Girl Scout’s have begun cookie sales

ALBANY — The excitement generated by the approach of Christmas is one that is generally all-consuming. Even with the seemingly unending list of to-do’s, everywhere there seems to be that added touch of the unique eccentric feeling that denotes the holidays as reminders in the form of lights, music, and baked goods grab attentions.

However, in the middle of the countdown, business continues as scheduled.

As of Dec. 17, the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia have officially launched their annual cookie sale season, once again distributing the classic sweets that are Samoas, Treffoils, Thin Mints and Do-Si-Dos. Georgians can expect to see Scouts at booths throughout the state at the beginning of March. However, orders will be taken until May 3. While still early within the term, the Scouts have high aspirations for the months ahead.

Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia’s Senior Director of Marketing and Communications Denice Ward said that cookie sales “… give girls the opportunity to learn valuable life skills of goal-setting, decision-making, money management, people skills and business ethics.”

“When customers buy cookies from a Girl Scout, they are investing in so much more than a box of treats — they are investing in a girl’s future, and the future leadership of our country,” Ward said.

While each Girl Scout determines and manages her goals individually, sales collectively benefit all troops within a district. So each purchase is a direct investment into the local council. Such is one of the most essential sources for the nonprofit to collect funding for troop activities and programs, such as Girl Scout’s Take Action projects, which operate for scouts to actively identify and address problems in the community while practicing teamwork and social service.

The upcoming annual Cookie Rally is another example of how these treats develop into action. On Jan. 19, Girl Scouts are invited to First Baptist Church of Albany to practice fun activities and attend orientations related to becoming a sales professional. The orientation will be conducted from 10 a.m.-noon.

Council representatives will be present to address concerns and help process interested participants into scouthood and/or volunteering efforts, such as becoming a troop leader or mentor. Entrance fee is $5, and currently enrolled Scouts will be rewarded with a patch for attendance.

The public is invited to keep up with Girl Scout information through visiting the organization’s website, https://www.girlscouts.org/. Through this platform, users can make donations, sign up to volunteer, locate their local council and registered cookie booths, shop for merchandise, and read the most current information about enrollment procedures and events.