Citrus Peel 2018

citrus peel
2017-2018 | Vol. 8
2017-2018 | Vol. 8

Maryann’s
INSPIRATION
Happy New Year, Citrus Council Family and Friends!
As most of you know, 2017 provided our Council with
significant challenges brought on by natural disasters,
and we were all in need of inspiration during those most
difficult of days. As always, that inspiration is provided by
the most important people in our Council, our girls.
In the office, when days are long and problems to solve
seem overwhelming, we often say…I need a girl infusion!
This means, quite simply, that we need a few moments to
get grounded in what is the joy and driving factor of our
everyday work, our amazing girls. We need a moment to
live in the space of their hopes and dreams, a moment
to soak in the light in their eyes when they speak of their
leaders or their projects. They lift us up with reminders
of the good and important work we have done to support
them, and more importantly, inspire us to be the best we
can be FOR them.
So, as the challenges besieged us, we took a step back
and looked to our girls to maintain our focus and inspire
our actions. As a result, despite those challenging days,
somehow, we grew. They were right there beside us as
we grew membership a record 10.6% over last year; they
were right there, at the heart of another amazing growth
year in the cookie program, as well as one of our best
summer camp years ever. May we always be there for
them in so wonderful a way as they are always here for
us. I offer my deepest thanks to the tireless volunteer
corps who walked this 2017 journey shoulder to shoulder
with parents and the staff team. However, I must admit,
my greatest sense of gratitude and inspiration rests
within the young who lead us, our own Citrus G.I.R.L.s.
Thank you, girls, for keeping our eyes focused forward and
our hearts inspired. May we serve you well.
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CONTENTS
06
08
10
14
18
23
24
25
29
30
32
Maryann’s Travels
Troop Stories
G.I.R.L. 2017 An Unforgettable Experience
Girl Scout Spotlight
2017 Citrus Council show they’re Girl Scout Strong
Women of Distinction, Stand Beside Her!
Millennium International Textile, Inc. - GIFTS for Girls
Merlin Entertainment - A Great Partnership
Citrus Clubs
Exciting New Citrus Council Program Opportunities
2017 Financial Report

