UPDATE 6-24-20
The state of Utah is currently in orange (moderate risk), yellow (low risk), and green (normal risk) phases. Review the phased guidelines for the state. Troops can begin holding in-person meetings in yellow and green areas, but must adhere to the guidelines outlined below.
Please note, in the last week, cases in Utah have continued to rise. We ask all volunteers, girls, and parents to exercise extreme caution and stay up-to-date with the latest CDC and local health department guidelines.
GSU suggests not exceeding the maximum number of people for small gatherings based on current state guidelines. Troops must continue to maintain Safety Activity Checkpoint girl/adult ratios. Utilize all social distancing practices and follow all preventive guidance, such as wearing face coverings.
If you have a large group, stay connected while you wait for a safe time for everyone to gather.
Outdoor spaces where social distancing can be maintained are strongly recommended for meetings when the weather permits. Get advanced permission from the property owner or the jurisdiction that provides the location.
For meetings held in public facilities, contact the facility ahead of time and ask:
Who else uses the space (how often, what size is the group)? Is the space cleaned between groups?
What type of faucets/soap dispensers are available in the restroom (sensory or manual)?
Then, consider whether you can supplement any practices that for situations in which conditions are less than ideal. For example, if you will arrive after another user group, plan to bring sanitizing wipes to get the space ready for your troop. Another example: if faucets are manual, take some time to show girls how to shut them off with a paper towel. Use paper towels for doorknobs whenever possible.
Meetings may not be held in fitness centers or gyms, where a greater risk for contracting the virus may exist. Schools or churches may not permit outside groups on the premises, so always check and confirm ahead of time.
GSUSA and GSU strongly suggest no meetings in the home out of concern that there would be greater risk of exposure to other family members. The recommendation is to stay away from in-home meetings for the time being. We will reevaluate when the entire state is at green (normal risk).
If your area is in yellow (low risk) phase, no gatherings of more than 50 people are allowed until it is determined safe. Please be sure to allow for proper girl-to-adult ratios. It is strongly recommended that your gathering be held outdoors and only when social distancing may be maintained. Gatherings of more people may be allowed when the time is determined for it to be safely appropriate. We will communicate when larger gatherings are deemed permittable.
Individual parents should drop off and pick up their own girls. Carpooling and public transportation should be avoided, where possible, to maintain social distancing.
Carpooling may be allowed when a county or region is fully re-opened (moved to green (normal risk) phase). Even then, girls and adults should wear masks for rides longer than ten minutes and keep car windows opened, at least slightly. Remember sustained contact within less than six (6) feet for longer than ten (10) minutes creates higher risk for virus transmission.
In conjunction with Safety Activity Checkpoints, follow the same guidance for Troop Meetings and Hygiene and COVID-19 Risk Mitigation on this page. Call ahead to the facility or vendor to confirm that they are following CDC and state health department guidelines. If activity of sporting equipment is being provided, ask the provider if they wipe down equipment in between uses, similar to equipment at the gym. Make whatever appropriate accommodations that are necessary. For example, bring extra sanitizer and sanitizing wipes if none will be provided for public use at the activity location.
Overnight trips and distance travelling are not permitted until after the entire state of Utah successfully passes into the green phase (normal risk) of its re-opening process. The timeframes will vary from our surrounding states and even from county to county within our state. As always, contact GSU for prior approval before planning any overnight stays, follow guidance in Safety Activity Checkpoints and continue to practice the Hygiene and COVID-19 Risk Mitigation guidance outlined in this document.
Reminder: GSU does have policies for traveling with girls. Be sure to review them regularly and continue to follow them by submitting the Troop Trip Application.
GSU is working on adding additional wording to our permission forms and other forms where appropriate to acknowledge coronavirus risk. In the meantime, here is an example for you in case you need something sooner to add to any of your information:
“COVID-19 is an extremely contagious virus that spreads easily through person-to-person contact. As with any social activity, participation in Girl Scouts could present the risk of contracting COVID-19. While Girl Scouts of Utah takes every safety and preventative precaution, Girl Scouts of Utah can in no way warrant that COVID-19 infection will not occur through participation in Girl Scouts of Utah programs.”
In the event of a COVID-19 positive test result, do NOT contact the parents or troop members. Promptly contact Ruth Strawser, Chief Operating Officer, at 801-716-5157, in this situation.
When you call please be ready to provide the facts. You should review or complete the Incident Behavior Report to ensure you will have the right information ready.
A council staff member, NOT volunteers, will be responsible for:
Confirming and tracing the positive tester,
Contacting the parents of anyone who may have been exposed (or other volunteers),
Notifying a facility or homeowner where a troop has met, and
Alerting the state department of health.
Reminder: A council staff member, NOT volunteers, will notify parents and others about a positive test result and that the tester’s identity is confidential. Remember that girl and volunteer health information is private and strictly confidential and should be only shared on a need to know basis with a council staff member.
Follow the resources developed by credible public health sources such as CDC or Utah Public Health department. Share these with girls and volunteers and ensure that they are practiced during meetings and activities.
Guide the girls
Place signs in the meeting or activity space to remind girls and volunteers to engage in everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Signs should include:
Stay home if you are sick.
Cough and sneeze into a tissue, throw the tissue in the trash, and wash or sanitize your hands.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Did you know if you sing “Make New Friends” three times that is 20 seconds?
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Wash hands if you do touch.
Volunteers, girls and parents should be reminded to make sure temperatures are taken prior to group interaction to confirm the individual is not running a fever and temperature is a normally 98.6 degrees. Members with a fever or temperature higher than 98.6 F should skip the in-person gathering until their temperature is normal. According to the Mayo Clinic, a thermometer reading that indicates a fever from your ear or forehead is generally 100.4 F or higher, an oral temperature is 100 F or higher, and temperature taken from your armpit would be 99 F or higher.
Food and Snacks
In this environment, we need to rethink how we do snacks. Of course, healthy snacks are always important, but disinfecting an apple or carrot sticks is a little more complicated. It is recommended that you consider individually wrapped snacks, single serve containers for drinks, and prewrapped utensils. Minimizing direct contact with food and drink is of the utmost importance when considering what is safe for the girls and adults.
Craft Supplies
What can you do minimize contamination in your craft supplies? Could the girls each have their own pair of scissors? Dollar Tree has girl size as well as adult size scissors! Could you provide prewrapped kits for projects? Many craft stores have prepackaged kits on a variety of projects. Giving each girl her own set of supplies for a project will minimize cross-contamination until you are able to wipe/disinfect everything before the next meeting. Consider having a tub or container to collect used items in for disinfecting before throwing them back into the communal box, or better yet stay away from communal supplies until COVID-19 passes. Have a box with each girls' name on it and direct them to use only supplies from their box. You can email a list of supplies to your parents and have them send the girls to the meetings with their own box. See disinfectants for ideas on products to use. Every little bit we can do will help to flatten the curve. Consider having the girls wear gloves and have that bottle of disinfecting wipes ready!
Personal contact
Hugs, handshakes, “high-fives,” and even activities like the friendship circle or squeeze can transmit COVID-19 from person to person. Refrain from these gestures for the time being. Here is your chance to be creative with your girls! Create a safe way for girls and volunteers to greet and end meetings instead, like tapping elbows or sharing the Girl Scout salute. Be sure to share what you came up with other leaders, we are all looking for great ideas!
First Aid Supplies
Troop first aid supplies should include COVID-19 prevention items including hand sanitizer (at least 60 percent alcohol), tissues, disposable facemasks, and disinfectants. Trash baskets or bags should be supplied for meeting and activity spaces, if not already available. Make sure that the trash baskets (or bags) are easily accessible for girls. Disposable or no-contact thermometers may be added to supplies if available and not cost-prohibitive, however, parents should be checking temperatures and allowing their girl(s) to join group activities only when temperatures are normal.
First Aid/CPR Training
Keep your skills up-to-date for any emergency. Talk to our council Training and Development Coordinator about alternative methods of training that may be available during this time.
Disinfectants and Disinfecting
Routinely clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that are frequently touched (i.e., table tops, markers, scissors, etc.). Use a household cleaner, or see the EPA’s list of effective cleaners approved for use against COVID-19. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products (e.g., concentration, application method and contact time, etc.).
Household bleach is effective against COVID-19 for up to 24 hours when properly diluted. Check that the bleach is not expired and determine if it can be used on a given surface. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser.
To prepare a bleach solution, mix:
5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water or
4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
See the CDC’s website for more on cleaning and disinfecting community facilities.
Face Coverings
Volunteers should remind girls that Girl Scouts wear face coverings (masks) not only to protect themselves but to protect others. Face coverings are a civic responsibility and a sign of caring for the community. Girls can bring their own face coverings. Have disposable masks on hand for those who need them. Volunteers can teach girls how to handle their face coverings so that the coverings are effective. Some girls or volunteers may not be able to wear masks, due to medical conditions such as asthma which may be restrictive. We recommend that you evaluate the situation with the individual and/or their guardian. Face coverings should be used as protection for everyone.
Q: I have a large troop, and when I add my adults to meet adult to girl ratios, we exceed the maximum 50 limit. Can I still meet?
A: Large troops are wonderful! We want you to stay together, but we are in a difficult world right now. For safety reasons, the answer is no. Here are some ideas for ways you can meet:
Host virtual troop meetings. If you need help, contact your volunteer support specialist.
Gather in smaller groups – such as age-level groups, patrols, or groups of girls with a shared interest in a particular badge – this is a great time to get your parents involved in helping serve girls in their shared interests.
Q: Do I have to provide face coverings for the girls of my troop?
A: It is recommended that you have some as back up, but it should be the responsibility of your members to bring their own. You can ask parents if they have any ideas. Did you know the state of Utah is offering free face coverings? You can request one here. There are also all kinds of sites out there showing how to make a face mask as well as the CDC offers various solutions for a DIY mask with varying levels of technical skills required.
Q: What if the area we meet in is orange (moderate) phase, but the majority of my troop lives in an area that is in a yellow or green phase?
A: Talk to your troop or leader committee. What things can you do that is within safety measures? Your meeting place that is located in the orange phase region may not be open for meetings either. Where else can you meet that is within the area that your troop members reside and is in a yellow or green phase? Look through the safety guidelines in this document, talk to your families and leadership team, and if you still need guidance, please contact your volunteer support specialist.
Q: Can we use the Girl Scout service center in our area for troop or service unit meetings?
A: As of 6/23, our Salt Lake City Service Center Shop is the only area of our service centers open to our volunteers. We will resume office hours for our staff when the entire state is yellow, but will still be limiting access to our buildings as we monitor situations. When our offices/service centers are open for our service units and troops, we will communicate that opportunity starting with those that were regularly meeting before they closed.
Q: We do not have access to a public or outdoor facility for our troop that doesn’t require us to pay. We have met at the home of one of our leader’s for most of our time together, why can’t we continue if we feel it’s safe to do so?
A: The recommendation to not use a home for troop meetings during this time is mainly about safety of everyone, including members of the household. The virus can be brought into the home unknowingly and infect the household just by touching door knobs, sitting at the dining table, or using the bathroom. It is a safety precaution for the household of the member hosting the troop. To meet in the home, extra caution, extra cleaning and disinfecting, and possibly new rules for participation would have to be instituted. Is the home owner prepared to take these extra precautions and extra work? Are they prepared to take on the extra liability if someone does get sick from visiting their home? We strongly urge this recommendation for the safety of all, if locating to a new meeting space is not optional, consider using virtual meetings until our environment has changed.
Thank you so much for your support during these ever-changing times. We truly appreciate your patience as we manage the impact of COVID-19 on all council activities, the Cookie Program, and our business offices.
Safety and health remain our top priority. We are closely monitoring updates from the Centers for Disease Control, the World Health Organization, local public health departments, and school districts within our council boundaries. We are continuing to make decisions about gatherings and workplace closures based on the guidance of local officials. Our plans and guidance are based on the CDC’s suggested mitigation strategies. We plan to post at minimum weekly updates through newsletters, our website, and across our social media to keep you informed.
BELOW IS A COMPLETE LIST OF UPDATES REGARDING PROGRAMS, COOKIES, EVENTS, OFFICES, SHOPS, TROOP & SERVICE UNIT ACTIVITIES, MEETINGS, CAMP, AND TRAVEL.
Our current decisions, based on the Utah Coronavirus Task Force, are summarized below. If you have specific questions about any of these programs, events, or meetings, please email: info@gsutah.org.
GSU made the decision to cease all cookie sales effective March 14. As communicated on March 16, we are in this together and are doing right by our girls and troops, regardless of the financial implications to our council. Troops were presented with three options in regards to their cookie sales: keep existing inventory and participate in a re-launch of the sale, return remaining inventory, or report that they have completed their cookie sale for 2020. Thank you so much to the troops who provided this information. It has been incredibly helpful as we finalize our plans for the remaining inventory, as well as calculate girl rewards and troop proceeds.To date, 2/3 of our troops have completed their sale for 2020, with 1/3 of our troops opting to participate in a re-launch with their remaining inventory.
We know we have leaders who feel that they are healthy and safe and have secured permission from parents, and we also understand troops’ enthusiasm and desire to sell remaining inventory. We must, however, require that everyone cease cookie sales until further information becomes available. It’s the right thing to do during this health crisis, when everyone is asked to take extreme caution and stay home.
Please be patient as we work through this. We are currently trying to reconcile the initial portion of our cookie sale, and do not have the bandwidth to contact individuals or troops who may be selling. We want everyone to be safe, but we are asking everyone to act like a Girl Scout, and be responsible for themselves and those they lead.
* Please note, as situations change and information continues to evolve, we will update these as necessary.
