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National Girl Scout Day March 12

Imagine stepping into a world where adventure, learning, and character development are at the forefront of every young girl's journey. This is precisely what Juliette Gordon Low envisioned when she founded the Girl Scouts of the USA on March 12, 1912. With her assistant, Anne Marsh McDermott, by her side, they launched the first troop in Savannah, Georgia, setting the stage for a movement that would eventually sweep across the globe. Inspired by the Boy Scouts, Low aimed to craft an organization that would empower girls to become leaders of courage, confidence, and character. Fast forward over a century, and the Girl Scouts has evolved into a global powerhouse, nurturing millions of girls into agents of change. National Girl Scout Day celebrates this incredible legacy, marking a day of pride, empowerment, and the enduring impact of female solidarity. How did a simple gathering in Savannah transform into an international beacon of girl power?

Key Takeaway

National Girl Scout Day is celebrated on March 12 to commemorate the founding of the Girl Scouts of the USA in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low and Anne Marsh McDermott.
The Girl Scouts, inspired by the Boy Scouts, aim to provide girls with adventure, learning, and character development opportunities, and have grown into a global organization dedicated to empowering girls and making a positive impact.

Timeline

1912
Founding of Girl Scouts
Juliette Gordon Low founded the Girl Guides in Savannah, Georgia, which would later become the Girl Scouts of the USA.
1923
First National Convention
The first national convention of the Girl Scouts was held in Washington D.C.
1930
First African-American Troop
The first African-American Girl Scout troop was formed in New York City.
1947
First International Conference
The first international conference of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts was held in Evian, France.
1950
First Asian-American Troop
The first Asian-American Girl Scout troop was formed in San Francisco, California.
1965
First Girl Scout to go to Space
NASA astronaut and Girl Scout alumna, Dr. Sally Ride, became the first American woman in space.
1984
Girl Scout Gold Award Established
The Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest achievement in Girl Scouting, was established.
2000
First Hispanic-American National President
Juliette Low’s great-niece, Connie L. Matsui, became the first Hispanic-American National President of the Girl Scouts.
2012
100th Anniversary of Girl Scouts
The Girl Scouts celebrated their 100th anniversary with a variety of events and activities.

Day Activities

  1. Morning Hikes and Nature Walks: Kick off National Girl Scout Day with an invigorating morning hike or a serene nature walk. This activity not only pays homage to the organization's roots in outdoor adventures but also encourages participants to appreciate the beauty of the natural world around them. Scouts and volunteers alike can explore local trails, learn about native flora and fauna, and maybe even earn a new badge in the process!

  2. Community Service Projects: After refueling with a hearty lunch, scouts can roll up their sleeves for community service projects. Whether it's planting trees, cleaning up local parks, or organizing food drives, these activities embody the Girl Scout spirit of making the world a better place. It's a fantastic way for troops to bond, develop leadership skills, and give back to their communities, all while celebrating this special day.

  3. Evening Campfire and Storytelling: As the sun sets, gather around a crackling campfire for an evening of storytelling and s'mores. This timeless tradition is the perfect way to wind down National Girl Scout Day. Sharing stories of inspirational women, historical Girl Scout moments, and personal achievements fosters a sense of camaraderie and pride. Plus, who can resist the allure of gooey marshmallows and chocolate between graham crackers?

Interesting Facts

1. Founding Date

National Girl Scout Day marks the birth of Girl Scouts in 1912.

2. Founder's Vision

Juliette Gordon Low aimed to empower girls through adventure and learning.

3. First Troop Location

Savannah, Georgia, hosted the inaugural Girl Scout troop.

4. Inspiration

The organization was modeled after the Boy Scouts.

5. Global Impact

Girl Scouts has grown into a worldwide movement.

Why We Love This Day

  • Celebrating empowerment and sisterhood
    Who doesn't love a day dedicated to celebrating empowerment and sisterhood? National Girl Scout Day does just that, marking the moment when Juliette Gordon Low kick-started an organization that would eventually empower millions of girls worldwide. It's not just about the cookies; it's about building character, courage, and confidence in young women. This day reminds us of the power of coming together, supporting one another, and striving for personal and collective growth.

  • A nod to history and progress
    Let's face it, history isn't just about battles and treaties. National Girl Scout Day gives us a chance to tip our hats to a significant historical milestone that has contributed to social progress. From its humble beginnings in Savannah, Georgia, the Girl Scouts has evolved into a global powerhouse, advocating for girls' rights and leadership. Celebrating this day allows us to reflect on how far we've come and the strides we're making toward gender equality.

  • Inspiring future leaders
    National Girl Scout Day isn't only about looking back; it's also about looking forward. It serves as a beacon of inspiration for future leaders, showing girls everywhere that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Through activities that range from outdoor adventures to STEM projects, the Girl Scouts are shaping the leaders of tomorrow. On this day, we're reminded of the importance of nurturing leadership, resilience, and a can-do spirit among young girls, ensuring a brighter future for all.

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
MARCH 12 2022
MARCH 12 2023
MARCH 12 2024
MARCH 12 2025
MARCH 12 2026
MARCH 12 2027
MARCH 12 2028

FAQ

What national day is on March 12?

March 12 packs a punch with celebrations galore! It's National Girl Scout Day, Alfred Hitchcock Day, Alloimmunization and HDFN Day, National Working Moms Day, National Plant a Flower Day… and the list goes on. Pick your favorite and celebrate with gusto!

Why do Girl Scouts hold up three fingers?

Ever noticed how Girl Scouts raise their right hand, but with only three fingers up? That's the Girl Scout sign. They do this while reciting the Girl Scout Promise. The trio of fingers stands for the Promise's three parts, showing commitment to its values. Neat, right?

How old will Girl Scouts be in 2024?

Mark your calendars for National Girl Scout Week, slated for March 10-16, 2024. This calls for a mega celebration as the Girl Scouts will be hitting a monumental 112 years since Juliette Gordon Low set this empowering movement into motion. Time flies when you're building leaders of tomorrow!

What were Girl Scouts originally called?

Did you know the powerhouse organization for girls we know and love as the Girl Scouts was initially called Girl Guides? That's right. Upon returning to America in 1913, Juliette Gordon Low had a vision to spread Girl Guiding nationwide. She shifted gears by renaming the organization to Girl Scouts, setting up a national headquarters, and extending her recruitment reach beyond Georgia. Change for the better, wouldn't you say?