08
23
30
14
06
10
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Maryann’s
TRAVELS
Where in the world is our CEO?
During the latter half of 2017 and January 2018, I was pretty sure I was Citrus Council’s secret
contestant in a Girl Scout episode of the Amazing Race. It was crazy, but WONDERFUL! I was
blessed with the opportunity to share our Citrus Council spirit, not only in a few other states, but
on the other side of the world.
In September, I was honored to serve on the GSUSA Delegation to the WAGGGS World Bureau
Conference in New Delhi, India. There were 119 member nations present to review and vote on
amendments to the WAGGGS constitution and vote in the new board for the next triennium. It
was truly a once in a lifetime experience that I will share in more detail in a separate report. We
hope to bring the World Conference to the U.S. someday.
Other highlights from the 2017 travel whirlwind included a trip to Savannah to support a member
of Citrus in her American Idol audition. Tune into American Idol in March to see what fun
happened in Savannah with the help of our sister scouts there!
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Then, of course, the big 2017 G.I.R.L. Convention
in Columbus—which was AMAZING! Our national
delegates made us all very proud, working through
LONG days of GSUSA business and voting on
serious mission related issues. This was also
our platform to shine as a Council and formally
announce Orlando as the home of G.I.R.L. 2020!!!
We did this in the most fun and dramatic way
possible, of course! We proved we know how to
bring the party along with the good work, therefore
known in some Girl Scout circles as doing it Citrus
Style. Not too long after Columbus, I shipped off to
New York to meetings with GSUSA and to serve as
a CEO Thought Leader in training the Movement’s
newest Council CEOs.
The whirlwind was capped off with a little business,
but mostly lots of laughs, on the high seas with 46
of our alum/adult members for our Second Annual
Citrus Council Alumnae Cruise. Our next cruise
is being planned for the summer of 2019 and we
hope to see you there! So there you have it, the
VERY nutshell version of your CEO’s adventures
in representing the BEST (and most Scouterrific)
Council in the U.S.A.!! Thank you for allowing me
the privilege to serve alongside such a dynamic
group of girls, volunteers, and staff!
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Troop Scoop
TROOP 400
Troop 400 has been collecting approved food
items for Blessings in a Backpack in their local
community for the past three years. Blessings
in a Backpack provides weekend nutrition
for the designated children of Osceola
Elementary school who might otherwise go
hungry. In 2017 the troop was able to collect
enough items to provide weekend nutrition
for 25 children every weekend during
the school year. While their Troop Leader,
Katie Spencer has been at the helm of this
endeavor, daughter Makayla, age 7 will look
to take over the project and has set a goal to
help feed 50 children every weekend in 2018.
TRINITY
LUTHERAN
TROOPS
Trinity Lutheran Troops participated in National
Public Lands Day at Riverwalk Park in Rockledge,
on Sept. 30, 2017. This was our Troop’s 7th straight
year of participating in National Public Lands Day.
Trinity Lutheran Troops have participated in the
Keep Brevard Beautiful Coastal Clean-up for the
past 6 years, but it was cancelled this year,
because of Hurricane Irma. So instead, on Oct. 7,
2017, we attended one of Keep Brevard Beautiful
regular monthly Beach Cleanup events at Cherrie
Down Park in Cape Canaveral. The girls picked up
many pounds of trash, as well as debris left
behind by Hurricane Irma. Our Troops definitely
left the beach better than we found it that day!
Trinity Lutheran Troops participating in Keep
Brevard Beautiful Beach Cleanup event in October.
Girl Scouts picked up pounds of trash and debris
left behind by Hurricane Irma. Leaving the beach
better than they found it that day!
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TROOP 1990
For their action project, Brownie Troop 1990 put
together “Boxes of Love” to be sent to the children
of Haiti. As part of the World of Girls journey, the
girls heard stories from people from other
countries who received shoebox gifts as children
and the significant impact it made on their lives
with items that many of us take for granted.
Wanting to make a difference for someone else,
each Brownie put together a box for a girl age
5-9 and filled it with necessary supplies and
special gifts. These boxes included jump ropes,
notebooks, colored pencils, toothbrushes,
toothpaste, socks, stuffed animals, and more! For
many children in Haiti, this is the only gift they get
all year long.
TROOP 2030
Daisy Troop 2030 received a special visit from
US National Guard and special parent helper,
Frank Whitehead on Veterans Day. These girl
scouts were so touched by Mr. Whitehead’s
speech on the hard work and sacrifices made
by our armed services that the troop chose
to show their appreciation. The girls sent
personalized “Thank You Hero” cards to active
duty and soon to be veterans still overseas
in Iraq through the Welcome Home Veterans
Program. The troop printed pictures of this
special Veterans Day and special framed
picture was given to Mr. Whitehead.
TROOP 1554
Troop 1554 did a pet food/supply drive for the
Brevard County Humane Society in Cocoa to
benefit homeless pets. Many will be continuing on
as volunteers with their own families. The troop
also decorated pet crates for families who foster
these pets.
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National Story
G.I.R.L. 2017
An Unforgettable Experience
From dive tanks to infinity rooms to inspirational speakers (and more!), G.I.R.L. 2017 truly was an epic event—and
the LARGEST girl-led event in the world! Hosted by Girl Scouts, this mega event took place in Columbus, Ohio,
October 6–8 and provided every G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader) with unforgettable experiences
as they got inspired, gained tools to empower themselves, and mastered the know-how to lead change in their
communities, all while connecting with some of the most influential women in the world along the way.
And the best part? G.I.R.L. 2017 was 100 percent girl-led! That’s right! Twenty-one girls from across the Girl Scout
