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Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council
3663 Peters Creek Road, NW ▪ Roanoke, VA 24019-2809 ▪ 540-777-5100 ▪ 1-800-542-5905 ▪
www.gsvsc.org
Trips and Overnights
GS201 Manual
2120 – 3-2017
Table of Contents
PREREQUISITES ....................................................................................................................................................1
COURSE OBJECTIVE ..............................................................................................................................................1
LEARNING OBJECTIVES ........................................................................................................................................1
TRAVEL .................................................................................................................................................................2
TRAVEL IN THE UNITED STATES .......................................................................................................................2
GIRL SCOUT LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE ................................................................................................................4
GIRLS DISCOVER, CONNECT, TAKE ACTION .........................................................................................................7
PROGRESSION ......................................................................................................................................................8
CHECKLIST FOR TRAVEL READINESS ................................................................................................................. 10
IS YOUR TROOP/GROUP READY FOR A TROOP/GROUP TRIP? ......................................................................... 13
ARE YOU READY? QUIZ ..................................................................................................................................... 15
ADULT READINESS QUOTIENT ...................................................................................................................... 15
GIRL READINESS QUOTIENT .......................................................................................................................... 16
GET MOVING .................................................................................................................................................... 17
WALKING HINTS ............................................................................................................................................ 17
BRAINSTORMING .............................................................................................................................................. 19
CHOOSING A DESTINATION .............................................................................................................................. 20
PLANNING THE ITINERARY ................................................................................................................................ 20
OVERNIGHTS - CREATING A SAFE SPACE FOR GIRLS ........................................................................................ 22
SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS AND BATHROOMS ............................................................................................ 22
EXTENDED TRIPS ............................................................................................................................................... 24
SAMPLE PLANNING CALENDAR ..................................................................................................................... 24
DEVELOPING A BUDGET ................................................................................................................................... 26
SAMPLE BUDGET SHEET ................................................................................................................................ 30
BUDGET TRAVEL TIPS ........................................................................................................................................ 31
BUDGET BUSTERS – OVERLOOKED COSTS ........................................................................................................ 32
MONEY EARNING QUIZ ..................................................................................................................................... 33
SAFETY .............................................................................................................................................................. 34
SITE ................................................................................................................................................................ 35
EMERGENCY CONTACT ..................................................................................................................................... 36
FIRST AIDER ....................................................................................................................................................... 37
SAFETY ISSUES .................................................................................................................................................. 39
CONDUCT WHEN TRAVELLING ......................................................................................................................... 40
EXPECTATIONS .................................................................................................................................................. 41
SAMPLE OLDER GIRL EXPECTATIONS OF ADULTS ON TRIPS ......................................................................... 41
SAMPLE ADULT EXPECTATIONS OF GIRLS ON TRIPS ..................................................................................... 41
THE CAREGIVER PARTNERSHIP ......................................................................................................................... 42
GIRL/CAREGIVER PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT ............................................................................................... 46
EVALUATING ..................................................................................................................................................... 47
AFTER THE TRIP ................................................................................................................................................. 48
FINANCIAL REPORTING ..................................................................................................................................... 49
LIST OF FORMS* TO BE COMPLETED WHEN PLANNING TRIPS ........................................................................ 50
ACCOMMODATIONS – WHAT’S AVAILABLE? ................................................................................................... 51
GIRL SCOUTS OF THE USA SPOTS AND PARTNER RESOURCES IN THE U.S. ...................................................... 53
1
PREREQUISITES
The prerequisites for this training are GS101, GS102 and GS103 and New Leader Orientation.
For support volunteers acting as a trip advisor, GS104 is the only prerequisite.
COURSE OBJECTIVE
By the end of this course, participants will become familiar with the various elements of domestic
troop/group trips and overnights including program development, financial planning, and necessary
paperwork while stressing the importance of girls doing the planning.
By completing this training, troop/group volunteers will have the information necessary to facilitate a
girl-planned short/easy walk, trip and/or overnight within the 48 contiguous United States.
The short walk, trip and/or overnight may include staying overnight at an:
• Organized lock-in held in a church, or mall
• Hotel
• Hostel
• Bed and Breakfast/Inn
• Dormitory
• Community facility
• Permanent building at a camp with permanent sleeping arrangements
The trained adult volunteer must work with the girls to prepare them for the trip or overnight and attend
the entire outing with the girls.
When age appropriate, girls may cook on a fixed gas or electric stove with adult supervision. Because
outdoor cooking would involve extra safety measures, cooking on open fires, grills, or camp stoves by
girls and/or adults requires Outdoor Education (GS301A & GS301B) training.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By the end of this training participants will be able to:
• Identify 6 types of trips
• Define trip progression and purpose of Girl Scout trips
• Indicate at least 3 resources for planning a trip and overnight
• Construct an appropriate trip planning timeline and budget
• Identify forms necessary for trip approval through council
• Define an appropriate safety plan and realistic trip expectations
2
TRAVEL
There are many opportunities for travel
beyond the meeting place for all girls in Girl
Scouts.
Learning to plan trips and travel as a group is
one of the basic experiences in Girl Scouting.
In Girl Scouting, travel is about fun,
exploration, and progressive experiences in
appreciating the outdoors, new places, and
other cultures. As girls grow older and more
experienced in travel, the scope of their
travel broadens to include travel across the
country on a girl planned trip with sister Girl
Scouts, or as an individual in a council or Girl
Scouts of the USA sponsored Getaways.
Safety is the most important thing to consider when planning trips and traveling. Girl Scouts of
the USA provides guidelines for travel in Safety Activity Checkpoints—from activities to
transportation to number of adults needed.
TRAVEL IN THE UNITED STATES
Girls can travel as troops or groups, planning trips with their adult volunteer, travel in a council
sponsored trip or event with other girls from their council, or travel with girls across the country
(and around the world) through a destinations event facilitated by Girl Scouts of the USA.
When traveling into a different part of the country, it is good to do some research about the
place you are going first. In addition to viewing scenic attractions, shopping, or exploring
museums, girls may find their trip enriched by doing a Girl Scout activity while they're there,
utilizing awards related to travel.
Many Girl Scout councils in major cities or areas of the country have "council's own" patches
related to the unique attractions of their city or the area. For example, Girl Scouts of the
Nation's Capital in Washington, D.C., has a set of Discovering the Nation's Capital patches on
their Web site, while Girl Scouts of Patriot's Trail in Boston, Massachusetts, has the Freedom
Trail patch to focus on exploring the historical sites on a walk. (Note: girls must visit the area in
order to earn these patches.)
Girl preparation is done through progression. Progression is an important aspect of the Girl
Scout Leadership Experience. Common themes through all levels of progression are safety
and standards, skill development, program goals, girl planning, environmental protection and
fun. Progression in Girl Scouts is the continuing development of skills or knowledge in any
What is a Girl Scout trip?
It is a trip, short or long, that supports
the Girl Scout program. It is not a
family trip. Troop money (including
money earned through product
sales) cannot be used to fund trips
that are not for the entire troop and
can never be used to fund family
events or individual girls.
3
area, building on skills already learned, and progress toward further development of those
skills. The goal of progression is to ensure that each girl gradually develops the skills and self-
confidence needed to complete the activity. When done properly, the girls will have increased
abilities to plan their short walk, trip or overnight.
Throughout the planning process, it is important that the activities are girl-led with the
troop/group leader providing age-level appropriate guidance, allowing girls to learn by doing,
and to engage them in cooperative learning. A Girl Scout trip is NOT something planned by
adults for girls. A successful trip requires sound planning and teamwork by the troop/group.
The trip should be based on ongoing troop/group activities and interests. The girls should
have demonstrated readiness and exhibit the maturity to accept the responsibilities the trip will
bring. Each girl should participate in the decision-making process about where the group will
go and her goal in taking this type of trip. Remember, though, that readiness to travel is not
age-based. Girl Scout Juniors that have camped and traveled a lot may be more ready for
extended trips when they reach Girl Scout Cadette than Girl Scout Ambassadors who have
never traveled. Before you journey on extended trips with inexperienced Girl Scout Seniors
and Ambassadors, make sure that they prepare for it and build their travel experience through
a series of overnight and shorter trips. While Daisy Girl Scouts will be able to choose between
two activities with the leader making all of the plans, Ambassador Girl Scouts may be able to
make all decisions regarding a trip or activity. Leader responsibilities will then be mostly
oversight and assistance. It is still the leader’s responsibility to ensure that all policies and
procedures are followed.
This chart will show the level of leader and girl involvement with progression. Daisy Girl
Scouts will have very little involvement in planning while Ambassador Girl Scouts will be very
active in planning.
Daisy Brownie Junior Cadette Senior Ambassador
Leader’s Involvement in Planning
Girl’s Involvement in Planning
4
GIRL SCOUT LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE
Below are the three keys to leadership. Read the definition of each key and then try to identify the
outcome or benefit to girls as they discover, connect, and take action through their troop travel.
THREE KEYS TO LEADERSHIP OUTCOMES OR BENEFITS TO GIRLS
DISCOVER
Exploring values,
skills, and the world
around them
CONNECT
Engage in teaming
up and relating to
others
TAKE ACTION
Engage in activities
that make a difference
Below are the three processes which are how girls do things in Girl Scouting. Use the space provided
to identify troop trip activities related to these processes.
