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Girl Scouts Magazine - Winter/Spring 2026

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GIRL SCOUTS

Winter/Spring 2026

News and Program Information from Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

2024-25 Impact Report Girl Scout Cookie Season Begins January 9 2026 Camp Open Houses


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GIRL SCOUTS News & Program Information from Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

Board Chair

Chief Executive Officer

Lu Ann Klevecz

Tracy Keller

Contents

Vice Chair Dr. Leonard Brown, Jr.

Treasurer Luis Estrada

Secretary

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Amanda Howie

Members at Large: Dr. Vera Combs Campbell Elizabeth Chapman Latonya English Angelyn Gibson Moriah Holland Dr. Sharon M. Jones Deneen Keegan Sarah Linden-Brooks

Alexis Majied Kim Mingee Colleen Mollison Laura Morgan Dr. Laura Sass, MD

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Girl Member Girl Scout Kaitlyn Salway Girl Scout Martha-Ann Wells

A Place for Girls, 912 Cedar Road Chesapeake, VA 23322 • 800-77SCOUT • gsccc.org

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On the Cover... Meet Martha-Ann Wells! She's a Girl Scout Senior from Newport News who has earned both her Girl Scout Bronze and Silver Awards. She is a girl member on GSCCC's Board of Directors and a National Delegate. She excels in Girl Scouts and in school where she is in an International Baccalaureate program and on the school's debate team. Martha-Ann was asked to be one of three Girl Scout teens to be panel moderators at the launch of the new Girl Scout Internet patch, the Be Internet Awesome Family Challenge, that was held at Google's offices in Washington DC. She has volunteered to speak as a girl member representative of GSCCC on many occasions. Outside of Girl Scouts, she volunteers at the Virginia Living Museum, sings in her church choir, and plays the piano. Martha-Ann is passionate about representing her peers and their needs, while inspiring girls to advocate for themselves and their beliefs.

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

5 GSCCC Specialty Clubs 6 What Can a Girl Scout Do? 10 Girl Scout Cookie Program 12 Program Events

16 Explore More at Camp 23 America250 24 2024-25 Impact Report 26 Meet Girl Scout Daisy Luna!

Pack your curiosity and head to the Children’s Museum of Virginia!


Connecting as a Family Girl Scouts is more meaningful when you do it together! I stand 100% behind that statement. I’m a Girl Scout alum who comes from a family with five generations of Girl Scouts. That’s a long history of Girl Scouting, but I know this isn’t the case for everyone. Many are choosing to start a new tradition by signing up this year and learning the Girl Scout Promise and Law for the first time. Whether you’re coming from years of Girl Scouting or are a brand-new member, the Girl Scout experience can truly be enhanced when the whole family gets involved, side-by-side with the girl you love. Whether you’re cheering her on at a bridging ceremony, helping lead an activity, or just showing up for the fun, there’s a place for you in her journey. And the benefits of enjoying Girl Scout activities together are huge. When I was a young girl, I was very goal-oriented. I loved learning new things, making stuff with my hands, and going camping. My mother signed me up as a Girl Scout Brownie — and signed herself up as well, as a troop leader. I thrived — we thrived — in the Girl Scouts’ nurturing environment. I was so very lucky to have my entire family, mom, dad, and siblings, including my sister who was also a Girl Scout, support me on my Girl Scout journey. When I became a mom, I was eager to give the same type of experiences to my daughters, experiences that would help build strong bonds. My husband, too, joined in and supported our Girl Scouts by offering transportation to troop meetings, helping at cookie booths, and being there to cheer them on to earn the highest awards in Girl Scouts, and, of course, to buy one or more boxes of Girl Scout Cookies.

Tracy Keller Chief Executive Officer

Everyone likes Girl Scout Cookies, right? They are delicious! Like my husband and I supporting our daughters through the Cookie Program, my family supported my yearly cookie drives as a girl. I have great memories of my family’s home filled with Girl Scout Cookies ready for delivery and my mom helping me practice messaging to use with customers. I learned so many great business skills from that early experience. The Girl Scout Cookie Program is a great way for families to get involved. Parents can help teach valuable lessons in business ethics, safety, and money management, while helping their Girl Scout and her troop to meet their goals. The Cookie Entrepreneur Family Pin is earned by a Girl Scout and her family for their support of and participation in the Girl Scout Cookie Program. Be part of your girl’s journey in Girl Scouts. Take it from me, your participation will mean so much to her. Connect with your Girl Scout on a deeper level as you share in fun events, service projects, and new experiences. Support her leadership journey by being present and involved. I invite you to be part of the adventure, the growth, and the memories — together. Sincerely,

Find resources for Girl Scout week on the GSCCC website! Get involved as a family for Girl Scout week! 8

Girl Scout Sunday

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Monday

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Tuesday

Wednesday

Sunday Fun Day

Mindfulness Monday

Throwback Tuesday

Wear it Wednesday

Read how to earn the My Promise, My Faith pin.

Everyone make a list of people you are grateful for.

Find fun facts about Girl Scouts and share!

Families wear green, Girl Scouts wear your vest!

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Thursday

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Friday

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Girl Scout Sabbath

Girl Scouts' Birthday

Friday Night Fun

Service Saturday

Bake a sweet treat to celebrate Girl Scouts!

Work together to make a themed dinner!

Donate to your local food bank today.

4 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

Tracy Keller Chief Executive Officer, GSCCC

Family Fun! Get involved with your girl's experience in Girl Scouting and strengthen family bonds while helping her succeed. Plan to participate in troop activities and attend some of our awesome Council events! • Cookie Classic Run January 17 • Girl Scout Night at ODU Women's Basketball January 17 • Sandbox VR Girl Scout Day February 15 • Plan B Kids Comedy at the Z Theater March 21 • Cookies on Ice with The Norfolk Admirals April 4 • Girl Scout Night Out with the Tides April 24 Check gsccc.org/events to • Family Fun on the Farm get the latest information May 2 and sign up today!


Exploration for every interest—with your besties! July 23-25, 2026 | Washington, DC

Girl Scouts in 7th grade and up (second-year Cadettes and older) can join a Girl Scout club or specialty group. Even if you are in a troop, you can join! Participation is flexible to accommodate the busy schedules of our older Girl Scouts.

GSCCC Clubs Special Groups • Star Club • Gadget Club • Cooking Club • Hiking Club

• GSCCC Wild Things (Girl Scouts 12 and up) • Blazing Blue Herons Canoe Team • Wild Things • Colonial Coast Girl Scout Cavers

Clubs & Special Groups page

Details at gsccc.org/clubs, or reach out to customercare@gsccc.org for more information.

Hike and Bike

In the days leading up to the Girl Scouts Unite event (July 20-22), our 58th National Council Session will take place. National Delegates from all over the Movement will discuss key issues, vote on proposals, and elect leaders. It's democracy in action as teen Girl Scouts and adults who serve as National Delegates give their voices in shaping the future of Girl Scouts. After the National Council Session, Girl Scouts Unite occurs where more than 10,000 Girl Scouts, community members, and supporters will come together to make memories!

Teen Girl Scouts had a blast hiking and biking through Grayson Highlands State Park last fall over a full weekend that included camping outdoors. Outdoor adventures like this one are regularly scheduled by the Hiking Club!

Cooking Club

At the Girl Scouts Unite event, you’ll: • hear from inspiring speakers, like Space Gal Emily Calandrelli • meet Girl Scout book authors Sayantani DasGupta and Yamile Saied Méndez • experience interactive workshops and live performances • meet girls who are taking action in their communities • learn about trailblazers and barrier-breakers from past generations • venture around the city for events and exhibits commemorating the 250th anniversary of the U.S.

Girl Scouts Unite Event All Access: 3-Days | Individual $550 Group of four $2,000 The 3-day ticket includes: • Admission to the Girl Scouts Unite event Thursday, July 23 through Saturday, July 25, 2026 • Access to the Hall of Experiences, opening and closing ceremonies, and programming • Invitations to the Gold Award Celebration, National Bridging Ceremony and Block Party • A swag bag • Transportation from the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, taxi to and from hotels within GSUSA reserved blocks

The Cooking Club did some baking this fall and visited the Fred Huette Garden to learn how to make fruit salsa and homemade cinnamon chips!

Colonial Cavers The Colonial Coast Cavers are dedicated to spelunking. Join this group and explore the underground world through caving. Don’t miss attending Cracks, Crevices and Crawlways, an indoor, simulated caving experience at Camp Skimino in January. Open to all ages. Opportunities to participate in team-building activities that can benefit every girl, whether she decides to go spelunking or not, since team-building skills can be applied to many other activities.

Register for Cracks, Crevices and Crawlways and other events at gsccc.org/events!

Blazing Blue Herons

Develop skills in canoeing and throw yourself into competitive racing. Expect to learn water safety, endurance as a canoer, and how to be part of a team, along with participating in stewardship projects. Be sure to sign up for Day at the Pond, a program supported by the Blazing Blue Herons! Details and registration at gsccc.org/events. 5 Winter/Spring


What Can a Girl Scout Do? Girl Scouts help fight food insecurity in so many ways. From organizing food drives to volunteering at food banks and creating community gardens to supply fresh produce, they are always finding ways to make a difference.

Expanded Food Pantry Girl Scout Cadettes in Troop 946 expanded the food pantry offerings at the Suffolk Christian Church with their Girl Scout Silver Award. They obtained household paper products and toiletry items to be added to the pantry shelves. They started their project by surveying the customers of the pantry to find out what items they most wanted that are not normally found on the shelves. Then they set out to collect and stock by placing donation bins in the area. In addition, they helped educate the church members and those in the community about the growing food insecurity need and bring awareness to non-food items that are also necessary for these people in need. A unique collection drive that made a difference!

Birthday Boxes for the Food Bank Girl Scouts from Troop 2119 celebrated Founder's Day by creating 18 birthdayin-a-box kits that were donated to the Food Bank of the Albemarle. The kits included cake mix, frosting, a soda, balloons, birthday candles and a greeting from the troop explaining how the soda replaces the oil, eggs, and water that the cake mix needs. The troop even included gluten free and sugar free options for those with additional dietary needs.

Bridging Ceremony Girl Scout Troop 329 in Chesapeake held a fall Bridging ceremony where five girls advanced levels and all others participated in a rededication ceremony. During the fall, they also did several community service projects that included creating birthday bags for children in need, collecting food for the St. Paul Methodist food pantry, and creating Spread Kindness cards as part of the Council-wide service project that connects Girl Scout friendship to senior citizens. 6 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

Engaging in service projects like cookie donations, creating care packages, and participating in special ceremonies and parades allows Girl Scouts to honor and support the military community. Girl Scouts also dedicate time to Take Action projects—making an impact in a big way!

