Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey Meet with Civic Leaders at the Renovated State House

Girl Scouts from Central and Southern New Jersey visit the newly renovated State House.

Cherry Hill, New Jersey (March 20, 2024) - In an era where citizen participation and civic engagement are more crucial than ever, Girl Scouts are leading by example. A large contingent of Girl Scouts from Central and Southern New Jersey recently visited the newly renovated State House.  It was not just about a ceremonial visit. It's a strategic move that underlines the importance of civic education in preparing well-informed, future leaders regardless of age or gender.

The Pillars of Civic Education Integrated in the Girl Scout Curriculum

The mission of the Girl Scouts has always been to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. Civic education is an integral part of the curriculum, fostering participatory citizenship and an understanding of how our government operates.

At young ages, Girl Scouts are taught the value of decision-making structures and are encouraged to step into leadership roles, be it in their troop, school, or community. They learn the importance of engaging with local and state governance, becoming the voice of change, and driving initiatives that hold societal and environmental significance.

A Gathering of Young Minds at the Heart of New Jersey

In a recent visit to the State House, the Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey did not just witness history; they became a part of it. Coming from different corners of the Garden State, these young girls experienced first-hand the inner workings of state governance, emphasizing the connection between policy and everyday life. Meeting with civic leaders and state representatives, the girls were able to ask questions, voice their concerns, and learn about the decision-making process that affects us all.

One remarkable participant, Wyn Bremner, a Girl Scout from West Berlin, was no stranger to the marble-lined halls of the State House. Formerly a Brownie Girl Scout, she revisited her roots in civic engagement and found herself sitting in the same Chamber seat she had years ago. This parallel experience underscored the continuum of learning and engagement that the Girl Scouts ensure for each member, continuously growing and adapting to the complexities of our world.

Wyn Bremner, a Girl Scout from West Berlin, visited the State House as a Brownie and again ten years later as a Juliette Girl Scout.

The Advocacy Projects Driving Local Change

Girl Scouts are not mere onlookers—they are catalysts for change within their communities. Engaging in advocacy projects, they amplify their collective voice. From campaigns promoting recycling and pushing for clean water initiatives to sustainably-based projects that advance environmental stewardship, the initiatives undertaken by the Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey exemplify the proactive role they play in shaping a better future.

Through these activities, they learn the value of their role as citizens and global community members, armed with the knowledge that their actions can influence policy and generate real change.

Looking to the Future: Prepare Today, Lead Tomorrow

It is in this education, experience, and ethics that the Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey are preparing a generation of leaders who will one day shape the civic landscape. By educating and empowering young girls to take an active role in public life, they instill qualities that are essential for fostering a more engaged citizenry.

These inspiring interactions with the State House staff and the broader experience of exploring New Jersey's governance will resonate with these Girl Scouts for years to come. It is a collective sail that will guide them through the waters of civic duty, and we can rest assured that they will do so with the compass of knowledge and the oars of engagement.

In essence, the collaboration between the Girl Scouts and New Jersey's civic leaders represents a significant stride towards a more informed and involved society. It serves as a reminder that leadership qualities can be nurtured at an early age. The Girl Scouts have showcased their preparedness to answer this calling, emphasizing their commitment to empowering girls to make a difference.

The Girl Scout contingent visited the New Jersey State House on March 1, 2024.