Service Units

What is a Service Unit?

A Girl Scout service unit is a community of volunteers and girls in a geographic area. The service unit (SU) team is an essential support system that organizes training, mentorship, girl program, as well as membership support for volunteers, girls, and caregivers.

Service Units generally hold monthly meetings where they share information about upcoming events and new information from GSGST & GSUSA with representatives from each troop.

Why are Service Unit meetings important?

Find out about upcoming events and activities
Learn from leaders who have “been there and done that”
Connect with other troops that can assist you with your troop
Get suggestions about best practices
Hear first-hand about GSGST & GSUSA specific information
Get important training
Make new friends

Service Unit Requirements

A Service Unit in good standing at the council level must meet the following minimum requirements to be recognized as an active Service Unit:

Fill at least five core leadership roles with different volunteers:

                  - Service Unit Manager
                  - Secretary
                  - Treasurer
                  - Product Program Manager
                  - Event Coordinator

Maintain an active SU bank account
Submit the annual Financial Report by June 15 of the current membership year
Support at least five active troops
Have a minimum of 60 registered girl members and 60 registered adult members

Meeting these requirements ensures the Service Unit remains a strong, supportive network for volunteers, troops, and Girl Scouts in the community.

Service Unit areas are established by Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas.

For Service Unit Fundraising: Please consult your Volunteer Specialist for Service Unit blackout information, which includes blackout dates such as those for the United Way and Product Program.

You may not plan or advertise a Service Unit fundraising event until the date has been approved by the council.

Service Unit Manager toggle arrow

The Service Unit Manager leads the service unit team and local troop volunteers to promote and ensure an exceptional Girl Scout experience in their community.

Some service units also function as a "co-op" with two co-managers who oversee the direction of the service unit with a shared agreement of responsibility.

Service Unit Secretary toggle arrow

Handles communication, record-keeping, and written correspondence for the service unit.

Service Unit Treasurer toggle arrow

The service unit treasurer is responsible for managing the service unit's funds, submits the service unit annual finance report, and assists troops in complying with GSGST financial policies.

Service Unit Product Manager (Fall and/or Cookie) toggle arrow

Service Unit Event Coordinator toggle arrow

The service unit event coordinator advises the service unit team and troops in safety and risk management for su and troop activities.

The service event coordinator oversees the planning and implementation of event offerings that provide high-quality activities for girls.

Additional Service Unit Volunteers toggle arrow

Troop Mentors (ELFS): These leaders with more than three years of experience support new leaders. Works with adults of new troops to establish leadership; provides support and coaching to new volunteers throughout their first year.

Host/greeter: This volunteer welcomes attendees at service unit meetings and introduces new volunteers.

Juliette Coordinator: Provides Juliettes ongoing support and communicates to girls and their families about local activities and program opportunities.

Translator: Acting as a guide for Spanish speaking leaders at service unit meetings, also helps with translation as needed.

Volunteer Recruiter: Volunteer recruiter collaborates with local service center recruitment specialists to develop a year-round recruitment plan.