FAQ For Parents

How much does it cost to be in Girl Scouts?
All members pay $12.00 annual membership dues. The Girl Scout year runs from October 1 – September 30. Beyond the membership dues paid each year, the troop may set a dues amount to be collected weekly, monthly, or periodically to help cover the costs of activities, patches, and supplies for the troop. Each troop sets its own budget based on the goals of the girls in the troop.

What is the $12 Registration fee/ Membership dues for?
The entire $12 membership fee is sent directly to Girl Scouts of the USA. GSUSA uses the membership fees to support program development and services on a national level. No part of the fee remains with Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan. A portion of the membership fee paid by every registered member is used to provide a basic accident protection plan.

Does my daughter have to join a troop?
While many girls do belong to a troop, many others belong to special-interest groups or are registered as individual girls.  If you would like more information about this option, please click on the 'For Girls" Section adn read about the Girl Scouts My Way program.  All registered members may participate in Council- sponsored programs, activities and camps.

My daughter has never been a Girl Scout before. When is she too old?
A girl must be willing to abide by the Girl Scout Promise and Law, and be in kindergarten through her senior year in high school to be a Girl Scout.  A girl may join Girl Scouting at any grade-level.

Does my daughter have to have a uniform?
Uniforms are NOT required for members to participate in Girl Scout activities, although registered members are entitled to wear them. Girl Scouts wear uniforms to show their pride in belonging to a movement whose mission is held in high regard by the American people. There is a wide choice of uniform components, so that some part of the uniform can be affordable for every girl. The uniform provides visibility and recognition for members, and helps all girls in a group to show they belong, regardless of individual socioeconomic status or family circumstances. It is suitable for all Girl Scout functions and should be worn appropriately. Uniforms are available for purchase from the Council Shops or on-line. Any uniform, past or present, is considered official.

Where do I get a uniform?
Visit the Council Shop for assistance.

Where do I put all the pins and patches my daughter receives?
All of the handbooks show insignia placement. You can also download an Insignia Placement Guide by visiting the Council Shop Quick Links.

How do we choose troop leaders?
Troop leaders are volunteers. But to ensure the placement of capable and qualified leaders in all positions, Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan uses an application process which includes a reference check and background check as part of the volunteer placement process. The volunteer process includes recruitment, selection, placement, training, recognition and position evaluation of volunteers.

Can a man volunteer to be a troop leader?
In keeping with our values of diversity and inclusiveness, every volunteer position in Girl Scouting is open to qualified adult men and women over the age of 18. Because female role models are especially important to young girls, men generally serve as co-leaders, with at least one member of the leadership team being an adult female.