March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate women’s achievements and acknowledge the progress made toward gender equality. It is also an opportunity to focus on ways of empowering girls today to become the trailblazers of tomorrow. Inclusive youth development programs such as Scouting America play a vital role in this effort by providing girls with a solid foundation for building confidence, developing leadership skills, and preparing for futures as successful women.
For over a century, Scouting America programs have cultivated resilience, civic engagement, and lifelong skills in young people. The inclusion of girls in these programs, which have historically been male-focused, represents a transformative step toward gender equity. By offering girls the same opportunities as boys to grow, lead, and make an impact, Scouting America helps them prepare for future success.
Breaking Barriers: Girls in Scouting America
In 2018, Scouting America formally welcomed girls into its programs, offering them access to the same enriching experiences that boys had benefited from for decades. Allowing girls to join what had previously been the Boy Scouts of America represented a milestone in gender inclusivity. It also addressed the growing demand for programs where parents could involve all their children in shared activities.
Scouting America has since evolved into an integrated space where boys and girls participate in activities designed to foster leadership, outdoor skills, and community engagement. This inclusion has benefited all Scouts by promoting diverse perspectives and collaboration.
Developing Skills and Leadership Qualities
One of the key ways Scouting America programs empower each female Scout is by equipping them with practical skills that translate directly into leadership roles. Through activities including camping, survival training, and community service, girls develop self-confidence, resilience, and problem-solving abilities. Earning merit badges across a wide range of subjects, including science, engineering, and environmental stewardship, introduces participants to diverse career paths.
Moreover, girls in Scouting America have the opportunity to achieve the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, a title long recognized as a marker of excellence. In 2019, Isabella Tunney became the first female Eagle Scout, followed closely by many others. Achieving this rank requires extensive demonstration of leadership, engagement in community service, and mastery of advanced skills, giving girls a competitive edge in college admissions and career opportunities.
Building Confidence Through Outdoor Adventures
Scouting America emphasizes outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and canoeing, which play a pivotal role in building confidence and resilience. By navigating challenges in nature, girls learn to trust their instincts, engage in teamwork, and overcome obstacles. These experiences foster independence and teach critical thinking skills that are invaluable for personal and professional success.
Integrating girls into these outdoor programs not only boosts their confidence but also helps break down social stereotypes about what girls can achieve. These activities instill a sense of empowerment that extends beyond Scouting and into other areas of life.
Promoting Teamwork and Inclusivity
Scouting America’s linked-troop structure allows boys and girls to collaborate, share ideas, and build mutual respect. This environment mirrors the diverse workplaces and communities they will encounter as adults, preparing them to succeed in inclusive settings. Integrating girls into Scouting has fostered a culture of camaraderie and understanding, breaking down gender-based barriers and encouraging equal participation.
This inclusive model also benefits boys, who gain exposure to diverse leadership styles and perspectives. Linked-troop activities encourage Scouts to learn from one another’s strengths, promoting collaboration and unity.
Encouraging Civic Engagement and Community Service
At the heart of Scouting America is a commitment to community service. Girls in Scouting actively engage in projects that address local needs, such as environmental conservation, food drives, and disaster relief efforts. These initiatives not only benefit communities but also teach participants the value of giving back.
Service projects help Scouts develop empathy, organizational skills, and a strong sense of responsibility. These experiences shape girls into civic-minded leaders who are prepared to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Preparing for Future Success
Scouting America provides girls with a strong foundation for future success by offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and exposure to diverse fields. Many Scouts report that their experiences gave them an edge when they applied for college scholarships or entered competitive career fields. The achievement of earning an Eagle Scout rank, in particular, serves as a testament to a Scout’s dedication, leadership, and perseverance — qualities highly valued by universities and employers alike.
Scouting alumni often attribute their professional achievements to the skills and values they developed through the program. For girls, this empowerment is especially significant, as it supports closing the gender gap in leadership and career advancement.
By fostering leadership, teamwork, and a commitment to service, Scouting America empowers girls to excel in any path they choose. These programs not only prepare girls for individual success but also equip them to contribute meaningfully to their communities, paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future. As these empowered young women take on leadership roles, they will inspire others to reach their full potential, proving that Scouting America’s inclusive vision benefits everyone.
Prepare Girls for Success With Laurel Highlands Council
If you live in the western parts of Pennsylvania, Maryland, or West Virginia, enrolling your daughter in Scouting America, Laurel Highlands Council, is an excellent way for them to get all the benefits of becoming a Scout.
Throughout the history of our Council, women have played key roles in it, and we thank them for their service. Our first female Eagle Scout was Katy Appleman, and since the inaugural class of female Eagle Scouts was established in 2021, our Council has honored 26 girls with the award. In 2023 alone, we served over 1,000 girls in our programs. Of the 259 Eagle Scouts who earned the rank in 2023, 11 were female. We are looking forward to serving many more girls and producing many more female Eagle Scouts this year and in the years to come!
Contact us to learn which of our programs is right for your daughter, and join now!