Message from Alison Wilcox, CEO

Dear Girl Scout Volunteers,

We are now approaching TWO years of persevering through the pandemic. For that alone, I would like to say THANK YOU! Thank you for your unyielding support of GSWNY. Thank you for tirelessly giving back to our community, to our girls, and most importantly, being examples of excellence. Although, as a nation, we are making progress, I’m sure we will all find relief once the pandemic officially comes to an end.

Undoubtedly, COVID-19 has had a tremendous impact on how we all interact. We’ve all taken extra precautions due to the ongoing concerns surrounding the virus. GSWNY is no different. Our council takes great pride in ensuring we provide a safe environment for our girls, volunteers, members, families, and staff. So as a reminder, virtual and at-home programming remains the safest way to participate. Currently, there is no requirement to meet in person. At this time, any in-person meetings or activities are optional.

COVID-19 is a serious health risk, and we will continue to monitor public health guidance and are prepared to make changes to our safety guidance if needed.

For now, GSWNY COVID-19 safety guidance that was issued September 1, 2021, remains aligned to public health guidance, including wearing masks indoors and social distancing indoors.

As Girl Scouts, we are always prepared, so please continue to follow the current GSWNY safety guidelines and be watchful for GSWNY communications in case we need to adjust COVID-19 restrictions on in-person activities.

Please feel free to contact us at customercare@gswny.org or call 1-888-837-6410. In an emergency, please call 1-800-882-9268.

Thank you again for your dedication to ensuring safety standards and for all you do!

Yours in Girl Scouting,
Alison Wilcox
Chief Executive Officer

Troop Leader Survey

We are seeking your input as we build our next Spring Renewal campaign—tentatively set to begin in April. Please take a moment to complete this brief survey.

Volunteer Recognitions

Don’t forget to nominate a stellar volunteer for a GSWNY Adult Recognition Award! To find the best award for each volunteer, visit our Adult Recognition webpage. We have extended the deadline to February 14 for nominations for presentation at the Annual Meeting—so consider nominating today! And don’t forget that you can also request Membership (15+ years) and Years of Service (10+ years) pins. 

First Aid/CPR Training

An adult certified in First Aid/CPR is required if a troop leaves their meeting place and/or if an activity’s Safety Activity Checkpoint indicates a First Aider is required.

With our partner agency, EPIC Trainings, Inc., we offer full day and blended learning First Aid/CPR classes throughout the year. These courses include adult and child CPR and basic first aid. Certification is valid for 2 years. Blended learning classes are NOT recommended if this is your first time taking First Aid and CPR training.

A complete schedule of our offerings for the 2022 program year is posted on our Safety page, but we wanted to highlight four trainings coming up in February.

• Wednesday, February 2, 5 p.m. | Buffalo Service Center
• Saturday, February 5, 9 a.m. | Buffalo Service Center
• Saturday, February 5, 11 a.m. | Rochester Service Center
• Wednesday, February 9, 5 p.m. | Rochester Service Center

Take advantage of these early sessions by calling EPIC Trainings Inc. at 585-615-4379 for questions and to register.

New Leader Welcome Meeting

All new trained and approved leaders are encouraged to attend our New Leader Welcome Meetings. Here you can meet GSWNY staff, learn about our council’s various departments, and ask your questions in an open house format. 

Mark your calendars now for our next meeting on Thursday, February 24, from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m.

Register for Welcome Meeting »

Join-a-Thon is coming!

Our annual 12 hour membership drive is happening Wednesday, February 2, 2022 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Girls and adults who join Girl Scouts of Western New York next Wednesday are automatically entered to win prizes. 

We encourage you to refer someone to join during Join-a-Thon! If you do, send us their name and you’ll be entered into a drawing to receive one of two $25 gift cards to the GSWNY shop or store of your choice. At the same time, girl referrals will count towards the Grow Your Girl Crew incentives. 

Submit your referral »

Visit gswny.org/volunteerresources for additional volunteer resources. If you have any questions, please email Customer Care or call 1-888-837-6410.