Growth in the Sylvan Lake area is leading to more girls joining Girl Guide groups and new groups being formed.
The groups include Sparks (5 and 6 year olds), Brownies (7 and 8 year olds), Guides (9-11 year olds), Pathfinders (11-14 year olds) and Rangers (15-17 year olds).
Judy Scanland said the female-only organization has added groups in Bentley and Eckville this year. Rangers is also brand new in Sylvan Lake, she added.
“Enrolment is higher than in the past” and that’s leading to a need for more adults to become leaders.
Online registration is available for those who want to register their children, at www.girlguides.ca. If you’re interested in becoming a leader, contact Bev Witham at 403-887-4717. Training is provided for adults who wish to become leaders.
Scanland has been involved in the organization for many years and said they have a core of longtime committed leaders who can mentor new leaders.
The Guide year starts Sept. 11 in Sylvan Lake with Sparks and Brownies meeting Tuesday evenings and Guides and Pathfinders Thursday evenings at Memorial Presbyterian Church.
In Eckville they’re meeting Wednesday evenings at the community centre. The meeting night and location has yet to be decided for those in Bentley.
Scanland described Girl Guides as an organization that promotes personal development and growth for young ladies. “It’s a chance to grow and interact with other similar-aged kids.”
It’s open to people of all abilities. In the past the Sylvan Lake group has had members who had developmental challenges or were confined to a wheelchair.
The groups are very involved in the community. They will be participating in the shoreline cleanup on Sept. 23 and work with the fire department on a food bank drive held in conjunction with Fire Prevention Week in October. The girls also spend time with seniors in the community and at the lodge.
“There are lots of camping opportunities and an Arts Day.
“You don’t have to compete to succeed,” she said noting the girls work at their own pace on various projects.
Scanland said she’s had several people asking about the annual mint cookie sales drive. That’s taking place Oct. 13-14 at locations throughout the community. Watch for more information closer to that date.