Fort Story Community Garden Playhouse Refresh Girl Scout Junior Elizabeth Holcomb from Troop 1193 in Virginia Beach earned her Girl Scout Bronze Award by completing a project where she repaired and repainted the Fort Story Community Garden playhouse. This project greatly benefited the Fort Story families and made the Garden much more welcoming, giving area children somewhere to enjoy and play.

Care Packages for Sailors Girl Scout McKinsley Shelton from Troop 5826 in Chesapeake loves creating bracelets. She used her talent to sell her bracelets as a fundraiser to purchase toiletry supplies for 82 sailors deployed on the USS Ike. She partnered with the ship's Ombudsman and was able to send care packages at Christmas and Valentine's Day along with Gift of Caring Girl Scout Cookies! She finalized this Girl Scout Bronze Award project by creating welcome home packets for the group. "Even though some do have families that send them things, I know they appreciate feeling loved and supported by others in the community," she said. If you don't have the contact information for an Ombudsman, consider reaching out the the USO. Find information on the USO Care Package Program at uso.org.

Girl Scouts and Military: A Tradition of Partnership Explore Our Military Pride Patches

United States Navy Pride Patch

The Explore Military Patch Program series was created to provide girls at any level a variety of activities and experiences that will help them learn about our military branches. We are proud to offer five explore patches, one for each branch of the United States military.


Troop News! A World of Good! Girl Scouts has always been an inclusive organization that promotes understanding of all people of all abilities. These efforts include Girl Scouts choosing Take Action projects to help others in the community with special needs. In Girl Scouts, we promote and foster an environment that respects individual differences!

Tech Comes to Marian Manor

Girl Scouts promote environmental stewardship. From hosting community-based recycling projects to collecting and sorting plastics and other materials, Girl Scout actions through educational programs teach eco-friendly practices. Juliette “Daisy” Gordon Low, who founded what we now know as the Girl Scouts, was far ahead of her time. She was an advocate for girls and also for the environment. A statement in the 1913 Girl Scout Handbook sums up her attitude: “In the United States... we have cut down too many trees and our forests are fast following the buffalo.” Another half century elapsed before Congress passed the Endangered Species Act and developed the Environmental Protection Agency. (We know Daisy would have loved the Girl Scout Tree Promise service project.)

Be Fantastic-Use Less Plastic

Girl Scout Juniors from Troop 303 in Virginia Beach brought tech magic to Marian Manor Retirement Home with their Smartphone Seminar!, a Bronze Award project. The girls helped residents explore their phones, discover cool features and apps, and learn how to make everyday tech a little less tricky. Each Girl Scout offered one-on-one support, patiently guiding seniors through the ins and outs of their devices.

PBJ Buddy Kits Girl Scout Cadette Penelope Thomas from Troop 671 created a buddy system for kids at the school with disabilities, so they could be paired up with other students at the school to form friendships. The program idea came to her when she realized many students did not feel comfortable or were scared when it came to speaking and making friends. As part of her project, she created a sign-up system so buddies could be connected, and she also created Buddy Kits with lots of friendship making activities!

Kid2Kid Volunteers Girl Scout Cadette Avery Miller from Troop 671 helped connect more volunteers with St. Mary’s Home for Disabled Children through her Girl Scout Silver Award project, “Finding More Kid2Kid Volunteers.” Kid2Kid is a group made up of young volunteers whose only mission is to support and raise money for the home. Avery set out to make more middle and high school students aware of Kid2Kid and to connect them as volunteers. She did this by updating the Kid2Kid website, speaking engagements, and then creating marketing that outlined how volunteers could help, giving details on opportunities found at the home. She recruited more than 20 new volunteers and created a new annual chalk event to attract more volunteers in the future!

Six Girl Scout Juniors from Troop 4321 took action to earn their Bronze Awards by designing and creating canvas bags to give out at the local farmer's market to replace plastic bags. Each of the 100 bags had hand-drawn designs by the girls. They handed out the bags to shoppers along with a flyer with information on the ways to cut back on the use of plastic bags.

Recycling Awareness Girl Scout Cadette Kiera Sohoni from Troop 1087 in Williamsburg took action to address an issue at Berkely Middle School that did not have a recycling program. Kiera created a recycling awareness program that included educational posters and a dedicated website with links to videos. She made these available to school administrators, the PTA and other students.

Tree Promise Project Join Girl Scouts to make the world a better place as we plant, protect, and honor trees with the Girl Scout Tree Promise. Learn how to solve community problems and use team-building skills to sow seeds of change with family and friends today! Get the Tree Promise Activity Guide and Volunteer Guide for ideas on how to make the Tree Promise and earn the patch.

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Get to Know the New True North Leadership Award

The brand new True North award is available for Junior, Cadette, and Senior/Ambassador Girl Scouts. The True North award is about helping girls discover what matters to them and staying true to themselves. It’s their chance to follow their values and take meaningful action. Whether they’re finding the courage to speak up for what they believe in, taking on challenges, or advocating for positive change, this award helps them build the confidence and clarity to chart their own course and take courageous steps toward what truly matters to them. Bonus feature: Earning the True North award for their program level opens the door to the Highest Awards. Once they earn this award, they’ll have fulfilled the prerequisite and are ready to start their Bronze, Silver, or Gold Award.

Peer Leadership Awards Want to grow as a team leader? Then aim to earn the Silver Torch award for Cadettes or the Gold Torch award for Senior and Ambassador Girl Scouts. Gain skills to build up to leading a group of peers within Girl Scouting or the wider community. Silver Torch award: Learn how to shine on a team at school or within a place of worship, Girl Scouts, or a community organization. Work toward a shared goal, support your teammates, and build confidence as you find out what motivates people and inspires positive change. Gold Torch award: This award gives you the know-how and skills to lead with purpose and heart, not just be in charge. Whether you’re a team captain, club officer, advisory board member, or a leader at a community organization, you’ll learn how to bring people together, turn ideas into impact, and inspire others. Bonus feature: Earning the Torch award for your program level opens the door to the Highest Awards. Once you earn this award, you’ve fulfilled the prerequisite and are ready to start your Silver or Gold Award.

Download the Volunteer Guide and Action Plan PDFs on GSUSA’s Leadership Awards page at girlscouts.org.

Girl Award Celebration

Leadership in Action! Saturday, June 6, 2026 10 a.m. - Noon Norfolk State University Wilder Theater 700 Park Ave., Suite 111, Norfolk 23504 Join GSCCC in honoring Girl Scouts who have made a meaningful impact through their Gold, Silver, and Bronze Award projects during the period from April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026.

8 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

Additionally, we will recognize this year’s Buck Harris Award honoree, scholarship awardees, and our graduating high school seniors.


Meet Gold Award Girl Scout Noor Swanson A Girl Scout Gold Award project is based on an issue the Girl Scout feels passionate about, which she then develops into a project with long-term, sustainable impact. Girl Scout Ambassador Noor Swanson, a 2025 graduate of Norfolk Academy who was a member of Troop 495, chose an issue she personally had to deal with in life, and worked to spread information about CRPS as her Gold Award project. Complex regional pain syndrome, or CRPS, is a form of chronic pain that typically develops after an injury. With this condition, the recurring pain usually presents in a higher proportion to the severity of the initial injury. The syndrome disproportionately affects adolescent women and teenage girls, including Noor. In sixth grade, an innocent game of tag led to Noor’s toe being slammed in a door. Despite the injury seeming minor, she said her life was “forever changed by CRPS.” After recognizing the lack of resources and the misinformation surrounding this condition, she took action to create a centralized online resource with the support of Dr. Stephen D’Amato. While navigating through research, Noor discovered some striking statistics. “CRPS is more common in females—a shocking 70 percent. Moreover, CRPS is more common among adolescent girls with the mean age being 13 years old. After numerous X-rays, MRIs, boots, and crutches, nothing was broken or fractured,” Noor said. “Still, the excruciating pain that can only be described as an extreme burning sensation and intense pressure, spread from my right pinky toe to my right hip. It prevented me from participating in sports and eventually even from walking. It hurt to lightly touch my leg. It wasn’t until two and a half years later that I was finally pain-free after receiving treatment.” A treatment listed on Noor's site as a resource involves Scrambler Therapy (ST), a computerized medical device that applies a low-amperage electric signal that transmits non-pain information through surface electrodes on the skin (similar to an EKG) to surface nerve receptors. ST replaces the “pain” information with artificial “non-pain” information. Noor ensured that this Take Action project will be sustainable beyond her involvement. The site she created is hosted on a long-term platform and has been built to require minimal maintenance, while still offering valuable and up-to-date resources. Read more amazing Gold Award Girl Scout stories on GSCCC's website. Gold Award Girl Scout stories

Calling for Nominations! The Buck Harris Award is presented to one Girl Scout each year and consists of a framed certificate and a free week at a GSCCC-sponsored summer camp.

Let’s make her future dreams a reality. Thanks to Girl Scouting, so many girls are prepared for a lifetime of leadership. They can’t wait to see what their future holds! Their experience in Girl Scouts gives them unique advantages for scholarships and other awards. View the local listings of GSCCC council scholarships, including the Girl Scouts of the USA Gold Award Scholarship, and our council scholarships are open to Girl Scouts at gsccc.org/scholarships. Interested in supporting a scholarship? Reach out to customercare@gsccc.org and help make a dream come true.

To qualify for the award, a girl must be nominated by the girls in her troop, group or service unit, or by an adult who is aware of her qualifications. Girl Scouts must meet the criteria of: being an active troop member who has helped make troop meetings and activities more enjoyable during the past two years by participating in, or helping, to make service unit events and/or Council events better during the past two years. Special consideration will be given to girls who have participated in or assisted with outdoor events; have been active in school, community and/or church, synagogue, temple activities during the past two years; and have participated in Council events. Nominations are due by March 31 each year. Learn more at gsccc.org.

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2026 Girl Scout Cookie Program BRAVE. FIERCE. FUN. Girl Scouts Rock!

With each new cookie season, Girl Scout entrepreneurs know it's about more than just the cookies—it's about being brave enough to make their pitch, fierce enough to smash their biggest goals, and having loads of cookie fun while doing it! There's no limit to what Girl Scouts can achieve. With your support, this cookie season promises to be BRAVE, FIERCE, and oh-so-FUN!

Girl Scout Cookie Program

Every purchase makes a difference—cookie proceeds stay local to the Girl Scouts of Colonial Coast and are reinvested in the Council helping to fund troop activities, community projects, and life-changing experiences for Girl Scouts right here at home.

Begins January 9, 2026

Troop Proceeds

Cookie Count-n-Go

When customers buy delicious Girl Scout Cookies, they’re helping power amazing experiences for Girl Scouts. Experiences that broaden their worlds, help them learn essential life skills, and prepare them to practice a lifetime of leadership. Cookie proceeds stay local, meaning after the cookies' costs and program logistics (like transporting them!), 100% of the proceeds for each package is reinvested in Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast!

February 21, 2026

Cookie Booths Begin February 22, 2026

Cookie Program Ends March 29, 2026

Cookie Lineup Offering NINE cookie varieties: NEW! Exploremores®, Thin Mints®, Samoas®, Tagalongs®, Trefoils®, Do-si-dos®, Toffee-tastic® (gluten free), Lemon-ups®, and Adventurefuls®.

PGA Selling

With Rewards

*Without Rewards

1-325 Boxes

$0.85

$0.90

326-400 Boxes

$0.90

$0.95

401+ Boxes

$0.95

$1.00

*Only Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Troops may opt out of rewards.

Cookie Business Badges The Cookie Business badges are the best way for Girl Scouts to develop business skills and learn to think like entreprenuers as they run their own business.

Daisy: My First Cookie Business; Cookie Goal Setter

Cadette: My Cookie Venture; Cookie Market Researcher; Cookie Innovator

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Brownie: My Cookie Customers; Cookie Decision Maker

Senior: My Cookie Network; Cookie Boss

Junior: My Cookie Team; Cookie Collaborator

Ambassador: My Cookie Business Resume; Cookie Influencer


2026 Girl Rewards! Get details and the REWARDS you can earn on our website's Cookie page!

Super Seller 1,000+ Boxes Girl Scouts earn points based on the number of boxes sold. These points are redeemable for AWESOME rewards.

Top 10 Council Entrepreneurs These top entrepreneurs will be visiting School of Rock and having a “cookie jam” session.

Squishmallow image is a sample representation only

2,000+ Box Club One free week of *GSCCC Summer Camp up to $450 OR Lifetime Membership (for 12th graders only). *Pay deposit to reserve camp spot in

Top Entrepreneurial Reward earners will take home the adorable Ferret Squishmallow! • Top 10 Digital Cookie Sellers • Top Service Unit Entrepreneurs • Top Entrepreneurs by Girl Scout level

February, don't delay!

Digital Cookie makes a Girl Scout’s business sweet!

Gift of Caring

Philanthropic Reward! Spike's K9 Fund. Protecting our national heroes. Working dogs are crucial to keeping our communities safe. Spike's K9 Fund's mission is to protect our K9 heroes with custom-fit lifesaving vests, along with other critical needs.

Digital Cookie helps Girl Scouts run and manage their Girl Scout Cookie business online. The Digital Cookie app makes it super simple for customers to order their faves online and pay by credit card to get Girl Scouts can choose to make the cookies right from you or have them the world a safer in place of a reward item. shipped or donated—awesome! This means they can mix and match protecting a dog and picking a reward at different levels.

The Gift of Caring program offers a wonderful opportunity to support Girl Scouts, even if you're not interested in eating the cookies yourself. Customers can buy Gift of Caring cookies, which will then be donated to the USO Mid Atlantic and various other organizations across the council. Find all your cookie merchandise at the GSCCC shop! gsccc.org/shop Girls will earn their Gift of Caring patch by selling thirty-six donated boxes!

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Fun at the Virginia Air and Space Science Center. Schedule a visit soon!

Program Events ~ January -September 2026 Life Skills Brownie Making Friends & Junior Social Butterfly January 24, February 21, March 21 AND May 9; 1:30-3 p.m. Location: Social Butterflies Club, Virginia Beach; Levels: B/J; Cost: $20 Register by: 1/14; 2/11; 3/11; 4/29 Girl Scouts will learn how to make and keep friends, share their favorite activities, practice good manners, and more. Brownies will earn the Making Friends badge, and Juniors will earn the Social Butterfly badge!

Brownie Senses and Junior Knowing My Emotions February 7, March 7, AND April 18 3:30-5 p.m.; Location: Social Butterflies Club, Virginia Beach; Levels: B/J; Cost: $20 Register by: 1/28, 2/25, 4/8 Learn to engage with the world around you while also looking inward and recognizing your own emotions. SAVE THE DATES! Kappa Deltas and Girl Scouts Location: William and Mary, Williamsburg February 8 and April 12; 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Check website for details!

Junior Detective & Cadette Special Agent January 24, February 21; March 21 AND May 9 3:30-5 p.m.; Location: Social Butterflies Club, Virginia Beach; Levels: J/C; Cost: $20 Register by: 1/14; 2/11; 3/11; 4/29 Follow clues and discover facts like a real detective while you learn secrets from the worlds of forensic science and criminal psychology!

Vintage Badge Series: Sewing February 14; 10-11 a.m. Location: A Place for Girls, Chesapeake Level: D/B; Cost: $12; Register by: 1/28 Travel back in time as we explore badges that Girl Scouts of the past could earn. Learn the basics by completing portions of Sewing badges from across many Girl Scouting decades!

It's Your World - Change It! January 31; D/B/J 9:30-12 p.m. C/S/A: 1-4 p.m.; Location: Tidewater Collegiate Academy, Virginia Beach; Cost: $30 Register by: 1/14 Whether it’s planting a garden, painting a mural, or launching a letter-writing campaign, this Journey helps girls understand what it means to be a leader who makes a difference in the world.

Vintage Badge Series: Sewing February 14; 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Location: A Place for Girls, Chesapeake Levels: J/C/S/A; Cost: $12; Register by: 1/28 Travel back in time as we explore badges that Girl Scouts of the past could earn. Gain some basic and advanced skills from Sewing badges across many Girl Scouting decades!

Law & Advocacy at Regent University January 31; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Location: Regent University, Virginia Beach Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $10; Register by: 1/21 Meet us on campus for an exciting, hands-on workshop in law and advocacy at Regent University! Discover ways you can be involved and have a career in these fields. Brownie Making Games February 7; March 7 AND April 18; 1:30-3 p.m. Location: Social Butterflies Club, Virginia Beach; Level: Brownies; Cost $20 Register by: 1/28, 2/25, 4/8 From scavenger hunts to mysteries to sports, Girl Scouts will learn how to create new games and share them with others!

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American Red Cross Adult & Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED February 28; April 25 and June 20 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Location: A Place for Girls, Chesapeake Levels: J/C/S/A/Volunteers Cost: $55; Register by: 2/26, 4/23, 6/18 This blended learning course equips participants 11 and older, to recognize and care for a variety of first aid breathing and cardiac emergencies for people of all ages. A certificate for Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED is issued upon successful completion. It’s Your Planet - Love It! April 4; D/B/J: 9:30-12 p.m.; C/S/A: 1-4 p.m. Location: Tidewater Collegiate Academy, Virginia Beach; Cost: $30; Register by: 3/18 This Journey series invites Girl Scouts to make sense of the wealth of environmental information available so they can act for the betterment of Earth and its inhabitants.

Back to School Spa and Movie Night April 12, 5-8 p.m.; Location: The Lodge at A Place for Girls, Chesapeake; Levels: S/A Cost: $10 Register by: 4/1 Hey Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors, has the end of spring break got you down? Come chill with your sister Girl Scouts for a night of DIY spa treatments, pizza, and a movie! Vintage Badge Series - Bee Keeper April 18; 10-12 p.m.; Location: Chesapeake Bee Yard; Levels: J/C/S/A; Cost: $12; Register by: 4/1 Travel back in time as we explore badges that Girl Scouts of the past could earn. This month we will be completing portions of the Bee Keeper badge from the 1950s. Cookie Robber Case April 26; 12:30-2:30 p.m.; Location: A Place for Girls, Chesapeake; Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $15 Register by: 4/15 GSCCC in partnership with the Chesapeake Police Department present a Who Done It Mystery. Can you solve the Cookie Robber Case? (This is the same mystery as the program that was held on October 26, 2025.) Discover Flight with the Ninety-Nines May 2; 1-4:30 p.m. Location: Hampton Roads Executive Airport, 5172 W. Military Highway, Chesapeake; Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $15 Register by: 4/19 Explore aviation with the The Ninety-Nines, International Organization of Women Pilots. Learn about the history of women in flight, see aircraft in action, and more! Brownie First Aid May 30; 10-11:30 a.m.; Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk; Level: Brownies; Cost: $25 Register by: 5/21 Find out how to get help in an emergency so you can be prepared if the unexpected happens. Role-play how to talk to 911 and make your own basic first aid kit. Junior First Aid May 30; 1-3:15 p.m.; Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk; Level: Juniors; Cost: $25 Register by: 5/21 Be prepared for the unexpected with some basic first aid skills. Learn how to help people when they’re ill or injured and understand how to respond during an emergency.


Advanced First Aid May 31; 1-3:45 p.m.; Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk; Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $25 Register by: 5/21 Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors: Gain advanced first aid skills, discuss looking after younger children, learn how to tackle weatherrelated illnesses, and get hands-on practice. Vintage Badge Series: My Country June 13; 10 a.m.- 12 p.m. Location: Jamestown, Virginia Levels: All; Cost: $20; Register by: 5/27 Explore badges that Girl Scouts of the past could earn as we celebrate America250 and Virginia 250 at historic Jamestown! Complete portions of the My Country badge from the 1940s and the Active Citizen badge from the 1990s. Program Taste Test Day September 19; 10 a.m.-12 p.m.; A Place for Girls, Chesapeake; Levels: All; Cost: $3.00 Register by: 9/9 Join GSCCC and our program partners to get a taste of some of the fun programs that will be offered during the 2026-27 membership year!

STEM Code Ninja Open House February 7; 2-4 p.m.; Location: Code Ninja 561 Cedar Rd #4, Chesapeake; Levels: All Cost: Free; Register by: January 21 Visit with the Code Ninjas at their Chesapeake location to learn all about their fun Girl Scout badge courses for coding, cyber security, and robotics! STEM Club - Technology (Robots) February 14; Location: Landstown High School. Virginia Beach D/B/J 10 a.m.-12 p.m. C/S/A 1-3 p.m. Cost: $40; Register by: 1/28 Let's tour the 'T' in STEM as we explore Technology through robots and programming with the Landstown High School Lady Eagle Engineers and Scientists club. Sandbox VR Girl Scout Day February 15; Sessions: 10, 10:40, 11:20, Noon Location: Sandbox VR, 415 19th St #104, Virginia Beach; Family friendly; Cost: $47 Register by: 2/1 Girl Scouts and their family and friends are invited to experience a new socially immersive virtual reality gaming center. Gather your team of six and transport into your own action movie! Medical Simulation Experience February 28, 8:45 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. Location: Old Dominion University Lester Hall, Norfolk; Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $35 Register by: 2/22 Do you think you might like a career in the medical field? Find out what it’s like to be a med student as you try your hand at different activity stations and be a doctor for a day!