Upcoming Cookie Celebrations
We are extending the of cancellation of in-person meetings for troops and service units until June 30. We ask that you cancel or reschedule any meetings or activities planned for in-person and move to virtual when possible. We will continue to monitor state health and governor guidelines and will keep you posted on updates. This also includes all trips and travel for troops.
Program registrants will receive individual emails regarding cancelation, reschedule, or virtual opportunities. New virtual program opportunities will be promoted to members via social media, newsletters, and the Girl Scouting at Home website.
Available Now: Please visit our Girl Scouting at Home page on our website, where you can find links to our council patch programs and partner programs! Make sure to visit the page often - we are frequently adding great new content!
National Resources: GSUSA has launched a brand-new national resource for Girl Scouts at Home.
* Please note, as situations change and information continues to evolve, we will update these as necessary.
We are making decisions in response to public health authorities’ current guidance. GSU has canceled or postponed all council-led programming events through June 30 and may cancel later events closer to their scheduled dates based on the COVID-19 situation at the time. Registered participants will be contacted about cancellations and refunds as quickly as possible when decisions are made.
As always, if council-led programs or events need to be canceled, registered participants will receive refunds. Due to the evolving nature of this situation, cancellations may have to be made with short notice, for instance in the case of a public health directive. We will do our best to contact all those affected as quickly as possible.
Event Cancelations & Updates
UPDATED 6-24-20
Shops
Customer Care will remain accessible through info@gsutah.org and (801) 265-8472.
The Salt Lake City Retail Shop is open for in-person shopping (one person or family at a time) and curb-side orders and is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Face masks are required in the store. The SLC store has bridging kits, badges, and all your membership needs for the end of the year. Call 801-716-5141 for the Salt Lake shop for all in-shop purchases, curb-side pickup, and shipping orders.
The American Fork Retail Shop is open for curb-side orders Wednesday and Thursday from 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Beginning July 1, the American Fork store will open for in-person shopping (one person or family at a time); face masks will be required. For the American Fork shop, call 801-716-5107 for curb-side pickup.
We will continue provide shipping orders at no expense from the SLC store only. The Ogden retail store will remain closed until further notice.
Office Visitors
In accordance with CDC guidelines for workplace safety, our GSU offices are closed. Our staff is working from home, and will be available to provide consistent customer care throughout the temporary closure. If you have an urgent need to meet with a staff member, please send your request to info@gsutah.org.
Please see full guidelines for in-person troop meetings and activities above.
UPDATED 6-24-20
Please see full guidelines for in-person troop meetings and activities outlined above.
All in-person trainings have been canceled through June 30. Training participants will receive individual emails regarding cancelation, reschedule, or virtual opportunities.
Rescheduled trainings offered virtually:
UPDATED 5-1-2020
We have made the extremely difficult decision to cancel all resident, troop, day, mini, and Service Unit camps through August 16, 2020.
Recognizing that many schools, youth activities and community gatherings have been suspended, and that we are navigating a period of rapid change, Girl Scouts is offering a three-month extension from Sept. 30 to December 31, 2020.
This will provide flexibility for Girl Scout Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors earning Girl Scouts’ Highest Awards. This extension is particularly relevant for 5th-grade Juniors, 8th-grade Cadettes, and 12th-grade Ambassadors who will bridge to the next program age level officially on September 30, 2020 and who would typically no longer be eligible to earn the Bronze, Silver or Gold Awards, respectively.
Information about how this deadline will affect girls’ participation at Recognition of Excellence is forthcoming.
At this time, all council trips and travel, as well as troop trips and travel, have been canceled through June 30. We will continue to monitor state health and government guidelines and will keep you posted on updates.
Please fill out this application to gain council approval to take your girls on a trip or camping.
It is unfortunate that COVID-19 is interfering with Girl Scouts’ ability to meet and learn together. Thank you all for taking steps to ensure the safety of girls in this difficult time. While we cannot endorse or support specific online meeting tools for your use, we are aware of several tools troops and Service Units are using for virtual meetings. See below for a list of free and low-cost tools that could be useful to you. We encourage troop leaders to look at these and alternative options and discuss with parents and girls to determine what the best solution is for your troop’s needs.
Video and Audio-Conferencing Tools with free versions
While all of these options have a free version, please note you may be prompted to consider their upgraded versions for a subscription fee.
Zoom – FAQ
• Note: Meetings durations maximum of 40 minutes in free version
Skype – Support
• Note: Up to 10 participants free
Webex – Help Center
• Note: Limited file and content sharing in free version
Chat and Collaboration Tools with free versions
Additional low-cost tools for collaboration and conferencing to consider if the above options do not meet your group's needs.
Important Update from GSUSA - April 23, 2020
For 108 years, Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) has enabled girls to realize their biggest dreams and tap into their spirit of innovation, collaboration, and service to their communities to make the world a better place. Most recently, Girl Scouts, their families, volunteers, and supporters have mobilized to give back to those in need due to our current health crisis in safe and creative new ways.
Safety has always been at the heart of all Girl Scout activities. As we’ve continued to monitor public health experts’ recommendations and forecasts, it became clear that, because there are no widely accepted models that predict when it may be safe to hold large-scale, in-person events and when all restrictions on travel will be lifted, Girl Scouts could not hold our G.I.R.L. 2020/55th National Council Session in October as planned—we simply can’t guarantee the health and safety of participants. As we sought feedback from all key stakeholders, including delegates, we assessed and prepared for different scenarios, given the extraordinary circumstances we have been operating under due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. This included asking those expected to participate in NCS if they had any concerns about the event—74% responded they were concerned about the health and safety of participants (this was the top concern).
Given all of this, the National Board held a special meeting on Tuesday, April 21, and voted to hold a one-time virtual session for our 55th National Council Session in October 2020. The board also voted to cancel G.I.R.L. 2020, including the Global Roundtable.
We are reimagining NCS in the innovative spirit of our quick Movement pivot due to current challenges toward a 100 percent virtual experience to continue delivering for girls.
The board discussed various options and decided this was the best way to enable the business of Girl Scouting to continue in a timely manner and honor the significant business that was brought to the National Council, including four proposals initiated by councils and two that were co-created by councils and recommended to the board, as well as the business of electing the new board. We will be leveraging our councils’ learnings, as more than half have already held/decided to hold their annual meetings virtually this year.
We know this news is disappointing for the girls, troops, volunteers, alums, and supporters who were looking forward to meeting in Orlando for a truly impactful, girl-led event. Although we can’t meet in person, we encourage you to continue to connect with our unbreakable sisterhood via the many virtual events and activities we’ve recently launched for girls and their families, as well as our volunteers and alums, via Girl Scouts at Home™ and the Girl Scout Network's Campfire Chats. For local programming, visit GSU's Girl Scouting at Home page.
