Girl Scouts from San Francisco’s Tenderloin Set Their Sights on Europe

In 2012, a new Girl Scout troop took root in San Francisco’s Tenderloin—one of the city’s most densely populated and underserved neighborhoods. What started with just a few Daisies meeting in the community room of an affordable housing complex has grown into a tight-knit, determined group of teens preparing for the experience of a lifetime: an international Girl Scout Destinations trip to Europe.

Under the leadership of Mary Catherine “MC” Gaisbauer, the troop has done more than earn badges. They’ve served their community, explored the outdoors, and taken on projects that reflect the realities of their lives. A few summers ago, they traveled to Arizona to volunteer at national parks and a food bank while learning about the region’s culture. More recently, they completed Take Action projects on homelessness in San Francisco—an issue that hits close to home for many troop members.

This is a troop that reflects the rich diversity of San Francisco. At one point, members spoke five different primary languages. MC found creative ways to meet their needs, including partnering with local high school students to translate health and safety forms into Chinese and Tagalog to ensure that every Girl Scout could participate fully and safely.

Throughout it all, the troop has been supported by GLIDE Memorial Church, which provided meeting space and a welcoming home base. “Programs like Girl Scouts give youth in the Tenderloin consistent, positive opportunities to learn, lead, and be seen,” said Freddy Martin from GLIDE. “We’ve seen firsthand how these kinds of experiences ripple outward—building confidence in young people and strengthening our entire community. The experience of seeing these young women and their adult supervisors in action—providing nourishment for our community—is a true delight and an unforgettable reminder that together, we are always stronger. Everyone’s lives are enriched and made better because of it.”

Now, after years of growth and hard work—including countless hours selling cookies to fund their dreams—several of the girls are preparing to graduate. Their final adventure as a troop: a trip to Italy and Central Europe this summer. The journey represents more than a passport stamp; it’s a celebration of everything they’ve built together.

“We are so proud of their accomplishments,” MC said. “They’ve worked incredibly hard for this moment. They’ve grown as leaders and as a team. This trip is the culmination of everything they’ve experienced together as Girl Scouts.”

Their journey reflects what Girl Scouts is all about—creating a space where every young person can show up as they are, take on new challenges, and build a future that’s entirely their own.

May 18, 2025