Girl Scouts of the USA historically has relied on a self-generating funding system. But as it approaches the century mark, a sweeping organizational transition will mean a new focus on fundraising and an enhanced partnership with its local councils around

By David Mckenna

If you think of Girl Scouts of the USA as a quaint organization that covers its operating expenses mainly by trotting out hordes of docile recruits to sell cookies on a grand scale, you’re not alone.

You’re not right … but you’re also not alone.

While it’s true the Girl Scouts Cookie Program is larger than ever — it generates about $700 million in annual proceeds — the cookie sellers are motivated and business-savvy, and GSUSA is far from quaint. The organization, which celebrated its 95th anniversary on March 12, had total operating revenue of $120 million in 2005. And it’s in the midst of a sweeping transformation aimed at adjusting to national demographic shifts and helping members become even better prepared for the boom in leadership opportunities available to contemporary women.

Girl Scouts of the USA

420 Fifth Ave.
New York, NY 10018

Phone: 212.852.8000

Web site: www.girlscouts.org

Total operating revenue (FY 2005): $120 million

Total operating expenses (FY 2005): $119 million

What it is: “Girl Scouts of the USA is the world’s preeminent organization dedicated solely to girls — all girls — where, in an accepting and nurturing environment, girls build courage, confidence, character and skills for success in the real world. In partnership with committed adult volunteers, girls develop qualities that will serve them all their lives, like leadership, strong values, social conscience and conviction about their own potential and self-worth.” (www.girlscouts.org)

History: “Founded in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low, Girl Scouts’ membership has grown from 18 members in Savannah, Ga., to 3.6 million members throughout the United States, including U.S. territories, and in more than 90 countries through USA Girl Scouts Overseas.” (www.girlscouts.org)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 All Next »

0 Comments

View Comments

Companies:
Healthy Living

David Mckenna Author's page

Smart Cookies