GSUSA is enormously grateful for the many volunteers and council leaders and staff who have been working to create amazing experiences for G.I.R.L. 2020/55th NCS. We want to send a special shout-out to the G-TEAM—26 brilliant young women from across Girl Scouts and Girl Guides who have played a central role in planning all aspects of our convention—and the six Florida host councils:
GSUSA will be refunding in full (100%) all convention registrations that were booked directly through GSUSA (please give us a few weeks to process them all). We also will be seeking additional feedback and support as we plan a virtual NCS. We ask for your patience as we work through the impact these decisions have on the many events and activities that were originally planned as part of G.I.R.L. 2020/55th NCS.
As always, Girl Scouts are trailblazers—with our pivot to a virtual National Council Session, we are making history and preserving Girl Scout’s democratic process while propelling our Movement into the future together through an engaging virtual experience.
If you have any questions, please refer to the FAQ. If you have additional questions, please email info@gsutah.org or call (801) 265-8472.
UPDATE 5-15-20
We are in a unique situation, where our council supports the entire state. Beginning Saturday, individual cities and counties are moving to the Yellow (Low Risk) Phase.
Because we serve the entire state, our decisions are made with the consideration of the council as a whole. We are concerned about ALL of our members, regardless of their physical location. Once every city/county has moved to the Yellow Phase, we will reassess our guidelines and dates.
We will continue to adhere to our guidelines outlined below in the 5-6-20 Update.
UPDATE 5-6-2020
We are extending the of cancellation of in-person meetings for troops and service units until June 30. We ask that you cancel or reschedule any meetings or activities planned for in-person and move to virtual when possible. We will continue to monitor state health and governor guidelines and will keep you posted on updates. This also includes all trips and travel for troops.
Destinations & Council Trips
At this time, all council trips and travel, as well as troop trips and travel, have been canceled through June 30. We will continue to monitor state health and government guidelines and will keep you posted on updates.
Please fill out this application to gain council approval to take your girls on a trip or camping.
Upcoming Cookie Celebrations
Dear Girl Scouts of Utah Girls, Families, and Volunteers,
As our community situation continues to evolve during the pandemic, the plans for Girl Scouts of Utah must shift accordingly. I want to share with you an important decision that has been made about our summer camps. We have made the extremely difficult decision to cancel all resident, troop, day, mini, and Service Unit camps through August 16, 2020.
Trust me when I say I completely understand how heartbreaking this news will be for our girls, families, volunteers, and staff. I began my career with Girl Scouts almost 30 years ago as an Outdoor Program Specialist, and Girl Scout camp literally changed my life.
At the end of the day, the health and safety of our girls and members always comes first. This guiding principle was at the forefront of our decision when we determined we could not guarantee health and safety in a camp setting during this pandemic. Even as the state guidelines are shifting, it is not possible to maintain social distancing restrictions, and adhere to other public gathering guidelines in a camp environment. In addition, we are not equipped to handle a resurgence of the virus should it happen at one of our programs. It was not a decision we chose to make, rather it was a decision we had to make.
Girl Scout camp is about sisterhood, developing a strong sense of self, encouraging each other, becoming resourceful problem solvers, and creating new and lifelong friends. Adhering to limited participant numbers and spatial distances constrains the high-quality experience we look to provide for our girls. The bottom line is that we are simply not willing to risk gathering Girl Scouts together before we know it is safe to do so. Our incredible Outdoor Program Team is developing new virtual camping programs for the summer, and we will continue to introduce additional online programs through our Girl Scouting at Home page.
As always, we will continue to post updates on our website, social media, and through emails. Please see our full FAQ regarding the 2020 Summer Camp Cancellation. We will continue to post new updates about office, shop, program, and activities here.
Thank you for your love of our Girl Scout camps and our programs. We are excited about the future and what’s possible. We look forward to next summer’s camp, when we can gather together around the campfire under the stars with our friends.
Lisa Hardin-Reynolds
Chief Executive Officer
Girl Scouts of Utah
Important Update from GSUSA
For 108 years, Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) has enabled girls to realize their biggest dreams and tap into their spirit of innovation, collaboration, and service to their communities to make the world a better place. Most recently, Girl Scouts, their families, volunteers, and supporters have mobilized to give back to those in need due to our current health crisis in safe and creative new ways.
Safety has always been at the heart of all Girl Scout activities. As we’ve continued to monitor public health experts’ recommendations and forecasts, it became clear that, because there are no widely accepted models that predict when it may be safe to hold large-scale, in-person events and when all restrictions on travel will be lifted, Girl Scouts could not hold our G.I.R.L. 2020/55th National Council Session in October as planned—we simply can’t guarantee the health and safety of participants. As we sought feedback from all key stakeholders, including delegates, we assessed and prepared for different scenarios, given the extraordinary circumstances we have been operating under due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. This included asking those expected to participate in NCS if they had any concerns about the event—74% responded they were concerned about the health and safety of participants (this was the top concern).
Given all of this, the National Board held a special meeting on Tuesday, April 21, and voted to hold a one-time virtual session for our 55th National Council Session in October 2020. The board also voted to cancel G.I.R.L. 2020, including the Global Roundtable.
We are reimagining NCS in the innovative spirit of our quick Movement pivot due to current challenges toward a 100 percent virtual experience to continue delivering for girls.
The board discussed various options and decided this was the best way to enable the business of Girl Scouting to continue in a timely manner and honor the significant business that was brought to the National Council, including four proposals initiated by councils and two that were co-created by councils and recommended to the board, as well as the business of electing the new board. We will be leveraging our councils’ learnings, as more than half have already held/decided to hold their annual meetings virtually this year.
We know this news is disappointing for the girls, troops, volunteers, alums, and supporters who were looking forward to meeting in Orlando for a truly impactful, girl-led event. Although we can’t meet in person, we encourage you to continue to connect with our unbreakable sisterhood via the many virtual events and activities we’ve recently launched for girls and their families, as well as our volunteers and alums, via Girl Scouts at Home™ and the Girl Scout Network's Campfire Chats. For local programming, visit GSU's Girl Scouting at Home page.
GSUSA is enormously grateful for the many volunteers and council leaders and staff who have been working to create amazing experiences for G.I.R.L. 2020/55th NCS. We want to send a special shout-out to the G-TEAM—26 brilliant young women from across Girl Scouts and Girl Guides who have played a central role in planning all aspects of our convention—and the six Florida host councils:
GSUSA will be refunding in full (100%) all convention registrations that were booked directly through GSUSA (please give us a few weeks to process them all). We also will be seeking additional feedback and support as we plan a virtual NCS. We ask for your patience as we work through the impact these decisions have on the many events and activities that were originally planned as part of G.I.R.L. 2020/55th NCS.
As always, Girl Scouts are trailblazers—with our pivot to a virtual National Council Session, we are making history and preserving Girl Scout’s democratic process while propelling our Movement into the future together through an engaging virtual experience.
If you have any questions, please refer to the FAQ. If you have additional questions, please email info@gsutah.org or call (801) 265-8472.
Cookie Update
Dear Cookie Volunteers,
Given the shortened cookie season for several councils throughout the country, GSUSA has deployed a reimagined online cookie campaign!
