In the spring, people are likely to find Girl Scout troops around the country selling their iconic Girl Scout Cookies. As a result, Thin Mints, Samoas and Caramel DeLites have become household names. While the cookies are a tasty treat, the history and purpose behind the sales of these cookies go far beyond a dessert.
Girl Scouts of the USA was founded in 1912, in Savannah, Georgia. In the last 100 years, societal expectations of girls have evolved tremendously, and the Girl Scouts organization has played a role in navigating this evolution. Instilling core values including teamwork, leadership and service, Girl Scouts works to uplift young girls across the United States.
The tradition of Girl Scout Cookies started in 1917, when the Mistletoe Troop in Muskogee, Oklahoma, baked cookies to sell in their high school cafeteria as part of a service project. While Girl Scout Cookies are extremely popular in American tradition, few know the valuable skills that cookie sales develop amongst girls.
Taylor Smith (she/her), 11, has been a part of Girl Scouts for five years. She reflects on the role that Girl Scouts has played in her life.
“Girl Scouts has taught me a lot of life skills… and business skills,” Smith stated.
Girl Scouts isn’t just about selling cookies and earning badges. The organization continues to innovate, focusing on future-focused initiatives, like STEM education, environmental sustainability and entrepreneurship.
Smith has graduated from being a Girl Scout herself and is now a leader for her little sister’s troop.
“Now, as a true leader, I am guiding the girls along with cookie season, like teaching them their own business skills and how to be independent,” Smith said.
Smith finds it incredibly fulfilling to lead a troop of her own. It feels full circle for her, as she gained leadership qualities through Girl Scouts, and now works to lead other girls in learning important life skills.
“My favorite part is working with the girls and bonding with them at every troop meeting,” Smith expressed.
Girl Scouts of the USA is part of a worldwide group of ten million girls and adults in 146 countries, according to Girl Scouts of the USA. That number is expected to continue growing as Girl Scouts continue to inspire, challenge and empower girls everywhere.
“[Troop leaders] really encourage the girls to do things on their own and learn for themselves,” said Smith.
The growth of Girl Scouts has reflected broader societal changes and has contributed significantly to girls’ leadership development and empowerment around the world. Today, the organization remains one of the most recognized and respected programs for young girls.
