Teri O'Connor
Board Chair
Special 57th National Council Session
Info on National Board’s Proposal to Increase Membership Dues
On Saturday, October 19, the National Council of Girl Scouts of the USA convened with over 900 delegates from councils nationwide to discuss the first potential increase in membership dues in eight years. This increase aims to enhance accessibility for all girls and invest further in our programs. The delegates—comprised of Girl Scouts, volunteers, and peers—are passionate representatives committed to our mission.
The National Council Sessions exemplify our dynamic democratic process—one that is for Girl Scouts, by Girl Scouts. Our delegates spent over 12 hours listening, sharing perspectives, respectfully debating, and ultimately voting on two proposals to increase annual dues for girl and adult members.
The National Council has voted to raise girl membership dues from $25 to $45 for Membership Year 2026 and to $65 for Membership Year 2027. Adult dues will increase from $25 to $30, effective Membership Year 2026. Currently, the council membership dues for girls are $40, which includes a $15 Council Service Fee, while adults pay $25 with no additional fees.
We understand that these increases may be concerning, especially for families facing financial challenges. However, this adjustment is crucial for our financial stability and for creating future opportunities. These fees support the valuable leadership development and transformative experiences that Girl Scouts offer.
As we assess how this fee increase will affect our members, we will work to address any potential loss of income for our council. Our council staff and dedicated Board of Directors will collaborate to determine any necessary council service fees, as none of the 2026 dues will be allocated to our council.
We remain unwavering in our commitment to deliver impactful and engaging experiences for our members now and in the future. We look forward to building on our strong history, exploring new sustainability opportunities, and ensuring our relevance for girls in the years to come.
We invite you to join us for a town hall this Thursday, where we will discuss the fee increase and address any questions or concerns. Together, we can shape our future and continue delivering exceptional experiences, ensuring that more girls choose Girl Scouts as a place to learn, grow, and connect.
Town Hall information:
GSJS is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting – GSJS Town Hall
October 24, 2024 at 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83416800663?pwd=Q22BJTgaA6YRpO8YXekuicjLCGNlwP.1
Meeting ID: 834 1680 0663
Passcode: 977564
Please email governance@gsFun.org with any questions or thoughts.
Board of Directors
The Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore Board of Directors is comprised of a diverse group of volunteer community leaders and professionals. They ensure the Girl Scout mission is carried out across Monmouth and Ocean counties. Board members are selected for their commitment to improving the lives of girls as well as their leadership, volunteer and nonprofit experience; ability to secure financial contributions to Girl Scouts; professional and educational background, and knowledge of the community. They are chosen by the Board Development Committee and elected by the voting members of the Council.
The role of the Board of Directors is one of governance. Their responsibilities include strategic planning, fund development, the appointment of the chief executive officer, financial oversight, and interaction with the community.
Officers
Jacqueline K. Shea
First Vice Chair
Jaimie Diaz
Second Vice Chair
Barbara Birdsall, Esq.
Third Vice Chair
Lauren Holman
Treasurer
Bob McLane
Secretary
Members-At-Large
Alexis Bailey
Dr. Charles Ford
Jody Herkloz
Jaclyn Kosco
Dr. Michael Maschi
Brian Murphy
Ann Petronaci
Heather Stout
Carla Vanzant
Ben Waldron
Jay Whalen
2022-2026
National Delegates
| Adult Delegates | Girl Delegates |
|
|
| Adult Alternate | Girl Alternate |
|
2023-2024
Regional Delegates
Colonial Region
| Adult Delegates | Girl Delegates |
|
|
Sandy Hook Region
| Adult Delegates | Girl Delegates |
|
|
Shore Pines Region
| Adult Delegates | Girl Delegates |
|
|
Sunset Shores Region
| Adult Delegates | Girl Delegates |
|
|
At-Large Delegates
| Adult Delegates | Girl Delegates |
|
|
2024-2025
Regional Delegates
Colonial Region
| Adult Delegates | Girl Delegates |
|
|
Sandy Hook Region
| Adult Delegates | Girl Delegates |
|
|
Shore Pines Region
| Adult Delegates | Girl Delegates |
|
|
Sunset Shores Region
| Adult Delegates | Girl Delegates |
|
|
Regional and Council Committees 
2024-2025 Girl Representatives to the Board
1. Shannon Calsetta
2. Bailey Casey
3. Anna DePinho
4. Fleur Eaton
5. Emily Farrell
6. Bailey McBride
7. Mackenzie Miller
8. Leena Mirchandani
