Girl Scouts remains girl-focused

BILLINGS, MONTANA – Following the announcement by Boy Scouts of America (BSA) to open its programs to girls, Girl Scouts remains committed to and believes strongly in the importance of the all-girl, girl-led, and girl-friendly environment.

Girl Scouts of Montana and Wyoming (GSMW) CEO, Sally J. Leep believes the decision by Boy Scouts of America is unfortunate and a disservice to girls.

Research indicates single-gender settings, compared to coeducational settings, help lessen the impact of gender stereotypes that can dictate the activities and subjects children choose to pursue, help children learn better and provide a more well-rounded and satisfying learning experience.

“We know girls. Our mission, programming, and objectives revolve around their healthy development. And we are actively helping today’s girls tap into their potential; unlock new skills; and develop the courage, confidence, and character they need to be tomorrow’s leaders,” stated Leep.

“At Girl Scouts, we focus on the all-girl, girl-led, safe space that makes Girl Scouts the best girl leadership experience in the world. Girl Scouts has been the key driver in developing female leadership for more than 100 years, and no one does it better.”

Leep acknowledges there are people who incorrectly assume that Boy Scouts provides programs and activities that Girl Scouts does not.

“There are people who still think of Girl Scouts as campfires, cookies and friendship bracelets—but we are so much more! Today’s Girl Scouts start garage bands, build robots and do service projects in our National Parks. We offer exciting, challenging programs that allow girls to take the lead in a range of activities—from kayaking and archery to outdoor survival and camping. From STEM and robotics to financial literacy training, girls have the opportunity to be go-getters, innovators, risk-takers and leaders in a supportive, encouraging environment where they feel safe.

“Girl Scouts works. We’re committed to preparing the next generation of women leaders, and we’re here to stay. If you haven’t yet, I encourage you to check out all we have to offer.”

GSMW consists of GSMW membership consists of more than 11,000 girls and adults with national membership at 2.6 million. Check out Girl Scouts! To join or become a volunteer please visit http://www.gsmw.org or call 800-736-5243.