Every October 31, we celebrate Girl Scout Founder’s Day, a special occasion to honor the incredible contributions of Juliette Gordon Low, the visionary who founded the Girl Scouts of the USA in 1912. This day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a celebration of courage, confidence, and character—the very pillars on which the Girl Scouts stand.
The History Behind Girl Scout Founder’s Day
Juliette Gordon Low, affectionately known as “Daisy,” was born on October 31, 1860, in Savannah, Georgia. Her passion for empowering young women led her to establish the Girl Scouts, a movement that would inspire millions of girls to become leaders and change-makers. Starting with just 18 girls in Savannah, the organization grew into a global force for good, teaching life skills, leadership, and community service.
Founder’s Day is celebrated on her birthday to commemorate her remarkable vision and dedication. It’s a day to reflect on how one woman’s dream has shaped generations of young women, helping them develop into confident leaders who make the world a better place.
Why Is Girl Scout Founder’s Day Significant?
At its core, Girl Scout Founder’s Day is about honoring the values that Juliette Gordon Low instilled in the organization. The Girl Scouts stand for inclusivity, empowerment, and service to others. This day is a reminder of the importance of nurturing these values in young girls, helping them overcome challenges, and encouraging them to dream big.
The impact of the Girl Scouts is undeniable. From earning badges that teach vital skills to participating in community projects, Girl Scouts have played a pivotal role in shaping leaders in various fields, including politics, business, and the arts. Founder’s Day shines a spotlight on this legacy, inspiring us to continue supporting the young girls who will lead tomorrow.
How to Celebrate Girl Scout Founder’s Day
There are countless ways to celebrate this inspiring day! Here are a few ideas:
- Join a Troop: If you or someone you know is interested in joining the Girl Scouts, Founder’s Day is a perfect time to sign up.
- Volunteer: Support a local troop by volunteering your time or resources. From mentoring to helping with events, your contribution can make a big difference.
- Host a Celebration: Organize a Founder’s Day event to honor Juliette Gordon Low’s legacy. Include activities like badge-earning workshops, storytelling sessions, and community service projects.
- Spread the Word: Share the story of Juliette Gordon Low and the Girl Scouts on social media to inspire others to get involved.
Fun Facts About Juliette Gordon Low and the Girl Scouts
- Juliette Gordon Low sold her beloved string of pearls to fund the Girl Scouts in its early days.
- The first Girl Scout handbook, published in 1913, included instructions on how to stop a runaway horse!
- Girl Scouts sell over 200 million boxes of cookies annually, raising funds for various troop activities and community projects.
- Famous Girl Scout alumnae include former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, actress Lucille Ball, and astronaut Sally Ride.
Join the Celebration!
As we mark Girl Scout Founder’s Day on October 31, 2025, let’s take a moment to celebrate the incredible legacy of Juliette Gordon Low and the millions of girls who have benefited from her vision. Whether you’re a current or former Girl Scout, a parent, or simply an admirer of this empowering movement, there’s a way for everyone to get involved. Let’s honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future!