Movement, nicknamed the G-Team, made up the core of G.I.R.L. 2017’s planning efforts to ensure this national Girl
Scout convention was the best one yet!
HALL OF EXPERIENCES
The Hall of Experiences was one of the biggest (literally!) attractions at G.I.R.L. 2017, offering more than 100 unique
hands-on activities focused on Girl Scouts’ national program pillars of science, technology, engineering, and math
(STEM); entrepreneurship; life skills; and the outdoors. Here girls also had an opportunity to make an impact both
locally and globally by taking part in the “Rise Against Hunger” Take Action project. For the project, girls packed a
whopping 20,768 meals for people in need—in Columbus and beyond. “Campfire Chats” brought local, national, and
world-renowned speakers into cozy meet-up spaces to share their knowledge and expertise, and interact with girls
and adults. Plus, attendees shopped to their heart’s content at the Girl Scout mega-store for new uniform pieces,
souvenirs, and gifts.
SESSIONS & SPEAKERS
Accomplished public figures such as Chelsea Clinton, Gabby Douglas, Barbara Pierce Bush, Mae Jemison, and more
joined G.I.R.L. 2017 throughout the weekend, leading panels and intimate breakout sessions on the pressing issues
facing girls today. Plus, the event featured performances by talented young artists, such as Angelica Hale and Caly
Bevier from America’s Got Talent. Each time one of these notable women took the stage or joined a conversation,
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they opened up about the challenges they’ve
faced throughout their life’s journey, how they’ve
embraced go-getter, innovator, risk-taking, and
leader values to find their own version of success
and joy. They inspired each girl to make the world
a better place through her own actions.
The 2017 National Young Women of Distinction—
the top Gold Award Girl Scouts of the year—were
recognized at G.I.R.L. 2017 for their remarkable
leadership and excellence in creating positive
change in their communities and beyond. Each
girl’s project started with identifying a need in
her community – some problems were seemingly
simple, and others were extremely complex. No
matter the depth of the issues, these go-getters
rallied a group of supports and led their teams
toward creating solutions that will continue to
serve their communities for years to come.
THE G.I.R.L. AGENDA
On the first day of the event, GSUSA launched
the G.I.R.L. Agenda Powered by Girl Scouts, a
nonpartisan initiative to inspire, prepare, and
mobilize girls and those who care about them
to lead positive changethrough civic action. The
multiyear effort celebrates the Girl Scout
legacy of civic engagement, and for the first time
ever, GSUSA is sharing free, expert-curated civic
engagement resources beyond its 2.6 million
members.
At the G.I.R.L. Agenda booth in the AT&T Hall of
Experiences, girls could take action by being a
good neighbor and sending letters in celebration
of the NEW Daisy Good Neighbor badge. Girls also
had the option to join their Girl Scout sisters by
petitioning to change the name of the Savannah
River Bridge to the Juliette Gordon Low Bridge
in Savannah, Georgia (the birthplace of the Girl
Scout Movement!). We can’t wait to see what girls
will do locally and nationally to take action on the
issues most important to them.
NATIONAL COUNCIL SESSION
Before G.I.R.L. 2017 kicked off, hundreds of Girl
Scout delegates—both girls and adults—traveled
from across the United States to represent their
councils and the Girl Scout Movement at the 54th
National Council Session.
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At this meeting, delegates are
responsible for influencing
the strategic direction of
the Movement by providing
guidance to the Girl Scouts of
the USA Board of Directors,
whether that be in the form of
electing new board members,
amending the Constitution, or
proposing positive change. This
session’s proposals included:
reducing the size of the national
board, establishing the National
Board Development Committee
as a Committee of the National
Board, and Lifetime Membership
dues. A special delegate discussion also included: Engaging More Girls: What does Girl Scouts need to do to reach
more girls and increase impact? On behalf of every girl and adult member of Girl Scouts of Citrus, we’re sending huge
appreciation to those who served as voting delegates and alternate delegates at the 54th National Council Session. It
takes preparation and commitment to serve in this critical role.
2020 PREVIEW
Perhaps one the most exciting announcements made… G.I.R.L. 2020 will be coming here! That’s right, our Girl Scout
sisters from across the United States will join us in Orlando! Mark your calendar for October 19-25, 2020 when G.I.R.L.
2020 comes to the Orange County Convention Center. The announcement came at the close of the National Council
Session when Maryann and the Florida Council CEO’s came on stage and in true Citrus fashion, presented the preview
video and launched oranges at the crowd.
Citrus council will be working hand in hand with our sister councils and local community to make this upcoming G.I.R.L.
one for the books! Consider helping us host the most spectacular national convention yet, by volunteering, sponsoring
or spreading the word. Stay connected with Citrus council for upcoming details on G.I.R.L. 2020 in Orlando!
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Girl Scout Spotlight
Spare Change Can Change Lives
When Caroline Carlton chose her Gold Award
project, she had no idea of the road she
would travel and the relationships she would
build along the way. “The project really wasn’t unique.
When traveling with my family, I’d noticed that some
airports had containers designed to collect the spare
change that travelers would need to take out of their
pockets before going through security. The containers
indicated that the change was donated to a local
nonprofit. However – Orlando’s airport didn’t have anything like this,” said Caroline. The seeds of her Gold Award project
were sown.
Caroline’s vision led to the establishment of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Charitable Donation
Initiative, a nonprofit foundation that administers allocation of the funds. Each year, the foundation selects four local
charitable organizations which will receive funds from the collected change. The first organization chosen was the
