How to Start a Troop

As a leader, you’ll guide your troop through girl-led experiences and skill-building activities, give back to your community, have fun and build lifelong friendships along the way. We know you have questions and need a little time to consider whether you are ready to step into this role, so we wanted to share some additional information with you.

Commonly Asked Questions

How much time will I need?

Being a troop leader fits into a variety of schedules.

Choose the meeting day, time, frequency and location
Leaders report spending four hours preparing for and leading each troop meeting

What if I don’t know how to do the things Girl Scouts do?

YOU bring everything you need to start leading your troop! You’re helping girls become their best selves through your experiences, support and inspiration. If girls are making decisions, smiling and having a good time, leaders are doing a great job! Council will provide you with additional support and training.

In-person training and orientation helps you get started
Volunteer Toolkit (VTK) is an online planning resource accessible from any device
Access convenient, online training videos and resources

What support or help is there for troop leaders?

You’re a stronger leader with council training and support.

Your co-leader will bring complementary skills to help lead and share fun
Parents can volunteer to help the troop grow stronger
Council staff and volunteers provide support for questions and guidance when you need it
Detailed activity plans in the VTK make it easy to plan troop meetings

Ready to become a volunteer?

Become a GSNYPENN member and pay the $25 annual fee (financial assistance may be available)
Complete a background check—girl safety is our #1 priority; all volunteers are required to submit a background check through Sterling Volunteers
Attend orientation—you’ll receive a call to set up a convenient day and time to meet with a council staff member or local volunteers who can answer your questions and explain more about the Girl Scout Leadership Experience
There are many volunteer positions available. Let us know if you would like to explore other volunteer positions to match your skills and interests with the perfect volunteer role!

We hope you’ll consider leading a troop to help girls find their inner G.I.R.L. (Go-Getter, Innovator, Risk-Taker, Leader)™.

If you have questions, or want to get started now, call us at 1.315.698.9400 or 1.800.943.4414, option 2 or email info@gsnypenn.org.