Dear Girl Scout Troop Leaders and Volunteers,

What a whirlwind it has been over the last four months! I know many of us are experiencing change and uncertainty in our lives as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Please know that we are constantly thinking about our Girl Scout families and the varied impact that the last four months have had on households across our council and are so looking forward to turning the page of this chapter with you.
 
As we continue to await the messages from school districts across our 47 counties about plans for the 2020-2021 school year, we are hearing that many Girl Scouts are ready to safely resume in person troop activities as it provides a much-needed return to normalcy in some way. You received the message on Monday, that in person troop activities may resume as of August 4th, provided certain criteria and health and safety guidelines are met.

This morning, we are launching our COVID-19 Guidance and Support space on our website as a resource for YOU. Today, and in the coming weeks, you will find this as a one-stop-resource for special safety guidelines, suggestions on meeting spaces, parent/caregiver communications for you, and so much more. This will be an ongoing resource with up to date info for as long as we are facing the unprecedented time together. Visit often. Share your feedback . Let us know if there is something additional you would like to see here. This is a resource to support YOU.
 
We are also hearing that many Girl Scouts (girls, troops, leaders), just aren't ready to come together in person yet. We hear you and understand. Our team has been working on exciting virtual content that will be released monthly that girls can do at home as well as supplemental troop activities that can be done in person or virtually to help you stay connected. More details to come next month! Until then, keep using all the great summer patch programs available.
 
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you give to Girl Scouts. Even a worldwide pandemic won't stop our awesome volunteers from building girls of courage confidence and character !

 
Yours in Girl Scouting,
Carmen Gleason
Chief Operating Officer