Key Steps to Starting a Troop

Girl Scout

Key Steps

Lesson 2

Index

Steps

Step Deep Dives

Practice

Steps

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

Finances

Recruitment

Planning

Resources

Mentor, plan meetings, and connect communities.

Chaperone, attend meetings, and volunteer with activities.

Coordinate and support cookie program with the troop.

Coordinate and support product programs with the troop.

+ Info

+ Info

+ Info

+ Info

Understanding Resources

Research Guidelines

Attend Leader Training

Identify Resources

Connect with Leaders

Recruitment

Host Meetings

Leverage Social

Find Local Partners

Build Culture

Planning Activities

Incorporate Badges

Set and Track Goals

Engage the Troop

Balance the Schedule

Managing Money

Create a Budget

Fundraise

Track Expenses

Engage the Troop

Practice

00:30

Practice

00:30

Practice

00:30

Practice

00:30

Practice

20:00

Practice

20:00

Practice

01:30

Thank you!

See you in Module 2!

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

Recruitment

• 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.