Guest Author - Diana Laulainen-Schein

For those of us who were Girl Scouts when we were younger (and heck probably those who weren’t), those colorful badges, patches, and Try Its that the girls earn still hold some wistful appeal. Adults can buy the unearned patches, of course, and you can see those purchases adorning Girl Scout shirts and products of all kinds (in our council, patches generally go on blue-jean button down shirts). In addition to the patches, there are actual adult recognitions available as well. They aren't nearly as colorful, but they are ever bit as meaningful.

There are two kinds of awards, earned and nominated. The earned awards generally recognize years of service and completion of training at the adult level. These awards are handed out in your neighborhood when you notify them of your eligibility.

To receive nominated awards, an individual must be nominated and letters of endorsement secured. Details of the nominated individual’s service are also required. For example, on the "Outstanding Leader" application, a brief summary of the nominee's leader's achievements in four areas (program delivery, community service, training, and administration) is requested.

Some councils also have their own awards and honors that are available in addition to these standard earned and nominated recognitions. Check with your council office for local award and recognition options. Your neighborhood service team and/or your local council can provide you with the appropriate forms to nominate individuals.

Summary of Awards and Recognitions

Earned Awards

Numeral Guards: These guards are awarded in five-year intervals starting with year 5. To determine if you are eligible, count your years in Scouting, including years as a girl and years as an adult.

Years of Service Pins: These pins are awarded in five-year intervals for the number of years completed as an adult volunteer.

Three-Year Leader Pins: These pins are awarded after the first three consecutive years of leadership in your local Scout Council.

Leadership Development Pins: These pins are awarded to leaders who have completed all of the recommended training courses and who attend events beyond troop meetings.

Leadership Development Leaves: This award is an extension of the leader development pin and involves acquiring 10 additional hours of training for each leaf. Leaves start out green and can be traded in for silver and gold leaves as more hours are accumulated.

Nominated Awards

Neighborhood Awards

* Outstanding Leader
* Outstanding Volunteer

GSUSA Awards

* Appreciation Pin
* Honor Pin
* Thanks Badge
* Thanks Badge II