Gavels and Governance—The Convention Experience: July 15–23, 2023

Experience the democratic process at the 56th National Girl Scout Council Session and the 2023 Girl Scout Convention in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.

About the Trip

Calling all Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors! Have you ever wondered what a national Girl Scout convention is all about? This is your chance to experience it firsthand! Join us at the 2023 Girl Scout Convention in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, and take part in the 56th National Council Session and Phenom by Girl Scouts. First, you will experience how Girl Scouts of the USA members create change within the national Movement at the 56th National Council Session, taking place July 18–20. Girl Scout delegates—including high school girls—will travel from every corner of the country to debate issues and make change. Beyond the National Council Session, you’ll tour government offices, meet elected officials in Central Florida, and take part in your own mock election. You’ll also learn how to conduct a trial debate by taking part in one. After the National Council Session, you’ll get to experience all aspects of Phenom by Girl Scouts, the world’s biggest gathering of Girl Scouts, taking place at Walt Disney World® Resort. As the week wraps up, you’ll have the chance to reflect on how you can be the change in your community—whether that’s by becoming an advocate, taking on a project in your neighborhood, or running for local office!

Who Should Apply?

• Age: Girl Scouts entering grades 10–12 or those who will have just graduated 12th grade in summer 2023.
• Interests: advocacy, change-making, government, politics.
  
• Requirements: comfortable around those who have different ideas than you; able to walk up to five miles per day with high daytime temperatures (90–100 degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity); and willing to attend virtual meetings and complete assignments before the trip.
• Equipment: Girl Scout uniform. A packing list will be provided upon acceptance!
• Ignite Your Passion! This trip is great for Girl Scouts who are interested in learning how to be change-makers.

The Cost

Program fee: $2,100

Deposit due upon acceptance: $400

Cancellations made on or before April 1, 2023, will receive a full refund minus $150 convention fee. Cancellations made after April 1 will receive a partial refund minus $150 convention fee. Cancellations made after May 15 will not receive a refund unless there are extenuating circumstances.

Financial aid may be available. Check with your local council.

Host and Contact Info

Girl Scouts of Citrus https://www.citrus-gs.org/

Kristina Hopwood, khopwood@citrus-gs.org, 407-228-1624