The Girl Scouts Cookie Care campaign encourages cookie supporters to go online and purchase donated cookies or purchase cookies to be shipped directly to their home. Girl Scouts will be able to distribute them to first responders, frontline volunteers, and local causes in need when it is safe to do so.
GSUSA created an online Virtual Cookie Booth campaign to push out to the general public to support local councils with their large amounts of remaining inventory. Councils have already purchased these cookies from the baker, and will need to sell these packages to help relieve the financial burden to avoid affecting program delivery and operations.
As part of this campaign, GSUSA will have a cookie landing page with the theme “Eat. Share. Show Communities We Care.” On the landing page, visitors can select the buy or donate button and they will be taken to a national Cookie Finder, where they will enter their zip code. Once their zip code is entered, they will be directed to a Council Digital page closest to their council. From the Council Digital page, visitors can purchase cookies to be shipped to them or donate cookies that will be allocated and delivered through a combination of efforts by Girl Scouts across the country. In Utah, these will be cookies from our remaining inventory, and cookie cupboards. The program has now launched nationally and includes GSU on their site. See the site here.
How can we partcipate, and what does this mean for us?
All troops were given the opportunity to choose one of three options for their cookie sale. They chose between: keeping their inventory for a future relaunch; returning their cookies to GSU; or reporting that their sale was complete for the 2020 season. For the approximately 100 troops who chose to keep their inventory, this new opportunity is considered the official relaunch. Although we know many troops would love to participate now in this new opportunity, at this time, our focus for this program will be the troops who chose to keep and sell their existing inventory.
We appreciate all troops understanding this process, and helping us spread the word and your sister Girl Scouts! When customers purchase or donate cookies, this helps other girls with their remaining cookies. This also helps reduce the financial burden of the large number of cookies remaining in the cupboards, and the cookie buybacks from troops. These cookies have already been paid in full by Girl Scouts of Utah to the baker.
Troops With Inventory
This option is only for troops who selected to participate in the relaunch of the cookie program.
While we have cookies in the cupboard, our top and number-one priority of this Cookie Care campaign is to ensure that all troops with remaining cookies are given the opportunity to complete the Cookie Program and have their financial obligations met in full.
In the next few days, a member of our Volunteer Support team will be reaching out to each Troop Cookie Manager to confirm how many packages are left in inventory.
As cookies are purchased or donated through our online site, we will work with individual troops to deplete their unsold inventory by marking for donation. This will be done as an equal percentage to distribute fairly among participating troops.
When a customer chooses to have cookies shipped directly to their home, these are shipped from the warehouse, not from our council cupboard. However, we will be honoring these sales and considering these “donated” cookies from each troop. In essence, we are donating one package of cookies for each package purchased online and will help fulfill troops’ outstanding inventory.
We will also have the option for donors to use a link to donate cash for cookies directly on our website. Both options are available on this site.
In the event that we do not sell through our troops’ existing inventory, we will look at additional strategies to complete the sale.
Your troop can take this learning and teambuilding opportunity to pick which Hometown Heroes – first responders, healthcare workers, and those working tirelessly in the community during this crisis – will get your donated cookies.
Once it becomes safe to do so, your troop can plan an outing to deliver these cookies. Please DO NOT deliver these cookies until you are informed by our council that it is safe to do so. Delivering cookies before given approval portrays an image of unsafe behavior that does not reflect positively on Girl Scouts.
Promote this website to all of your friends and family, letting them know that their #virtualcookiebooth purchases and donations will directly help girls in your troop. Sample messaging is available below, as well as links to social media graphics.
This is inclusive of ALL cookies in the market: cookies with troop leaders, and cookies with individual girls.
However, if you still have cookies that are meant to fulfill a Digital Cookie girl-delivery order, you must keep those cookies to be delivered to the paying customer as soon as it becomes safe to do so
Activity Credits & Proceeds
Troops who already chose to keep their inventory for a future relaunch are being made “whole,” meaning they will be receiving the Activity Credits and proceeds on time, as if the cookies had already been sold. Activity Credits will still go out in the beginning of May, as scheduled.
Girls with Digital Cookie Girl-Delivery Orders Still Not Delivered
Please keep these cookies to deliver once it becomes safe to do so and GSU approves deliveries. Please see #9 above.
Troops Who Indicated Their Sale Was Complete or Returned Cookies to GSU
Please help us spread the word and help your sister Girl Scouts! When customers purchase or donate cookies, this helps other girls with their remaining cookies. This also helps reduce the financial burden of the large number of cookies remaining in the cupboards, and the cookie buybacks from troops. These cookies have already been paid in full by Girl Scouts of Utah to the baker.
Public Support
Many people do not know a Girl Scout and don't want to leave their homes. The general public can use the GSUSA Cookie Care program mentioned above. There will be national advertising support behind this campaign. Please send them this link: https://www.gsutah.org/en/cookies/find-cookies.html
Troop Finances
Troops with outstanding balances with the council are working individually on a case-by-case basis with GSU’s Sr. Director of Finance. Thank you all for your patience as we worked through the logistics of finalizing the sale.
Guidelines for Participating and Promoting the Cookie Care Program
Social Media Sample Messaging
Graphics for Facebook and Instagram can be found on our Facebook page. Please feel free to share our posts or save the photo and use it as your own. Using photos of your troop during the cookie season is also a great way to tell our story!
FACEBOOK
Option A
Help our Girl Scout troop help Hometown Heroes! Our cookie booth season ended early due to COVID-19, but we still have cookies! For each box of cookies donated or purchased using this site, Girl Scouts of Utah will help us donate a box of our remaining inventory! When it is safe to do so, we will be taking these donated cookies to local healthcare workers, first responders, and those working tirelessly in our community during this crisis! #virtualcookiebooth #gsuhometownheroes https://www.gsutah.org/en/cookies/find-cookies.html
Option B
Girl Scouts have suspended door-to-door sale and cookie booths, and some of our sister Girl Scouts in Utah still had cookies to sell! For each box of cookies donated or purchased using this site, Girl Scouts of Utah will help area Girl Scouts donate a box of their remaining inventory. You can have them shipped right to your door – or you can choose to have them donated to our Hometown Heroes – local first responders, healthcare workers, frontline workers, and local causes in need. #virtualcookiebooth #gsuhometownheroes https://www.gsutah.org/en/cookies/find-cookies.html
INSTAGRAM
Option A
Help our Girl Scout troop help Hometown Heroes! Our cookie booth season ended early due to COVID-19, but we still have cookies! For each box of cookies donated or purchased using this site, @gsutah will help us donate a box of our remaining inventory! When it is safe to do so, we will be taking these donated cookies to local healthcare workers, first responders, and those working tirelessly in our community during this crisis! Visit www.gsutah.org #virtualcookiebooth #gsuhometownheroes
Option B
Girl Scouts have suspended door-to-door sale and cookie booths, and some of our sister Girl Scouts in Utah still had cookies to sell! For each box of cookies donated or purchased using this site, @gsutah will help area Girl Scouts donate a box of their remaining inventory. You can have them shipped right to your door – or you can choose to have them donated to our Hometown Heroes – local first responders, healthcare workers, frontline workers, and local causes in need. Visit www.gsutah.org #virtualcookiebooth #gsuhometownheroes
TWITTER
Girl Scouts in Utah had to end cookie booths early, and some still had cookies to sell! For each box of cookies donated or purchased using this site, @gsutah will help area Girl Scouts donate a box of their remaining inventory. Ship right to your door – or donate to our Hometown Heroes – local first responders, healthcare workers, frontline workers, and local causes in need. #virtualcookiebooth #gsuhometownheroes https://www.gsutah.org/en/cookies/find-cookies.html
Questions?
Please contact us at (801) 265-8472 or info@gsutah.org if you have any questions. As a reminder, a member of our Volunteer Support Team will be contacting you in the next few days if your troop chose to keep inventory and participate in our relaunch.
Council Update
Thank you so much for your support during these ever-changing times. We truly appreciate your patience as we manage the impact of COVID-19 on all council activities, the Cookie Program, and our business offices.
In light of the recent announcements to extend statewide school closures, we have decided to keep our GSU offices closed until May 10.
Safety and health remain our top priority. We are closely monitoring updates from the Centers for Disease Control, the World Health Organization, local public health departments, and school districts within our council boundaries. We are continuing to make decisions about gatherings and workplace closures based on the guidance of local officials. Our plans and guidance are based on the CDC’s suggested mitigation strategies. We plan to post at minimum weekly updates through newsletters, our website, and across our social media to keep you informed. Our current status as of March 24, 2020, at 3:00 p.m. is:
Cookie Program Update
GSU made the decision to cease all cookie sales effective March 14. As communicated on March 16, we are in this together and are doing right by our girls and troops, regardless of the financial implications to our council. Troops were presented with three options in regards to their cookie sales: keep existing inventory and participate in a re-launch of the sale, return remaining inventory, or report that they have completed their cookie sale for 2020. Thank you so much to the troops who provided this information. It has been incredibly helpful as we finalize our plans for the remaining inventory, as well as calculate girl rewards and troop proceeds.
To date, 2/3 of our troops have completed their sale for 2020, with 1/3 of our troops opting to participate in a re-launch with their remaining inventory.
We know we have leaders who feel that they are healthy and safe and have secured permission from parents, and we also understand troops’ enthusiasm and desire to sell remaining inventory. We must, however, require that everyone cease cookie sales until further information becomes available. It’s the right thing to do during this health crisis, when everyone is asked to take extreme caution and stay home.
Please be patient as we work through this. We are currently trying to reconcile the initial portion of our cookie sale, and do not have the bandwidth to contact individuals or troops who may be selling. We want everyone to be safe, but we are asking everyone to act like a Girl Scout, and be responsible for themselves and those they lead.
Coming Soon: We will have a new announcement regarding the Cookie Sale and will share it as we receive information from our baker and GSUSA.
Events, Activities, Programs & Promotions
All in-person programs have been canceled through May 10. Program registrants will receive individual emails regarding cancelation, reschedule, or virtual opportunities. New virtual program opportunities will be promoted to members via social media, newsletters, and the website as more become available. Next week's Volunteer and Girl/Parent newsletters will feature registration links for virtual programs.
Available Now: Please visit our Girl Scouting at Home page on our website, where you can find links to our council patch programs and partner programs! Make sure to visit the page often - we are frequently adding great new content!
Coming Soon: A brand-new national resource for Girl Scouting at Home will be launching soon from GSUSA. Please check your emails and social media for announcements!
Program Cancelations & Updates
All in-person programs have been canceled through May 10. Registered participants will receive individual emails regarding cancelation, reschedule, or virtual opportunities.
Event Cancelations & Updates
Training Updates
All in-person trainings have been canceled through May 10. Training participants will receive individual emails regarding cancelation, reschedule, or virtual opportunities.
Early Bird Renewal
With guidance from GSUSA, we will be postponing the launch of our Early Bird renewal promotion until May 1.
Action needed: Please see the updated flyer.
Bling Your Booth Entries
We saw many creative and unique booths during the first two weeks of the cookie sale, and many of you are asking how to submit your entries. Bling Your Booth submissions are due by March 31.
Action needed: If you haven't already posted, please email your entry to marketing@gsutah.org. Make sure to include your Troop number in the message.
Ongoing Communications
Stay Connected and Receive Council Updates
Please be sure to bookmark our dedicated webpage; like and follow us on Facebook and turn on notifications; and ensure contact information in your member profile is up to date so we can reach you via email (coming from info@gsutah.org); and voicemail (coming from 801-265-8472). Please add the contact email for this newsletter to your list of trusted contacts. These newsletters come from the address: email@email.girlscouts.org.
We appreciate your understanding and continued patience as we all face this unprecedented national crisis together. Be well!
Raising Awesome Girls
Help Kids Cope with Disappointment in the Face of COVID-19
From birthday parties and vacations to school plays, sports, and possibly even graduation ceremonies, the coronavirus pandemic has canceled so much we were all looking forward to. Your girl has FEELINGS about this. You can help.
Action needed: Read the article here.
Beyond Virtual Fieldtrips: Distance Learning During Coronavirus School Closures
Feeling overwhelmed by not just this coronavirus pandemic, but also that packet of work sent home from school? We’ve got you covered.
Supporting Your Troop When You Can't Meet In Person
If your troop is going digital while social distancing, here are some helpful tips!
Stuck at Home? 130+ FREE Outdoor Learning Activity Ideas
From making solar s’mores (no campfire needed) to building nature sculptures, these activities are natural energy and creativity boosters.
Action needed: Read the article here.
Dear Girl Scouts of Utah Members,
I want to take a moment to let you know that the staff and board of Girl Scouts of Utah are always thinking of our entire Girl Scout family, but especially after today's earthquake. Some of you have may have experienced physical damage to your homes, some are without power, and everyone is experiencing a higher level of uncertainty as we were already dealing with increased caution during this worldwide crisis.
The best thing we can do for our girls is to be a source of calm in this new, and hopefully temporary, normal.
Girl Scouts of the USA has published numerous articles to help talk to your girls during these challenging times. We have included a few topics below that may help after the events of this morning and our current COVID-19 crisis:
After the Disaster: 7 Tips to Help Girls Heal in the Weeks and Months after a Natural Disaster
7 Ways to Deal When the World Is Just So Overwhelming
How to Talk to Your Kids About Coronavirus
Please take care of your families, and know that we are thinking of everyone during this challenging time.
Lisa Hardin-Reynolds
Chief Executive Officer
Girl Scouts of Utah
COVID-19 Fifth Communication to Members
March 17, 2020
Dear Girl Scouts of Utah Members,
We appreciate your patience as we manage the impact of COVID-19 on our council activities, Cookie Program, and our business offices. On behalf of every staff member and volunteer involved in the decision-making in this rapidly changing environment, we can assure you that YOU are front of mind in every decision we make. We are in this together and will do right by our members in regards to the Cookie Program, regardless of the financial implications to our council.
We suspended the Cookie Booths effective March 14, 2020
What does this mean?
It means you must discontinue all public activity, including booths. We know many troops have already wrapped up their sale. The only way to sell cookies at this time is Digital Cookie (ship only and Gift of Caring).
Troop Inventory & Sales
We understand many of you are concerned about your troop inventory. Please trust that our troops and members have been at the forefront of every decision we have made.
At this time, we are requesting information from troop leaders/troop cookie managers, which can also be found here (deadline has passed). These are questions regarding remaining inventory, the decision to participate in a re-launch of the cookie sale, or whether your troop is done with your cookie sales. We need each troop to make their selection by Friday, March 20, at noon. This will be incredibly helpful as we finalize our contingency plans for remaining inventory, troop and SU proceeds, and girl rewards.
Business Operations
Beginning March 17, we will be expanding our virtual work capabilities for staff, and moving to a remote work from home reality through April 3. Although we don’t anticipate a reduction in service levels, we ask that you be patient with us as we employ new tactics to ensure business continuity.
GSU will be using a number of platforms to keep our members informed during this period. In addition to email, website and social media, we will be using the phone number (801) 265-8472 to distribute voicemail messages. Please be sure to note and save this number as a recognized, trusted contact.
We also encourage the use of our email, info@gsutah.org. Our website has the most up-to-date information regarding events, programs, activities, and more.
Be a Source of Comfort and Calm for Girls
Girl Scouts of the USA has developed a helpful resource for How to Talk to Your Girl About COVID-19 to help minimize stress and worry in your Girl Scout’s life and give her a sense of calm and control.
Thank you so much for your patience, and continued support of Girl Scouts in Utah.
Sincerely,
Lisa Hardin-Reynolds
Chief Executive Officer
Girl Scouts of Utah
Following recent developments in our state, GSU is requesting that all Girl Scout Cookie Booths be suspended effective immediately (March 14). As mentioned in yesterday's updates (see below), GSU will continue to evaluate the situation and follow up on the next steps of the Cookie Program as they become available.
Girl Scouts can still participate in the Digital Cookie online program where customers can have cookies shipped directly to them or donate to the Utah Food Bank through our Gift of Caring program.
COVID-19 Fourth Communication to Members
March 14, 2020
Dear Girl Scouts of Utah Members,
Following recent developments in our state, GSU is requesting that all Girl Scout Cookie Booths be suspended effective immediately. As mentioned in yesterday's updates (see below), GSU will continue to evaluate the situation and follow up on the next steps of the Cookie Program as they become available.
Girl Scouts can still participate in the Digital Cookie online program where customers can have cookies shipped directly to them or donate to the Utah Food Bank through our Gift of Caring program.
As a reminder, we are continuing to monitor the expansion of the coronavirus outbreak. We will be posting updates as they become available here on our website. You can also access this any time by clicking the blue link bar at the top of our home page.
Girl Scouts of Utah will communicate further changes as new information is released by the State of Utah.
If you have any questions, please contact our Customer Care Team at (801) 265-8472 or info@gsutah.org
Sincerely,
Lisa Hardin-Reynolds
Chief Executive Officer
Girl Scouts of Utah
COVID-19 Third Communication to Members
March 13, 2020
Dear Girl Scouts of Utah Members,
We have posted urgent new updates on our website, and urge all members to review them as soon as possible, as they address cookie booths, events, activites, programs, retail shops, and our offices.
As a reminder, we are continuing to monitor the expansion of the coronavirus outbreak. We will be posting updates as they become available here on our website. You can also access this any time by clicking the blue link bar at the top of our home page.
Girl Scouts of Utah will communicate further changes as new information is released by the State of Utah.
If you have any questions, please contact our Customer Care Team at (801) 265-8472 or info@gsutah.org
Sincerely,
Lisa Hardin-Reynolds
Chief Executive Officer
Girl Scouts of Utah
At Girl Scouts, there is nothing we take more seriously than the safety and well-being of our members. As Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to be of growing concern in Utah. Girl Scouts of Utah will take all possible and appropriate measures to ensure girls continue to have a safe, fun, one-of-a-kind experience at Girl Scouts.
Gov. Gary Herbert and the Utah Coronavirus Task Force is recommending gatherings of more than 100 people be canceled for two weeks beginning March 16 to slow the spread of COVID-19. (See website here). Some local governments have also closed many public services, including recreation centers, libraries, and senior centers.
We are hearing concern from some of our families and volunteers regarding preventing the spread of COVID-19 in our area. The safety and welfare of our girls and families is Girl Scouts of Utah's top priority. We are monitoring public health updates, plus the Center for Disease Control and World Health Organization. We are making decisions in a rapidly evolving environment.
We encourage families to make the best decision for their entrepreneur and her cookie business during these last 10 days of the 2020 Cookie Season. Please remember, Digital Cookie ship-only options are still available through March 22.
Booth safety:
In adherence with the State of Utah’s preventative measures released March 12, 2020, regarding COVID-19, Girl Scouts of Utah will be rescheduling or canceling events over 100 people until March 30. State of Utah Recommendations:
How does this affect GSU council-sponsored events, activities, and programs?
How does this affect cookie booths?
We encourage families to make the best decision for their entrepreneur and her cookie business during these last 10 days of the 2020 Cookie Season.
Cookie booths can proceed as scheduled, while exercising good judgement and recommended hygiene.
Stores are extremely busy right now, so please follow the guidelines below to stay safe:
What about Program Partner & Service Unit events offered exclusively to Girl Scouts?
Girl Scouts of Utah will communicate further changes as new information is released by the State of Utah.
COVID-19 Second Communication to Members
March 12, 2020
Dear Girl Scouts of Utah Members,
We are continuing to monitor the expansion of the coronavirus outbreak. Out of an abundance of caution and for the safety of our members and staff, GSU is taking the proper precautions in regards to meetings and events. We will be posting updates as they become available here on our website. You can also access this any time by clicking the blue link bar at the top of our home page.
In adherence with the State of Utah’s preventative measures released March 12, 2020, regarding COVID-19, Girl Scouts of Utah will be rescheduling or canceling events over 100 people until March 30.
State of Utah Recommendations:
How does this affect cookie booths?
Cookie booths can proceed as scheduled, while exercising good judgement and recommended hygiene.
Stores are extremely busy right now, so please follow the guidelines below to stay safe:
Girl Scouts of Utah will communicate further changes as new information is released by the State of Utah.
If you have any questions, please contact our Customer Care Team at
(801) 265-8472 or info@gsutah.org
Thank you for your part in ensuring Girl Scouts is a safe, fun space for everyone!
