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Looking for details about what it means to join Girl Scouts of Western New York? We have put together some Frequently Ask Questions just for you. These questions and answers are for our potential new girls, parents, GSWNY families, adults, and volunteers. We have two groups of FAQs, one specifically for potential new girl members and one for new adult members and/or volunteers.

If you have any additional questions that you don’t see, don’t hesitate. We have experts waiting to answer any of your questions. Please get in touch with our customer care team at customercare@gswny.org or by calling 1-888-837-6410 

Girl Questions
What can I expect to do as a girl scout?

Girl Scouts is all about fun, friendship and new adventures. You will make friends, challenge yourself, write your own story, and learn how to change the world for the better. Some Girl Scouts love to camp, some love to build things, some love to read, some love to learn, and so much more – the great thing is they get to do it with new friends!

What is the time commitment involved?

Most girls spend a few hours (3-4) every month working on badge projects and attending troop meetings/events.

What is the financial commitment involved?

Girls pay a yearly membership fee of $25 to be part of Girl Scouts. In addition there may be small fees for activities and troop dues throughout the year. As an organization we are deeply committed to ensuring that all girls have the opportunity to participate in Girl Scouts. Financial assistance is available to assist families.

Is my age important?

Girls in Kindergarten through grade 12 can join Girl Scouts. Girls progress through programming levels and each level offers challenges and opportunities for girls to learn and achieve.

Is it true I can earn scholarships?

Yes, Girl Scouts who complete the Higher Awards including Bronze, Silver and Gold can earn scholarships for college. In addition, GSWNY is a member of Sage Tuition Rewards and you can learn more about the program at gswny.org/Sage

Is it necessary to be part of a troop?

Not all Girl Scouts choose to be part of a troop. Some instead choose to be Juliette’s, independent Girl Scouts who do not belong to a specific troop but do participate in activities, badge programs, camp, and cookie selling based on their interests.

How do I become a member?

Visit gswny.org/join to sign up for Girl Scouts. In addition, you can call Customer Care at 1-888-837-6410 and they will assist you with the membership process.

What’s the deal with Girl Scout cookies? What if I don’t want to sell?

While cookie selling isn’t a required part of the Girl Scout experience, it does give girls a chance to be part of the largest girl-led business in the country and it teaches 5 important skills: Goal Setting, Decision Making, Money Management, People Skills, and Business Ethics. In addition, the proceeds your troop earns from cookie sales go toward fun activities for the troop.

Adult Questions
How can I be involved in Girl scouts?

You are invited to participate in Girl Scouts with your child as a troop volunteer. Girl Scouts offers you a perfect opportunity to spend quality time with your girl. 

What is the time commitment involved?

The time commitment varies based on the volunteer role. Troop co-leaders spend around 6 -8 hours a month organizing and attending troop meetings and activities, and other volunteer roles require 4-5 hours a month including troop meetings.

What is the financial commitment involved?

 Adult volunteers pay a yearly membership fee of $25 to be part of Girl Scouts. In addition there may be small fees for activities and troop dues throughout the year. As an organization we are deeply committed to ensuring that all girls and adult volunteers have the opportunity to participate in Girl Scouts. Financial assistance is available to assist families.

I am not a parent or a caregiver?

Adults may volunteer to be part of Girl Scouts working with troops, supporting summer camp, etc. Volunteers who work directly with girls must pass a background check before they participate.

What are Girl Scout traditions?

We have some formal traditions like the Girl Scout hand sign and friendship circles, there are tons of casual traditions as well. Girl Scouts SWAPS are great for crafty girls, summer camp captures the hearts of many girls, and our annual bridging up ceremonies mark important milestones for our girl members. Our traditions are designed to bring girls together through shared experiences.

None of these options work in my area, how can I help?

 If you girl wants to be a Girl Scout and there isn’t an open troop available, she can get a few of her friends interested and together with some parents they can build a brand new troop! Not all Girl Scouts choose to be part of a troop. Some instead choose to be Juliette’s, independent Girl Scouts who do not belong to a specific troop but do participate in activities, badge programs, camp, and cookie selling based on their interests. 

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