THREE PROCESSES ACTIVITIES
GIRL-LED
LEARNING BY
DOING
COOPERATIVE
LEARNING
5
5 Ways Girl Scouts Builds Girl LeadersGirl Scouts’ mission is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. Since 1912, girls have explored new fields of knowledge, learned valuable skills, and developed strong core values through Girl Scouts. Today Girl Scouts is, as it always has been, the organization best positioned to help girls develop important leadership skills they need to become successful adults. At Girl Scouts, guided by supportive adults and peers, girls develop their leadership potential through age-appropriate activities that enable them to discover their values, skills, and the world around them; connect with others in a multicultural environment; and take action to make a difference in their world. These activities are designed to be girl led, cooperative, and hands-on—processes that create high-quality experiences conducive to learning.
When girls participate in Girl Scouts, they benefit in 5 important ways:
COMMUNITY PROBLEM SOLVING
Girls desire to contribute to the world in purposeful and meaningful ways, learn how to
identify problems in the community, and create “action plans” to solve them.
6
Why do these five outcomes matter?
When girls exhibit these attitudes and skills, they become responsible, productive, caring, and engaged citizens. But don’t take our word for it! Studies show that the development of attitudes, behaviors, and skills like confidence, conflict resolution, and problem solving are critical to well-being and rival academic and technical skills in their capacity to predict long-term positive life outcomes.1
Youth who develop these five outcomes…
Are happier, healthier, and less likely to engage in problem behaviors or be
victimized. Youth who develop competencies such as perseverance, positive self-
esteem, and sociability have lower rates of obesity, depression, and aggression, and
show greater life satisfaction and well-being than those who do not develop such
attributes/skills.2
Achieve more academically and feel more engaged in school. Youth who
participate in programs that promote the attributes and skills linked with our five
outcomes show stronger academic performance and school engagement compared to
those who do not.3 When students are more self-aware and confident about their
learning capabilities, they try harder and persist in the face of challenges.
Become strong job applicants. While employers want new hires to have technical
knowledge related to a given job, those skills are not nearly as important as good
teamwork, decision-making, and communication skills.4 Yet many employers around
the world report that job candidates lack these attributes.5
Become successful, well-adjusted adults. Kindergarteners who learn how to share,
cooperate with others, and be helpful are more likely to have a college degree and a
job 20 years later than youth who lack these social skills.6 They are also less likely to
have substance-abuse problems and run-ins with the law.
1 Child Trends. (2015). Key “Soft Skills” that Foster Youth Workforce Success: Toward a Consensus across Fields. 2 OECD. (2015). Skills for Social Progress: The Power of Social and Emotional Skills. OECD Skills Studies, OECD Publishing, Paris. 3 Durlak, J., Weissberg, R. Dymnicki, A. Taylor, R., & Schellinger, K. (2011). The impact of enhancing students’ social and emotional learning: A meta-analysis of school-based universal interventions. Child Development, 82(1), 405-432. 4 National Association of Colleges and Employers. (2015). Job Outlook 2016: Attributes Employers Want to See on New College Graduates’ Resumes. 5 ManpowerGroup. (2015). Talent Shortage Survey. 6 Jones, Greenberg, & Crowley (2015). Early Social-Emotional Functioning and Public Health: The Relationship between Kindergarten Social Competence and Future Wellness. American Journal of Public Health, 105(11), 2283-2290.
7
GIRLS DISCOVER, CONNECT, TAKE ACTION
DISCOVER
Your inner strength
Your values
New skills
CONNECT
With others by working towards a goal
Develop healthy relationships
Feel a connection to the community
Share your trip with family, friends
TAKE ACTION
Have a meaningful trip
Feel empowered to take action on something you care about
8
PROGRESSION
Meeting Time Trips – travel to points of interest in your troop’s/group’s community. Examples
include a walk to a nearby park, or short ride by car to a fire station or courthouse.
Day Trips – go on daytime excursions away from the group’s meeting place. This could be an
all day trip to a point of historical or natural interest where they bring their own lunch or a trip to
a neighboring city where they make plans for a meal in a restaurant. Campfires or outdoor
cooking are not allowed on these activities without Outdoor Education (GS301a and GS301b)
training.
Lock-in/Indoor Sleepover – spend the night indoors at an organized lock-in held in a local
church, mall, or school.
Simple Overnight Trips – spend one or two nights away. The trip may be a nearby state park,
historical site or city for sightseeing. For younger girls (Daisy and Brownies), the trip could
include family members like a Mom and Me overnight. (This does not include sleeping in tents
or cooking outdoors. These would require Outdoor Education (GS301a and GS301b) training.)
Extended Overnight Trips – spend three or more nights away. Trips range from a week at
camp to extended travel in the continental United States. The troop/group might use several
accommodations and modes of transportation throughout the trip.
Advanced Hiking - hike to areas where cell service is not available or EMS is more than 30
minutes away. These trips require trip leaders completing GS202 Advanced Hiking training
and Wilderness First Aid.
Overnight Hiking or Backpacking - hike to areas where cell service is not available or EMS is
more than 30 minutes away that include an overnight. These trips require trip leaders
completing
GS301a, GS301b and GS302a Backpacking Planning and GS302b Backpacking Overnight.
Girl Scout Destinations, Getaways, International Events or Troop Treks – girls can travel
individually or with their troop/group through GSUSA sanctioned events with many trip options
that take place at the council, state, national or international level.
International Trips – experience travelling outside the country. These trips require trip leaders
completing GS201 Trips and Overnights and GS203 International Trips training. Expected
activities on these trips may require additional training.
It is important that the girls are involved in every aspect of their trips whether meeting-time,
simple overnights, or extended overnights. Being involved in the planning process will build
skills and knowledge they will use as they progress to more complex trips.
Progression, with regard to girl travel and planning trips, means planning trips that will
progress in difficulty, distance, length, etc. as the girls grow older.
9
Using the concept of progression, plan a trip theme that can progress with the girls. Fill in the
grid below with the trip details at each level; be sure to show how the skills are progressing
through each level.
Trip Theme: ___________________________
International Trip
Extended
Overnight Trip
Overnight Trip
Day Trip
Meeting Time
Trip
10
CHECKLIST FOR TRAVEL READINESS
This is a checklist of general indicators to be used in
determining whether a troop is ready for a trip. Readiness is
shown when the following statements can be made regarding
the troop and its plans.
1. The trip is in keeping with Girl Scout policies and
standards.
The trip meets the planning guidelines in Chapter
4: Staying Safe of Volunteer Essentials and all the
appropriate program standards listed in Safety
Activity Checkpoints.
2. There is communication with the council.
Prior to the trip, all appropriate permissions have been obtained from council within
the specific time-frame allowed for processing.
Leaders and chaperones are aware of responsibilities and council procedures for
handling emergencies.
Council policies concerning camps, overnight trips and extended trips, including
procedures for handling emergencies have been shared with the girls.
Council staff are informed of any changes in plans.
3. There is sound planning.
The trip has a clear purpose, formulated and understood by the girls and adults.
The trip is part of ongoing troop/group activities, with all participants included in the
planning steps.
Girls are able to work successfully in groups and are mature enough to accept the
responsibilities involved in the trip.
The proper number of adult chaperones who are willing to accept the responsibilities
of the trip have been recruited, registered as GS members, completed a volunteer
application and received a cleared background check.
Girls and their caregivers are wholeheartedly behind the project; caregivers
understand all of the plans and have confidence in the leadership.
All the girls and adults make realistic, detailed plans together well in advance.
Plans take into consideration the special abilities and religious and ethnic diversity of
the participants, and those of the people with whom they will interact during the trip.
11
4. Travel arrangements are made in advance.
Time is provided for eating, sleeping, rest, and relaxation, recreation, and personal
needs.
Mileage to be covered per day is reasonable
o for the type of terrain expected while hiking or
o for how far you can travel with each adult driving up to 6 hours per day (with
breaks every 2 hours).
Drivers as well as passengers are considered in making plans.
Reservations for overnight accommodations are confirmed in writing, and stopping
places are planned in advance.
The entire itinerary is known to girls, adults, caregivers, the council, and the back-
home emergency contact.
5. The business and money matters are worked out.
Girls and adults set up a detailed and realistic budget. Remember items such as
transportation, food, tips, insurance, recreation, admission fees, taxes, and
emergency funds.
Money-earning activities are carried out with the permission of the council and in
accordance with Girl Scout policies and standards.
Personal and group expenses are defined in advance. The amount of personal
money that may be needed, and the way those funds should be handled, are
determined in advance.
Notify bank of troop/group travel plans if using troop/group debit card. (If card does
not have a computer chip, debit card may not work.)
Troop/group travel funds are kept in a bank before the trip, and troop/group debit
card limit adjustments have been arranged with bank prior to trip. You may need
council approval for increased debit card limits. Troops are required to keep
accurate financial records & receipts for all troop expenses.
Split cash among the trip leaders. If one leader is a victim of a pick pocket or loses
cash, there will still be funds available for the troop’s/group’s use. One person is
responsible for all troop/group funds and will keep a daily account of expenditures
and receipts.
Decisions are made in advance concerning how to pay bills that come up prior to the
trip, during the trip, and afterward. Pay everything possible before the trip and take
the receipts with you.
12
6. Members take responsibility for personal conduct and equipment.
All girls know what clothing and equipment to take and how to use and pack the
equipment.
If traveling in uniform, provision is made to ensure that all travelers have a uniform
and that the uniform is worn correctly.
Everyone is briefed on appropriate conduct and safety precautions.
All girls and adults are prepared for new experiences and are open to appreciation of
local customs and foods.
On trips requiring special equipment, such as tents, bicycles, canoes, etc., the
equipment is checked and ready well before the departure date.
Luggage and equipment are kept to a minimum. Individual limits are set and
adhered to.
Each person is able to carry her own individually identified belongings.
7. Everyone knows and observes good health and safety practices.
Volunteer Essentials (‘Staying Safe’ chapter and ‘Appendix: Troop/Group Travel’)
and Safety Activity Checkpoints are used when preparing for any trip.
Required health examinations are completed.
Everyone is physically and mentally able to undertake the trip.
For trips outside the meeting place, at least one currently trained first aider is
present.
For trips of three nights or more in length, insurance covering the entire trip is
obtained through the council.
Arrangements have been made for an adult contact back home for routine reporting
as well as for emergencies.
Written itineraries, including phone numbers and addresses, are prepared for girls,
their families, the council office, and the back-home emergency contact.
Procedures for handling accidents, illnesses, and emergencies are understood by
all.
Trip leaders for specialized trips such as backpacking or canoeing have taken
leadership training related to that activity.
13
IS YOUR TROOP/GROUP READY FOR A TROOP/GROUP TRIP?
Girls will enjoy their trip experiences best if they have previous experiences to prepare them.
Taking a group of girls on a trip with no preparation is likely to lead to frustration and confusion
on the part of both girls and adults.
Types of
Readiness Readiness Indicators
Emotional
Readiness
Not afraid to be away from home and caregivers overnight. Caregivers are
prepared to let their daughter go.
Wants to go.
Is willing to sleep, eat and play with all girls, not just friends.
Can accept new experiences, such as:
Strange places (including outdoor bathrooms)
Darkness and night noises
Spiders, bugs, worms
Can manage with little or no privacy.
Can function as a member of a group and doesn’t always have to have her own
way.
Physical
Readiness
Has stamina, does not tire easily.
Practice packing so she knows where her belongings are and can carry her own
gear.
Has coordination for planned activities and jobs (sleeping, hiking, sweeping,
mopping, moving chairs and tables, etc.). (Adjustments should be made for
physical needs and differences of girls.)
Skills and
Knowledge
for
Age-Level
Can use the buddy system.
Knows her phone number and address.
Can use kitchen implements, read a recipe and help with cooking.
Is able to store food properly.
Can follow a kaper chart, clean up the kitchen and cooking area including washing
and disinfecting dishes.
Can order from a menu for herself.
Can make up her bed.
Can clean a toilet.
Can use a flashlight.
Can plan simple activities.
Can read a map (at facility or attractions visited).
Proven
Ability and
Experience
Has previously followed instructions satisfactorily.
Has previously been on day trips without difficulties.
Has demonstrated the ability to pack and repack personal gear, sleeping bag.
14
Social
Skills
Can act appropriately in public.
Can relate to other girls.
Will respect adults and will obey guidelines and rules.
Readiness in girls is not dependent on age. The experience of each girl and how ready she is
for an overnight experience away from family and familiar surroundings will greatly affect how
she feels and how enjoyable the experience will be for her. Readiness in girls is checking
where they are when it comes to their emotions, physical ability and skills for living away from
a caregiver. Progression and readiness support one another. Being aware of the readiness of
your troop/group will allow you to increase their progression at a pace that is suitable for them
and create a positive experience for everyone. Know your girls! Girls may have personal
issues that you will have to deal with. If there is something going on at home or school, a girl
that normally does not have behavior issues may suddenly have problems.
15
ARE YOU READY? QUIZ
Read each statement. Rate yourself on a scale of 0-5 in terms of how true each statement is
to/for you, with 0 being not sure if this is like me and 5 being totally like you. Total your
numbers to determine “Your Readiness Quotient.”
ADULT READINESS CHART
0 – Not sure if this is like me 3 – More like me
1 – No, nothing like me 4 – Very much like me
2 – Somewhat like me 5 -- Yes, totally like me
I have visited another country before 0 1 2 3 4 5
I am interested in other cultures. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I’ve taken the troop/group on extended trips before. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I’m open to trying new things, even foods. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I can handle various emotions from girls. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I adapt well in new situations. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I can stay calm while implementing emergency procedures. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I have a positive attitude. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I can enforce the rules of the behavior agreement. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I get along with different personalities. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I communicate my frustrations and fears openly. 0 1 2 3 4 5
Total
ADULT READINESS QUOTIENT
If you score 16 or less – your Readiness Quotient is on the low side. You may need to get a
little more experience under your belt.
If you scored 17-27, your Readiness Quotient is somewhere in the middle. Being in the middle
means there’s room for improvement! Which statements did you rate yourself low on? Focus
on turning those statements into 4’s and you’ll be ready to go!
If you scored 28 or more, your Readiness Quotient is high. You are so ready to travel!
16
GIRL READINESS CHART
0 – Not sure if this is like me 3 – More like me
1 – No, nothing like me 4 – Very much like me
2 – Somewhat like me 5 -- Yes, totally like me
I have visited another country before. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I am interested in other cultures. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I’ve been away from home for more than one week 0 1 2 3 4 5
I’m open to trying new things, even foods. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I’ve traveled without my family. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I adapt well in new situations. 0 1 2 3 4 5
If I got separated from my group, I would be able to stay
calm. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I have a positive attitude. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I follow the rules. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I get along with different personalities. 0 1 2 3 4 5
I communicate my frustrations and fears openly. 0 1 2 3 4 5
Total
GIRL READINESS QUOTIENT
If you score 16 or less – your Readiness Quotient is on the low side. You may need to get a
little more experience under your belt.
If you scored 17-27, your Readiness Quotient is somewhere in the middle. Being in the middle
means there’s room for improvement! Which statements did you rate yourself low on? Focus
on turning those statements into 4’s and you’ll be ready to go!
If you scored 28 or more, your Readiness Quotient is high. You are so ready to travel!?
Nothing teaches better than experience!
17
GET MOVING When considering trips with your girls, the best way to start is a short walk or trip outside of
your meeting place in your community. This affords you the opportunity to test the behavior of
your girls and to assess each girl’s readiness.
WALKING HINTS
Walk short distances at first.
Plan a definite purpose for each outing.
Use a steady, rhythmic pace.
Provide rest periods.
Take a first aid kit and take care of first aid needs immediately.
Carry everything in a daypack.
Girls need to be aware of security. Stay together. Girls are to use the Buddy System at
all times.
One leader walks near the front of the line and one at the end of the line. Girls should
never be allowed to fall behind the last leader.
Avoid poisonous plants.
Snakes can be anywhere. Watch where you put your hands and where you step on
rocky ledges or piles of rocks or wood. Walk around any snake you see. Do not harm
them.
Each girl should wear sneakers or hiking boots suitable for the terrain.
Let’s Go Walking
There are many ways to make a walk more enjoyable. Below are a few theme walks to try with
your girls.
Baby Walk
Use this in early spring to find the first signs (babies) of spring.
Camera Walk
Each girl brings her camera or shares with a buddy and takes pictures along the way. Choose
objects that are unusual. Hold a picture contest or a picture swap.
Curiosity Walk
Find some odd or curious objects such as bark, a stone, a stick, etc. By using your imagination
tell what animal or thing the objects look like. Do not touch or remove the objects.
Evening Walk
This outing is for older girls. Turn off your flashlight. Find North by the stars. Learn to recognize
some constellations.
18
Get Together Walk
Invite another troop/group and divide up so that a girl from each troop/group will become
buddies. Plan to share a snack.
Wildflower Walk
See who can identify the greatest number of wild flowers. Do not pick them! Draw pictures of
them.
Hansel and Gretel Walk
See how many wild plants you can find that are edible. Do not pick them!
Monogram Walk
Find three or more objects beginning with your initials.
Rainbow Walk
Find and list as many colors in nature as possible.
Sounds Walk
Note all the sounds made by nature. Describe them or make a tape.
Stop, Look, Listen Walk
Walk for five minutes or a designated number of steps. Stop for one minute and write down all
the objects you see or all the sounds you hear. Five stops are enough for this walk.
Story Walk
With a familiar story such as "Alice in Wonderland" or "Treasure Island" lay a trail using
phrases and places from the story.
Seeing Nature Walk
Observe birds, insects, land animals, rocks and minerals, trees and shrubs, water animals, and
wild plants that are part of nature.
Crayon Walk
Give each person a different colored crayon and have them look for something that matches
the color. Have them report back at the end of the walk.
Sock Walk
Put white socks over each person’s shoes and walk through an area. At end of the outing
share what hitchhiked.
19
BRAINSTORMING
Before getting started, it is important to consider inclusiveness throughout the entire planning
and preparation process as well as while on the trip. Supporting diversity and inclusiveness is
a core value of Girl Scouting. It ensures that all girls and adults, regardless of their
background, religion, economic situation or ability can meaningfully participate in all aspects of
life. It embraces girls and adults with many different needs at all program levels. Remember
to work with the girls and adults to take into account everyone’s abilities, requirements and the
ABCs (allergies, braces and culture) when planning lodging, activities and meals. If the trip will
include a girl with a disability and you’re not sure how to accommodate her, ask the girl’s
caregivers, or the girl herself if she’s older, on what she will need to make her travel
experience successful.
Once they determine what their goal for the trip will be, they can start discussing where they
may want to go. A great tool for this is brainstorming. During the brainstorming session, all
ideas should be allowed. You are trying to identify the possibilities. With the girls, develop
some guidelines for the brainstorming. These would include:
One person speaks at a time.
All ideas are written down.
No comments are made on the idea, negative or positive – this includes from the Adult
Trip Consultant. If there are too many negative reactions, girls will not feel comfortable
sharing ideas.
Take turns going around to everyone for input. Everyone has a chance to contribute
one or more ideas.
It’s okay to build on others’ ideas.
It’s okay to pass.
