Have you heard the buzz about the revitalization of the Girl Scout Trailblazer and Mariner programs ?!? These programs have been a part of Girl Scouts’ bold history since as early as 1934 and we are excited to see this revitalization. While Girl Scouts of the USA has released a pin and some guidelines for the program, it is now up to councils to develop the program to meet the needs of girls in their area while ensuring there is a strong support structure for the programs.
Currently, Girl Scouts of Colorado is in the process of developing our support structure for the programs. We are spending Summer 2020 to build a cohesive structure that can support girls from across the state of Colorado. In the meantime, here is a little bit of information about the programs to get you even more excited.
What is the Girl Scout Trailblazer Program? The Girl Scout Trailblazer Program is designed for Girl Scouts in grades 8 through 12 who are looking for an opportunity to engage deeply in high-adventure outdoor activities in a broad range of modalities, geographies, and climates. Trailblazers develop skills in diverse hiking styles, camping, orienteering methods, outdoor preparedness, and high-adventure sports.
What is the Girl Scout Mariner Program? The Girl Scout Mariner Program is designed for Girl Scouts in grades 8 through 12 who are looking for an opportunity to engage deeply in water-focused activities. As Mariners, girls develop skills in swimming, safety and rescue, boating, and weather and navigation.
What type of experience is required? There are no prerequisites for joining a Trailblazer/Mariner troop other than an interest and willingness to complete the requirements of the pin within the first year of being part of the program.
Is this a troop or an event or what? These programs are intended to be run just like a troop. Girls are encouraged to participate in the full Girl Scout Program (earning badges, Product Program, Highest Awards, etc.), but through the lends of the program’s focus.
Will I be responsible for my own supplies? Great question and we do not quite have the answer yet. We want to make sure Trailblazer and Mariner troops have the support they need, but we must develop the best way to do this in a statewide capacity. Please make sure to list any additional comments about this in our online interest form (link below).
Sound like something you might be interested in? Complete our interest form (https://gscolorado.formstack.com/forms/trailblazer_mariner_troop_interest_form) and we will keep you in the loop when this program is launched in Fall 2020.