This page is where we'll update you on how the new program is taking shape. Each month you can expect to find information related to: program model, content, Guider education, program delivery, technology, evaluation and more. We will send a reminder in Guidepost each month, but feel free to visit anytime!
You'll also find out more about the various consultations taking place across the country on this page. We'll profile some of the comments, questions and aspirations that we're hearing from Girls, Guiders and parents from coast to coast to coast on various aspects of the new program.
We know there is a lot going on with the development of Girls First and we want all GGC members to have access to the latest information anytime they are curious. We also want to hear from you. Please reach out to us at GirlsFirst@girlguides.ca with any comments or questions, submit your favourite activity or apply to become a test unit to help shape the program.
The countdown is on! Now, please allow us to present our fearless leaders: (Chair and CEO)
Pamela (Chair) and Jill (CEO)
Pamela Rice
"Welcome to our new Girls First page where you can be a part of this exciting new initiative that puts Girls First. These updates are informed by the continuous consultations, focus groups and demographic research being undertaken across the country with councils, Guiders, Girls and senior volunteers. Girls First will allow GGC to meet Girls where they are at today, and to remain agile so that we can continue to grow in the years and decades to come. Check back often and be part of the conversation!"
Jill Zelmanovits
"I am thrilled that Girls First is truly being driven by the Girl. We've heard that Girls want to have a flexible program that allows them to discover who they are in a safe, girl-only space; because Girls know best what's right for their own journey. They told us they want to track goals and badges, and that they want to shape their Guiding experience to become more confident and independent. By making Girls First accessible online, we ensure that it stays fresh, relevant and that it can respond to what Girls and Guiders need. Come with us on this exciting journey!"
This month's updates:
Girls First is on track to launch, September 2018. There will be a full transition year with equivalencies clearly outlined for any ongoing badge work and awards. This plan will be communicated by the end of the 2017/18 Guiding year.
The program will be outcomes-based and will leverage materials that exist across the country as well as new materials based on Girls' feedback.
The program will be scaffolded in a BIG way from Sparks through Rangers ensuring Girls can follow similar themes in age appropriate ways with no risk of getting bored.
The program materials will be available online, allowing both Girls and Guiders the ability to browse, search and explore all the program has to offer.
Girls First team working on the design of the on-line platform
Unit meetings will still happen just like they do today! Though the materials are available online, units will run with the help and passion of women volunteers who empower Girls to be everything they want to be.
There will be badges! Stay tuned to learn more about the program requirements in October's update.
Accessibility considerations: We're reviewing how to ensure online accessibility isn't a barrier for those whose communities have internet challenges and will continue to consult with many stakeholders on accessibility options as needed.
The selected units will be reflective of our GGC membership in terms of province, number of branches, urban and rural distribution, etc. Please visit the FAQ page for more info!
Click to enlarge image ☝
The Girls First Team is heading to Alberta's Grassroots conference. Check back in a couple of weeks to read about what Alberta's Guiders, Youth Forum and Senior Volunteers had to share.