Some girls may be anxious about contributing. You could start by first soliciting
contribution from everyone through anonymous cards with ideas.
After all the ideas are offered, they are evaluated for feasibility, but alternatives could then be
considered. For example, if one of the girls in a Girl Scout Junior troop/group wants to go to
Paris, the Adult Trip Consultant might let the girls know that a trip to Paris would be more
appropriate for Girl Scout Seniors and could certainly be something for the troop/group to
consider in a few years, but what might be an alternative? Another girl might think of EPCOT
at Disney World where they could learn about other countries, including France, and actually
meet the people from those countries that work at the pavilions.
The girls should then review the list and look for:
Answers that are repetitive or similar
Start clustering like ideas together
Eliminate responses that definitely do not fit
Narrow the list down to 3-5 places.
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CHOOSING A DESTINATION
Before making a decision, more information will be needed. Girls need to research what kinds
of activities are available at the different destinations they have selected and the associated
costs. Ask girls where they might go for information. Each girl or group should then either
volunteer or be assigned to take one of more of these resources to start collecting more
information. Guide books are often available at local libraries. Looking through guide books or
online are great first places to go. Some may look at transportation alternatives; some might
review the types of lodging; while others might research activities. The pros and cons for each
of the sites should be addressed and costs compared. Then it is time for the final decision to
be made. Now that the location is agreed upon, it is important for the girls to learn about the
place they will visit and obtain more specific information. Girls should write to visitors
associations, National and State parks. Guide books and online searches are also useful as
well as talking to people that have been there.
PLANNING THE ITINERARY
Girls should look at the activities that they have planned. What are the “must see” sites?
What are the opening and closing times for attractions? What days are they closed? This is
information that they will be able to find online or in guides. Make sure they are identifying
posted times for the timeframe they will be traveling, especially if you are going “off season.”
Many attractions have later openings and earlier closings during low season.
The itinerary should be built in one-hour increments. Girls should estimate how much time will
be required at a particular activity to full experience it and not feel like they are rushing
through. Some travel books and online sites will have recommendations on how long to stay.
Make sure extra time is allotted for things like loading cars, getting to the airport/destination,
meals and bathroom breaks. It will take longer than expected. Allowing for the extra time will
reduce stress during the trip. Leave time in the schedule for breaks, free time, and changes of
plans.
Be flexible in the itinerary to accommodate delays, unexpected weather conditions, sold-out
activities, or even canceled activities. Finally, be sure to include quiet time at night. Even if
girls are still awake, they are expected to be quiet to respect the other girls sharing their room.
As per GSVSC Policy #P1, troops/groups must complete the Activity and/or Trip Permission
Application for a Troop/Group (Form #2129) before participating in any of the activities in the
box below. This form must be completed anytime a troop is travelling outside of its community
boundaries. Your community boundaries are defined as your Girl Scout community (county)
and the Girl Scout communities (county) bordering (touching) yours. If your Girl Scout
Community borders a county that falls in another council and/or state, then those counties are
included within your boundaries.
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Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Program Policy #P1
Troops/groups must have written permission from a council-authorized volunteer or
employee to participate in the following activities:
a. activities that involve travel outside the community
b. camping activities, including backyard camping and camping at facilities not
owned by the council
c. programs that include human sexuality and related health issues
d. activities that present a greater risk than usual to participants
Activity and/or Trip Permission Application for a Troop/Group Form #2129
Your trip is not approved until you receive e-mailed approval from
[email protected]. Without this approval, you may not move forward in your trip
planning.
Two (2) weeks processing is required for in-community-boundary camping and
other high risk activities.
Four (4) weeks processing is required for trips out-of-council/community
boundary activities/trips/camping.
Eight (8) weeks processing is required for out-of-country trips/camping.
It is important that the trip (troop/group) leader submits Form #2129 to council within the
outlined time-frame allotted to process activity/trip permissions. This allows council the time
needed to process additional background checks, and to ensure all adult and girl members are
registered GS members.
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OVERNIGHTS - CREATING A SAFE SPACE FOR GIRLS
Now that you have been outside in the community, your girls may be ready to progress to an
overnight spent at your meeting place or another local facility or maybe go cabin camping.
Trips may include non-Girl Scout participants. For example a “Mom and Me” trip to another
town for shopping and lunch.
Additional insurance must be purchased any time:
Non-Girl Scouts will be participating in a trip.
The trip is longer than 2 (two) nights.
Use the Request for Non-Girl Scout Insurance or Registered Girl Scout Insurance for Stays
Longer Than Two Nights (Form #2136).
SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS AND BATHROOMS
Always ensure the following.
Girls and adults do not share a bed.
In an instance where adults need to share a sleeping area with girls (For example: an
open space sleeping environment or to support a girl with special needs), there should
always be two unrelated adult females present.
When staying in hotels, if possible, get connecting rooms. Adults can be in one room
with girls in the other. As in tent camping, when girls and adults share rooms, there
needs to be two adults or no adults.
You must have written caregiver permission for girls to share a bed.
Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Program Policy #A5
Adults who will serve as trip or event chaperones in a tent or room are required to complete an
application, register through the Council as a member, and have a background check completed prior
to the trip.
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Male family members are welcome to attend trip and overnight outings with Girl Scouts.
However, the following guidelines need to be followed.
Males do not sleep in the same sleeping area, bed or tent with the girls.
Restroom arrangements must be made. Separate facilities must be provided for males.
Males over ten (10) may not attend girl events unless the event is for families.
Tagalongs are discouraged unless special supervision can be provided by other adults
in attendance.
o If tagalong males are present, they may not sleep with their moms if the moms
are needed to meet the girl-to-adult ratios. In this case, the male tagalongs must
have separate male overnight supervision.
o If it is necessary for the tagalong male to share sleeping quarters with the
mother, she may not sleep with the girls and other adult supervision for the girls
will be required.
Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Program Policy #P9
Male volunteers may not sleep in the same space with girl members who are not their
daughters.
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EXTENDED TRIPS
Girls may now be ready for an extended trip. Extended overnight trips may be one or two
nights away from the meeting place or a week traveling to another part of the country. No
matter the length or distance, guidelines must be followed.
SAMPLE PLANNING CALENDAR
When preparing and planning for a trip, it will take several meetings with the girls before they
will be ready to leave for their adventure. Below is a sample calendar that will guide you
through six meetings of planning with girls. It may or may not take six weeks to prepare the
girls. You will need to be the judge.
Meeting
# Meeting Content/Discussion with Girls Leader Activities*
1
Discuss the trip with girls.
Explain what a troop/group trip is.
Have girls brainstorm where they would like to
go and discuss location options with them.
Discuss what type of activities they could do on
the trip.
Discuss what it may cost to go on a trip. Have
the girls brainstorm all cost. How will they pay
for it?
Research the location options.
If girls make a decision on where
they would like to go, make the site
reservations.
Begin communication with
caregivers regarding the upcoming
trip.
2
Discuss the menu with girls.
What would the girls like to eat? Are they
experienced with cooking? What would be
appropriate? Do you have to consider food
allergies?
Brainstorm meal ideas and begin to create a
menu and a shopping list.
Find out from caregivers and Health
History forms if girls have food
allergies.
Begin to recruit for adult support,
volunteers to help with shopping for
supplies (with the girls), drivers to
get girls to and from camp,
chaperones, etc.
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3
Discuss activities that the girls want to do.
Begin to make a list of activities and a supplies
needed. Discuss with girls how they will come
up with any supplies.
Begin to plan the schedule for the trip.
Learn a fun song or Girl Scout grace.
Add to your shopping list and to the
budget any supplies needed for
activities.
Confirm with caregivers when
shopping will take place.
4
Work on skills.
Discuss trip safety and the buddy system.
Randomly pick buddies for each Girl Scout.
Practice simple first aid (if age appropriate).
Send permission slips home with the girls.
Ensure that a certified First-Aid and
CPR adult and First-Aid kit is lined
up for the trip.
Plan the shopping list; make sure
your adults are confirmed to help
the girls shop.
5
Discuss expectation and behavior for the
trip.
Create behavior guidelines for the trip
experience.
Implement a game or have the girls identify
items to pack and not to pack.
Begin to gather permission slips.
Create poster board with the
guidelines the girls created.
Give the girls a list of what to pack
and not to pack.
6
Discuss kapers (chores) and have the girls
create their kaper chart.
Review the trip agenda with everyone.
Collect permission slips.
Answer any questions the girls may have.
Confirm with all adults/drivers and
ensure screening process and
registration are complete.
Ensure you have permission slips
and
Health Information and Release
Forms for all girls/adults.
*Seniors and Ambassadors are able to do many of these Leader Activities.
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DEVELOPING A BUDGET
After the girls have decided where they want to go and what they want to do, they must
consider the cost.
How will the trip/activity be paid for? The group needs to discuss all the ways that money will
be earned/collected for the trip:
troop dues
product sales
payments made by caregivers/individuals
scholarships
money earned by individuals on their own in special projects
money donated to the group for the trip
additional council approved fundraisers
If you wish to open a checking or savings account to keep trip money separate, complete GS
Bank Account Application (Form #4319). Once the new account is opened, submit
Troop/Group, GS Community, Camp or Sub-Unit Bank Record (Form #4041).
