History Resources for Volunteers | Girl Scouts
girls hiking girls hikinggirls hiking
Through The Decades Patch
girls hiking girls hikinggirls hiking
Decade Boxes

Throughout the year, Girl Scouts and their volunteers observe several significant occasions in Girl Scouting.

  • Juliette Gordon Low's birthday, also known as Founder's Day, on October 31, celebrates the birth of Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of Girl Scouts of the USA, in 1860 in Savannah, Georgia.
  • World Thinking Day, on February 22, honors the birthdays of Girl Guide/Girl Scout founder Lord Baden-Powell (1857–1941) and World Chief Guide Lady Baden-Powell (1889–1977). It is also a time to contribute to the Juliette Low World Friendship Fund.
  • Girl Scouts’ birthday, on March 12, marks the day in 1912 when Juliette Gordon Low registered the first 18 members of the organization in Savannah, Georgia.
  • Girl Scout Week is celebrated each March, starting with Girl Scout Sunday and concluding with Girl Scout Sabbath on a Saturday, always encompassing Girl Scouts’ birthday on March 12.
  • Girl Scouts Celebrate Faith events provide Girl Scouts the chance to be acknowledged at their places of worship during Girl Scout Week, share their service legacy, and strengthen their connection to their faith and Girl Scouting. These celebrations include Girl Scout Sunday, Girl Scout Jummah, and Girl Scout Sabbath/Shabbat.
  • Girl Scout Leader's Day, on April 22, recognizes all the volunteers who serve as leaders and mentors alongside girls. On this day, Girl Scouts, their families, and communities express their gratitude to Girl Scout volunteers in special ways.

When reciting the Girl Scout Promise, Girl Scouts display a special sign by raising their right hand with three fingers extended, while the thumb tucks in the pinky. Each finger symbolizes a key element of the Promise.

Girl Scouts have a special way to greet each other with a unique handshake. To perform this handshake, they use their left hand for shaking, while the right hand forms the Girl Scout sign. This gesture, with the left hand closer to the heart, symbolizes a bond of friendship.
The Friendship Circle consists of participants forming a circle, crossing their right arms over their left, and holding hands with the person next to them. In silence, each person makes a wish while a gentle squeeze is passed from one hand to the next around the circle. Symbolizing the continuous bond of companionship among Girl Scouts
A flag ceremony pays tribute to the American flag as a symbol of our nation. In such ceremonies, the flag is carefully carried by a color guard. 

 

Investiture: This event marks the introduction of new members to the Girl Scout community. During the ceremony, newcomers receive both their membership pin and their pin corresponding to their grade level.

Rededication: These gatherings provide a chance for Girl Scouts, along with their families and volunteers, to reaffirm their dedication to the Girl Scout Promise and Law.

 

The ceremony celebrates the achievements of Girl Scouts. During this event, they receive badges, year pins, and various recognitions they have earned over the year. Volunteers might also receive acknowledgment during the ceremony. 

 A "kaper chart" is a tradition within the Girl Scouts for distributing these group duties. The chart outlines all the available tasks and assigns them to individuals.
A Situpon is a handy item designed to keep you dry and cozy when seated. Typically crafted at home, these projects are perfect for girls to create as they prepare their camping adventures. Sit-Upons provide a barrier against dampness and chill when sitting on the ground.
SWAPS (Special Whatchamacallits Affectionately Pinned Somewhere) are tokens of friendship exchanged among Girl Scouts. Each one is distinctive, capturing the essence of a Girl Scout, their troop, or a memorable event. These tokens offer a wonderful opportunity to share experiences and connect with Girl Scouts nationwide and globally.
According to the 1947 Girl Scout Handbook, the motto for Girl Scouts is “Be prepared.” This phrase emphasizes that a Girl Scout should always be ready to lend a hand when needed. It's not merely about the willingness to help; it’s equally important to possess the skills necessary to execute tasks effectively, even in urgent circumstances. This principle continues to hold significance today.
The trefoil serves as an important emblem for the Girl Scouts, embodying the three elements of the Girl Scout Promise. Its three leaves stand for the commitment to help others, adhere to the highest ideals and contribute positively to the community.