The Badge Archive

Across Generations: GSUSA 2000s

⚠️ This page is under construction

The 1990s brought continued growth and evolution to Girl Scouting. While the Worlds to Explore badge program remained in place, councils began experimenting with new formats, and technology slowly entered troop life. Uniforms became even more flexible, and girls took on greater leadership roles in their communities. The seeds of today’s Journeys and Take Action projects were planted in the hands-on service and advocacy work of this era.

What’s Different

What Was Different from Earlier Decades

  • Badgework still followed Worlds to Explore: Girls earned badges in themed categories like “Out-of-Doors” and “Well-Being,” with colorful borders and hands-on steps.
  • Technology began to appear: Troops started using email and early websites for communication and planning.
  • Uniforms continued to evolve: Mix-and-match styles expanded, and girls had more freedom to personalize their look.
  • Council programming diversified: More girls participated in career exploration, STEM activities, and multicultural events.
  • Alumni groups gained momentum: Adults who had grown up in scouting began forming legacy networks and support communities.

What’s Different from Today’s Girl Scouts

  • Journeys and Take Action Projects weren’t introduced yet: Girls focused on standalone badges and troop-led service.
  • Digital tracking didn’t exist: Badge records were still kept in paper handbooks and binders.
  • Ambassador level didn’t exist: Seniors were the final level until the early 2000s.
  • Council mergers were underway: Many local councils began consolidating, reshaping the Girl Scout map.

What’s the Same

  • Campfire songs and friendship circles
  • Girl-led projects and community service
  • The Girl Scout Promise and Law
  • Lifelong connections and intergenerational mentorship
  • Pride in uniforms, badges, and traditions

Featured Profiles

Andrea Y.
Andrea began as a Brownie and went on to direct Camp Alice Chester for over a decade, empowering girls through outdoor adventure, leadership, and creativity. From CIT serenades to meeting Marion Chester Read, her story celebrates the magic of camp and the lifelong bonds it builds.

Read Andrea Y.’s full profile →

Memory Snapshots

Lori J. — Three Generations of Scouts
Her mother was a Girl Scout in the 1950s, Lori herself in the 1970s–80s, and her goddaughter from 2000–2006. She’s witnessed decades of change, some good, some disappointing. She wouldn’t trade the experience for anything.

Suggested Resources

Have a photo from the 1990s?

We’d love to feature vintage snapshots! Submit your troop pics or camp memories here.

Browse More or Submit Yours

Looking for another decade? Back to the Across Generations Page →
Got a memory to share? Submit a 1990s story →

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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