We are an organization of organizations. Meaning that we are an umbrella organization that welcomes any and all local Girl Scout adult affiliation groups. If there is not one in your area, we encourage you to start one.
Our groups were started by adult Girl Scouts who wanted something for them. Maybe their daughter aged out of the program, but they still wanted the fun, friendship, service, and activities that supporting their girl in Girl Scouting brought them. In the United Kingdom, one you age out of the youth program, you enter the adult program. It is known as the Trefoil Guild. When there was no similar program provided by GSUSA, adult Girl Scouts all over the nation created their own version. That is why we have such a wide range of group names and member group styles. We applaud the work of those inspiring women and would love for you to join them.
Where do I start?
Start by contacting your local Girl Scout Council to find out if they would be willing to partner with you to create your group. We have learned that there is a lot of variation in council support for our member groups. We have seen the following models of Adult Affiliation Group - Council Partnerships:
Adult Group is considered all alumnae within the council.
Adult Group is considered a 'troop' within the council.
Adult Group is considered a 'service unit' within the council.
Adult Group is acknowledged by the council but is considered a supporting group with no formal (i.e. legal) ties to the council.
Council has no relationship with the Adult Group.
Even if your local council does not want to be affiliated with your group formally, do not give up! We have several vibrant groups in this category. We still want you!
What's next?
Find like-minded people in your area. Perhaps start with a bunch of parents from your troop or service unit. If your council is supportive, they might have some people you can reach out to.
Talk with your group about what they want out of the adult affiliation group. It may start with some informal get-togethers, outings, or service projects. As the group coalesces, you may want to add some more formal guidelines for dues, membership, and leadership. We have NO constraints or requirements for how you organize your own group. It is totally up to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a group have to be affiliated with our local council? No. We have groups that are and others that are not. Either model can work.
Is there a minimum group size? No. We have groups with as few as 5 members to the entire council's alumnae population.
Do all members have to be active Girl Scouts? No. While many of our member groups have active (i.e. registered) adults within their membership, we have no registration requirements (because we have no requirements!).
Are there any naming requirements? No. Our name "Trefoil Guild/Order of the Silver Trefoil USA" is a legacy of how we were formed. GSUSA tasked a National Volunteer Partner with organizing the local groups that chose to call themselves "Trefoil Guilds" and the "Order of the Silver Trefoil" chapters. We will happily accept you regardless of your group name. If, however, you are forming a new group, please consider using something like "Trefoil Guild of [insert council name]".
What should our group do? That is up to you and your members. We do suggest that you consider following the Girl Scout model that includes activities that support sisterhood and service.
Have More Questions?
Please reach out. While we do not currently have a group tasked with supporting individuals trying to create groups, we are happy to help if we can. Contact us at [email protected].