Foundation for Foster Children. “We do not rely on government funding but rather on the generosity of our community
to help us fund these programs” said Helen Preston, Philanthropy Manager for the Foundation for Foster Children. “This
allows us to support each unique child to meet their needs and give them a sense of hope, self-worth and value.
In doing so, changing their life-course from one of poverty,
crime and government assistance to becoming independent
and contributing members of our community”
In addition, Caroline’s project caught the eye of GSUSA as
Gold Award projects were evaluated, leading to her being
recognized as a National Young Woman of Distinction by Girl
Scouts of the United States of America (GSUSA). Each year,
thousands of girls in grades 9–12 nationwide are recognized
as Gold Award Girl Scouts for transforming an idea and
vision for change into an actionable plan with measurable,
sustainable, and far-reaching impact at the local, national,
and global levels. From these thousands, GSUSA recognizes
ten recipients as National Young Women of Distinction.
As Caroline started doing her research into making the
project come to life, she learned that many things had to be
done to accomplish her goal. “I wanted to establish
something sustainable. I expected everything to fall into
place, but realized it was a bigger process, considering I
had to start a non-profit,” expressed Carlton. The program
is really quite simple. As travelers move through airport
“Being able to network, reach out to people and
learning how to talk in a professional manner
helped me. For many girls, Girl Scouts is a way
to be strong leaders and learn about the
importance for young women to have strong
voices.”
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security and are required to empty their pockets of spare change, they
can drop it into coin collection bins placed throughout Transportation
Security Administration (TSA) check points at Orlando International
Airport. The collected funds benefit the local community. In its initial
launch, The Foundation for Foster Children, which was formed in
2008 to address the staggering statistics surrounding kids in foster
care, was selected as the beneficiary. The organization provides
personalized support to children in foster care based on three pillars;
Enrichment, Education and Transition to Adulthood and has already
received $2,000 from the GOAA collaboration.
“We are very proud of Caroline’s accomplishment and the sustainable
impact her work will have in our community. Supporting the
development of such endeavors and encouraging girls to take leading
voice in our community can inspire lasting change in our world,” said
Maryann Barry. “The girls in Citrus Council are truly amazing and our
adult volunteers do an awesome job in giving them the support they
need to be go-getters, innovators, risk-takers and leaders.”
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Girl Scout Spotlight
Florida law states that foster kids must have their
privacy protected and personal belongings secure
and transported with them. However, Emily wondered
– is a black garbage bag appropriate? With
two other Girl Scouts, Emily collected and donated
over two hundred duffle bags with blankets,
notebooks and pens, small Bibles and padlocks for
their ‘It’s In the Bag’ Silver Project. The bags were
given to foster kids who were living in a group home.
The kids were also instructed and provided
materials for personalizing their duffle bags with
embroidery and permanent markers.
It is the responsibility of the state of Florida to
protect children. When a child is placed in foster
care, the state should not be complicit in causing
more harm to that child, be it emotional or physical.
Emily strongly believes that Florida statute needs to
change and budget allocated toward providing a
dignified and secure method for transporting
personal items, such as a duffle bag.
Girl Scout Gold Award
Sparks Advocacy
Every day, a young child in Florida is identified as
being abused, neglected or abandoned. While
the State recognizes that most families desire
to be competent caregivers and providers, there are
times when removal of the child from parental
custody is necessary.
“When I was eleven years old, I was removed from
my home and placed in foster care. That night, the
caseworker provided a black garbage bag for my
belongings, saying I had fifteen minutes to be ready
to leave the only home I’d ever known and the family
I loved,” shares Emily Worthington. “Ten years later, I
wanted to find out why the caseworker was allowed
to simply hand me garbage bad signifying to me that
I no longer mattered and was no better than the
trash that belonged inside.” And so – Emily’s idea for
her Silver Gold Award projects was born.
For her ‘Emily Cares’ Gold Project, Emily created a
flyer, spoke at churches, schools and businesses
about changing Florida Statute to disallow the use
of black garbage bags. She continues to speak with
legislators and legislative staff to educate them
about the issue and hopes to get the law changed
during the 2018 legislative session.
Emily spent four months in foster care, yet her three
adopted siblings continued to be in and out of state
care. Now Emily attends Seminole State College,
working toward her dream of becoming a child
counselor and making a difference in the lives of
children everywhere. She holds down two part-time
jobs in order to meet expenses.
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SHOP DELIVERY SCHEDULE
February 6th: River Point
2250 Newfound Harbor Drive
Merritt Island, FL 32952
February 13th: Michelle Moore House
4201 Rhododendron Ave.
Kissimmee FL 34758
February 20th: Port Orange YMCA
4701 City Center Pkwy
Port Orange FL 32129
February 27th: First United Methodist Church
600 W Lanthe St
Tavares, FL 32778
March 6th: Melbourne Scout House
2207 Front St
Melbourne FL 32901
March 13th: The Rock Church
1904 Michigan Ave.
Kissimmee FL 34741
March 20th: Holly Hill YMCA
1046 Daytona Ave.
Holly Hill FL 32117
March 27th: Reed Nissan
16005 FL-50
Clermont, FL 34711
February 3rd:
Super Saturday
March 3rd:
Super Saturday
Show your shop love.
Wear red and get 10%off.
Join the Leprechaun in celebrating Girl
Scouts B-day and get 15% off.
$5 OFF
SPEND $50 AND GET
Valid from March 1st to April 30th - 2018
This Coupon cannot be used with any other sales. Original coupon is needed in order to be redeemed