The Sky's the Limit: A Girl Scout's Guide to the Galaxy March 7, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.; Location: Michael & Kimthanh Le Planetarium Levels: All Cost: $15; Register by: 2/25 Visit ODU's planetarium to see a pristine night sky unspoiled by light pollution, fly through the solar system to see your favorite planets up close and explore the wonders of the Milky Way Galaxy. iFly March 29; Sessions: 10, 10:30, 11, 11:30 a.m. Location: iFly, Virginia Beach; Levels: J/C/S/A Cost: $45; Register by: 3/18 We are going flying in the state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnel with the iFLY team! Be inspired by trained educators who will guide you through an interactive presentation and demos in the wind tunnel. Tidewater Compost Program April 19; Time: TBD Location: A Place for Girls, Chesapeake Levels: All; Cost: $15; Register by: 4/8 Did you know you can recycle food waste? Composting is one of the best and easiest ways to help protect the environment! Learn more with Tidewater Compost at this hands-on program. STEM Club - Math in Nature April 25; D/B/J: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. C/S/A: 1-3 p.m.; Location: A Place for GirlsOutback, Chesapeake; Cost: $35 Register by: 4/8 Let's master the 'M' in STEM as we look for Math in nature! Identify patterns, take measurements, discover the intricate details of plants and animals, and more! Day of Service at Operation Smile April 25; 1-4 p.m.; Location: Operation Smile Headquarters, Virginia Beach; Family friendly Cost: Free; Register by: 4/20 Explore the global headquarters of Operation Smile at this family-friendly open house to learn about cleft care and the education they provide to communities around the world. Think Like an Engineer Journey April 26; D/B/J: 9 a.m.-12 p.m. C/S/A: 1-4 p.m.; Location: Tidewater Collegiate Academy, Virginia Beach; Cost: $30 Register by: 4/15 Complete hands-on design challenges powered by solar energy, and plan a Take Action project that helps others. Includes the badges and everything you need to complete the Journey! STEM Club - Solar Energy May 17, D/B/J: 9:30-11:00 a.m. C/S/A: 12:00-1:30 p.m. Location: A Place for Girls, Chesapeake Levels: All; Cost: $20; Registration by: 5/6 Let’s scope out the ‘S’ in STEM as we delve into the science of solar energy! We’ll meet Daisy the SmartFlower and do some fun experiments.

Entrepreneurship Vintage Badge Series: Money January 24; 10-11:30 a.m.; Location: A Place for Girls, Chesapeake; Levels: D/B; Cost: $12 Register by: 1/7 How did we survive before online banking? Learn real-world money management skills as we do things the old-fashioned way and check out some vintage office equipment. Vintage Badge Series: Clerk January 24; 10 a.m.-12 p.m.; Location: A Place for Girls, Chesapeake; Levels: J/C/S/A Cost: $12; Register by: 1/7 Travel back in time as we explore badges that Girl Scouts of the past could earn. This month we will learn money management skills to complete portions of the Clerk badge from the 1940s.

Healthy Living Girl Scout Night at ODU Women's Basketball January 17; 2-4 p.m.; Location: Chartway Arena, Norfolk; Levels: Family friendly Cost: $18.11/person (includes fees) +$3.50 optional patch; Register by: 1/16 Girl Scouts, their friends and families can cheer on the ODU Monarchs women's basketball team, and enjoy a meet-and-greet with players after the game! Cookies on Ice with the Norfolk Admirals April 4; Doors open at 6:05 p.m.; Game begins at 7:05 p.m.; Location: Norfolk Scope Arena, Norfolk; Levels: Family friendly Cost: TBD; Register by: 4/3 Cheer on the Norfolk Admirals at their final game of the season on Fan Appreciation Night. Girl Scouts will be recognized for their cookie program achievements!

Creative Arts Plan B Kids Comedy Show at the Z Theater March 21; 2-3 p.m.; Location: Zeiders American Dream Theater, 4509 Commerce St., Virginia Beach; Family friendly; Cost: $10; Register by: 3/19 Comedy Kids Show! That’s right, bring the whole family to The Z and catch this hilarious show that both teaches and entertains while leaving the audience in stitches.

Share Your Story. We want to hear from you! Girl Scouts do amazing things every single day and we want to hear about it. Did your troop participate in a special project or attend a fun event? Did your girl excel at something new? Visit gsccc.org/blog and scroll down to Share Your Story! 13 17

Winter/Spring


Outdoor Cookie Classic Run January 17; 9 a.m. Location: Dismal Swamp Trail, Chesapeake Level: Family friendly; Cost: Depends on race Registration open The Cookie Classic Run is a celebration of Girl Scouts, Girl Scout families, and all who support the Girl Scout mission of building girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place! • Samoa Stroll 1 Miler • Trefoil Trek 5K • Tagalong 10k • Do-Si-Don’t Show - Virtual 5k Outdoor Skills January 17; Juniors 9:30 am - 12:30 p.m. Cadettes 1:30-4:30 p.m.; Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk; Cost: $25 Register by: 1/8 Gain new outdoor survival skills and team up with other Girl Scout Cadettes to conquer challenges! Learn how to build a fire, use a compass, some basic emergency techniques, and more. Youth Mental Health First Aid January 17; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Location: A Place for Girls, Chesapeake Cost: $45; Register by: 1/2 Learn how to help an adolescent (ages 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addiction challenge or is in crisis. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disruptive behavior disorders, and eating disorders. Cracks Crevices & Crawlways January 25; 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Camp Skimino, Williamsburg Levels: B/J/C/S/A; Cost: $15/girl, $5/adult Register by: 1/15 Join the Colonial Coast Girl Scout Cavers for a day of climbing, crawling, and scooting through our artificial caves. Plus, enjoy teambuilding exercises, games, and songs about the high adventure sport of caving! Daisy and Brownie Knot Tying February 7; A Place for Girls, Chesapeake Daisies: 8:30-10 a.m. Brownies: 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.; Cost: $23 Register by: 1/29 Learn some basic knots and use your new skills to make fun crafts and games! Groups will be kept small so everyone can receive individual help. Junior Knot Tying February 7; 1:30-3:30 p.m.; A Place for Girls, Chesapeake; Level: Juniors; Cost: $23 Register by: 1/29 Build your skills! Knots can be used to tie tent flaps or secure camping gear, to connect a boat to a dock, and for lots of cool crafts and games.

14 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

Camp Skimino Open House March 7; 9-11 a.m. Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg Family friendly; Cost: Free; Register by: 2/27 Discover the fun that awaits you at camp this summer at our free open house! Take a free guided tour of beautiful Camp Skimino in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Slingshots March 28; 1-3 p.m.; Location: A Place for Girls, Chesapeake; Levels: Daisies; Cost: $21 Register by: 3/20 The slingshot has been around for centuries, just waiting for you to give it a try. Join us to work on your aim and enjoy some fun target range activities!

AIM March 7; 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg Levels: B/J; Cost: $21; Register by: 2/27 Aim for your archery patch: line up your bow and arrow, stand straight and shoot! Learn the basics of archery and with some practice and instructor’s coaching, you may become the next archery champion.

Explore Camp April 11; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg Levels: D/B; Cost: $25; Register by: 4/2 Explore all the fun of Camp Skimino and make some new friends while you create a tie dye, go canoeing, and roast a classic camp s'more!

Low Ropes Challenge Course March 7; 1-3 p.m. Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg Levels: Juniors; Cost: $21; Register by: 2/27 Participate in some fun teambuilding games and traverse tricky obstacles with your team. Challenge yourself and gain some new skills! Camp Apasus Open House March 21; 9-11 a.m. Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk Family friendly; Cost: Free; Register by: 3/13 Discover the fun that awaits you at camp this summer at our free open house! Take a self-guided tour of beautiful Camp Apasus in Norfolk, Virginia. AIM March 21; 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk Levels: B/J; Cost: $21; Register by: 3/13 Aim for your archery patch: line up your bow and arrow, stand straight and shoot! Learn the basics of archery and with some practice and instructor’s coaching, you may become the next archery champion. Slingshots March 21; 1-3 p.m.; Location: Camp Apasus, Norfolk; Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $21 Register by: 3/13 The slingshot has been around for centuries, just waiting for you to give it a try. Join us to work on your aim and enjoy some fun target range activities! Camp Outback Open House March 28; 9-11 a.m. Location: Camp Outback, Chesapeake Family friendly; Cost: Free; Register by: 3/20 Discover the fun that awaits you at camp this summer at our free open house! Take a free guided tour of The Outback in Chesapeake, Virginia. AIM March 28; 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Location: A Place for Girls, Chesapeake Levels: C/S/A; Cost: $21; Register by: 3/20 Learn about parts of the bow, finetune your skills and then show off your archery prowess in a series of games and challenges!

Climbing Wall April 11; 2-4 p.m. Location: Camp Skimino, Williamsburg Levels: B/J; Cost: $21; Register by: 4/2 Challenge yourself to see how high — and how fast — you can climb our indoor rock wall! Explore your limits and reach new heights. Day by the Pond April 11; 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. Location: Camp Burke's Mill Pond, Gloucester Levels: B/J/C/S/A; Cost: $15/girl, $8/adult Register by: 4/2 Grab a paddle and enjoy some time on the water with the Blazing Blue Herons Canoe Team, plus other outdoor activities including art and archery! Shenandoah Bound April 18-19; Saturday 6 a.m.-Sunday 8 p.m. Pick up/drop off A Place for Girls, Chesapeake; Grades 7 and up: Cost: $200 Register by: 4/2 Enjoy a weekend getaway at beautiful Shenandoah National Park with fun camping activities and challenging hikes over this two day, one night trip. Girl Scout Night Out with the Tides April 24; Game time 6:35 p.m. /Gates open at 5:35 p.m.; Location: Harbor Park; Family friendly; Cost: TBD; Register by: 4/23 It’s time for our annual trip to the ballpark! Join your sister Girl Scouts, family, and friends this spring for a fun night of baseball with the Norfolk Tides at Harbor Park. Tides Overnight Cost: $10; Register by 4/15 Spend the night under the stars at Harbor Park! Register for Girls Night Out with the Tides, then purchase these optional overnight tickets. Details will be emailed the week of the event. Capital Trail Ride April 25; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Capital Trail Jamestown; Levels C/S/A: Cost: $25 Register by: 4/16 Take a scenic bike ride down the Capital Trail to Chickahominy Riverfront Park where we will enjoy a picnic lunch before riding back.


Solar Pioneers April 26; 9-11 a.m.; A Place for Girls, Chesapeake Levels: D/B; Cost: $23; Register by: 4/16 Daisies and Brownies: Experiment with the power of the sun! Learn how solar energy works and then create your own solar-powered device! Family Fun on the Farm May 2; 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; Location: Bluebird Gap Farm, Hampton; Levels: D/B, Family friendly Cost: $15; Register by: 4/15 Hey Girl Scout Daisies and Brownies, let’s E-I-E-I-GO! Bring your troop or family to meet the farm animals and have some fun outdoors. (Full activity list coming soon!)