Set up a money earning calendar. Group and individual money earning will be part of your
money earning plan. Girls need to be involved in all the decisions about earning money:
goal setting
payment schedule & deadline
money earning activities
participation in money earning activities
participation agreements
what happens when there is non-participation in money earning activities
girls joining the group after plans and money earning are in progress
if a girl drops out of a trip
The major money earning activities should be decided on and put on the calendar early in the
trip planning process. They take time to plan and carry out. Smaller money earning activities
can be added, if needed, at later dates. Troops/groups must follow all council policies and
procedures for money earning and acceptance of donations. Additional Group Money-Earning
Activities (Form #2131) must be completed and approved before having any money earning
activities. Some girls may not be able to work on the day of a particular event, but they could
still be involved in the planning. For example, the girls could be involved in the pricing and
tagging of the items for a yard sale or providing baked goods for a bake sale. All troop/group
money earned through council sponsored product sales and additional money earning
activities belongs to the troop/group as a whole and cannot be assigned to individuals nor
divided equally among the number of girls. The Troop/Group/Trip Donation Record (Form
#1215) must be completed for all donations.
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Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council does not have the ability to control, change, or influence
these IRS restrictions.
IRS INUREMENT/PRIVATE BENEFIT - CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS
A section 501(c)(3) organization must not be organized or operated for the benefit of private
interests, such as the creator or the creator's family, shareholders of the organization, other
designated individuals, or persons controlled directly or indirectly by such private interests. No
part of the net earnings of a section 501(c) (3) organization may inure to the benefit of any
private shareholder or individual. A private shareholder or individual is a person having a
personal and private interest in the activities of the organization.
Rewards/incentives are based on sales ranges set by councils and may not be based
on dollar-per-dollar calculations
All money earned is for Girl Scout troop/group activities and is not to be retained by
individuals
o Distribution of funds for troop/group activities cannot be based upon dollar-per dollar
raised by individual girls.
o No troop/group cash-based accounts may be kept for or distributed to individuals for
participation in troop/group activities.
o Funds raised cannot follow the girl outside of the council in any monetary form (ex.,
gift cards, gift certificates, etc.)
All benefits provided should relate back to supporting the Girl Scout Mission; decisions
should be based on our tax-supported philosophy regarding what is mission-related (ex.
camp, travel, events, would be mission related.)
Understand this is a risk management issue that can not only impact the tax exemption
of this council, but potentially the tax-exempt status of other Girl Scout Councils
nationwide.
Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Volunteer Finance Policy #P6
Troops/groups of registered Girl Scouts who participate in both council-wide product sale
programs and who need to earn additional funding to carry out planned and budgeted annual
program activities are required to submit a money-earning application at least three weeks
prior to the event and comply with all Safety Activity Checkpoints and council policies.
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For those girls whose caregivers cannot afford to contribute, there may be financial assistance
available through council; however, not having sufficient time for money earning activities to
support their trip should not be reason to request financial assistance for all the participants.
Sufficient time before the trip should be scheduled to ensure that girls can work on earning
funding needed. Financial assistance may be applied for by using the Individual/Troop/Group
Trip/Event Financial Assistance Application (Form #1118).
Ask the girls to compose a list of things they wish to do on the trip that will require money.
Review the list developed by the girls. Did they include transportation, hotel, food, attraction
and activity costs? Girls can research fees and start developing a draft budget based on their
research results. Since this is a rough estimate, round up or perhaps add about 20% to cover
increases to airfare or activities or costs that are identified later in the process. It will be much
easier to adjust the cost of the trip down when the decisions become firm rather than having
the cost of the trip continually increase throughout the planning process. As decisions are
made, the budget should be updated with actual costs. Be sure to take confirmation notices
and all receipts for activity deposits with you when travelling.
Girls should review the total cost and discuss if the trip is too costly. What are the options?
They might consider changing different aspects of the trip, such as changing the mode of
transportation like driving instead of taking a train, cutting back on some of the activities,
shortening the length of the trip, or deciding that it will require saving for 2 years. Extended
trips require more time to plan and earn money.
Individual/Troop/Group Trip/Event Financial Assistance Application Form #1118
Financial assistance is subject to availability within the current Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline
Council budget. A large portion of GSVSC financial assistance is funded by council-sponsored
product sales. (Fall Product and Cookies). Troops/groups requesting financial assistance for a
trip must participate in both council-sponsored product sales. You may apply once a year for
financial assistance for a trip; however, you might not receive assistance every year,
depending upon the needs of others. Financial assistance is provided on the basis of need in
relation to the expense involved. Financial assistance is not automatic, and every troop/group
is expected to provide a portion of the total cost. Trip financial assistance for adults will be
considered only if their participation or training is required to fulfill requirements for girl/adult
ratios or if they are specifically trained adults who meet the program safety activity checkpoints
of the trip.
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Will the adults pay for their trip, or will the troop/group cover the costs? There is no set rule for
this. In some troops/groups, the girls fund the trip of chaperones that meet the girl/adult ratio.
Other troops/groups require adults to pay for their own costs; however, because adults are
needed to drive and/or chaperone troop/group trips and adults are needed to meet girl/adult
ratio requirements at money earning activities and to help work, some troops/groups allow
those adults to earn funds for the trip.
Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Volunteer Finance Policy #8
Adults may not conduct money-earning activities under the Girl Scout name to support their
own participation in an activity unless they have direct responsibility for supervising a group
of girls during the activity for which the money is being earned.
To earn funds and/or accept donations..
Troops/groups must participate in both GS product sales.
Additional money earning activities cannot take place
during the GS product sales.
You must complete the Application for additional Group
Money Earning Activities (Form 2131).
The Troop/Group/Trip Donation record (Form 1215) must
be completed for all donations.
All GS money belongs to the Troop/group as a whole, and
moneys must be divided equally among the girls.
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SAMPLE BUDGET SHEET
Transportation Cost X No. people Transportation Cost
Airfare
Train
Bus
Boat/Ferry
Subway
Rental Vehicles
Automobile
Gas
Other
Lodging per room X No. nights X No. rooms Lodging Cost
Hotel/Motel
Hostel
Campsite
Other
Programs/Sightseeing Per person X No. people Program cost
Specify
Specify
Specify
Equipment/Clothing Per person X No. people Total
Specify
Specify
Miscellaneous Cost per day X No. days X No. people Miscellaneous cost
Insurance
First Aid Supplies
Laundry
Life Guars
Tolls
Other
Subtotal
Contingency 20% of total
Total
Total Individual Cost Total Cost / No. people
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BUDGET TRAVEL TIPS
Girls should bring their Student IDs for some admission discounts.
Some large hotel chains will give you great discounts (even cheaper than lower-budget
chains). Call the Sales Office at the location instead of the reservations line. Look for
hotels that offer free breakfast.
Girl Scout uniforms or t-shirts can sometimes get you discounts, moved to the front of
lines, or upgrades.
Get state maps for free from the state or local tourism departments.
Contact local religious institutions (prior to trip) regarding sleeping arrangements as an
alternative to hotels.
Check out the possibility of camping on another Council’s program sites.
Some youth hostels require membership fees, but can also save travelers money due to
inexpensive lodging and food. There are hostels located in many American cities.
Some student travel agencies offer memberships, which can greatly reduce the costs of
transportation and lodging and offer additional insurance coverage.
Cell phones do not work in some areas. In addition, some phones may not have
unlimited service plans. When discussing cell phone usage by the girls, check with
caregivers. They may not want their daughter using/carrying cell phones.
If transportation will be by air, everyone participating in the trip should consider signing
up for the airline’s frequent flyers program. Some airlines will offer special programs for
new people signing up that could include waiving luggage fees for the first flight. Check
air transport fees. They change often.
Add at least 20% to cover increases to airfare or activities or costs that are identified
later in the process.
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BUDGET BUSTERS – OVERLOOKED COSTS Air Travel
transportation to and from airport
parking fees
group deposits not returned until trip
completion
tips for skycaps
luggage fees
Hotel
over-weight luggage charge
additional bags charge
unscheduled changes
meals/snacks on the airplane
blanket/pillow charges
headphones
hotel taxes (can be 11%)
energy surcharge and taxes
resort fee
baggage storage before/after check in/out
luggage assistance tip
additional person charges
roll-away bed charges
phone charges (even local)
Restaurants/Dinner Shows
daily parking fee
room service/pizza delivery
in-room movies
internet access fee
charges for water bottles provided in
room
cancellation fees
life guard if planning on using the pool
gratuities
souvenirs
specialty drink glasses
Automobile
photos
a la Carte meals
parking or transportation
hidden rental charges (mileage)
drop off charges if returning to another
location
gas price increases
prepaid gas charges
parking (expensive in tourist areas)
Cruises
Rental insurance – collision and liability
(do you really need it?)
GPS rental
maps (MapQuest or other internet
sources are not always accurate)
tolls
gratuities
beverages, even at dinner
destination/port fees
excursions (may be expensive but worth it)
Train
photos
high prices at destinations
specialty coffee
parking
transportation to and from train station
parking
meals
snacks
Other
beverages
fee for movies
gratuities
patches
itinerary changes
unscheduled tours
phone calls home
bottled water
ice for coolers
snacks
life guard or watercraft certified adult
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MONEY EARNING QUIZ
RESOURCES: ‘Managing Troop/Group Finances’ Chapter of Volunteer
Essentials
Circle “T” for statements you feel are true and “F” for statements you feel are false
T F 1. Your troop/group can do a money-earning activity any time of year.
T F 2. Your troop/group can do a money-earning activity by feeding the general
public.
T F 3. Your troop/group adults can raise the money for the troop trip.
T F 4. Your troop/group can do garage sales, car washes and
supervised/group babysitting.
T F 5. Caregivers have to agree to all troop/group money-earning project
decisions
T F 6. Troops/groups can have Tupperware, Thirty-One, Pampered Chef or
other demonstration parties to earn money.
T F 7. My troop/group money-earning project needs to get approval from my
community before beginning, except garage sales and recycle drives.
T F 8. You can conduct money-earning activities on the Internet.
T F 9. Any funds earned through troop/group money-earning activities remain
with the group even if a girl is unable to participate in a project or event
for whatever reason.
T F 10. Participating in money-earning activities is voluntary.
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SAFETY
Whether your troop/group chooses to spend the day at the zoo or sightseeing in Washington,
there are safety issues that must be considered.
When planning your trip, review the
Safety Activity Checkpoints: Computer/Online
Use
Safety Activity Checkpoints for any activities
planned
Chapter on Safety-Wise in Volunteer
Essentials.
As Girl Scout activities keep pace with an ever
changing world, ensuring the health and safety of the
girls is paramount. Safety is the responsibility of girls
and adults alike. When Girl Scouts learn about
safety, more activities are within their reach. The two
key resources for safety information are Volunteer
Essentials and Safety Activity Checkpoints. Prior to
your trip, brainstorm ideas for a basic set of rules for the group to follow while travelling.
Discuss the safety rules and consequences that could result if they are not followed. Use the
statements below for some ideas to help get you started on building safety rules for short trip
or walk. Have the girls give reasons why they think each of these rules are important. Try to
relate the safety rules to things that the girls will understand. Example: “Why should we always
use the Buddy System? “ “If someone gets hurt, there is always someone to go for help.”
Girls always use the buddy system.
Girls don’t leave the group without permission.
Everyone wears closed toe shoes until bedtime.
The troop/group takes a First-Aid kit and certified First-Aider on each trip. Know how far
away EMS is.
The First-Aid kit is checked before leaving to be sure it is stocked.
Troop/groups practice emergency evacuation drills/signals.
Weather radios and phones are available for emergencies. (Depending on trip location.)
If in a location without cell service, know the location of land line phones.
Know the physical limitations of the adults on the trip.
It’s important to tell an adult if they are hurt or sick.
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Girl/Adult ratios should always be maintained. Trip ratios are different from meeting ratios.
Girl/Adult Ratios Events, Travel, and Camping
Two unrelated adults (at
least one of whom is
female) for each number
of girls:
Plus one additional adult
for each additional
number of this many
girls:
Girl Scout Daisies (K– grade 1) 6 4
Girl Scout Brownies (grades 2–3) 12 6
Girl Scout Juniors (grades 4–5) 16 8
Girl Scout Cadettes (grades 6–8) 20 10
Girl Scout Seniors (grades 9–10) 24 12
Girl Scout Ambassadors (grades 11–12) 24 12
SITE
No matter where you stay, you need to take precautions. All of the same precautions apply when
travelling as they do at home. Don't let your guard down just because you're on a fun trip, or because
you're in a smaller or more rural location.
When considering site selection, you should consider if the area is secure. If activity is outside, is there
shelter in case of inclement weather? Are there food preparation, eating and serving areas? Are there
bathrooms?
All sites and facilities used for Girl Scout activities must conform to the guidelines in Risk Management
at Girl Scout Councils, Safety Activity Checkpoints, and applicable local, state, and federal laws and
regulations. Reservations for council-owned sites must be made through council headquarters by using
How to Reserve Facilities at a Virginia Skyline Camp/Program Center (Form #2150).
Check the GSVSC website for a list of currently approved vendors for charter buses, horse stables and
high adventure vendors. It is recommended that a written agreement be obtained for use of each site
not owned or leased by the council. Site agreements should specify responsibilities regarding local
codes and use of the site, facilities, equipment, and services. If the owner does not provide a written
agreement, write a letter to the owner that restates all the information that has been agreed to. The
council carries general liability insurance. Upon request, a certificate of insurance can be provided to
the owner/operator of a site/facility by using the Request for Certificate of Insurance (Form #1040).
36
EMERGENCY CONTACT
An emergency contact person(s) should be available at home for the duration of the event or
trip. The emergency contact person should be an adult who is willing to communicate with
families and the troop/group in case of an emergency. The family of each girl should have the
name and phone number of the emergency contact person.
Emergency contacts must be someone other than a caregiver attending the trip. Caregivers
should inform emergency contact person if they will be available when girls are travelling. In
the event that caregivers will not be available, an alternate contact for the family should be
designated. Ensure that the alternate contact person is aware that they are the alternate
contact and may be responsible for the girl in an emergency situation.
The emergency contact person’s packet should include the following checklist.
Names and phone numbers (work, home and cell) of everyone attending including
chaperones and drivers.
Names and phone numbers of alternate emergency contacts.
Name of and directions to where you plan to stay
Phone number where you are going/staying (hotel, activity site, etc.)
Phone number of nearest police location
Schedule of activities
Council emergency number
Trip Emergency Procedures
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FIRST AIDER
A First-Aider is an adult volunteer who is currently certified in a Girl Scout-approved first-aid
and CPR training that includes specific instructions for child and adult CPR. A First-Aider must
attend all trips and stay the entire time and have a First-Aid kit along with them at all times.
Information on the contents of first-aid kits can be found at
http://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/home-
family/gethttp://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/home-family/get-kit/anatomykit/anatomy .
In addition to the standard materials, all first aid kits should also contain the following.
Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Emergency Procedures (Form #1088)
several Incident/Accident/Crisis Report forms (Form #1089) for serious emergencies
Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. Claim Form from Mutual of Omaha
Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Girl/Adult Health History (Form #2072) for each
participant.
Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Adult Health Examination Record (Form #2077)
for each adult participant and Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Girl Health
Examination Record
(Form #2078) for each girl participant for trips more than 2 nights
emergency contact information for all participants
Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Parent Permission (Form #2134)
Parent Permission For Activities (Form #2133)
Check all emergency contact information and Health Histories immediately prior to departure
of trip to insure there have been no changes and that the information stated is current. Know
your girls! Do any have a life threatening allergy or condition? Perhaps you want to highlight
any major concerns on the Health History forms.
Medication, including over-the-counter products, must never be dispensed without prior written
permission from a girl’s caregiver. You may want to provide caregivers with a list of over-the
counter medications that you will have for the trip. You must have written documentation from
the girl’s caregiver that it is acceptable for the girl to receive these medications. Some girls
may need to carry and administer their own medications, such as bronchial inhalers, an
EpiPen, or diabetes medication. You must have written documentation from the girl’s caregiver
that it is acceptable for the girl to self-administer these medications.
Document all health/first aid incidents on the Incident/Accident/Crisis Report (Form #1089). If
a group member has a minor accident, take care of the injury immediately. Contact the
caregiver, and make a joint decision on what further actions, if any, should be taken. (See
below) Whether the incident is minor or major, caregivers/emergency contacts should always
be notified as soon as possible of all incidents/accidents/crises so they can decide on the care
and well-being of their child.
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Before leaving on the trip, the group leaders need to plan for the possibility of a group member
(girl or adult) being ill enough to be hospitalized or sent home. In the case of girls, the
caregiver is immediately contacted, and the trip leader and caregiver make a joint decision on
what action should be taken. Caregivers may need to travel to where you are, or the girl may
have to return home. Caregivers should understand that this will have to be at their expense.
In the case of the ill person being an adult there to meet Girl/Adult ratios, the trip may need to
end if there is not another adult travelling with group.
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SAFETY ISSUES
Safety Issues How to Address them
40
CONDUCT WHEN TRAVELLING
Traveling with a Girl Scout group has many advantages. People recognize the organization
and treat Girl Scouts with respect. They treat us with respect, we need to be respectful in
return. However there are some things each group member needs to do to ensure a positive
experience for the group.
In the event of multiple troops/groups travelling together, the designated trip leader is in
charge of all troops/groups on the trip. This trip leader will be responsible for any conflict
resolution during the trip.
Conduct yourself appropriately. At airports don’t joke about bombs, guns, etc.
Always use the buddy system.
Wear identification bracelets or necklaces with the name of the traveler and the council
emergency phone number.
Know where all group members are at all times, including which girls/adults are in which
vehicles, which rooms, etc. Make up a master list to share with each person.
Have travelers carry a card with their name, address, and phone number; the council
name, address, and phone number; and the address and phone number of the
emergency contact.
Don’t give out names, phone numbers, or lodging information. Carry this information
with you.
Know the location of fire exits in places where you’re staying. Make a plan of where to
meet in case of evacuation.
Girls should not be allowed to have free run of the hotel, ride up and down the elevator,
run up and down the halls.
Respect quiet hours.
Follow rules regarding pools with particular respect to supervision and lifeguards.
Know where care-giving facilities are located.
Have a plan in case members get separated.
Make sure everyone knows the plan for getting back together if the group divides up.
Do things the Girl Scout way – prepare and be safe.
Girl Scouts always leave things better than they found them.
Check Safety Activity Checkpoints for all activities planned for the trip (Ex: Swimming)
All trip participants, adults and girls (and their caregivers), must sign the Code of Conduct for
Girls (Form #1122) or Code of Conduct for Adults (Form # 1123). This form spells out
disciplinary action in the event of gross misconduct.
A detailed itinerary should be provided to the caregivers along with lodging information and
contact person information. This is a good time to have examples of the kind of gear the girls
will need to bring. Have an example of the kind of luggage/backpack/duffle that should be used
explaining that if they did not have it, that there are options to buying like borrowing or finding
them at yard sales or thrift shops. Some troops/groups that are planning their first extensive
trip have included the cost of purchasing backpacks for everyone in the group in the total cost
of the trip. A girl developed packing list can be provided to everyone at this time. Remind girls
that they will have to carry their own gear.
