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Everything you need to get your troop going.
Becoming a new leader doesn’t have to be an intimidating process. Get started on your new journey with our New Troop Leader Guide (PDF), New Leader FAQs (PDF), and the checklist below. The New Troop Leader Checklist (PDF) outlines everything you need, step by step, for your first few weeks as a new troop leader.
New Troop Leader Checklist
Week 1
- Complete a background check. Now that you're registered, you'll receive an email from Asurint; you must respond to it within 72 hours.
- Find a co-leader and invite girls to join your troop. Tip: Use our recruitment resources to help!
- Complete Youth Protection Training before you meet with Girl Scouts. Locate this training in gsLearn, accessible through your myGS account. Tip: Reference the gsLearn How to Guide (PDF) for assistance logging in to gsLearn.
- Speak with your Community Engagement Specialist (CES). They are there to help you! Tip: Don't know your CES? Contact Customer Care for assistance.
Week 2
- Begin GSUSA's New Leader Onboarding training on gsLearn.
- Register for Intro to GSU live Zoom training, held the first Wednesday each month. Tip: Find upcoming trainings in our Events List.
- Explore the ins and outs of the Volunteer Toolkit (VTK). Log into your myGS account to access the VTK. Tip: For information on using the VTK, reference the User Guide for Troop Leaders (PDF).
Week 3
- Set up your troop bank account with GSU's Finance Department. Email info@gsutah.org to begin the process.
- Meet with your co-leader(s) and plan a caregiver meeting.
- Locate your troop roster in the VTK and introduce yourself to new troop caregivers via email or phone call.
- Host the caregiver meeting. Distribute and collect completed Parent/Guardian Permission (PDF) forms.
Week 4 & Beyond
- Plan and host your first troop meeting with Girl Scouts. Tip: The VTK offers many resources, including support for planning your troop meetings!
- Attend or plan to attend your service unit meeting. Tip: Don't know your service unit team? Contact your CES for an introduction.
- Optional: Engage families by implementing the Family Star Patch Program (PDF).
- Reach out to your CES for help planning your year of fun!
Training Next Steps
Learn about all training opportunities.
First 30-60 days
- GSUSA Creating Your Inclusive Troop
- Dollars and Sense: Troop Finances
- Hosting Troop Meetings in Your Home
- Clique-Proof Your Troop: Building Sisterhood & Conflict Management
First 6 months
- Grade Level Training (gsLearn)
- Product Program training (when applicable)
- Planning Trips with Girl Scouts
- First Aid/CPR/AED Certification* (in person through council or other source)
*Reference the Training for Volunteers page for additional information.
Additional Suggested Trainings
- Multi-Level Troop Success
- GSUSA Mental Wellness 101
- Including Girls of All Abilities
- Cultural Appropriation
What's next for your troop?
After completing the checklist above, check out what's possible with Girl Scouts!
