Thank you for your interest in becoming a Girl Scout Leader! Here are the first steps you'll take to start a new troop:
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Volunteer Application: We have a 5-step volunteer application process. It includes an application, background check ($12), references, membership registration ($12 annually), and basic training. Once your application is approved, you'll be connected with the Membership Manager for your area.
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Co-Leader: Do you have a co-leader? All troops are required to have at least two, unrelated co-leaders.
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Troop Number: Your Membership Manager will request a troop number for you!
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Bank Account: Your Membership Manager will give you a Bank Account Authorization form to have signed by at least two, unrelated, approved troop volunteers. Once it is approved by your Membership Manager, you'll bring it to your bank to open your troop account.
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Service Unit: A “Service Unit” is group of volunteers and leaders in a certain geographic area. Most service units meet regularly throughout the year. Ask your Membership Manager about your local Service Unit meeting schedule. It’s a great opportunity to meet other leaders who can help mentor you as you get started!
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Troop Meeting Schedule: Where and when will your troop meet? Will you meet monthly, weekly, or every other week? Decide on a troop meeting schedule and start contacting local schools, churches and community centers to find a place to meet.
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Schedule a Family Involvement Meeting: Your first troop meeting should include parents/guardians. Do you have a volunteer who can do an activity with the girls while you talk with the parents?
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Recruit New Girl Scouts! Need a flyer template to promote your Family Involvement Meeting? Your Membership Manager can supply you with recruitment resources.
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Troop Committee: At your Family Involvement Meeting, recruit volunteers for your troop committee such as a Troop Treasurer, Troop Cookie Manager, and Field Trip Coordinator. All troop volunteers need to complete the volunteer application process and register as an adult member of Girl Scouts.
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Other Forms: There are a couple forms you’ll want to collect when new girls join your troop, including the Annual Parent Permission form and the Girl Health History form. All forms are available in the Forms Library.
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Collect Troop Dues: Your troop can decide to collect troop dues of about $3-$5 per month per girl. Troop dues are deposited in the troop account and used for supplies, activities, badges, etc.
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Girl Scout Shop: Visit or contact your local Girl Scout shop or shop online to purchase/order uniforms, Journeys, Girl Guides to Girl Scouting, badges and awards!
