You’re probably reading this because you’ve caught the Girl Scouting bug – and the only cure is… MORE GIRL SCOUTS! Once you’ve registered yourself, completed a background check, and made it through the online training (a pretty painless process, if you ask me), you are ready to lead! But every Girl Scout knows that you can’t do it alone (whatever ‘it’ is), and troop leading is no different. If you haven’t found your perfect co-leader yet, fear not! Read on for some great tips from one of our volunteer support team leads, Sarah Mannie:
1. Reach out to parents/guardians/relatives
First and foremost, ask the parents, guardians, or relatives of the girls in your troop. These adults are likely already invested in the success of your troop and would love to help out (they may just need a little nudge and encouragement). Bring it up while you’re raising excitement at your fall family meeting – your new co-leader might be right under your nose!
2. Ask a friend
Do you have a bestie that is looking for new ways to get involved in their community? If you already know someone you work well with, who is great with girls, and who believes in the Girl Scout mission, then look no further! They don’t have to be a parent – just an enthusiastic go-getter who’s ready to see the magic that happens when girls lead the way.
3. Connect with alums
Past Girl Scouts make fantastic co-leaders. They’ll be able to teach your troop all the traditions that make Girl Scouts special – from SWAPS and sit-upons to knot-tying and campfire cooking. Curious if you have any alums in your service unit? Ask your volunteer coordinator!
4. Tap into the power of social media
Ask your network. River Valleys has some great recruitment images to help you rack up those likes and shares! Include a fun caption like “Wanted: Fearless leader to join our troop! Private message me if you’re interested.” If one of your own friends and followers can’t do it, they just might just know someone who can!
5. Ask the experts
Still having trouble finding a co-leader? Reach out to your service unit manager – they might already have someone in mind who’s waiting to find the perfect troop (yours!).
Best of luck with your Girl Scout year – you’ll find you can accomplish anything with the right person by your side!
Natasha Brownlee – Natasha is a Program Specialist at River Valleys, where she develops and leads awesome Girl Scout events – and runs the In the Loop blog! Her background is in curriculum development, programming, and creative writing. She has BA’s in Peace Studies and French and a MSc in Gender, Development & Globalization and has worked with various girl-centered organizations in the US and abroad. Natasha loves traveling around the world, practicing yoga, and hanging out with her dog, Rooney!