Citrus Story
2017: Citrus Council Show They’re ‘Girl Scout Strong’
Throughout this past year, the Girl Scouts of Citrus
council faced great adversity, capable of hindering
the organization from progressing in its mission.
Everything from loss of personnel to natural disasters,
and even the entry of a direct competitor, has
threatened the ability for our council to carry out its
mission of building girls of courage, confidence, and
character, who make the world a better place.
donors, partners and a council reserves were tapped so
girls could have a camp experience that summer. These
friends have also helped to accelerate the rebuild and
generate some much needed improvements to the camp
grounds. By rallying together, our property now contains
a series of tiny houses in a newly developed camp site
for girls to experience and enjoy. Proceeds from the 2018
cookie season will also be allocated to help rebuild and
Yet, here we stand; as one of the top performing
councils throughout the nation. This council experienced
over 10 percent in membership growth, and has been
continuously outpacing the typical growth rate for other
similar sized councils. Not an easy feat to accomplish and
even harder to maintain in light of what took place during
2017.
Disaster Strikes
Citrus council along with much of Central Florida,
encountered natural disasters which devastated many
of our council properties. Many may recall the brush
fires that spread throughout Central Florida in early April.
These fires impacted many families and regions, including
our very own Camp Mah-Kah-Wee. Over 50 percent of
Camp Mah-Kah-Wee (an estimated 165 acres), was lost
as a result of these brush fires. Fortunately there were no
girls on the camp grounds that day, and the adults that
were on property were able to get out physically
unharmed.
Nevertheless, through the help and support of our
community and our incredible volunteers, we have been
able to start the rebuilding process. Girl Scout Troops,
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improve Camp Mah-Kah-Wee (without impacting the
girl’s portion). Although Camp Mah-Kah-Wee was the
property which received the largest impact from 2017, it
wasn’t the only one. This past hurricane season took its
toll on Central Florida, and in particular, Hurricane Irma.
Perhaps one of the worst hurricanes to pass through
the region in 2017, Hurricane Irma would leave a path
of destruction in its wake. The storm completely wiped
out the entire dock from our Riverpoint property. Our
Pine Castle property received major damage to the roof
and fence. Still, we press on and look towards not only
rebuilding these structures, but making improvements so
girls can continue to use and enjoy them.
People make it all happen
The brush fires and hurricanes pommeled our camp
sites, but there is no damage that the council cannot
recover and rebuild from. The sudden loss of 2 staff
members and several dedicated volunteers, however,
would be something completely different. These
individuals had a significant impact in the organization
and helped shape the lives of many of our Girl Scouts. We
mourned alongside their families, but are forever grateful
for their contribution and dedication to our council and
the Girl Scout movement.
In 2017 the council also experienced a change in both
staff and volunteers. Some staff members have moved
on in their careers, and we wish them all the best in their
new endeavors. Many of our volunteers have also moved
on from their role as troop co-leaders or community
chairs, and although we wish them the best, this one
stung a little. We rely heavily on the support of our
community and volunteers to serve as role models for our
young women and to drive girl led initiatives.
The council has since been able to reorganize and
increase its staff capacity so that more girls and
volunteers receive the support and attention they need.
This increase in personnel provides a mix of both green
bloods and newcomers within Citrus council. There is an
exciting range of diversity and creativity being cultivated.
We have an influx of innovative and unique ideas that will
help us propel even further in 2018.
Momentum behind the Movement
Recovering from this pounding combination of
hurricanes, fires and loss would be a challenge for any
organization. As a council we rely heavily on the support
and dedication of our staff, board, volunteers and girls.
With our united efforts we have been able to meet these
challenges and press forward. Through our interest based
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programming, Citrus council has continued to see an increase in older girl (Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors)
retention and participation. Just this past year, the council has launched the Media Girls Team, the Lab Coat
series and will be launching Performing Arts clubs and Outdoor clubs in early 2018.
Our Gifts for Girls program has also spiked, which allow us to serve more girls in lower income families. With
this initial start, girls in underprivileged areas have the opportunity to take part in Girl Scouts. Through their
participation in the fall product program and cookie program they are able to achieve financial stability as a
troop and become self-sustained. The financial aid also allows more programs to be subsidized so that more
girls have an opportunity to take part in overnights, outdoor activities, and special events.
Identifying volunteers with the time and devotion to become leaders is an ongoing process. As our membership
continues to surpass previous levels, there is a need to increase the number of troop co-leaders and even
troop sizes. To address this need, Citrus council is partnering with school districts throughout Central Florida
to offer teacher troop models. While in its early stages of development, this model has the potential to make a
significant impact in our community.
All of us are ‘Girl Scout Strong’, and we must continue to elevate ourselves and those around us. We’re Girl
Scouts after all…it’s what we do.
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SAVE
THE
DATE!
$35
FOR GIRL
SCOUT
MEMBERS
All Girl Scouts must
be accompanied
by an adult
WHAT TO EXPECT
Pick up tickets day of from 8pm - 10pm
Park opens at 10pm
Access to Aquatica’s amazing waterpark
Beach DJ and dancing
Swap Station
Fun Patch and so much more!
SPECIAL ADD-ONS
$11.99 - Meal Voucher
$6.00 - Souvenir Drink Cup
(unlimited refills)
$2.99 - Snack Voucher

2018
Camp Book
Get Your Copy Today!
Find It online at Citrus-GS.org

Special Event
In addition to having previous nominees and winners in
attendance, several Girl Scouts had the opportunity to
attend this year’s event – which proved to be a huge
success! Sixteen girls from across the council presented
the National Stand Beside Her Program to the guests
around their table.
Starting in childhood, girls are inundated with negative
messages and behaviors that prevent them from
building healthy relationships and ideals about their
potential. Girls keep these unhealthy ideals and
relationships as they mature into women. The
competition and comparison formed on the playground
and in the classroom carries over to the boardroom and
in the home preventing women from reaching their fullest
potential.
Women of Distinction,
Stand Beside Her!
Recognized as one of the most prestigious awards for
women, the Girl Scouts of Citrus Women of
Distinction Awards has honored women whose
outstanding achievements contribute to the well-being
and future of our community. Since its inception 20 years
ago, the Awards have been presented to 134 deserving
women throughout Central Florida who truly exemplify
the mission of Girl Scouting; building girls of courage,
confidence and character who make the world a better
place.
The National Stand Beside Her Movement is a call to
action to propel women and girls forward by ending
comparison and competition and creating more
collaboration and support. Established in 2014 by Girl
Scouts Heart of the South, the National Stand Beside Her
Movement has since been embraced by nearly half of
the Girl Scout councils from across the country, banding
together to encourage women and girls to support one
another so that every woman and girl can reach her
fullest potential.
Are you interested in how you, your Girl Scout, or your
business can become more involved? Those same
sixteen girls who led the program at the Women of
Distinction event are currently strategizing on how council
should move forward. The girls have already shared that
council will provide all counties, all girls – the chance to
participate! For more information on the program and
ways to get involved, please reach out to Dr. Toni Castillo
at tcastillo@citrus-gs.org.
This past year, the 20th Anniversary Women of Distinction
Luncheon was held on November 16, 2017 at the Country
Club of Orlando. The event was unique from years past
as the format altered from an evening gala to a luncheon.
The event honored winners and nominees from previous
years in order to re-engage and provide the current state
of the council.
“It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces who have
attended our annual galas in years past… It was equally
special to speak to so many new people who are just
learning about the Girl Scouts of Citrus and who support
our mission to build girls of courage, confidence, and
character”, expressed Dr. Toni Castillo, Chief Relationship
Officer for Girl Scouts of Citrus.
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Community Partners
Girl Scouts of Citrus and Millennium International Textile have joined
efforts to establish the Re-Use Collection Program. Girl Scout troops
and Service Communities now have the opportunity to raise funds for
the GIFTs for Girls campaign in an environmentally friendly way.
Millennium International Textile, Inc. is one of the only solely women-owned
used clothing graders and exporters in the United States. Established in
1996, Millennium International Textile processes used clothing, shoes, and
accessories to be distributed globally as well as in the United States, to
those in need. They are a leading exporter to Central America, East and West
Africa, India, Pakistan and parts of Europe.
Service Communities and troops can host a Re-Used Clothing Drive and
collect gently used, clothing, shoes, accessories, linens and small toys. In
return, Millennium International Textile will donate to Girl Scout of Citrus
$0.25 for each pound collected to the GIFTS for Girls Campaign. Girls
participating with their Troop or Service Community in the Re-Use Collection
Program can receive participation patches based on the total weight of the
clothing/textiles items they collected.
The Citrus council staff kicked off the program in mid-July, pulling together
over 7,000 pounds of reusable clothing and accessories. Followed by just
under 1,000 pounds at the Community Team Conference in August. As of
December 2017, our communities have collectively donated over 26
thousand pounds.
In just a few months of its inception, over $10,000 has been raised through
the Re-Use Collection Program in 2017. This momentum is expected to
increase during 2018, with a potential of surpassing $15,000 in funds raised
for the GIFTS for Girls campaign.
For more information on this program, contact Lydia Sealey at Lsealey@
citrus-gs.org.
COMMUNITY
POUNDS
CTC 952
East Orange 2,766
GSC Alumnae 703
GSC Staff 7,356
Mishawaka 4,311
Ohana 5,339
Rainbow Lakes 3,303
Roadrunner 5,621
Seminole Lakes 2,781
Shooting Star 2,190
Star Angels 3,302
Sunrise 2,093
Windsong 1,024
TOTAL 41,741
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For several years, Merlin Entertainment in Orlando has
been a valued community partner for the Girl Scouts
of Citrus council. Through this partnership, they have
helped facilitate a variety of Girl Scout activities and
programs at the Coca Cola Orlando Eye, SEA LIFE
Aquarium Orlando, and Madam Tussauds Orlando.
“Merlin Entertainments in Orlando has found a wonderful
partnership with Girl Scouts of Citrus… We have worked
together to determine how we can benefit each other
through learning activities and community involvement”
expressed Greg Dotson, Regional Schools and Groups
Representative for Merlin Entertainment. “Our family
friendly attractions are a great fit for girls of all ages, and
we enjoy creating unique experiences for your amazing
organization.”
With the anticipation of the 2020 G.I.R.L. convention
taking place in Orlando, Citrus council will be looking
to partners such as Merlin Entertainment to develop
creative ways to engage with the expected influx of Girl
Scouts. Our leadership has already begun initial
conversations for the upcoming convention and to grow
the partnership further in our community.
“We are anxious to see where our partnership with Girl
Scouts of Citrus will go. Together, we are already
working on events that will benefit the local organization,
and create opportunities for other Girl Scout organizations
in the future. And, we are anticipating being a part of the
2020 G.I.R.L. convention when it moves to Orlando and
look forward to hosting Girl Scouts from all over the United
States” expressed Dotson.
Mr. Dotson and the team at Merlin Entertainment have
engaged with Citrus council at multiple levels. Through
this partnership, Merlin Entertainment has launched a
range of fun patches for girls to earn and have facilitated
badge work opportunities. They have provided in-kind
donations to council throughout the year, held Scout Days
for our Girl Scouts and their families to enjoy, and have
made their space available for council use. Mr. Dotson
himself, took an active role in the initial ‘Man Enough’
steering committee; providing valuable insights in
outlining key focal points for this initiative.
25