Slingshots May 2; 9-11 a.m.; Camp Burke's Mill Pond, Gloucester; Levels: J/C/S/A; Cost: $21 Register by: 4/23 The slingshot has been around for centuries, just waiting for you to give it a try. Join us to work on your aim and enjoy some fun target range activities!

Stargazing May 2; 7-9 p.m.; Camp Burke's Mill Pond, Gloucester; Levels: J/C/S/A; Cost: $21 Register by: 4/23 Make your own star wheel to help guide you through the Milky Way, view the night sky through a telescope, and enjoy star-inspired crafts.

Canoeing May 2; 12:30-2:30 p.m.; Camp Burke's Mill Pond, Gloucester; Levels: B/J; Cost: $21 Register by: 4/23 Canoeing is a great team-building exercise and a fun way to enjoy the outdoors! Learn about canoes and practice some basic skills, then take a trip around Burke's Mill Pond.

Sail Nauticus May 3; 12-2 p.m. AND 2:30-4:30 p.m. Nauticus, Norfolk; Levels: J/C/S/A; Cost: $47 Register by: 4/23 Let’s sail away! Discover what it takes to work as a team to sail in the bay with Sail Nauticus in Norfolk. Become a member of the crew and learn the basics of sailing.

Adult Outdoor Facilitator Trainings Basic Troop Camp with Optional Overnight, February 7 or March 21, $40 Register by: 1/15 or 2/28 Join us for this all-day training in outdoor skills at Camp Darden (with an optional overnight). We will cover basic outdoor camping and gear, outdoor cooking and Leave No Trace. Climbing Wall Facilitator Training, February 8 or March 22, $20, Register by: 1/29, 3/12 Learn how to set up and take down the climbing wall at Camp Darden, as well as some knot-tying and belaying skills! Axes/Archery Facilitator Training, February 8 or March 22, $15, Register by: 1/29, 3/12 Join us for this combination training at Camp Darden. Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to facilitate their troop or group on axe throwing and archery. Advanced Troop Camping, February 27-March 1, Cost $10, Register by: 2/5 Advanced Troop Camping-Expand your camping skills with us over a weekend at Camp Darden, including fire building, outdoor cooking techniques, Advanced/Wilderness First Aid requirements and more. Archery Facilitator Training, March 14, Cost $15, Register by: 3/5 Join us for this training at Camp Skimino. Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to facilitate their troop or group on archery. Low Ropes Facilitator Training, March 15, Cost $15, Register by: 3/5 Join us for this training at Camp Skimino. Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to facilitate their troop or group on the Low Ropes Challenge Course.

Earn the “Recruiter” patch... Girl Scouts is better with friends!

Paddles Away May 16; 9 a.m.-12 p.m. AND 1-4 p.m. Location: Camp Darden, Courtland; Levels: J/C/S/A; Cost: $21; Register by: 5/7 Enjoy a fun afternoon on the water! Test your abilities on canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards; play games, improve your watersport skills, and explore the lake at Camp Darden. Canoeing May 16; 4:30-6:30 p.m.; Camp Darden, Courtland; Levels: B/J; Cost: $21 Register by: 5/7 Canoeing is a great team-building exercise and a fun way to enjoy the outdoors! Learn about canoes and practice some basic skills, then take a trip around the lake at camp. Vintage Badge Series: Outdoor Activities May 16; 10 a.m.-12 p.m.; Location: Paradise Creek Nature Park, Portsmouth Levels: All; Cost: $12; Register by: 4/29 The outdoors has always been a core component of Girl Scouting. Join our partners at the Elizabeth River Project as we explore nature and wildlife while learning about how Girl Scouts of the past traversed the wilderness.

Celebrating 100 Years!

Volunteers (and girls) can earn their Girl Scout Recruiter patch by inviting their friends to join! Complete three activities on the checklist and earn a free patch! Details

Thank you to Cinema Cafe, a GSCCC community partner! They hosted some fall recruitments and promoted Girl Scouts in their locations as well as offering free movie theater tickets for drawings in support of our recruitment campaigns! Want to support Girl Scout recruitments or other efforts with your business? Email customercare@gsccc.org Let's go to the movies!

Pembroke Meadows Virginia Beach

Kemps River Virginia Beach

Greenbrier Chesapeake

Endinburg Chesapeake

Make plans for World Thinking Day 2026! Sunday, February 22 Think Big! Download the FREE Girl Scouts World Thinking Day activity guide. (guides for each level)

15

Winter/Spring


Explore More

at Girl Scout Camp! Camp Open Houses are from 9-11 a.m. Camp Skimino, Williamsburg March 7 Camp Apasus, Norfolk March 21 Camp Outback, Chesapeake March 28 Discover the fun that awaits you at camp this summer at a free open house event! Take a guided tour or explore on your own. From archery to canoeing to rock wall climbing, you’ll see why Girl Scout camp is the best place to be in the summer. Make sure to wear your walking shoes! Registration is encouraged but walk-ins are welcome.

16 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

Early-bird Registration Opens February 12, 2026 ($15 off select camps)


Summer camp can be a life-changing, unforgettable experience where a Girl Scout can make new friends and discover the world outdoors while exploring new things. Outdoor experiences give Girl Scouts the opportunity to unplug, learn new skills, discover their sense of self, and test new-found independence in a safe, environment!

Who can go to camp? • Overnight camp is for Girl Scouts entering grades 2-12. Leadership opportunities are offered for those entering grades 9-12. • Day camp is for Girl Scouts entering grades 1-6. Leadership opportunities for those entering grades 7-12. • All experience levels are welcome. If you are currently a non-Girl Scout, you are welcome to attend, too! Simply pay the annual $45 membership fee, in addition to the camp fee, to become a registered Girl Scout member.

Summer Employment • Experience three great camp locations in one summer. • Combination overnight and day camp experiences. • Competitive salaries. Apply online TODAY! Visit our website at gsccc.org/careers or call Tammy Carlson, Human Resources Director, with questions at 757-548-4743.

New for Summer 2026! Come to a week-long day camp for horse lovers at Grubb Grove Horse Farm in Chesapeake! You’ll learn all about horse care, riding gear, and how to ride. In the afternoon, show off your new skills to earn points with your group in a friendly competition. More details will be available online after February 12th.

Benefits of Girl Scout Camp Leadership Skill-building In a Girl Scout nurturing and encouraging environment, campers are more comfortable trying new outdoor activities and taking the lead. Grow Grit The truth is, campers might scrape a knee or elbow while they’re away—and that’s a good thing! They’ll learn to get back up after minor setbacks, like scrapes and bumps, they’ll build resilience and learn that they are a lot tougher than they think. Gaining Independence Being away from home might be a bit intimidating to both your camper and you. But having that time away to explore and try activities builds self-reliance. Mentorship Having a variety of awesome role models will help your camper see the many ways to be successful and happy in life. And our incredibly supportive staff and counselors are ready to step up to the plate and inspire!

GSCCC Summer Camp Gift Certificates GSCCC Summer Camp Gift Certificates make any occasion special for the Girl Scout in your life. Available for online purchase in increments of $50, these certificates can be applied towards GSCCC 2026 summer camp registration.

The 2026 Camp Guide gsccc.org/camp

17 Winter/Spring


New Digital Well-Being Resource On November 4, Girl Scouts of the USA and Google launched a new partnership focused on helping girls build healthy digital boundaries, intentional online habits, and a commitment to being a force for good online. The resources include three caregiver articles and a Be Internet Awesome Challenge family resource sheet that families can complete together to earn the “Be Internet Awesome” Fun patch. All materials are available on GSUSA’s website - Raising Awesome Girls. Google is also partnering with GSUSA on a Junior Girl Scout Experience Box coming in Spring 2026.

Be Internet Awesome Family Challenge Themes

→

Learn the theme. → took place atThen an activity! A launchabout event celebrating this partnership Google’stry Washington, DC, offices, featuring panel discussions with Meridith Maskara, GSUSA’s chief development officer; Ruth Porat, Google’s president and chief investment officer; Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV); and Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25). Create a safe profile. Imagine you need to create a profile about your family that will be read by thousands of

Only share that doesn’t identify you, and To unlock this patch (appropriate Theinfo panels were moderated by only Girl Scouts, people. including Girl Scout Martha-Ann CraftGSCCC’s a profile (either digitalSenior or non-digital) that is Wells you know and trust. Don’t talk to for grades K-12), complete all fivewith people who is a member of GSCCC’s Board of Directors and a National Delegate! informative, interesting, and useful, but that doesn’t include strangers and never share private information like activities for Google's Be Internet private information. Then review the profile with your family your address, phone number, email, or password. to make sure it only shares public information with people Awesome themes.

SMART you know and trust. Share with Care I had so much fun at the Google headquarters! I really enjoyed being a part of the launch for an Anyone can create online content, and this content Too good to be true. Clickbait content tries to shock and isn’t always truthful, fair, or kind. Evaluate surprise, enticing the viewer to click and learn more. To explore interactive program that everything you see online. Does it seem too good to this topic, have everyone write one email subject or ad headline challenges us to use our be true? Does it pressure people to buy or believe that seems too good to be true (“Free!,” “You’ve won!,” “Make something? Could it make people feel bad about screen time wisely and $$$,” etc.). Then discuss why you might distrust each statement. themselves? Sometimes the clues are obvious, like What are the pitfalls of clicking on “clickbait” headlines? What smartly - to Be Internet big, flashing “Buy Now” buttons. Other times, the ALERT payment or information might someone want in return? clues are harder to spot. Awesome! I was able to Don’t Fall for Fake improve my speaking skills by being a moderator and was able to meet so many Create a passphrase. A passphrase is like a password, but amazing Girl Scouts. A password helps to protect you online. When you longer and better. It’s REALLY hard for someone else toGSUSA guess. Girl Scout Senior Martha-Ann Wells GSCCC representatives included CEO Tracy Keller, ~ Martha-Ann create a password, choose a phrase you can easily With your family’s help, create a passphrase for a shared with MJ Hensaw, Google Head of National Board Member Carolyn Pittman, and Board remember, but that other people won’t guess. account (streaming, wi-fi, etc.) that includes at least four Chair Mix uppercase letters with lowercase letters. Use Public Affairs. Lu Annwords Klevecz of four letters each; both capital and lowercase letters; numbers and symbols, too. Whatever you choose, keep it to yourself!

numbers; and symbols.

and amplify what they do. Don’t share anything

digital world as in real life. With your family, brainstorm unkind

What you do and share online can have an impact on others, and what you see can have an impact on you. If something online bothers you—even if you’re not quite sure why—talk about it with a trusted adult and find ways to support and uplift your digital community safely.

Make a family pledge. Many digital communities have rules or guidelines for how to interact. Talk with your family members about how you each use technology and social media. Consider how different platforms or apps make you feel and what you do when you come across questionable content or behavior. Then make a pledge for how you’ll work as a family to stay safe when online.

