Using Council Resources
I intended to do my next series on some of the paperwork related items for the proposal and final report. However, there are so many great resources already available from councils this would have been redundant. Instead, I will share some highlights.
Keep in mind each council has rules specific to the council. The big picture expectations are the same, but the details and execution expectations can vary.
If you would like to be eligible for nomination for National Gold Award Girl Scout recognition, you will be required to use the Go Gold online application.
- Some councils don’t require this to earn the Gold Award, but it is required at the national level.
- If you don’t use it initially you will need to go through the process afterward.
- If you use the online application, make sure your council is currently processing those applications.
- This can be as simple as emailing the Gold Award staff person at your council.
Timeline and Budget
Girl Scout of Northern California has a great resource for these two items.
- Keep in mind each council has specific expectations for fundraising and money management.
- Work with your troop leader to understand your council’s specific requirements.
- If you are an Individually Registered Member (Juliette), money management rules can be VERY different between councils. Find the person at council you need to work with and ask questions.
- Many councils require participation in council product sales in order to be eligible to perform additional fundraising (like asking for a donation for your project). Make sure you know these expectations before beginning your project so you are in compliance.
During Your Project – Keeping a Time Log
- Keep your log as you go, don’t wait and try and remember even just once a month.
- If you spend fifteen minutes reaching out to contacts through email, make sure to write that down.
- All work towards your project counts, make sure to take credit for it.
- Although, not required, keep track of your volunteers’ hours on a separate log.
- You will be amazed at how much time you actually put towards your project, but when you include your support team hours, the impact becomes even more impressive.
Taking Pictures or Videos During Your Project
- Know your councils rules for photo releases
- Make sure not to post pictures on social media of anyone younger than 18 without a release form
Press Releases
- Ask during your interview about how your council wants you to handle press releases related to your project
- Some councils want all press releases to be issued through their offices
- Others may have a format for you to use and send out press releases yourself
- Others may not provide support for press releases but will allow you to send them. If so, find an example from another council and update as appropriate for your council and your project.
Next week: Making Connections