Celebrate Juliette Gordon Low’s birthday with over 30 Girl Scout Founder’s Day ideas.
Every year on October 31st, troops across the country pause to celebrate Girl Scout Founder’s Day, the birthday of Juliette Gordon Low, the visionary woman who brought Girl Scouting to life. For leaders, this is more than just a date on the calendar, it’s a meaningful opportunity to connect girls with their history, celebrate their identity as Girl Scouts, and inspire them to live out the values of courage, confidence, and character.
Who Was Juliette Gordon Low?
Juliette “Daisy” Gordon Low was born on October 31, 1860, in Savannah, Georgia. Known for her lively spirit and adventurous heart, she loved the arts, animals, and travel. After meeting Sir Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Boy Scouts, Juliette was inspired to create an organization for girls in the United States that would help them develop leadership skills, explore the outdoors, and serve their communities.
In 1912, she gathered 18 girls in Savannah for the very first Girl Scout meeting. What started as a small troop has now grown into a worldwide movement with millions of members. Despite health challenges—she lost most of her hearing at a young age, Juliette refused to let obstacles stop her. She believed every girl deserved the chance to discover her strengths and make a difference in the world. Her legacy is the Girl Scouts as we know them today.
Why Founder’s Day Matters for Today’s Troops
As a leader, you know how quickly meetings can fill up with badge activities, crafts, service projects, and fun outings. Founder’s Day provides a chance to pause and reflect on the deeper meaning of Girl Scouts. Here’s why it’s important to celebrate:
It Connects Girls to Their Roots
Many girls may not know who Juliette Gordon Low was or why she’s so important. Celebrating Founder’s Day gives them a sense of belonging to something bigger than their troop. They learn that they’re part of a tradition more than 100 years old, and that they carry on Juliette’s dream every time they put on their sash or vest.
It Inspires Leadership and Resilience
Juliette’s story is one of courage and persistence. Despite personal challenges, she created a movement that changed the world. Sharing her biography and vision reminds girls that they, too, can lead, innovate, and overcome obstacles.
It Builds Troop Spirit
Marking Girl Scout Founder’s Day can strengthen the bond between troop members. Whether through a party, a service project, or earning a badge, girls get to celebrate together and recognize the values they share.
It Honors Girl Scout Traditions
Traditions are what keep organizations strong. Girl Scout Founder’s Day is one of those moments where past and present come together, reinforcing the core values of Girl Scouts—service, sisterhood, and leadership.
Over 30 Ways to Celebrate Girl Scout Founder’s Day
This blog post has 30 ways to celebrate Founder’s day. Since writing that, I have added more ways in these posts:
Earn Badges and Petals for Girl Scout Founder’s Day Ready made resources for busy leaders.
Easy to Plan Girl Scout Founder’s Day Meeting
What is your troop doing to celebrate Girl Scout Founder’s Day?