Be Internet Awesome Family Challenge

STRONG Here’s an example: 3Puppies@bark,sniff&PLAY! Secure Your Secrets NEW Patch – Be Internet Awesome The Be Internet Awesome Family Challenge from Google and Girl Scouts guides you in using technology more intentionally, to have safe and positive you’re preparing to enter the online world in a few years, on your own and together as aEveryone family. deserves Whatever youra age— whether experience online. Manage the conversation on or you’re already an experiencedcontent pro with your and ownremember platform—there aremute, ways to boost and make digital world Act onyour yoursavvy values. Values are your what you believe in—they you share that you can guide how you act. It’s just as important to be kind in the a better place. This patch is appropriate for all ages. Complete five activities earn the patch! Find patch requirements here. block, and unfollow. Celebrate other people’s success and should technologyor the online-related you might encounter, Before you get started, reflect with your onelse allfeel thebad ways use technology and internet.situations You might use digital that could makefamily someone (like you gossip, such as bullying, misinformation, lying in an email, or cheating mean comments, or embarrassing photos). It’s okay devices to talk to family or friends, do homework, listen to music, or take pictures. If you're old enough, you might have your own in a video game. Then take turns acting out how you could to disagree, but interact do it respectfully. If anyone bullies "digital community" sites you with online. How can you use technology wisely, kindly, and safety as a family? KIND of people and respond to encourage kinder behavior. you or someone you know online, tell them to stop. Cool Kindfarther and HowIt’s can youtogoBeeven useatechnology Inform trusted adult.to make a difference? Let's find out!

BRAVE When in Doubt, Talk It Out

After completing this activity, claim your Google Be Internet Awesome fun patch. 18 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast


Meet New GSCCC Board Chair Lu Ann Klevecz When it comes to being resilient, our new GSCCC Board Chair Lu Ann Klevecz wins the prize. She has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to face challenges and adjust to new circumstances, especially in her professional life. She recently retired as the general counsel and managing director for Harbor Group International, LLC (HGI), a commercial real estate investment company. Lu Ann says the journey was not a traditional one, and that her “off the road” attitude has helped her achieve and see much in life. “I have worked as an editorial assistant for a book publisher in New York; taught aerobic exercise for adults and ballet for children; worked as a paralegal in various communities as we moved around with the military; and served as corporate communications/investor relations director for public companies.” When her children were grown, she decided it was her turn to pursue a longtime goal. She started law school at Regent University at the age of 50. “I always described myself as a ‘late in life’ lawyer,” she shared. Lu Ann worked full time, went to school four nights a week, and studied on the weekends, completing the four-year part-time program in three and a half years by attending summer classes. “I passed the bar exam on the first try and was promoted from paralegal to counsel by my employer, a Norfolk-based international real estate investment firm. I achieved my career goal when I was later promoted to general counsel for the company. When asked why I started such a demanding career at age 50, I often describe it as my ‘mid-life adventure’ — I bought a sports car and went to law school.” Before retirement, she started volunteering with Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast. She didn’t hesitate when a colleague recruited her. “I believe volunteering is part of being a good citizen,” she said. Helping others and making a difference was something that she learned early in life as a Girl Scout. Her youth years in the Movement started in the Bluestem Girl Scout Council in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Her mom served as a Girl Scout Junior troop leader, and Lu Ann recalls that her mom absolutely loved wearing her Girl Scout uniform! Lu Ann’s first role on the GSCCC Board was Member at Large assigned to launching the Property Task Group. That quickly turned into chairing the new Property Committee. After three terms, she took a break to enjoy a bit of her retirement but then came back in 2023 to serve as the Board’s Vice Chair and also chair of both the Strategic Alignment Committee and Property Committee. Lu Ann fully embraced property has as a challenge and project. She says she has gotten great satisfaction from her involvement. “Seeing the Property Committee thrive and provide meaningful influence on what we do and how we invest our dollars for the good of the girls and GSCCC as it relates to our properties has been a great experience.” As the new Board Chair she is looking forward to getting to know and work with the board members and the professional staff more closely, as well as meeting more of the volunteers and the girls. “I’m looking forward to the next two years as chair and especially participating in the National Council Session in Washington during the USA 250 anniversary celebration.” In addition to Girl Scouts, Lu Ann serves on a research oversight committee at Eastern Virginia Medical School, and is Chair of the Homeowner’s Association of the community where her vacation house is located in North Carolina. She also serves on the Junior Sailing Committee at Seaford Yacht Club in York County. Lu Ann has eight grandchildren, five of whom are girls — and Girl Scouts!

Hobbies and Interests I love Zumba, walking and biking for exercise, playing Mah Jong and Mexican train just for fun, conversation and mental stimulation. I enjoy sailing my boat (Swan Song), watching baseball and spending time with my eight grandchildren. I enjoy the social interaction of golf and occasionally the sport when I hit well, but those joys are few and far between!

Favorite Place to Visit My vacation house in North Carolina where we enjoy the beach, the golf course and especially our tight-knit neighborhood.

GSCCC Board Chair patch 19

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Girl Scouts’ Highest Adult Honor - Thanks Badge The Thanks Badge honors an individual whose ongoing commitment, leadership and service have had an exceptional, measurable impact on meeting the mission-delivery goals and priorities of the entire council or the entire Girl Scout Movement. Thanks Badge II award is the highest award given to a Girl Scout volunteer who has already received the Thanks Badge and who continues to use their leadership to make an impact beyond the local troop and service unit.

Carolyn Pittman – Thanks Badge I Honoree

Mei Stukes—Thanks Badge II Honoree

Carolyn Pittman, our Council’s past Board Chair, began her journey with Girl Scouts two decades ago as a troop leader, when her daughter, Claire, joined as a Daisy. She has supported many girls in their leadership journeys, including her daughter Claire who earned the Girl Scout Gold Award! She has also supported Girl Scout travel opportunities for teen Girl Scouts and acted as a chaperone on several trips. Her GSCCC board roles included the Council Board Chair position. During her term as Board Chair, she developed meaningful partnerships and implemented new strategies that led to successes in many areas. Her commitment to our Movement will continue in her new role as a member of Girl Scouts of the USA National Board! Carolyn also remains active as a board member with several other nonprofits, such as the Virginia Symphony and Soundscapes. Congratulations, Carolyn!

Mei Stukes, a volunteer from Hampton, Virginia, has volunteered for nearly twenty years, and even though her daughters have transitioned from youth years to the Girl Scout volunteer role, Mei continues to volunteer in key leadership positions that impact girls. Most recently, her accomplishments include being selected to serve on GSUSA’s National Volunteer Advisory Committee for a two-year term. She has also been a member of GSCCC’s Board Development Committee for over three years and has served as Hampton Service Unit (SU) Coordinator for many years. She has taken on numerous other tasks as well, such as serving as Council Delegate and adult development facilitator, especially talented in teaching outdoor skills. She is an active volunteer in her community outside of Girl Scouting as well and has been recognized by the City of Hampton with a Unity Commission award. Congratulations, Mei!

Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast values all adult members and recognizes the contribution they make in developing girl leaders. Girl Scout Adult Awards recognize our volunteers and other adult members who go above and beyond to make a real difference, both for the girls we serve and for each other. You may view the national and council awards at gsccc.org. Deadline for nominations is May 31, 2026.

Rally Around Rallyhood! Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast invites ALL our volunteers and families to Rallyhood, a collaboration platform that will help us connect and grow. Rallyhood is an all-in-one platform for Girl Scout communication and collaboration, combining many of the tools Girl Scout members, service units, and troop leaders use to communicate with other volunteers and families. Hubs and rallies in Rallyhood offer a suite of tools to help volunteers and parents communicate and collaborate: direct and group messaging; shared calendars; the ability to easily store and share files, photos and links; organize and promote events; collect money; and more! This platform will “eliminate the hairball” of all the various sites, apps, and systems you may currently be juggling, combining all their different functionalities under one login. On Rallyhood, you’ll find Council-level community hubs where Council staff will post content for volunteers and families. There is also a service unit and troop hub where each service unit will have its own rally with additional rallies (sub-groups) within it, such as rallies for troop leaders, cookie managers, families, event coordinators, day camp/encampment volunteer committees, and any others that are specific to that service unit. Within these community hubs and rallies, a service unit or troop can promote events, post information, start conversations, take registration and payment for activities, create calendars, etc. There is no limit to the number of rallies allowed to be created within a community hub, and these can be created by anyone who is an admin on the account. Families can expect to receive an email invitation to join Rallyhood by February 15, while volunteers will be invited to join by mid-January; make sure to check your spam/junk folder! You can also download the Rallyhood App in the App Store or via Google Play. BONUS: The first 300 troops who register and update their troop rally will receive a limited-edition GSCCC | Rallyhood patch! You can find more details at gsccc.org/rallyhood. 20 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast


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Camp is C a ll in g

Badge Bash:

Tickets

Camp Vibes, Grown-Up "Glamping" Style Adventure into an unforgettable evening of camp-inspired fun—just for adults 21+. Enjoy cocktails, creativity, music, silent auction, and carefree fun under the stars.

April 18, 2026 ★ 6 p.m. The Outback at A Place for Girls, Chesapeake Tickets are limited—early bird tickets on sale, discounts available for adult-sized "Troops" ★ Dress in your best Girl Scout gear, camp attire—Best Dressed wins a prize! ★ Upon arrival, get "sashiated" with a ribbon sash and show off custom badges from interactive stations. ★ Bid on unique experiences and treasures at our reimagined Camp-is-Calling Silent Auction. ★ Special honors for women who achieved the Highest Awards in Girl Scouting! Let us know when you register. In the event of inclement weather, the festivities will continue inside. Event areas are accessible for guests with limited mobility. Proceeds will prepare our camp properties for girls' summer adventures.

Hey, Girl Scouts! You could be the winner of our 2026 First Day Patch Design Contest, and your design will be produced as the official patch given to everyone who renews their membership on the first day of early renewal, April 1, 2026.

We want to see your creative side shine!

What do you picture when you think of how Girl Scouts helps you grow? Put those thoughts into an illustration to meet this year’s theme - "Girl Scouts. Where (you supply the word) Grows!" Is it friendship? Imagination? Curiosity? Courage? It’s your patch design, so you choose! DESIGN CRITERIA: • Fit entirely into the 3.5-inch circle • Use no more than 5 colors • All designs must include “GSCCC” AND “2026 First Day Patch” somewhere on the patch. • Designs must be original and may not contain existing or copyrighted photos, illustrations or renderings. SUBMIT DESIGNS February 1-28, 2026. GSCCC staff will select the top 5 designs. HOW THE WINNER WILL BE SELECTED: • Voting will take place for the top five designs on our GSCCC Facebook page and Instagram. • Winner will be contacted via caregiver email listed on entry form and announced on social media on March 23rd. Scan the QR code for the contest rules, how to enter, and the perks for winning the First Day Patch contest. Good Luck , Girl Scouts!

gsccc.org/renew

Meet Rhonda Osisek and Shannon Cole Rhonda Osisek and Shannon Cole, both Girl Scout alum, share the ways that Girl Scouting continues to influence their lives and careers. Shannon is a certified speech-language pathologist and the CEO of Social Learning, LLC. She is also the founder of GSCCC Program partner, The Social Butterflies Club® Social Skills Program. Shannon is a certified early childhood special educator with many years of experience in the space. Stay tuned for an upcoming podcast with Rhonda and Shannon.

