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Council Update on Special 57th NCS
Dear Members,
At Girl Scouts, our mission has always been—and will always be—to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.
On Saturday, October 19, more than 800 delegates from across the country—including five Girl Scouts and five adults from our own council—came together virtually for the Special 57th National Council Session.
National Council Sessions reflect the heart of our democratic process—one that is by Girl Scouts, for Girl Scouts. I was truly inspired by the enthusiasm, knowledge, and thoughtful perspectives our National Delegates brought to these important conversations, along with the respect they showed one another throughout the grueling, twelve-hour session.
As you’ve heard directly from GSUSA, the National Council engaged in meaningful debate over two proposals to increase annual membership dues. Ultimately, they voted to raise youth membership dues to $65, which will be introduced in phases: $45 for Membership Year 2026 and $65 for Membership Year 2027. Adult membership dues will also increase to $30, beginning in Membership Year 2026.
It’s important to share that the annual membership dues go directly to GSUSA. As such, GSHNJ adds a $15 annual council service fee to all youth memberships which supports our local financial assistance pool and helps defray costs for developing and delivering local camp and program experiences. As a result, families currently pay $40 for youth memberships at GSHNJ; with the new adjustments, this amount will increase to $60 in 2026 and $80 in 2027.
Research shows that now, more than ever, the world needs girls who are happy, confident, and ready to make an impact on their families, their communities, their country, and the world. Raising these capable and resilient girls takes more than a village—it takes a Movement.
Girl Scouting is that Movement. We have what parents and caregivers want for their families, and we offer what they need to thrive. These investments will strengthen our ability to serve the members we have today—and allow us to reach even more girls tomorrow.
To learn more about the Special 57th National Council Session, visit here for more information.
Natasha Hemmings
CEO, Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey.
October 21, 2024
