As Girl Scouts, we know all about the power of sisterhood. Never has this been more apparent than in the swell of outreach, support, and generosity of our sister Girl Scouts and many others across the country in the wake of the Sandy Hook tragedy.

It was our sad responsibility to report the loss of eight Girl Scout Daisies and two sons of Girl Scout families in that tragedy. But as Girl Scouts we respond when needed. Girls everywhere have been sending us their thoughts and wishes for our Newtown girls on trefoils and many of you have called personally to send us your condolences and asked what you can do to help. I want to personally thank all of you who have reached out in any way. It has touched my heart and has raised the spirit of many within our organization.

As we begin a new year, we will cultivate the hope of a better tomorrow. Our girls will move forward and heal as they continue their Girl Scout journey. 2013 has started with the launch of our Cookie Program, which I know our girls – and many of you – have been looking forward to. Many of our girls attended five Cookie Rallies throughout the state. You can read more about those in the Discover sidebar story. Our girls will be hard at work learning the Five Skills that they’ll use throughout their lives: people skills, money management, decision making, goal setting, and business ethics. We’re looking forward to seeing the great things our girls can accomplish during the Cookie Program!

Also, on February 27, Girl Scouts of Connecticut will host Girl Scout Day at the Capitol. This is a unique opportunity for girls to meet local legislators, participate in a press conference on a key issue impacting their lives, and learn more about the power of advocacy. If you know a girl who might be interested, have them save the date!

Thank you for all that you do to help advance our mission of building girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. Your support is life-changing, and I am looking forward to a year of strength and sisterhood!

Yours in Girl Scouting,

Mary Barneby
 

CEO, Girl Scouts of Connecticut