The Girl Scout Cookie Program has grown into a leading business and economic literacy program that is run by and for girls. The program provides an important ingredient for leadership by helping girls develop five key skills: Goal Setting, Decision Making, Money Management, People Skills, and Business Ethics.

Last year was the first year Girl Scouts of Central Illinois used the direct sale format, and our Girl Scouts and troops were very successful. By using the direct sale format, troop profits increased by 25%, 35% more girls earned free membership, girls earned 26% more Cookie Dough and recognitions, and girls reaching the 250 and 500 boxes sold level was up over 110%.

Of course, we also experienced some growing pains while getting used to the direct sale process. To make the process smoother for our volunteers, members, parents, and staff, the product sales team met with cookie focus groups and have also reviewed the troop leader and parent surveys in order to improve our 2014 cookie program. You will notice several improvements this year, and we are thankful for all our volunteers who provided us with honest and helpful suggestions to help make this year’s program better than ever.

Please take time to thoroughly review the 2014 Juliette Cookie Guide. This guide will inform you of the many new improvements to our program and will answer most of your questions. Also, please don’t forget to have your parent/guardian complete the Parent Permission Form for you participation.