Frustrated

[tinkfan1056]

This year my daughter is a Brownie in a new troop. Since I had been a Girl Scout before I volunteered to be the troop leader. Two other moms also volunteered and they were given the positions of leader and co-leader and I was assigned to be the Cookie Sales Manager

Comments

[miz_hatbox]

That sounds terribly frustrating. But I can understand them not knowing how to organize a meeting if they haven't been exposed to scout traditions yet. They might not know what's involved, which makes me wonder why they volunteered and whether they've been through leader training yet. So, I'm curious: Who assigned them to those positions

[salinn]

Yes, I agree. I am a Girl Scout Trainer for my council, and every council should have them. It is required to take some orientation class introducing leaders to girl scouting. And while it isn't a "requirement" to teach your girls about the scout traditions, when large groups of scouts get together it is nice to all have something in common, the "sisterhood" of GS and it's sad that those girls don't get that chance.

Chain of command...

[sheerluc]

Are they/you attending your service unit meeting? You should have a 'SUD' service unit director that can help. You may even have a 'age level mentor' Call your council and ask to speak with the Field Executive for your county. Explain your concerns and she can put you in touch with the above mentioned folks. The Field Executive is a paid position so she/he has more invested than us 'volunteer' folks and should make sure your concerns are addressed in a timely fashion.

Oh...and many service units are now using Yahoo groups to help organize meetings and SU events...hope this helps!

[platypusgirl]

You might be able to impart a little of that at Cookie time. Why we sell cookies, how it got started...

You could always start your own troop next year. Finish out this year as is, learning as you go. Talk to you SUD about starting a new troop next year - one that takes a different direction than the current troop.

[becksterminator]

While I certainly do agree that there is import in learning all about Girl Scouts, I wouldn't entirely discount the value of social time, either. I think there is much to be gained from an open and accepting social environment that Girl Scouts can offer. Honestly that's something I kind of lacked growing up; they were into girl scouting and badges and stuff (as was I) but I never quite fit in. I think every troop/group needs balance--maybe propose some sort of compromise (I don't think lectures on the history of the organization are necessary, for example). And remember, ultimately it is up to the girls and what they want to get out of the organization.