• RSVP Fall Kickoff 2026

    Reserve your spot for the 2026/2027 GSMISTS Fall Kickoff
  • Service Unit team members and Girl Scout leaders (Troop Leaders, Primary Assistant Troop Leader, and Assistant Troop Leaders) are invited to join us at Ferris State University to kick off the 2027 membership year!

    A variety of sessions will be offered to help prepare your service unit team and leaders for the upcoming year and to ensure you get the most out of the Girl Scout experience. Explore the breakout sessions below and reserve your spot in the sessions of your choice.

     

    Date:

    August 22nd, 2026

    Time:

     Check-in begins: 9:00 AM

    Event concludes: 2:00 PM

    Location:

     Ferris State University

    David Eisler Center

    805 Campus Dr

    Big Rapids, MI 49307

    Registration Deadline:

    August 3, 2026

     

  • Participant Information

  • Session 1 Choices

    • Elevating the Girl Scout Experience Through Marketing 
    • Explore how effective marketing strategies can amplify the impact and visibility of the Girl Scout experience within GSMISTS. By aligning storytelling, branding, and digital outreach, we aim to inspire engagement, increase membership, and strengthen community presence.

    • Service Unit Retention Plan 
    • This training introduces the Service Unit Retention Action Plan for MY26–27, outlining how Service Units are grouped by retention performance and the support available at each level. Participants will review recognition strategies for high-retention Service Units and targeted action steps for those needing additional support to improve retention.

    • New Troop Leaders: What to Know 
    • Starting your journey as a troop leader? This session covers the essentials you need to begin with confidence, including key responsibilities, helpful resources, and important timelines.

      You’ll also explore practical strategies for building a positive troop culture, managing different personalities and age levels, and creating a fun, inclusive environment where girls feel safe to share ideas and lead. Walk away with tools and confidence to launch a successful, girl-led troop experience from day one.

    • Troop Finance Reports: Best Practices 
    • Gain confidence managing troop finances. Learn how to set up and maintain a troop bank account, track spending, manage receipts, complete a Detailed Cash Record, navigate online banking, and submit your finance report accurately and efficiently.

  • Session 2 Choices

    • Oh, the Places You’ll Go – GSMISTS Properties 
    • Did you know GSMISTS has six properties across our council footprint? Explore day trips and overnight opportunities for troop outings, including the new Girl Scout DreamLab Troop Experience and event options.

    • Planning for a Multi-level Troop / Using Girl-Led Leadership 
    • Leading a multi-level troop presents both challenges and opportunities. Learn strategies for planning engaging meetings that support multiple age levels while maintaining a girl-led approach. Discover how to balance structure and flexibility, encourage leadership across all ages, and ensure every girl’s voice is heard.

    • Events & Programming Opportunities 
    • Research consistently shows that one of the top reasons girls stay in Girl Scouting is access to unique activities they wouldn’t otherwise experience. This session highlights programming options from GSMISTS staff and program partners, and how to maximize your troop’s Girl Scout year.

    • Highest Awards Overview 
    • Ready to support Girl Scouts in earning their Highest Awards? This session will walk you through expectations, requirements, and support strategies. Ample time will be provided for discussion and questions, so you leave ready to guide Girl Scouts through these meaningful achievements.

  • Session 3 Choices

    • Product Program Review for MY27 
    • Learn about updates to the Fall Product Program and Cookie Program and get a preview of upcoming rewards and incentives for the next program year.

  • Please select which workshop you will be attending for session 1:*
  • Please select which workshop you will be attending for session 2:*
  • Should be Empty: