Archived COVID-19 Updates

Please note, the earlier communications listed below are out-of-date. Please refer to the most recent communications above for current information and recommendations.

10/14/20 Website Update

GSU ALIGNS WITH UTAH TRANSMISSION INDEX GUIDELINE

UPDATED 10/14/2020

The state of Utah and their COVID-19 team announced on October 13 they are transitioning from their color-coded guidelines to Utah Health Guidelines based on a Transmission Index. The Transmission Index was the result of state and local health officials, the Governor’s office, legislative leaders, the hospital industry, and business leaders. Girl Scouts of Utah will follow this approach as data makes the determinations based on the county. The new approach (High, Moderate, and Low) empowers communities (based on their county) to determine the activities to be held, provided necessary precautions are in place.

Based on the updated guidelines, GSU recommends that all in-person activities should be 10 people or fewer until further notice, if the county risk you reside in is Moderate or High. Low Risk counties may continue to have in-person activities of fewer than 50 people, with masks and social distancing recommended. We reinforce the use of masks, social distance, hygiene practices, and staying home while sick as the best course of action to reduce the spread of the virus.

Due to the high number of cases in our state, as well as guidance from GSUSA, State of Utah, and the CDC, GSU will not host in-person programming until further notice. GSU will continue to align with the state guidelines and provide in-person activities when it is safe to do so.

Programs will continue to be delivered in a virtual format. For a complete list of virtual programs available locally and from GSUSA, visit our Girl Scouting at Home page.

10/6/20 Website Update

FACILITY AND IN-PERSON PROGRAMMING UPDATE
Updated 10/6/20

Due to the high number of cases in our state, as well as guidance from GSUSA and the CDC, we are not currently hosting any in-person programming at this time.

We evaluate this weekly, and if the situation changes, we will update this website and our member newsletters.

Programs will continue to be delivered in a virtual format. For a complete list of virtual programs available locally and from GSUSA, visit our Girl Scouting at Home page.

Council Resource Centers & Retail Shops

Our Salt Lake City, American Fork, and Ogden offices are currently closed to the public. Our SLC and American Fork retail shops are open with strict mask and social distancing guidelines. Please see the current retail hours here.

Trefoil Ranch

No in-person programs are being held at Trefoil Ranch due to the current orange risk phase from the state for Provo and Orem. Once restrictions are lifted, we will revisit our in-person programming.

Camp Cloud Rim

Camp Cloud Rim is closed for the season

9/24/20 Website Update

UPDATE 9-24-2020

Provo & Orem Orange Risk Phase Guidelines

Based on the recent developments of Provo and Orem cities moving to the orange risk level, please be advised of the following changes to troop and service unit meetings and gatherings, as well as programs at Trefoil Ranch.

How does this affect you?

Troop/SU Meetings in Provo & Orem

No in-person meetings or gatherings (regardless of indoor or outdoor location)

Trefoil Ranch

We will be postponing all mini and day camps at Trefoil Ranch until Provo returns to a yellow risk phase.
If you have previously scheduled a reservation at Trefoil Ranch, you will be contacted by a member of our team to cancel or reschedule.

Does this affect the American Fork retail shop?

Our American Fork retail shop will continue to operate under our previously-communicated hours and restrictions. The shop is open for in-person shopping and curb-side orders. The store is limited to one customer or family at a time, and face coverings are required.

The shop is currently open under our Fall Hours:

Tuesday-Thursday 12:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Second Saturday of the month – 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Closed Mondays, Fridays, and holidays
Call (801) 716-5107 to speak with the shop to submit your order and schedule a pick-up.

Our SLC retail shop is still open, with implemented restrictions (social distancing, masks required).

8/25/20 Camp Properties Update

UPDATE 8-25-20

We are pleased to announce that we will be reopening our beloved camps, Camp Cloud Rim and Trefoil Ranch, for limited day-only use beginning August 28 for the following programs:

Council events
Never the Same Weekends hosted by Service Units (NTSW)
Camp rentals for troops

In alignment with national and local guidelines, we are taking precautions:

No overnights; day-only events until Utah has successfully passed into the green phase (normal risk) of the reopening process.
Reduce total event capacity to 50 people or less, including staff.
Face coverings and physical distancing required.
Enhanced sanitation and food service protocols.
Hold activities outdoors when possible.

If you currently have a reservation for a council event, NTSW, or camp rental for troops, we will contact you directly to answer questions and to support you in making decisions about your event. If you would like to make a reservation, please email info@gsutah.org.

5/15/20 Website Update

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.

5/6/20 Website 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

May 29-30 - 1,000+ Cookie Extravaganza rescheduled for October 2-3 at Trefoil Ranch.
June 6 - Cookie Celebration at Cowabunga Bay - This party will not be held as originally planned. We are currently working on alternative options and will share details when they become available.

5/1/20 Camp Update to Members

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

4/23/20 G.I.R.L. 2020 Update

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:

Girl Scouts of Citrus
Girl Scouts of Gateway Council
Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida
Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida
Girl Scouts of Tropical Florida
Girl Scouts of West Central Florida

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.

4/1/20 Urgent Cookie Update for Volunteers

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

Please use the below messaging to help spread the word on your personal social media accounts or through your personal email. Because we are not sharing individual girl information and customers are sent directly to the council site, you may post in any social media groups.
Use the supplied social media graphics, or a photo of your troop at your cookie booths! You can find graphics to use on our Facebook and Instagram pages.
Please DO NOT deliver these cookies until you are informed by our council that it is safe to do so. As Girl Scouts, this portrays an image of unsafe behavior that does not reflect positively on Girl Scouts. 99% of the time, these would have been great opportunities for girls, but at this time, this portrays Girl Scouts out in the community, putting themselves in harm’s way.
DO NOT CONTACT LOCAL MEDIA OR LOCAL BLOGS. All media is being coordinated by our VP of Communications, Callie Birdsall-Chambers. If a member of any media outlet contacts you, please direct them to cbirdsallchambers@gsutah.org or (801) 716-5137. Even if the member of the media is a relative or friend, please direct them to Callie.

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.

3/26/20 Email Update to Volunteers

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:

In-person council programs have been canceled, rescheduled, or offered virtually through May 10, 2020.
All service centers and shops will be closed completely (to employees and the public) through May 10, 2020. Employees in these areas will be working remotely. Customer care will remain accessible through info@gsutah.org and (801) 265-8472.
Please suspend, cancel, or postpone all in-person troop meetings, service unit meetings and events, troop travel, and other Girl Scout-related gatherings through May 10, 2020. We recommend using virtual platforms (available here).
In some cases, programs and events that depend on partners for delivery have also been canceled beyond May 10. Programs will be officially canceled and refunds will be provided.

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.

All Never the Same Weekends through May 10 – Canceled
March 27 – Arches Girl Scout Ranger – Canceled
March 28 – Rosie’s Petal Party – Canceled
March 28 – STEM Exploration Day – Canceled
March 28 – Writer’s Workshop – Available Online (details to come)
April 3 – Girl Scout Night with the SWE – Canceled
April 4 – Think Like an Engineer – Reschedule pending
April 14 – STEM 101 – Available Online (details to come)
April 17 – Roar & Snore – Canceled

Event Cancelations & Updates

April 25 - Annual Meeting – Rescheduled until August 22. More information coming soon, delegates receiving emails
April 27 - GSU Staff Inservice - Canceled
May 8 - Centennial Celebration & Donor Celebration – Canceled
May 9 - Centennial Bridging Event – Canceled

Training Updates

All in-person trainings have been canceled through May 10. Training participants will receive individual emails regarding cancelation, reschedule, or virtual opportunities.

April 1 – New Troop Leader Training (SLC) – Available Online
April 3 & 4 – Program Aide Training (Ogden) –Reschedule pending
April 8 – Troop Leader Boost –Reschedule pending
April 15 – New Troop Leader Training (Ogden) – Available Online
April 21 – Camping 101 – Available Online
April 30 – CPR/First Aid (online & in-person) (Ogden) –Reschedule pending
April 30 – Extended Overnight Training (SLC) – Available Online
May 6 – New Troop Leader Training (SLC) - Available Online
May 7 – CPR/First Aid (online & in-person) (SLC) - Reschedule pending
May 8 & 9 – Program Aide Training (American Fork) - Reschedule pending

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.

3/18/20 Email to Members About Earthquake & Resources for Talking to Your Girl

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

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

3/16/20 Email Update to Members

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

3/14/20 Website Update

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.

3/14/20 Email Update to Members

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

3/13/20 Email Update to Members

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.

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

3/13/20 Website Update

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.

3/12/20 Cookie Update

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:

Hand sanitizer for girls and adults to use between each customer
Disposable gloves in booth kits
Adults should handle money
Social distancing – set up a table with girls standing behind the table
Stay home if you are sick
Cancel booth(s) in eBudde if not attending
Help girls leverage their online business to meet their goals

3/12/20 Website Update

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:

No large events or mass gatherings over 100 people
Anyone over 60 years old or who is immunosuppressed should not attend gatherings of more than 20 people
There are currently no restrictions on going to the grocery store

How does this affect GSU council-sponsored events, activities, and programs?

Any council-sponsored events scheduled between now and March 30 for over 100 people will be canceled.

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:

Make sure to have hand sanitizer at your booth
Do not distribute or display sample cookies at your booth
You may use plastic gloves if you choose
As a reminder, refrain from eating and drinking at the booths
Avoid shaking hands – this is a great opportunity for girls to learn how to say “Thank You” in different ways.

What about Program Partner & Service Unit events offered exclusively to Girl Scouts?

Program Partners and Service Units offer events that are exclusively for Girl Scout members (like a badge workshop, journey workshop, etc.). Ultimately, it is up to the discretion of each Program Partner/Service Unit to determine if they will cancel or reschedule. If we receive word that they have been canceled, they will be listed with other canceled events and programs, and participants will be notified directly.

Girl Scouts of Utah will communicate further changes as new information is released by the State of Utah.

3/12/20 Email Update to Members

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:

No large events or mass gatherings over 100 people
Anyone over 60 years old or who is immunosuppressed should not attend gatherings of more than 20 people
There are currently no restrictions on going to the grocery store
How does this affect GSU council-sponsored events, activities, and programs?
Any council-sponsored events scheduled between now and March 30 for over 100 people will be canceled

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:

Make sure to have hand sanitizer at your booth
Do not distribute or display sample cookies at your booth
You may use plastic gloves if you choose
As a reminder, refrain from eating and drinking at the booths
Avoid shaking hands – this is a great opportunity for girls to learn how to say “Thank You” in different ways

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

3/11/20 Program, Activity, and Event Updates

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

3/11/20 Email Update to Members

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:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Cough into a tissue or your elbow (not your hand). Then throw tissue away and wash hands.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid contact with people who are sick.
Stay home when you are sick, with temperature above 100.0 F or do not feel well, appear weak or ill.
Consult your health care provider if you have special health conditions that put you at increased risk.

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 Guidance & Updates

CDC Coronavirus Prevention

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.

3/05/20 Email Update to Members

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:

Wash hands frequently especially after sneezing, shaking hands/bodily contact with another individual, and before eating. Use soap and water for 20 seconds or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick - health officials call this “social distancing” and recommend staying about three feet away from someone who is sick.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, like your phone or computer.
Cover the nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing then throw the tissue in the trash, or as a last resort cough into the elbow.
Stay home when you are not feeling well.
Get plenty of sleep, good nutrition, stress-relief, and exercise – a healthy body is the best defense against illness.

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:

Make sure to have hand sanitizer at your booth.
Do not distribute or display sample cookies at your booth.
You may use plastic gloves if you choose.
As a reminder, refrain from eating and drinking at the booths.
Avoid shaking hands – this is a great opportunity for girls to learn how to say “Thank You” in different ways.

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 Guidance & Updates

CDC Coronavirus Prevention

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