You and the Troop

Leadership is the most important job in Girl Scouting and one of the most challenging. Leaders and girls work together, sharing responsibility for developing a partnership that makes a troop run smoothly. You and your co-leaders should discuss the role you will play, the responsibilities the girls will have and the support you need from parents and the community.

A potential new leader is invited to attend an orientation. Orientation is usually given by a field executive and typically lasts 30 - 45 minutes. Orientation is a prerequisite for the New Leader Training. In addition, every person serving in a volunteer capacity with Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas is required to complete an application form which includes a request for three references. The council will check references before appointing the individual to a leadership position.

Training is provided by council trainers to help ensure you have the knowledge and skills to lead girls. Training is required and is offered at a variety of times and places throughout the council. A schedule of courses, along with registration information is contained in the operational calendar.

Make specific plans for the first few troop meetings and outline a calendar for the year, which you can use to make detailed plans with the girls.

Other areas to discuss include:

•troop meeting place and time

•troop committees

•parents' meetings

•troop treasury bank accounts

•troop sponsorship

•troop supplies and records

Parent support is important for successful troops. As a leader, your job is made easier when you enlist parents to help. Most parents will help if you ask them to do a specific task and allow plenty time for them to schedule it. One of the best ways to tap the talents and resources of the parents is to conduct a meeting at the time of registration. At this meeting, troop parents become acquainted with one another, learn about general plans for the year, complete paperwork and learn how they can help.

Decide on a time and place for the meetings. If you guarantee a short meeting, you may increase attendance. Be sure all parents are invited.

5-10 minutes - Introductions (have everyone introduce themselves)
20 minutes - Talk about:

• day, time and place of troop meeting
  
• troop finances
  
• handbooks
  
• uniforms
  
• permission slips
  
• importance of girl planning
  
• snacks
  
• general plans for the year
  
• recognitions
  
5-10 minutes - Answer questions - Ask parents to commit to help with a specific task.
20 minutes - Review and complete forms:

• registration forms (girl and adult)
  
• collect membership dues
  

Membership Registration

Every girl who participates in Girl Scout activities must be registered. Adults who are directly involved with the girls (leaders, assistant leaders) must be registered. The $10.00 non-refundable fee goes to our national office to register each member with the Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. and to provide activity and accident insurance. Registration happens throughout the year. Submit registrations as you get them. Girls should not attend Girl Scout activities until their registrations have been received by the leader.

Training

• To impart information about the ways of work of the national organization, e.g. standards, safety and girl-adult planning.
  
• To learn or improve skills to carry the Girl Scout program in partnership with girls.
  
• To learn from sharing with other adult Girl Scout volunteers.
  
• To make your volunteer job easier and more enjoyable.
  
• To have fun.
  

Troop leadership: A troop leader must have New Leader and Age Level Training within 4 weeks of registration.

Troop Camping, Traveling, and Taking a Trip: A qualified first aider or equally trained medical person (nurse, doctor) must accompany a troop when the program includes canoeing, traveling or taking a trip. (You do not need a certified first aider for regular Girl Scout meetings.)

If the troop participates in an outdoor activity, one adult accompanying the troop must have completed the appropriate training.

Progression in Training: 1st course: Orientation (Membership Executive)

2nd course: New Leader (3 hours)(Training Dept.)

3rd course: Age Level (3 hours)(Training Dept.)

4th course: First Aid (8 hours)(Training Dept.)

Outdoor Training:

Course: Troop Camp Training

Training Fees: Training fees are charged for the actual cost of materials, food, supplies etc. We are also required to pay a fee when using Brand Youth Camp in Mission. Course fees must accompany training registration.

Financial Aid

Financial assistance for girls may be available for handbooks and membership dues. A "request for financial assistance" form must be submitted for review. Parents and leaders may contact council office for further information.

©2007 Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas