[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 29 (Thursday, March 14, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E347]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     GIRL SCOUTS' 90TH ANNIVERSARY

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                            HON. MAC COLLINS

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 14, 2002

  Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, ninety years ago, in Savannah, Georgia, 
Juliette Gordon Low formed an organization for girls. The original Girl 
Scout troop consisted of 18 girls from the Savannah community. Today, 
the Girl Scout organization has grown to include more than 3.7 million 
current members, and more than 50 million girls and women have at one 
time or another been members of the Girl Scouts of America.
  The Girl Scouts of America was recognized by this body in 1950 by a 
Congressional Charter. Today, they are part of a global family that 
serves more than 140 nations and has more than 10 million members.
  While we all are familiar with Girl Scout Cookies, what many people 
are not aware of is the diverse make-up of Girl Scout Troops in this 
nation and around the world. Currently in the United States there are 
more than 233,000 troops meeting in homes, churches, schools and 
community centers. Nearly one million adults volunteer serve as leaders 
to teach girls self-confidence and skills, and to encourage them to 
think creatively and to act with integrity.
  In addition to conventional troops, Girl Scouts meet in detention 
centers, and group homes. They meet, in homeless shelters, and in 
migrant farm camps, and some meet via the Internet. The goal is to 
allow as many girls as possible to develop their full potential; relate 
positively with others; develop values that provide the foundation for 
sound decision-making; and to contribute to society.
  In a day and age of less-than-positive role models, it is vital that 
our young people have the opportunity to grow and be influenced by 
positive mentors, and to learn skills that will help them to be 
productive and conscientious members of society.
  The Girl Scouts have established a research institute, work to 
address violence prevention, and are encouraging girls to pursue 
careers in science, math, and technology.
  I am proud the Girl Scouts began in my home state. I am proud one of 
my granddaughters is a Girl Scout. I am proud of the contributions this 
fine group has made to the nation and to the world. Congratulations to 
the Girl Scouts of America on their 90th birthday. I wish them many 
more years of service in the fulfillment of their mission to nurture 
girls and help them build character and skills for success.




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