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EXPECTATIONS
SAMPLE OLDER GIRL EXPECTATIONS OF ADULTS ON TRIPS
Less Overprotective
Don’t embarrass us
Patience
No yelling
Don’t get too involved/excited
Less bathroom breaks
Try to blend in
No singing/dancing/rap
No pictures of food or group shots in food establishments
No GS verification
Don’t get involved in our conversations
Don’t get into long conversations with new people
Let girls be more independent
SAMPLE ADULT EXPECTATIONS OF GIRLS ON TRIPS
Courteous
Respond first time asked
Stay w/ Buddy
Good Language/ Clothing
Respectful
Enjoy each other
Let adults rest/sleep
Get along with each other
Willing to compromise
No whining – Be a trooper
Include everyone
Willing to try new things and food
Willing to consider adult advice
Be helpful
Use common sense
Use safe behavior
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THE CAREGIVER PARTNERSHIP
Involving caregivers is the key to the success of any trip. Group
members need to share all stages of the trip planning process with
their families.
Caregivers can be good resources and can help with estimates of
costs, etc. A “united” planning approach with caregivers will help
make the final commitment much stronger. You need to know that
caregivers approve of the trip and will support the girls’ efforts. At this
point you need to meet with caregivers.
Caregivers should be required to attend the initial meeting.
Everything that is included in this meeting should be designed to inform caregivers and enlist their
support. Be sure to include these items on the agenda the items listed in the Longer Trips section of
this manual.
How caregivers decide to transport girls between their homes and Girl Scout meeting places is each
caregiver’s individual decision and responsibility.
For planned Girl Scout field trips and other activities—outside the normal time and place—in which a
group will be transported in private vehicles, the following rules apply.
Every driver must be a registered, approved adult* volunteer and have a good driving record, a
valid license, and a registered/insured vehicle.
o *“Adult” is defined by the age of majority in each state.
o An approved volunteer is a registered GS adult member who has a complete volunteer
application and cleared/current background check on file with council.
o Criminal background checks expire every three years.
Each driver takes rest breaks every two hours, and drives no more than six hours in one day.
There is a relief driver for trips of more than six hours.
Drivers will not use cell phones or any electronic devices for talking or texting while driving.
Girls never drive other girls.
If a group is traveling in one vehicle, there must be at least two unrelated, approved adult
volunteers in the vehicle, one of whom is female, and the girl-volunteer ratios in Volunteer
Essentials must be followed.
If a group is traveling in more than one vehicle, the entire group must consist of at least two
unrelated, approved adult volunteers, one of whom is female, and the girl-volunteer ratios in
Volunteer Essentials must be followed. Care should be taken so that a single car (with a single
adult driver) is not separated from the group for an extended length of time. Caravanning
(following so closely that other vehicles cannot come between your vehicles) is not allowed.
Passengers may use cell phones or walkie-talkies to communicate between vehicles
If a vehicle is borrowed or leased without a written contract (for example: borrowing a church
vehicle), Information Needed On Vehicles and Drivers (Form #2265) must be completed.
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When the girls have made a decision on a trip they would like to take, discuss the items listed below.
After the girls have realized what is involved in planning and implementing their trip have a caregiver
meeting to inform them. Caregivers should be required to attend the meeting. Let them know how long
it will take to plan and prepare. Give them an idea of what kinds of costs and activities might be
involved. If this is an extended trip of more than 2 nights, it would be a good time to let caregivers know
that a Girl Health Examination Record (Form #2078) signed by a medical professional documenting a
medical exam in the last 24 months will be required. Adults attending these trips will need an Adult
Health Examination Record (Form #2077) signed by a medical professional documenting a medical
exam in the last twenty-four (24) months.
Be sure to include these items on the agenda:
Information:
• Presentation of the girl planning process for trip destinations
• Girls’ decisions – the where, when, and how of the trip
• Girl readiness
• Benefits and how the trip fits into the Girl Scout program
• Trips near to home versus long distance trips
Cost:
• Presentation of the troop/group money earning to date
• Presentation of the girls’ preliminary budget
• Presentation of the girls’ money earning ideas
• Timeline for money earning o Deadlines for deposits
o Down payments
o Payment installments and late penalties
• If needed money is not earned, what is the troop’s/group’s plan B?
o Do caregivers agree?
o Do caregivers have other ideas and help for money earning?
o Do caregivers agree to support the frequency of the money earning activities?
o What roles can be delegated? o Discuss/brainstorm ways the girls could earn
money as individuals to pay for their personal portion (if the girls are going to
need to pay out of their pockets and not troops’/groups’)
o Does anyone know of any good deals for travelling?
• Trip cost estimate
• Contingency fund? Troop/group budget should include a reasonable amount for
contingencies. (Up to 20%)
• Discuss what happens if a new girl comes into the troop/group (this should be discussed
with the girls.)
• Discuss what happens is a girl drops out of the troop/group
• What happens to the money if the girl can’t go on the trip
• Discuss what happens if a girl cannot attend a money earning activity.
• Refund policy - state what funds are sunk costs or deposits that cannot be returned,
such as some airline tickets that are non-refundable (define GSVSC cancellation policy)
• Work with the girls in asking for community support (supplies, scholarships, etc.)
• What will souvenirs or spending money cost? (Is this a caregiver or troop/group
cost?
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Planning:
• Planning timeframe
• Leader and girl preparation plans (vary by cost, distance and destination)
• Permission slips
• Helping girls to make this long-term commitment
• Specialty equipment and clothing needed Dress rules for where you are going
• Health information will need to be updated.
• Health exams are needed for all girls and adults travelling internationally and going on
trips of more than two nights
• Will over the counter medication be available, caregiver permission is needed to
administer
Participation
• Leaders’ expectation of girls
• Leaders’ expectations of caregivers
• Encouragement and support for daughter’s participation in planning sessions and money
earning projects
• Can substitutions be made (define substitutions)
• Prohibited activities - GSVSC prohibits girl participation in certain activities. These
activities may be allowed for members of other councils. Even though the activity is
allowed by the council in which you will be travelling, it is still not allowed by members of
GSVSC. These activities are listed in the GSVSC Safety Activity Checkpoints.
• What do you want the girls to pack in? Is there a limit to how much luggage is allowed?
(Size or weight
• Behavior agreements need to be signed by the girls and the caregivers.
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For adults:
All adults attending trips are expected to represent Girl Scouts in a positive manner.
• Discuss adults’ role in this trip
• Discuss who is in charge of the group (trip leader vs troop leader/ caregivers)
Will you need drivers, Chaperones, first aiders? – When transporting girls to areas that are
outside the normal time and place, every driver must be at least 21 years if age, a registered
Girl Scout, complete a Girl Scout Volunteer Application (Form #4249), have a cleared
background check prior to the trip and complete GS104. They must have a good driving
record, a valid license, and a registered/insured vehicle. Everyone must be in a legal seat
and wear a seatbelt at all times, and adhere to state laws regarding booster seats and
requirements for children in rear seats. Those acting as drivers must also have a completed
Safe Driver Pledge (Form #4144) and (Form #2265) Information Needed On Vehicles and
Drivers
• Read the sections titled “Transporting Girls” and “Checklist for Drivers” in Volunteer
Essentials
o Will their gas or mileage be paid?
o Will you as a leader pay for the trip or will your way be paid by the
troop/group?
o You will need an emergency contact at home and at the destination
o Will you need a lifeguard? (Needed for water that is knee deep on the
shortest girl. This must be an adult who is at least 21.)
o What type of first aider will you need?
• Caregiver questions and concerns
• Discuss sleeping arrangements
• Do caregivers have security issues?
• How caregivers will be kept up to date - additional meetings may be scheduled
• Final Trip Schedule needs to be approved by caregivers. Have caregivers given
permission for all activities scheduled?
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GIRL/CAREGIVER PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT
Girls and caregivers should agree on the girls’ participation.
This is a sample group agreement between the girls in the troop/group.
Girl: To be an active participant in the planned troop/group adventure, I will:
1. attend a certain number (to be determined) of troop/group planning meetings and
activities
2. attend a certain number (to be determined) of troop/group money-earning activities –
including both Fall Product and Cookie Sales
3. I understand the money that the troop/group earns belongs to the troop, and not to an
individual girl
Caregiver: To be a supportive part of the planned troop/group adventure, I will:
1. arrange for my daughter to attend at least 80% of troop/group planning meetings and
activities
2. attend a certain number (to be determined) of the troop/group caregiver information or
planning meetings
3. ensure that my daughter will participate in a certain number (to be determined) of
troop/group money-earning activities-including both Fall Product and Cookie Sales
4. I understand the money that the troop earns belongs to the troop/group, and not to an
individual girl
When writhing the Girl/Caregiver Participation Agreement ensure that you use the Girl Scout
Leadership Experience and the three processes when forming the agreement. This should be
discussed and agreed to by the entire group.
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EVALUATING
A key process in implementing the Girl Scout Leadership Experience is experiential learning or learning
by doing. The trip experience is a perfect environment where girls learn by doing. Asking good
questions before, during and after the trip will help you, your girls, and other adults learn from the
experience. It teaches girls to be inquisitive and question their own experiences. This will help the girls
make meaning and apply it to future experiences.
Design your questions to get the information that you wish to receive. Questions with a yes or no
answer will not give you this information. Ask questions that make the girls think about their experience
and that will give you honest answers.
During the Trip
Here are some suggestions on how to engage the girls in evaluating their experience without them
even knowing it is happening.
Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down - This is a quick and easy way to gauge how the
girls feel about the experience. After they have finished the experience and
they are waiting to start the next activity ask, “How do you think it went? Did
you enjoy it? Thumbs up for yes, Thumbs down for no.” Then ask probing
questions based on how the girls rated the experience, “Sally, why do you
have a Thumbs down?”
