Thursday, March 13, 2014

Local Girl Scouts learn business, use cookie proceeds to help others

Girl Scout troops across the Treasure Valley have big plans this cookie season.

Troop 315 at the Oasis Food Center.
Already well on its way, Troop 189 hopes to sell at least 4,500 boxes this year. The troop is currently working on its budgeting badge and is saving up for an outdoor adventure in McCall. "We're learning about saving and giving," said Nampa Troop 189 Leader Rhonda Schaffer.  

This year, Schaffer's troop has gone the extra mile to help sell cookies. The girls made business cards with matching banners and door flyers to match. They even ordered Girl Scout cookie shirts so they look more professional.

"I'm proud of the girls and their enthusiasm to want to contribute to the community and to put forth effort," said Schaffer.

The Girl Scout Cookie Program also helps girls earn money for troop service projects, activities, troop travel and helps girls pay for camp.

Nampa Brownie Troop 315 is in its second year of Girl Scouting and this year and plan to use cookie proceeds to help others. Not only do four of the six girls in the troop hope to sell enough cookies to earn camp tuition, they have several service projects that need funding.

These projects include picking up the tab for a local family at the grocery store and putting together kits for homeless people that include items such as deodorant, toothbrushes and granola bars.

According to 9-year-old Brownie Kylie S., service is what Girl Scouts is all about.

"To me Girl Scouts means that I have a privilege to help in the community.  It means it's not all about badges but about helping others," she said.