Key Steps to Starting a Troop

Lesson 2

Girl Scout

Key Steps

Practice

Step Deep Dives

Steps

Index

+ Info

+ Info

+ Info

Chaperone, attend meetings, and volunteer with activities.

+ Info

Finances

Coordinate and support product programs with the troop.

Planning

Coordinate and support cookie program with the troop.

Recruitment

Click on the info icon to learn more about the importance of each step

Mentor, plan meetings, and connect communities.

Resources

Steps

Understanding Resources

Connect with Leaders

Identify Resources

Attend Leader Training

Research Guidelines

Recruitment

Build Culture

Find Local Partners

Leverage Social

Host Meetings

Planning Activities

Balance the Schedule

Engage the Troop

Set and Track Goals

Incorporate Badges

Managing Money

Engage the Troop

Track Expenses

Fundraise

Create a Budget

Practice

00:30

Practice

00:30

Practice

00:30

Practice

00:30

Practice

20:00

Practice

20:00

Practice

01:30

See you in Module 2!

Thank you!

Managing Money

• Ensures financial sustainability: Proper money management ensures that the troop has the funds necessary to carry out activities and events throughout the year.

• Teaches financial responsibility: Managing funds provides an opportunity to involve girls in budgeting, saving, and learning about financial literacy.

• Fosters transparency: Having clear financial practices builds trust with parents, volunteers, and the broader Girl Scout community.

• Supports long-term planning: Effective money management allows for strategic planning, such as saving for future events, uniforms, or service projects

Resources

• Ensures preparedness: Knowing what resources and knowledge are necessary helps set clear expectations and allows for a smoother startup.
• Maximizes effectiveness: Understanding what supplies, training, and support you’ll need ensures that you can deliver a high-quality experience for the girls and leaders.
• Provides a foundation: Having pre-knowledge about the Girl Scout program and its structure ensures that you're aligned with organizational goals and guidelines.
• Prevents obstacles: Identifying resources upfront (e.g., meeting space, volunteers, curriculum) helps prevent delays or challenges later on.

Planning

• Aligns with goals: Well-planned activities help achieve the troop’s short- and long-term goals, ensuring a meaningful experience.

• Engages girls effectively: Planning a mix of fun, educational, and community-oriented activities keeps girls interested and involved.

• Promotes development: Thoughtfully planned activities provide opportunities for girls to learn, build skills, and grow their confidence.

• Enhances troop cohesion: Engaging activities bring girls together, strengthen friendships, and build a sense of teamwork and camaraderie

• Builds a diverse group: Effective recruitment ensures that your troop reflects the community, offering opportunities for different girls to join and contribute.

• Ensures sufficient leadership: Recruiting enough volunteers and co-leaders provides support, helps distribute responsibilities, and ensures a positive experience for everyone.

• Sets a solid foundation: A well-recruited troop starts with strong member participation, which is essential for maintaining energy and commitment.

• Fosters inclusion: Recruitment strategies should target underrepresented girls to foster diversity and ensure equal access to Girl Scout activities.

Recruitment