Girl Scouts – It’s a girl Thing

The Following Essay was written by Hayesville Girl Scout Member – Aspen Fine

There are many reasons to join a local Girl Scout troop.  The reasons will differ for each girl. Some of the reasons I joined my local troop are: to continue a family tradition; impact my community in a positive way; develop skills through the fundraising programs; and to make new friends and add value to life of others.  My parents have taught me to always do my best no matter the circumstances.  Being a Girl Scout helps me to grow as a young girl and to always be able to do my best.

First, my grandma, my mom and my aunt were all Girl Scouts.  My grandma was a Girl Scout leader.  My mom was going to Girl Scout meetings and going on Girl Scout camping trips since she was 2 years old.  I am happy to carry on this wonderful family tradition.  If God blesses me with a daughter in the future, I hope she will be a Girl Scout too.

Second, it is a great honor to be able to help provide food and clothing to local families in need.  My favorite project was making “birthday boxes” for the Food Pantry.  This is because I think everyone should feel special on their birthday. I was happy to make some child smile with a birthday cake and party decorations.  During these economic hard times, it is a good feeling to be able to lend a helping hand, a warm smile, a hand-made card or a friendly visit to the nursing home.  I pray that with these efforts I have been able to bring many people joy.

Third, I enjoy participating in the fundraisers.  The fundraisers help me to set and accomplish goals, earn cookie dough dollars to help pay for Girl Scout camp, share smiles, learn to be a good steward of money and develop salesmanship skills.  I also enjoy assisting my troop with raising money to put back into the community. My favorite thing about the fundraisers is that I develop courage and meet many people in our community that I have developed a special bond with.  In fact, they are already calling me to find out when cookies go on sale.

Finally, I enjoy making new friends.  My mom taught me a song that she learned when she was a Girl Scout.  My grandma taught her, while she was her Girl Scout leader.  It is a song about making friends.  I have met many through Girl Scout camp and through my troop. I may not get to spend much time with my new friends, but I am happy to be with them at camp or Girl Scout meetings and activities.

In closing, I hope you are encouraged to learn more about Girl Scouts and the many benefits it provides.  Oops!  I almost forgot to mention this colossal benefit- it is so much fun!

I leave you with my song:

Make new friends, keep the old, one is silver and the other gold.