Social Butterflies Club focuses on helping youth strengthen their social communication and emotional intelligence through supportive, engaging activities. We offer events and workshops that encourage personal growth, enhance interpersonal skills, and foster emotional awareness, helping Girl Scouts build meaningful relationships and navigate social situations with confidence. Social Butterflies Club collaborates with the Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast by hosting badge events where Girl Scouts can complete activities to earn their badges! The Girl Scouts earn the following badges: Social Butterfly Badge

Making Friends Badge

Knowing My Emotions Badge

Fair Play Badge

Detective Badge

Special Agent Badge

Making Games Badge

Senses Badge

Welcome to

Make the WORLD a Better Place!

PODCAST The "Make the World a Better Place" episodes are posted on the GSCCC website and on Spotify and our YouTube channel, so be sure to subscribe!

www.socialbutterfliesclub.com 757-422-6342

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Finding America in Dvořák’s New World

March 14, 2026 at 3 p.m. Ferguson Center 1 Avenue of the Arts Newport News SCHEDULE A GIRL SCOUT OVERNIGHTER FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE. CAMP-INS INCLUDE: GRAB AND GO BREAKFAST LIVE DEMONSTRATION IMAX SHOWING AND A VASSC SPECIAL EVENT PATCH

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.VASC.ORG CONTACT MEI CHRISTINE STUKES SCOUT PROGRAM COORDINATOR

scouts@vasc.org

757-727-0900 EXT. 709

March 15 at 3 p.m. Sandler Center, 201 Market St. Virginia Beach

Lobby activities start at 2! Virginia Symphony Orchestra & Bay Youth Symphony Orchestra Antonín Dvořák: Selections from Symphony No. 9, “From the New World” Antonín Dvořák was inspired by African American spirituals, Native American music, and Longfellow’s poem The Song of Hiawatha. Find out how he combined these influences with the musical traditions of his homeland to create this beloved masterpiece. Girl Scout discount! Use code GIRLSCOUTS when purchasing tickets to receive a 15% discount

Earning your Explorer Patch is as easy as

FEBRUARY 2026

MARCH 2026

1 2 3

Download in-museum and at home requirements. Complete the requirements during your visit. Purchase your patch at the Wild Things Museum Store.

MAY 2026

Tickets on sale now at Hurrahplayers.com. Call Lisa at 757-627-5437 for Girl Scout Troop discounts.

22 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

524 J. Clyde Morris Blvd | Newport News, VA 23601 Open daily 9am-5pm | thevlm.org


2026 is a year of milestones! It will be the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and it is the 100th anniversary of World Thinking Day. There are several ways for you to add America250 celebrations to your troop year. America250, the bipartisan organization charged by Congress to lead the 250th celebrations, has formed a national partnership with Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) for this special celebration year. This partnership will build on GSUSA’s longstanding commitment to civic engagement, community service and making the world a better place. Be sure to check out the Girl Scout America250 patch! Earning Girl Scout Civic badges is another great way to add to the celebration and learning experience! Visit gsccc.org/advocacy for information about the Civic badges. Sail250 Virginia Adopt-A-Ship program is part of America250 celebrations. It allows groups in Virginia, such as Girl Scout troops, to directly engage with the international sailors of the visiting ships. Participating organizations can “adopt” a specific ship and become ambassadors for Virginia – learning about the country from which their ship hails, communicating with the ship’s crew before their arrival, and even welcoming their ship to Norfolk, Virginia, in June 2026. There will be opportunities to explore the geography, language, art, traditions, and history of another country, directly from the people visiting from that country! Troops can also put together a showcase of their project that will be displayed near the Nauticus museum during the Sail250 Virginia weekend. What a great addition to World Thinking Day activities! When you go to the registration form, please list "Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast" as the Organization Leader. If you do Adopt-a-Ship, please let GSCCC know by completing a form you can find at gsccc.org/250. View information about Sail250

Visit gsccc.org/250 for updates and program opportunities. Find more information on local community events at va250.org. Girl Scout Junior Inside Government Badge

gsccc.org/250

Adopt-a-ship form

Citizenship in Action Girl Scout Junior Hannah from Troop 94 in Virginia Beach led the Pledge of Allegiance for the Citizenship Ceremony at the Historic Jamestown Settlement. Hannah had completed her Junior Bronze Award last year on citizenship and flag protocol, so she was excited to be selected for this honor. Nate Rodda, Youth and Family Programs Manager with Jamestown, said that the citizenship candidates enjoyed having someone their age in the ceremony and that Hannah did an outstanding job, even offering to sing the national anthem!

When you support the Armed Services YMCA Hampton Roads you provide a big boost to a child of a service member.

Download the Girl Scouts Guide to Flag ceremonies from gsccc.org.

Girl Scouts Guide to Flag Ceremonies

Contact marcomm@gsccc.org if your troop would be interested in performing the opening flag ceremony at a GSCCC or community event. 23 Winter/Spring


2024-2025

Thanks to You, Girl Scout Achievements Soared in 2024-2025 This year, nearly 7,000 girls across our region joined the Girl Scout Leadership Experience through Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast – each one stepping into a world of curiosity, creativity, and courage. From leading projects to exploring new ideas, Girl Scouts discovered their strengths and made meaningful contributions to their communities. None of this would be possible without our incredible partners – our volunteers, donors, dedicated staff, and community champions – who bring the mission to life. Volunteers generously shared their time and talents, creating welcoming spaces where every girl felt seen, heard, and inspired to dream big. Donors and friends fueled these experiences with heartfelt generosity, helping us build a future rooted in leadership, collaboration, and purpose. Together, we’re not just empowering girls – we’re building a better world, one bold step at a time.

Impact Report

5,987

6,827

Attendance at Girl Scout Leadership Experience Programs

Girl Members

5,481 Adults

Highest Awards

1,568

652

Attendance at Outdoor and Skill-building Events

Attendance at Girl Scout Camp

2024-2025 Financial Highlights Unaudited Investment Income $358,500

Other Revenue $31,960 Shop Sales $108,894

Program Fees $302,427

8 | Gold

17 | Silver

114 | Bronze

Journey Summit Recipients 1 Daisy 11 Cadette 11 Brownies 1 Ambassador 8 Junior

Public Support $851,082

Income $5,063,870

Product Sales, Net $3,411,007

Scan QR code to view the 2025 Girl Scouts Who Lead the Way Celebration booklet! Fundraising $280,662

Management and General $278,429 Program Services $4,244,503

$194,157 Fall Product Sales

1,160,669 Cookie Boxes sold

24 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

Expenses $4,803,594

Special Notations $233,984 Unrealized Gain/Loss on Investment Income (not included in totals)


Donors Bring STEM to Camp Skimino! GSCCC added a STEM Center at Camp Skimino's Norfolk Lodge! The Center offers a variety of hands-on, interactive activities in STEM subjects for all Girl Scout levels. Equipped with materials and STEM kits, Girl Scouts can earn badges in astronomy, robotics, mechanical engineering, and automotive engineering. There's an option for Girl Scout troops to rent and fly drones with the guidance of council staff. Use the Eyeclick OBIE Projector to cast interactive, motion-sensitive games on the floor and wall, where Girl Scouts can complete educational challenges by moving, leaping, tapping, and throwing soft objects at the projected images. Solve math problems, practice space knowledge, and program robots with the fun games! The knowledge, skills, and attitudes that STEM programs impart are invaluable! We thank those who made this possible through their generosity: the Hampton Roads Community Foundation's Vibrant Places grant, the Alison J. and Ella W. Parsons Fund, Rotary District 7600, Newport News Shipbuilding, the Warfield Foundation, and BASF Corporation.

Community Troop Team

GSCCC’s Community Troop Team is engaging hundreds of girls in the Girl Scout Leadership Experience! This school year, they served girls in several schools during the school day and in after-school programs, as well as at community center locations in partnership with other nonprofits, such as the Big H.O.M.I.E.S. Organization. In October, over a six-week session, girls did activities from the Entrepreneur Badge Kit. At the end of the series, they were presented with the Girl Scout Entrepreneur badge. The new Girl Scouts created a business plan for a hand soap business! The plan covered budgeting, marketing, and forecasting. This effort in Portsmouth was made possible thanks to the funds provided by Papa John's Foundation.

Donor Recognition October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025 Your generosity fuels every Girl Scout’s journey—building courage, confidence, and character along the way. With your support, girls gain the skills and experiences they need to thrive in school, lead in their communities, and pursue bold, fulfilling careers. You’re not just investing in their present— you’re shaping a future filled with possibility. With so many meaningful causes to support, we’re truly honored you’ve invested in the power of girls. Because of you, Girl Scouting continues to evolve—meeting the moment with bold innovation and timeless values.