Encourage her to step up today to show everyone how the world’s
largest girl-led entrepreneurial program helped her be a
barrier breakin’, challenge crushin’, lead takin’ cookie pro!
BY ENTERING THE CONTEST, GIRLS GET A CHANCE TO:
Unlock this awesome, limited-edition
Cookie Pro 2018 patch
Girl Scouts of the USA
COOKIE
PRO
2018
Be featured on our iconic
Girl Scout Cookie box
HERE’S HOW IT WORKS:
Who can participate?
Registered Girl Scout Cookie sellers from
participating councils
How do girls enter?
By completing their very own Cookie Pro
Resume Survey online and submitting it
along with a photo
Travel to NYC for an
all-expenses-paid
Girl Scout Cookie
Entrepreneur Experience,
where girls will talk
business with GSUSA
leaders and be recognized
as a Top Cookie Pro 2018
FUN FACT:
200 million Girl Scout Cookie boxes are distributed
each year to more than 50 million cookie buyers!
Her cookie pro submission should include
things like:
Cookie badges she’s earned and skills
she’s learned
What she’s done or plans to do with her
cookie earnings
Best selling tips for crushing cookie sale
goals like a PRO!
girlscouts.org/cookiepro
Entry details and official contest rules will be available September 1, 2017.
Entries accepted January 2, 2018, through April 30, 2018.
One entry per girl from participating councils.
The GIRL SCOUTS® name, mark, and all associated trademarks and logotypes, including the Trefoil Design, are owned by Girl Scouts of the USA.

2018 COOKIE ROSTER
Thanks-A-Lot
Girl Scouts S’mores Lemonades Shortbread
Thin Mints Peanut Butter Patties Caramel deLites
Peanut Butter
Sandwich
27

Do you LOVE to sing?
Join the Citrus Singers Girl Scouts Chorus!
Contact our Musical Director Susie Reale for more information
Susie.Reale@FloridaMoves.com or 321.229.6333
Are you thinking of
Buying or Selling a home?
I am an experienced, trustworthy,
ambitious realtor as well as
dedicated Girl Scout mom
and volunteer!
Contact me now to buy low or
sell for top dollar!
Your Girl Scout Friendly Realtor!
Susie Reale
Broker Associate
Susie.Reale@Floridamoves.com
321.229.6333
www.RealeRealEstate.com

Citrus Clubs
Citrus Singers VOICE Media Girls
The Citrus Singers are comprised
of 25-35 Girl Scouts spanning
from juniors to ambassador
levels. They are Central Florida’s
only Girl Scout Choir Program.
The group rehearses year-round,
performs for live events across
the region, and records parody
music videos to raise interest
and awareness for the Girl Scout
mission. Girls participate in an
audition experience, where girls
who are shy or insecure are
welcomed with openness if they
demonstrate good pitch and a
willingness to perform.
VOICE is an advisory board of Girl
Scouts from every county that
consists of Cadettes, Seniors, and
Ambassadors. Girls meet once a
month to help plan events and
engage in conversations about what
matters to the girls within their
respective communities. VOICE
participants provide critical input
on programs and council events
by serving on committees such as
Social Media, Event Planning, and
Public Relations. They are given a
unique opportunity to share their
ideas with other girls while learning
valuable interpersonal skills through
their participation in this club.
The Media Girls is a new program
at Citrus Council designed to give
12 young women the opportunity to
learn and develop their skills in the
media industry. Girl Scouts develop
their on-camera experience and
fine tune their behind the camera
skills in this program. As Girl Scouts
prepare to be Brand Ambassadors,
they’ll learn the basics of talking to
media, initial video and
photography creation, and the art
of storytelling. Media Girls will also
take part in special behind the
scenes tours of local media and get
key insights from knowledgeable
guest speakers.
Outdoor Club Perfoming Arts Club Girl Scout Alumnae
The Outdoor Club is a new
way for Junior and Cadette
level Girl Scouts, who love the
outdoors, can connect and go
on unique adventures. This club
has a strong focus on outdoor
programs and activities, and is
open to both new and existing
Girls Scouts. This program is
Volunteer-led and allows for a
unique experience related to all
things outdoors.
The Performing Arts Club is a
new pathway for Junior and
Cadette girls who have a love of
the Performing Arts and wish
to participate in Girl Scouts
in a group setting. This club is
open to both new and existing
Girl Scouts. This club is also
Volunteer-led and allows for a
unique experience related to all
things Performing Arts.
Whether you were a member
for two years or 10 years, once
you become a Girl Scout you’re
always a Girl Scout to us. All
Girl Scouts (18 years and older),
including staff, former and
current volunteers, are invited
to join the Girl Scouts of Citrus
Alumnae and reconnect with
the organization that helped
you become the successful
person you are today! Visit www.
alumnaegsc.com to join.
29

