Potential 240% Increase in Girl Scout Membership Dues

Membership Costs Could Skyrocket

Girl Scouts of the USA is considering a significant increase in their annual membership fee, from $25 to $85, as reported by Fox News. This constitutes a 240% increase, a far cry from a standard 2% inflation rate.

Statement from Girl Scouts of the USA

President Noorain Khan and CEO Bonnie Barczykowski of the Girl Scouts of the USA acknowledged the need for a membership dues increase greater than the 25 percent ($6.25) that the National Board can approve in a single triennium. They explained that costs have risen across the board in recent years, and both the GSUSA and their councils have felt the strain. They noted that operating at a deficit, as they have been doing, is not sustainable.

Reasons for the Increase

The statement further clarified that they can no longer afford to deplete their financial reserves and cannot pass on all escalating costs to their councils. The additional revenue from the increased membership dues - $85 for girls and $45 for adults - will enable them to implement their Movement strategy. The report from Fox News also highlighted that Girl Scouts membership has declined in recent years, partly due to the pandemic. Additionally, the Boy Scouts, now known as Scouting America, started accepting girls in 2018.

Financial Struggles for the Organization

The Girl Scouts ended the 2023 fiscal year with a $4.4 million deficit, which is projected to grow to $5.6 million by the end of 2024. Sally Bertram, a Girl Scout troop leader, expressed her concerns about the potential impact of such a steep increase in membership dues. She fears that a triple jump in numbers could lead to the dissolution of the Girl Scouts in southeast Indiana, as people in the area are not accustomed to paying such high amounts.

Impact on Girls

Bertram also expressed her concern that these girls could lose a lifetime of experiences. In response to these concerns, the Girl Scouts stated that ensuring the organization's future requires financial resources. They have not raised membership dues in over eight years. They also highlighted that this decision is not taken lightly, and 900 delegates representing Girl Scouts’ membership will come together to weigh options and vote to ensure the organization's survival and accessibility for every girl.

Bottom Line

It's clear that the potential increase in Girl Scout membership dues is a contentious issue, with significant implications for the organization and its members. The proposed increase is undoubtedly steep, and its impact on membership numbers and the experiences of the girls involved remains to be seen. What are your thoughts on this matter? Do you think the increase is justified, or could it potentially harm the organization? Share your thoughts and this article with your friends. Remember, you can also sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.