome Troop meets at 5:30 p.m. at the Eureka Girl Scout Office every second and fourth Friday in September, October and November. All the meetings are an hour long.
To RSVP or get more information, e-mail smetteauer@gsnorcal.org or call 707-296-2991. There is also a local website with information about Humboldt County area events and camps at redwoodgirlscouts.org.