Citrus Council Programs
FULL S.T.E.A.M AHEAD WITH
EARN YOUR LABCOAT
We are excited about our new program series, Earn
Your Lab Coat! This new program gives young women
the opportunity to explore the fields of STEAM (Science,
Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Girls
gain unique behind the scene experiences to expand
their knowledge about STEAM and inspire them to think
outside the box. The program is for Cadette-level Girl
Scouts only and is designed to be completed within
a 2 year period with programs offered by community
partners throughout the year.
Upon completion of the program series, girls will
earn a Girl Scout branded lab coat and a special
commemorative patch. 40 Girl Scouts were selected to
participate in this pilot program for Earn Your Lab Coat
this year. The following community partners: SeaWorld,
Universal Orlando Resort, the Coca-Cola Orlando Eye,
Madame Tussauds, Sea Life, and City of Orlando Water
Reclamation Division. Earn Your Lab Coat will officially
launch Spring 2018!
WE DON’T NEED A BADGE FOR THAT
This program series seeks to engage our Senior and
Ambassadors in service learning. Our council will work
with organizations such as Give Kids The World Village,
St. Jude and Second Harvest to organize Girl Scouts Give
Back Days. This series does not involve a badge or patch,
but rather, encourages Girl Scouts to volunteer and help
benefit our Central Florida communities while learning
to be social entrepreneurs. Over 60 Girl Scout members
participated in Give Back Days at Second Harvest in
November.
HIGHER AWARDS
The Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards incorporate engagement in either troop or individual projects that benefit Girl
Scouts and their communities. Girl Scouts are exposed to important societal issues while helping them develop
problem solving and critical thinking skills. The projects Girl Scouts undertake for these awards range in topic and
scope. While some girls might be interested in tackling an environmental issue, others might seek a project focused on
improving education or supporting the well-being of animals.
Regardless of the topic selection, higher award projects serve to help Girl Scouts identify a challenge or issue they
see in the world and address it through an action plan. At Citrus Council, we hold these awards in the highest regards
and we want to support every girl on her journey to receiving these honors. We host trainings at the council office and
are diligently working to increase trainings in every county. Feel free to contact our program team for any assistance
regarding the higher awards.
30

Upcoming Events
FALL 2018
AMAZING RACE GIRL SCOUT ADVENTURE
In preparation for the 2020 National Conference, we will be exploring International
Drive and all its hidden treasures. Get ready to grab your fellow Scouts and bring your
competitive spirit for this amazing race adventure. The winning Girl Scout team will receive
a VIP package for 12 at Splash Bash at Aquatica and the winning adult team will win a
fantastic prize package filled with goodies from our partners on International Drive! More
information on how to enter the race will be online soon.
MARCH 10, 2018
NATIONAL GIRL SCOUT DAY at FUN SPOT
Every year on March 12th, we celebrate Girl Scout Day which commemorates when Juliette
Gordon Low organized the first Girl Scout troop meeting. What better way to honor this
occasion than by having fun with fellow Girl Scouts? Bring your friends and family to this
FUN-FILLED event!
APRIL 14, 2018
NOT YOUR MOTHER’S COLLEGE & CAREER FAIR
Join us for our second annual Not Your Mother’s Career Fair! Last year it was all
about #ADULTING and getting girls prepared for their future. This year our theme is
#GIRLEMPOWERMENT! We invite Cadettes, Seniors & Ambassadors to come out and
express your inner G.I.R.L. while learning more about exciting careers!
MAY 19, 2018
SPLASH BASH OVERNIGHT at AQUATICA
There will be no time for sleeping at this overnight because you will be busy splashing,
sliding and dancing the night away! Plus, you’ll get to experience a brand new attraction!
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to enjoy Aquatica with fellow Girl Scouts!
31

Girl Scouts of Citrus
2017 Annual Report

Both Adult and
Girl has grown
since 2016
Council experienced
growth at every
Girl Scout level.
In comparison to
2016, there was
major growth in
Osceola and
Seminole
33

FINANCES
34

FINANCES
35

FINANCES
36

FINANCES
Girl Scouts of Citrus, Inc.
2017 2016 Difference
Total assets $7,748,870 $7,286,318 $462,552
Total liabilities $861,218 $807,482 $53,736
Total revenues and other support $5,813,433 $5,063,371 $750,062
Total expenses $5,404,617 $4,750,879 $653,738
37

GIRL SCOUT PROMISE
On my honor, I will try:
To serve God and my country,
To help people at all times,
And to live by the Girl Scout Law.
GIRL SCOUT LAW
I will do my best to be
honest and fair,
friendly and helpful,
considerate and caring,
courageous and strong, and
responsible for what I say and do,
and to
respect myself and others,
respect authority,
use resources wisely,
make the world a better place, and
be a sister to every Girl Scout.
Girl Scouts of Citrus
341 N. Mills Ave.
Orlando, FL 32803
800-367-3906