The Boy Scouts of America’s rebranded to include girls in February 2019, offering them the chance to advance through ranks and attain Eagle Scout status.
The journey of girls being a part of BSA leads back to 1969 with the introduction of special-interest posts. Now after 50 years, girls are given the right to pave their way to earn the prestigious honor of being an Eagle Scout.
The female led Troop 8695 in Sammamish welcomes all youth who want to be a part of the program. Julie Demers, scoutmaster of Troop 8695, describes the troop as “a team led troop in BSA, where you get to learn leadership skills, inclusiveness, collaboration and making an impact in your community.” She focuses on the growth she observes in the girls while they participate in various activities and enhancing skills like collaboration, survival, and problem solving with the troop.
Marissa D’zio, a 16-year-old junior at Eastlake High School and Senior Patrol Leader in Troop 8695, describes her experience in Scouts BSA, saying, “It’s not Girl Scouts, it’s a place to learn skills like camping, leadership, putting faith in others, planning ahead, having flexibility, not stressing out when things don’t go as they’re supposed to. The troop is mainly it’s self-driven. It’s about bonding relationships,” she adds. Marissa highlights memorable experiences like campouts and bonding activities such as snowshoeing, noting, “ever since girls have been welcomed in BSA, there are equal opportunities and a very inclusive society of people willing to help you.”
Aline Lefebere, Patrol Leader, emphasizes teamwork, trust, and learning. Reflecting on Camp Parsons, she stresses readiness for outdoor activities and collaboration to advance. Aline also mentions her growth in leadership and inclusivity. Yashasri Kotapati, a troop member, appreciates the troop’s welcoming atmosphere and how the troop “encourages personal growth in face of challenges.”
Troop 8695 is a one of many female-led troops for BSA. This new initiative and rule has not only promoted reforms for gender equality, but also opened doors for inclusion, diversity and appreciation for the program.
If you’re inspired by the stories of Marissa, Aline, Yashasri, and others who have found empowerment through scouting, we invite you to join. Whether you’re a girl eager to embark on your scouting journey or a supporter of gender equality and youth development, there’s a place for everyone in the Boy Scouts of America.