On a Scale of 1 to 10 - This is another quick and easy way to get the girls evaluating
and 1------5------10 talking about their experience on their trip. When doing a sit
down activity or waiting for the next step to begin, ask the girls to rate from 1-5, 1-10
or 1-100 (you can create the scale) what they think about their experience. Tell
them 1 = “yuck, the worst experience of my life and 10 = “this is fab, the best
experience ever.” You can choose the words for the scale. As they give you a
number, ask them to explain why.
Name One Thing— as you are wrapping up the first day of your experience or an
activity, ask these three questions: “Name one thing you liked about today (or the
activity). Name one thing you did not like. Name one thing you would change.” As
the girls discuss their one thing, ask them to explain why they liked it or why they
would change it.
1
10
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AFTER THE TRIP
The trip is over! The girls and adults had fun. It’s now time to evaluate the experience and see
how the girls feel about the trip and what they can do to improve the planning and experience
the next time. An important part of learning is reflection. For younger girls, write down what you
hear from them, put it with the paperwork from the trip and pull it out when they are ready to
plan another adventure. Older girls could reflect on the trip by writing an article for the local
paper, writing a poem about their adventure or making a scrapbook that include their photos,
ticket stubs, and brochures on the sites they visited.
As your girls grow, your techniques for evaluation will evolve as well. You will get to know the
girls in your troop/group better and be able to judge which techniques encourage them to
share the most. Here are some ideas to evaluate with younger girls:
Bull’s Eye - Draw a large bull’s eye on a piece of newsprint. Have the girls use stickers to
gauge their feelings about being “on target” or “way off.” Example, use your bull’s eye as a
way to see how the girls feel about their success with the trip.
Mural - Place a large sheet of butcher paper on the wall or on a long table. Ask the girls an
open-ended question. For example, “Since we have been planning a trip to Washington, what
have we learned about planning a trip? Supply paints and markers and have the girls draw
pictures and write in response to the question.
Pictures - Have each girl cut out magazine pictures or draws something in response to a
question. This tool works best with a before or after question. For example: Have the girls find
or draw a picture about how they felt before they had to plan the trip, while they were on the
trip and then after the trip when it was over. Have the girls share their pictures and explain
them to the troop/group.
Girls should write thank you letters to chaperones, drivers and anyone helping on the trip.
Don’t forget to share the success of the experience with the caregivers. Tell them how you
saw their daughter succeed and grow while she participated.
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FINANCIAL REPORTING
For those troops/groups or girls receiving financial aid, the Troop/Group Leader is responsible
for completing the Individual/Troop/Group Trip/Event Financial Assistance Application - Post-
Trip Report part 3 (Form #1118) and submitting it to GSVSC within 14 days of the trip end
date.
If you create a separate bank account for your troop/group
trips, you must complete Bank Record Form (#4041) after
opening the account. Submit a copy to (1) Finance
Facilitator and (2) Membership and Volunteer Services
specialists at council.
An annual Finance Report (#4318) is due June 1 of each
year for the trip account. If there is trip money remaining
after the trip, all remaining funds should be deposited in
the troop/group bank account, the trip account is closed,
and the Finance Report must be filed within 30 days of the
end of the trip. If the account is not closed due to
additional trips, the Finance Report is due June 1. Attach the copies of receipts and all bank
statements to the appropriate Finance Report. The finance statement including income and
expenses should be given to girls and caregivers.
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LIST OF FORMS* TO BE COMPLETED WHEN PLANNING TRIPS Download the most current version of these forms at GSVSC.org
Form #2129 - Activity and/or Trip Permission Application for a Troop/Group
Form #2136 - Request for Non-Girl Scout Insurance or Registered Girl Scout Insurance for
Stays Longer Than Two Nights
Form #4319 - GS Bank Account Application
Form #4041 – Troop/Group/GS Community, Camp or Sub-Unit Bank Record
Form #2131 - Additional Group Money-Earning Activities
Form #1215 - Troop/Group/Trip Donation Record
Form #1118 - Individual/Troop/Group Trip/Event Financial Assistance Application
Form #2150 - How to Reserve Facilities at a Virginia Skyline Camp/Program Center
Form #1040 - Request for Certificate of Insurance
Form #1088 - Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Emergency Procedures
Form #1089 - Incident/Accident/Crisis Report
Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. Claim Form from Mutual of Omaha
Form #2072 - Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Girl/Adult Health History
Form #2077 - Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Adult Health Examination Record
Form #2078 - Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Girl Health Examination Record
Form #2134 - Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council Parent Permission
Form #2133 - Parent Permission for Activities
Form #4249 - Girl Scout Volunteer Application
Form #4144 - Safe Driver Pledge
Form #1122 - Code of Conduct for Girls
Form #1123 - Code of Conduct for Adults
Form #2265 - Information Needed On Vehicles and Drivers
Form #4318 - Finance Report
*(In order as mentioned in this manual)
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ACCOMMODATIONS – WHAT’S AVAILABLE?
To make good decisions about your trip accommodations, you need to know details of the
options available. Investigate! Use the internet and the telephone, visit the library and talk to
friends, families and travel agents. Have each participant research possible accommodations
in the areas where you’ll be staying and have them share during one of your planning
sessions. If your trip involves multiple locations, you can divide them among the participants to
research.
Gather as much information as you can before making a detailed plan. It may take time to hear
back from some places so allow a few weeks for this process.
Search for accommodations that fulfill the three C’s — clean, comfortable, and cheap!
Camping may be the focus of your trip, or you may use a campsite as an inexpensive place to
sleep and spend your days elsewhere. You can camp at private campgrounds, in state parks,
national forests, and national parks. Don’t forget youth camps, especially Girl Scout, Boy
Scout, and Camp Fire boys & girls properties. In general, site fees range from $2 to $15 a
person per night.
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Motels may come within your price range if you have three to four people in a room. Use toll-
free 800 numbers to investigate chain motels or inquire about budget motels. As an example,
four people sharing a room that costs $52 would be $13 per person. Keep in mind Safety
Activity Checkpoints asks for each girl to have her own bed.
Hostels offer inexpensive accommodations with the benefits of interaction with others. See the
listing in the next section for more info.
Churches and Synagogues may allow groups to stay overnight. Obtain contacts through your
minister, priest, or rabbi.
HomeAway, Airbnb, and other travel apps may helpful tools for troop/groups to find travel
discounts.
Colleges and Boarding Schools often open their dormitories (and cafeterias and sports
facilities) to groups during vacation periods. What a great opportunity to get a taste of campus
life! Nightly rates vary.
Home Hospitality is a wonderful way to make new friends and visit a different place. It often
happens as part of a troop/group exchange — your troop/group invites another to visit,
provides accommodations and organizes sightseeing and activities. Then at a later date, your
troop/group visits the other troop and enjoys their hospitality. Families provide hospitality in
their homes. Often girls stay in pairs, so not everyone need be a hostess. No money changes
hands for this type of accommodations. However, networking to find a compatible troop/group
at your desired destination can be time-consuming.
The YMCA has lodging centers in some cities. While a few are for men only, the majority are
coed. Most have a cafeteria, swimming and recreational activities. Costs are about $15 per
person per night, higher in popular cities.
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GIRL SCOUTS OF THE USA SPOTS AND PARTNER RESOURCES
IN THE U.S.
Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, Savannah, Ga.
Home of the founder of Girl Scouts of the USA, the Birthplace and
Savannah can be a great travel opportunity for girls of all ages. Built in
1821, the house has been elegantly restored to reflect the time that
Juliette Gordon Low lived there. This registered historic landmark is open
to the public and special tours are available for Girl Scout groups. Visit
the Birthplace page for more information.
Girl Scout National Headquarters and Girl Scout Museum, New York, N.Y.
National Headquarters houses approximately 400 staff working to serve
over 100 Girl Scout councils and USA Girl Scouts Overseas, and a
membership of over 3.5 million. Besides busy offices, there are some
great things to look for if you take a tour, including the National Historic
Preservation Center and the GSUSA shop.
The Girl Scouts of the USA headquarters also features a museum, open
to the public, curated by the National Historic Preservation Center, and
filled with the artifacts and ephemera that tell a story about strength and
change. Centrally located just two blocks from the Empire State Building
and ten blocks from Rockefeller
Center, National Headquarters is a highlight of any trip to New York. Find out more
information.
Edith Macy Conference Center, Briarcliff Manor, N.Y.
Girl Scouts of the USA's unique facility dedicated to educational
opportunities is just 45 minutes by train to New York City. Girl Scout
staff, volunteers, and members benefit from the center, which features
400 acres of wooded grounds dedicated to learning through Girl
Scouting and the Great Hall, where Juliette Gordon Low once ushered
in the first WAGGGS World Congress held in the United States. Visit
the Edith Macy Conference Center Web page for more information.
(Special travel funds are available to adults in Girl Scout councils
traveling to accredited events at Edith Macy. Check with your council
for more information.)
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Hostelling International USA
Hostelling offers a special kind of travel that opens doors to self-
discovery, intercultural exchange, and new people and places. With
safe, clean, inexpensive accommodations and special travel and
cultural education programs, hostels are welcoming places that
encourage meaningful interactions. With over 100 hostels and local
organizations throughout the country, HI-USA can help girls learn key
travel skills in preparation for or as part of their next adventure. To
learn more, visit the Hostelling International USA Web site.
https://www.hihostels.com/
For more trip ideas check out http://forgirls.girlscouts.org/travel/take-a-trip/getaways/