ANNUAL CONTRIBUTIONS

Paul and Tammy Carlson Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign $100,000+ Cookie Classic Run United Way of South Hampton Roads Amy S. Coyne Sylvia Weinstein Craft $50,000 - $99,999 Dominion Energy TowneBank Foundation Luis Estrada $25,000 - $49,999 Fulton Bank Anonymous Angelyn W. Gibson Girl Scouts of the USA Sherrie Hastings United Way of the Virginia Peninsula Amanda Howie Virginia Department of Conservation The J. Edwin Treakle Foundation Inc. and Recreation Sharon Monica M. Jones Deneen M. Keegan $10,000 - $24,999 Lu Ann Klevecz Anonymous Dr. Lorraine Lees and Dr. William Rodner Franklin-Southampton Charities Ann M. Lester Langley for Families Foundation Thomas and Linda Linke Newport News Shipbuilding Debra L. Loving Norfolk Southern Corporation Colleen Mollison Papa John's Foundation Laura Morgan Portsmouth General Hospital Foundation Norfolk State University Renee M. Russell Bradley and Carolyn Pittman US Department of Energy Publix Super Markets Charities Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Doug and Susan Ramsland The Warfield Foundation, Inc. Rotary Club of Great Bridge $5,000 - $9,999 Rotary Club of Warwick Albemarle Area United Way Mr. and Dr. Barry & Laura Sass Camp Foundation Service Unit 250-Lynnhaven Shores Camp Younts Foundation Richard and Sunny Smith Charles Constant and Ruth Hastings Skinner Karen Jones Squires Memorial Trust Madeline A. Steeley City of Newport News Carl B. Sterzing Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation The Suffolk Foundation Franklin-Southampton Area United Way Sally Swanson Hampton Roads Community Foundation Tidewater Children's Foundation Dan and Tracy Keller TowneBank Sertoma Club of Norfolk April Van Skiver Ruth Camp Campbell Foundation Virginia Natural Gas Warwick Rotary Foundation $1,000 - $4,999 Carla Washinko Aggregate Transportation Corp Anonymous (8) $500 - $999 The Benevity Community Impact Fund Abingdon Ruritan Charitable Associates Inc. JoAn M. Berry Carolyn Abron-McCadden Birdsong Peanuts Kenneth C. Alexander Sarah Linden-Brooks Anonymous (2) Jacqueline Brooks The Bank of America Charitable Foundation Dawn and Pete Brotherton BDO Leonard Brown, Jr. Shirley Bergstrom Deborah H. Butler Jacqueline F. Bontemps The Capital Group Companies Angela R. Bright Charitable Foundation Code Ninjas


Meet Girl Scout Daisy Luna and mom, Girl Scout Volunteer Cheryl Hays "Is it a Girl Scout day?" Luna asks her mom, Cheryl Hays, nearly every day. Cheryl, who volunteers in Girl Scout multi-level Troop 421, always has a smile and an answer. Many times, the answer is yes, even if there is no troop meeting, there may be something on the calendar that involves a trip or activity that has to do with Girl Scouts. Luna is a second-year Girl Scout Daisy who joined the spring of 2024 during early registration season she couldn't wait to be a Girl Scout! She’s increased her activities with Girl Scouts ever since, especially in the past months after receiving a new wheelchair that gives her more mobility and independence. Cheryl and Luna are super happy as members of Troop 421. "The troop leadership is very understanding and accommodating of Luna's special needs," says Cheryl. The troop offers a quality Girl Scout experience for Luna. During a sleepover at the YMCA, the leaders created a special obstacle course for the troop. It helped them face unique challenges while offering Luna her own challenges built just for her abilities. "I love how Girl Scouts have made a difference in our lives," Cheryl said. "I guess that's why I've stepped up to volunteer in a few roles, to show how much I appreciate the opportunities and the friends we've made." Cheryl took on managing the cookie program for the troop last year and she recently volunteered to serve as a service unit delegate. "This year, the troop is working on the Body Appreciation badge and I'm really looking forward to helping as a troop parent and adding some insights from a different perspective. Luna learns a lot from her troop friends, and I think they can learn a lot from her as well! I know I learn something wonderful each and every day."

y's Circ ais

Join Daisy’s Circle — Where Giving Blossoms Into Impact!

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Friendships found in Girl Scouts can make such a difference in a life. For girls and adults!

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Daisy’s Circle is more than a monthly giving program — it’s a powerful way to champion girls across our region and build a stronger tomorrow. Inspired by our visionary founder, Juliette He r P rom i s e “Daisy” Gordon Low, this initiative honors her legacy as a devoted philanthropist and tireless advocate for young women. Step into the Circle. Help plant the seeds of courage, confidence, and character — month after month. To Join - Visit gsccc.org and click the green donate button. While completing your donation, select the MONTHLY option. It's that easy! If you are already a monthly donor, you automatically join Daisy's Circle.

26 Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

$500 - $999 continued James and Claudia Flowers Marcy Germanotta Jody A. Kaurup Elizabeth Kessler Kim Lincoln Lions Club of Norfolk Foundation Kim Mingee Lara Overy Service Unit 360-Suffolk Toni N. Taylor The Thomas and Ellen Fithian Fund

IN-KIND CONTRIBUTIONS Adams Outdoor Advertising Emily D. Balke Dawn and Pete Brotherton Leonard Brown, Jr. Elizabeth S. Chapman City of Elizabeth City David Bailey Associates Engineering Your Future Luis Estrada Christy Falk Google Amanda Howie iHeart Media Judy Lorensen Macaroni Kid Kim Mingee Mini Me Events Colleen Mollison Laura Morgan My Active Child Norfolk State University Novatech Printing Prezz Chris M. Ramos-Smith Amy Reineri Deborah Sampson Sally Swanson Tidewater Family Plus Tidewater Hispanic News Town Point Club Wegmans Williamsburg Winery

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DAISY'S CIRCLE SOCIETY FOUNDING MEMBERS Anonymous (2) Shirley Bergstrom Leonard Brown Jr. Tammy Carlson Shannon Carter James and Claudia Flowers Elise Gore Amanda Howie Peter & Becky Kaurup Deneen Keegan Elizabeth Kessler Lu Ann Klevecz Sarah Linden-Brooks Constance Liu Kim Mingee Colleen Mollison Laura Morgan Sally Swanson Roselle Wayman Kevin Wilkinson


ENDOWMENTS & SPECIAL FUNDS BUCK HARRIS AWARD ENDOWMENT

SHE BELIEVES SHE CAN SO SHE DOES SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT

Elizabeth A. Kessler Lila R. Davis

Pattie Cartwright Tracy A. Keller Sally Swanson Carletta Waddler Holly Waldie Merrill Watts Arlene Wright

GIRL SCOUTS OF COURAGE, CONFIDENCE, AND CHARACTER SCHOLARSHIP Jennifer Lynch

GOLD AWARD SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT JoAn M. Berry Christine Duer Angelyn W. Gibson Amanda Howie Deneen M. Keegan Noorain Khan Lu Ann Klevecz Dr. Lorraine Lees and Dr. William Rodner Ann M. Lester Valerie Lillard Laura Morgan Sally Swanson Barbara Tierney Carla Washinko Nancy Welch

k an GOLD AWARD SCHOLARSHIP FUND JoAn M. Berry Regina Duffy Ann Loflin Hobson Tracy A. Keller Sarah Linden-Brooks Eileen S. Livick Mary Ellen Maxwell Cheryl A. McGrenra Jessica Newberry Shirley J. Skinner Paula M. Spady Ann E. Stenberg (D) Carole K. Stockberger Barbara Tierney

GSCCC LEADERSHIP ENDOWMENT Deb Amatulli Tricia E. Armstrong William L. Nusbaum

HELEN KATTWINKEL ENDOWMENT Terri Washington

ROWENA FULLINWIDER LEADERSHIP ENDOWMENT Elizabeth T. Bade Joanne Berkley Ann and Jim Bridgman Michelle Combs Carroll Frohman John Greenhalgh Tracy A. Keller Karen and Doug Mitchell

Jann P. Schultz Richard and Sunny Smith Keith R. Snyder Ericka Spratley Nancy Staples Tesi D. Strickland Michael and Sally Swanson Toni N. Taylor Mary Ann Thomas Cheryle Thorne-Harris Barbara Tierney Anna Goode Turner (D) Zechariah Turner (D) Deborah Verhofstadt Melissa Warfield (D) Claire Winiarek Beth Yates

! u o Y

BARBARA METTLER TRAVELSHIP ENDOWMENT Molly Mettler Sally Swanson Roselle Wayman

JULIETTE GORDON LOW SOCIETY

Carolyn Abron-McCadden Deb Amatulli Erik and Eva Anderson Girl Scout Movement-wide Challenge Planned Gift Anonymous (3) Dianne Belk & Lawrence Calder Girl Scout Movement-wide Challenge Planned Gift JoAn M. Berry Melissa L. Burroughs Sarah Delaney Butt Norman Cox Amy S. Coyne Dina K. Crewe Lila R. Davis Sandra DeLoatch (D) Anne Dinterman Tom and Regina Duffy Luis Estrada Claudia C. Flowers Denise L. Frey Kathryn Godby Carolene Goodwyn-Harris Amanda Howie Tricia Hudson Cheran Cordell Ivery Helen M. Kattwinkel (D) Dan and Tracy Keller Elizabeth A. Kessler Sonia Kessler Andrea Kinnear Lu Ann Klevecz Amy N. Ledford Dr. Lorraine Lees and Dr. William Rodner Anna Lee Liverman (D) Eileen S. Livick Ryan Martin and Malynda Walker-Martin Dale K. McClure Cheryl A. McGrenra Ashley McLeod Susan Meek Michael Mendelsohn Jennifer Moose Laura Morgan Stacy Nixon Camile L. Peter Bradley and Carolyn Pittman David and Amy Reineri Renee M. Russell

(D) denotes deceased

GSCCC reports your donations(s) in accordance with your expressed preferences. If you want to update your donor recognition, or believe there is an error or omission, please contact philanthropy@gsccc.org.

A Garden for Camp Skimino

GSCCC maintains several properties and camps that offer year-round opportunities. Thanks to donors and Girl Scout stewardship, GSCCC properties receive much TLC! In 2025, improvements included a new kitchen for Camp Darden, replacing a 50-year-old one, roof replacements on several structures, and a new STEM facility at Camp Skimino. In addition, troops provided hours of service to make a difference. Williamsburg Girl Scouts partnered with the Williamsburg Garden Club to create a native plant and pollinator garden. There are many ways our donors have contributed. If you want another way that is not listed, let us know! We will do our best to help you help the girls! • Daisy's Circle, a monthly giving program via credit card (gsccc.org/donate) • One-time Donation - Credit card (gsccc.org/donate), cash, check, bank account or retirement account transfer, or stock transfer. • Donor Advised Fund distribution. • Pledge, payable per arranged schedule. • Non-cash goods or services. • Sponsorships. • Designations via federated campaigns (United Ways, CFC, CVC, etc.)

27 Winter/Spring


Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Norfolk, VA Permit No. 150

912 Cedar Road Chesapeake, VA 23322

Visit us on the web at gsccc.org We are supported in part by

The GSCCC Magazine is published twice a year by Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast for our registered members and donors. You may find an online copy at gsccc.org/publications. If your household has received duplicate mailings, please email customercare@gsccc.org. Editor: Marcella Germanotta; Graphic Artist: Barbara Owens

New Office in Barco!

EARN GIRL SCOUT BADGES AT CODE NINJAS

GSCCC officially opened a new office location at Fusion Office Business Centers in Barco, North Carolina, on November 18 with a Ribbon Cutting ceremony with the Currituck Chamber of Commerce. The office is located at 4130 Caratoke Highway, Suite B. More than 20 guests gathered to enjoy food, beverages, and fellowship in support of GSCCC and the new office space. Office hours for service and meetings are limited and made by appointment. Calls will be received during normal office hours, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at (252) 597-9702.

GSCCC Philanthropy Director Sally Swanson with Sandi Ayres, owner of Fusion Office Business Centers.

CODE NINJAS CHESAPEAKE 561 Cedar Road Suite 4 | Chesapeake, VA 23322 (757)720-7789 chesapeakeva@codeninjas.com


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