The Badge Archive

GSUSA – 50 State Exchanges

Scouts across the country are taking on the 50-State Postcard Exchange, an exciting challenge where troops or individual scouts aim to collect postcards, letters, or SWAPs from each of the 50 states. While this activity fosters connections and teaches geography, it also comes with hidden challenges that participants should be aware of.

How the Exchange Works

The goal is simple: find someone from each state willing to exchange a postcard, letter, or SWAP. However, many scouts don’t realize that it’s common courtesy to send one back when receiving an item. This means that for every postcard received, a scout must return the favor, making it a potentially expensive endeavor.

Planning for Success

To make the exchange manageable and enjoyable, keep these tips in mind:

  • Budget for extra costs – Plan for at least 75 exchanges, not just 50, since some may not send anything in return. Be aware it may be 100 or more in the end.
  • Plan for extended time – Many who complete this challenge do so over a full year or two. This is not a quick, finish in a month project.
  • Prepare for disappointment – Not everyone follows through, which can be frustrating for both scouts and adults helping.
  • Find reliable exchange partners – Some Facebook groups and social media communities have large followings but don’t allow exchange requests.

Where to Find Exchange Partners

To increase your chances of completing the challenge, consider joining dedicated exchange groups like:

Another option is to join our digital exchange – The Badge Archive’s 50-State Challenge.

The 50-State Postcard Exchange is a rewarding experience that teaches scouts about geography, commitment, and communication. While it requires patience and planning, the joy of receiving postcards from across the country makes it worth the effort! 🌍✉️

Where to find patches

There are several fun patches available for exchanges. Some examples would be:

Other Resources:

Other Resources

If you’re looking for additional ways to enhance your 50-State Postcard Exchange, check out these resources:

  • State Patches – Find patches representing each state to add to your collection.
  • Researching U.S.A. States – Discover interesting facts about each state to make your exchanges more meaningful.

These resources can help scouts track their progress, collect unique items, and learn more about the states they connect with! 🌍✉️

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Scouts

Join the Girl Scout Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)

This is a supportive Facebook community for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Girl Scout leaders. Whether you’re seeking advice, fresh ideas, or meeting plans, you’re in the right place! Let’s inspire each other, share our experiences, and make every troop meeting a memorable adventure.

for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Scouts

Join the Girl Scout Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)

This is a supportive community for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scout leaders. This group offers solutions to keep older scouts engaged in scouting amidst their busy lives. Share strategies, tackle challenges, and exchange ideas for fun, meaningful activities that resonate with teens and build lasting connections.

Find out how you can support The Badge Archive!

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Tia Kennard