(WALKER, Mich. – September 16, 2013) – An eco-adventure trip to Italy, Girl Scouting activities with migrant teens and a new Meijer Garden Patch earned through a partnership with the Frederik Meijer Gardens.
It’s this kind of fresh, activity-rich programming that is driving young girls ages 5 to 17 to the Girl Scouting way of life. For the Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore (GSMISTS), a 30-county region spanning Alpena to Zeeland, that is translating into one of the strongest membership gains in recent years, with a greater than 6% increase in Girl Scouts over the last membership year.
“Constantly creating relevant, exciting programming is at the core of our Council,” explains Eva Berumen, VP of Membership, Volunteerism and Pathways. “We are always keeping our ears open for what girls want and need in today’s world and how we can support that.”
Gloria Lara, CEO of GSMISTS, says, “Our mission remains the same; inspire girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place. We take pride in identifying unique ways girls can explore their world and communities.”
Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore serves more than 10,000 girls, ages 5 – 17, in 30 counties in northern and western Michigan. With the support of more than 3,500 committed volunteers and over 40 qualified staff members, girls develop qualities that will serve them all their lives, such as leadership, strong values, social conscience, and conviction about their own potential and self-worth. Lara said she is confident membership will continue increasing, provided that GSMISTS’ volunteer base remains strong.
“Membership growth is directly tied to a strong volunteer base,” explains Lara. “We are always looking for volunteers to lead new troops. Whether you can lead a one-time project or a troop that meets around your work schedule, we can find a place for you.”
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About Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore (GSMISTS):
For over 100 years, Girl Scouts has served our community as the preeminent organization dedicated solely to girls. Today, Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore proudly carries on the Girl Scouting legacy to 10,000 girls in 30 counties in western and northern Michigan. Founded in 1912, Girl Scouting is the leading authority on girls’ healthy development, and builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. For more information on how to join, volunteer or donate to Girl Scouts, call 1.866.566.7434 or visit www.gsmists.org.
Follow Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore on Facebook at www.facebook.com/gsmists and Twitter at www.twitter.com/gsmists.