The Badge Archive

GSUSA – Disagreements about Cookie Booth Methods

What to Do If You Don’t Agree with How Your Co-Leader Runs Cookie Booths?

As troop leaders, teamwork is essential to running a successful Girl Scout troop. But what happens when you don’t agree with how your co-leader is managing cookie booths—and they’re not open to suggestions?

When You Disagree, But It’s Not Against the Rules

If the way your co-leader runs cookie booths isn’t breaking any council rules, the best approach is often to live with it:

  • Accept Different Styles: There are many ways to run a cookie booth, and not all of them may align with your preferences. If your co-leader’s method works and follows council rules, you might need to let them handle things their way.
  • Balance Your Involvement: If you’re not willing to step in and run the booth yourself, it’s fair to tolerate their approach—especially since micromanaging can discourage volunteers from contributing in the future.

It’s also important to recognize your limits. You can’t do everything on your own, nor should you have to.

When It’s Against Council Rules

If your co-leader is breaking council rules and refuses to change, take the following steps:

  1. Warn Them First:
    • Politely explain the issue and why following council rules is non-negotiable. Let them know that if the behavior continues, you’ll need to escalate the situation.
  2. Report the Violation:
    • If they remain unresponsive and continue breaking rules, report the issue to your council or service unit.
    • Be prepared for council or the service unit to take limited action—some rule violations may not result in strong enforcement.
  3. Withdraw Participation:
    • If the situation becomes unacceptable to you, step back from cookie booth participation rather than continuing to engage with the problem.

Council vs. Service Unit: Where to Report Issues

Depending on your council’s structure, you may choose to report issues to your Service Unit (SU)/Community, or directly to council. Different councils may use different terminology, but the roles are generally similar.

  • Service Unit (SU)/Community: If your Service Unit or Community has active and involved leaders, such as a Service Unit Manager (SUM) or Service Unit Cookie Manager (SUCM), they may provide quicker responses compared to contacting council directly. In many cases, they act as a liaison between your troop and council.
  • Council: Larger councils can take longer to respond, but they are the ultimate authority. Service Units or Communities follow council policies, so their guidance typically aligns with council rules.

Regardless of where you report, be aware that rule enforcement can vary. Some rule violations may result in strong action, while others might receive minimal follow-up or support.

Key Takeaways for Troop Leaders

When disagreements arise over cookie booth management:

  1. Understand Your Role: If the issue doesn’t involve rule-breaking, consider stepping back and letting your co-leader take charge in their own way.
  2. Follow Protocols: If rules are being violated, communicate concerns to your co-leader first, then escalate if necessary.
  3. Know Your Council’s Structure: Familiarize yourself with the difference between service units and council to determine where to report issues.
  4. Pick Your Battles: Focus on what matters most—compliance with council rules and ensuring a positive experience for the scouts.

Ultimately, your role as a troop leader is to model flexibility and respect for different approaches while prioritizing what’s best for the troop.