Sincerely,
Lisa Hardin-Reynolds
Chief Executive Officer
Girl Scouts of Utah
As much as possible, children should be allowed to carry on with their education and normal activities. We understand that some children have underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk, and caregivers of children with underlying health conditions should consult with healthcare providers about whether their children should stay home.
Will you be canceling any programs? How much notice will you give if you cancel any programs? Will we receive full refunds?
Registered participants will be contacted about cancellations and refunds as quickly as possible when decisions are made.
As always, if council-led programs or events need to be canceled, registered participants will receive refunds. Due to the evolving nature of this situation, cancellations may have to be made with short notice, for instance in the case of a public health directive. We will do our best to contact all those affected as quickly as possible.
Non-health-related cancellations must be received by the published registration deadline to get a refund or to transfer to a different course. Cancellations received after the published registration deadline are not refundable
What is Girl Scouts of Utah doing in response to the Coronavirus?
Girl Scouts of Utah is monitoring the situation closely. The Council has convened a task force which is actively monitoring guidelines provided by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), as well as state and local health departments to respond quickly to any shifts in their recommendations. Based on public health authorities’ current guidance, we are operating as usual but also working on contingency plans as needed.
Will Girl Scouts of Utah be cancelling any programs?
Public health authorities’ current guidance does not include closures or cancellations of functions at this time. All planned activities are going on as scheduled. Decisions regarding participation in Girl Scout activities are left up to the good judgement and discretion of parents and caregivers. We are operating as usual but will be prepared for changing circumstances and will share updates as they become available.
How much notice will you give if you cancel any programs?
Will we receive full refunds?
While we do not anticipate canceling programs or events, due to the evolving nature of this situation, cancellations may have to be made with short notice, for instance, in the case of a public health directive. If GSU-sponsored programs or events need to be cancelled, registered participants will receive the opportunity to sign up for a future event, opt to donate to GSU, or request a partial or full refund, if applicable. We will do our best to contact all those affected as quickly as possible. Please be sure that your contact information is up-to-date in your myGS and UltraCamp profile.
What is a coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The most recently discovered coronavirus causes coronavirus disease COVID-19.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus. This new virus and disease were unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don't feel unwell. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. Around 1 out of every 6 people who gets COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness. About 2% of people with the disease have died. People with fever, cough, and difficulty breathing should seek medical attention.
What steps can girls, volunteers, and staff take to prevent the spread of coronavirus?
Please follow all of the steps recommended by the CDC (see https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/2019-ncov-factsheet.pdf). The same simple steps that prevent the spread of ordinary flu viruses work against coronavirus and other illnesses:
Can the virus that causes COVID-19 be transmitted through the air?
Studies to date suggest that the virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through contact with respiratory droplets rather than through the air.
Can COVID-19 be caught from a person who has no symptoms?
The main way the disease spreads is through respiratory droplets expelled by someone who is coughing. The risk of catching COVID-19 from someone with no symptoms at all is very low. However, many people with COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms. This is particularly true at the early stages of the disease. It is therefore possible to catch COVID-19 from someone who has, for example, just a mild cough and does not feel ill. World Health Organization (WHO) is assessing ongoing research on the period of transmission of COVID-19 and will continue to share updated findings.
What is the CDC doing about COVID-19?
This is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation and CDC will continue to provide updated information as it becomes available. CDC works 24/7 to protect people’s health. More information about CDC’s response to COVID-19 is available online.
Where can I go to learn more about COVID-19?
Resources from the CDC and Salt Lake County Health Department
CDC Coronavirus Travel Information
Salt Lake County Health Department Information
Girl Scouts has also created a way to talk to girls not by avoiding the topic, but by tackling it head-on.
Help Her Be Happy and Healthy (Raising Awesome Girls Blog)
Since COVID-19 is spread through contact with others, is it still safe for our girls to be selling cookies in public places?
The safety and well-being of girls and volunteers is of paramount importance during all Girl Scout activities, especially the Girl Scout Cookie Program. We encourage all girls and volunteers to follow all safety and health protocols and are actively disseminating information from the CDC and other sources as it becomes available. Currently, we encourage girls and volunteers to continue with their cookie sales, exercising caution and discretion. We will keep our volunteers updated on any change in our recommendation.
Does Girl Scouts have any medical expertise?
While Girl Scouts strives to be a resource for girls and their caregivers, we want to ensure that official guidance of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and other official sources reach our members in a timely and efficient manner.
Dear Girl Scouts of Utah Members,
We understand that you have a concern about Coronavirus, and we take the health and safety of our girls, volunteers, and staff seriously. GSU, along with our national organization, GSUSA, will be following the CDC’s guidance and updates, including their information about prevention and travel.
We encourage volunteers, caregivers and girls to use their best judgement when determining cookie booth locations, and to follow all health and safety guidance from Girl Scouts and other official sources, which we will continue to make available as we learn more.
Please review the information from the CDC and Salt Lake County Health Department regarding preventative measures below.
If things change or escalate, we will make a decision as a council based on information from local health departments, schools, and the CDC. We will communicate on how to proceed in managing overall business, including cookie booths and programs.
How concerned should we be about COVID-19 in Salt Lake City?
According to the Salt Lake County Health Department (SLCHD), the risk of Utahns contracting COVID-19 locally is still low, but they still encourage everyone to practice good hygiene, including thorough and frequent handwashing, avoiding contact with those who are sick, and staying home from work if you have symptoms of flu-like illness.
Who is at risk of severe illness from COVID-19?
Most cases of COVID-19 are mild and consist of a fever and cough that goes away on its own, especially in otherwise healthy children and adults. Those over the age of 65 years and people with underlying medical conditions are at highest risk for developing severe illness. If you or your children have a fever and cough or shortness of breath, it is important to avoid coming into contact with these vulnerable populations.
What can we do to prepare for a possible outbreak of COVID-19 in Utah?
SLCHD is encouraging community members to keep on hand at least a two-week supply of food, as well as prescription and nonprescription drugs (in case of quarantine). They’ve also admonished that “While it is always good to ensure your 72-hour kits are stocked, it is not necessary to purchase water or most other emergency supplies in response to COVID-19; this is not a natural disaster and our utility systems, including water and electricity, will continue to function normally during an outbreak.”
What should I be doing?
Please remember that the best protection is self-protection and self-monitoring, especially in this flu season. Health officials recommend the following measures to minimize your risk of contracting any virus:
In regards to Girl Scout Cookie Booths:
Stores are extremely busy right now, so please follow the guidelines above to stay safe, as well as booth-specific details below:
Girl Scouts has also created a way to talk to girls not by avoiding the topic, but by tackling it head-on.
Help Her Be Happy and Healthy (Raising Awesome Girls Blog)
Resources from the CDC and Salt Lake County Health Department
CDC Coronavirus Travel Information
Salt Lake County Health Department Information
If you have any questions, please contact our Customer Care Team at (801) 265-8472 or info@gsutah.org
Sincerely,
Lisa Hardin-Reynolds
Chief Executive Officer
Girl Scouts of Utah
