As key administrative volunteers, the Service Unit Team has many responsibilities. We offer dedicated learning and development opportunities to ensure you are prepared to provide a dynamic and well-rounded platform of diverse activities through the Girl Scout Leadership Experience.
Council Connect
Informative meetings throughout the year that will help you plan for success, align with council goals, support movement development, and receive high priority information.
Leadership Summit
GSU’s signature service unit volunteer enrichment and development meeting to ensure each service unit has the tools and resources needed for growth and sustainability. Held annually, volunteers connect with council staff and Board members and engage in workshops, discussions, and training .
Service Unit Position Training
Each service unit position has varying duties and therefore requires specific training. GSU offers comprehensive training for the lead positions: SU Manager, Program Lead, and Membership Lead. Additionally, training is available for each delegated position under the lead roles.
Service Unit Manager (SUM) – Handling the administrative and operational aspects of the service unit, training covers aspects of goal setting and planning, managing finances, leading effective meetings, governance, and the impact of product program. The SUM has the option to delegate aspects of the administrative and operation responsibilities to other team members.
- Product Program Representative – Learn the specifics about Fall Product and Cookie Programs, including dates, theme, resources, and tips for supporting volunteers in your service unit.
- Governance Representative – Two training sessions are required for this position. The first covers the service unit role and how to ensure delegates are elected, trained, and supported. The second is the Council Delegate & Alternate training.
- Council Delegates and Alternates – Understand why governance is important to Girl Scouting and how to effectively participate in the process.
- Finance Representative - Gain the skills to lead the service unit and its volunteers through prudent financial management, appropriate use of the Volunteer Toolkit, and review of the financial policies.
Program Lead (PL) – Training will help you plan and execute activities and events for the Girl Scouts and volunteers in your service unit.
There are three training courses required for this position: Event Planning, Council Sponsored Events (every two years), and CSE Knowledge Follow-up (annually). The SUM & PL can delegate the responsibility of Day Camp and GAB to other willing SU team members as needed.
- Day Camp Coordinator - Council Sponsored Events training is required. In this training, you'll learn the basics for setting up events, risk management, financial management, and the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE).
- GAB Advisor – We recommend focusing on training that will help you lead and guide older girls, the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, leadership awards, and GSUSA highest awards.
Membership Lead (ML) – Learn the basics of recruitment, renewal and retention, troop leader support, and volunteer awards and recognition ideas. You will also discover council communication tools, resources, and best practices.
The SUM & ML can delegate the responsibility of Recognition and Communications to other willing SU team members as needed.
- Recognition Representative – Learn what is needed to honor and recognize the hard work and dedication of GSU leaders and volunteers. We cover adult volunteer award specifics, progression, and timing. You will also learn how to write a strong nomination and endorsement letter.
- Communications Representative - Discover the necessary Girl Scout brand basics in marketing, including policies and procedures related to your role and opportunities to build communication in your service unit.
