The Badge Archive

This is for a ceremony only. It does not meet the Rainbow Bridging badge requirements. Troops should earn their Rainbow Bridging badge at a troop meeting prior to this ceremony, where they are awarded their Rainbow Bridge badge.

Poem used is by Joan McEniry from Bridging Ceremonies by GSEM

Preparation:

Set up a symbolic bridge for the Ambassador to cross. Arrange seating for adult volunteers and scouts, and create a special display area with the Ambassador’s recognitions or symbols of the transition. Ensure the Ambassador has a printed or memorized copy of the poem to read aloud.

Items Needed:

• Bridge for crossing
• A copy of the poem
• Any recognitions or small tokens for the Ambassador to mark her transition

Ceremony Instructions:

1. Opening:
   Begin with a flag ceremony led by scouts and a Girl Scout song to celebrate the occasion. The leader welcomes attendees and explains the purpose of the ceremony:
   “Today, we celebrate a milestone in the journey of our Girl Scout Ambassador(s). This is a special moment as they transition from a youth member to an Adult volunteer, ready to take on new responsibilities and continue to make a difference. Before crossing the bridge, <insert name> has some words to share with those who have guided our Ambassador(s) along the way.”
2. Ambassador’s Address to Volunteers:
   The chosen Ambassador steps forward and addresses the adult volunteers:
   “To all of you who have supported, inspired, and encouraged me throughout my Girl Scout journey—thank you. Your guidance has been a light on my path, teaching me the values of leadership, service, and integrity. I would not be here today without your dedication and belief in me.”
3. Recitation of the Poem:
   The Ambassador recites the poem to the adult volunteers:
   “We are the present…and the future too,
   We turned our eyes to you to point the way.
   We learned to walk, ourselves, against the day,
   When you no longer lead us by the hand. You taught us the meaning we need,
   For, soon, there will be those
   Whom we must lead,
   In ways which you have shown. And, having taught us,
   Show us that you are not afraid for us to walk alone.
   You taught us to reach for the stars,
   To gather to ourselves the dreams
   That beckoned once to you. You taught us those things that we must know,
   To make your dream, our dream come true!”
4. Acknowledging Volunteers:
   After reading the poem, the Ambassador expresses gratitude in her own words. An example:
   “Thank you for teaching me how to lead, dream, and grow. You’ve shown me how to walk confidently and independently, and because of you, I’m ready to step forward and give back, just as you have given to me.”
5. Crossing the Bridge:
   The Ambassador crosses the bridge to symbolize her transition to becoming an Adult volunteer. On the other side, she is greeted by troop leaders and volunteers who present her with any tokens or recognitions for the new role. Any additional Ambassadors cross one by one.
6. Closing Remarks:
   The original Ambassador who read the poem, or the final Ambassador that crossed the bridge shares final words:
   “As we move into this new chapter, we carry with us all that you’ve taught us. We look forward to giving back and supporting scouts just as you have supported us. Thank you for inspiring us to continue this journey.”
7. Closing Ceremony:
   End with a Friendship Circle and a meaningful Girl Scout song selected by the troop, celebrating the Ambassador’s transition and the contributions of all the volunteers.

Reference:

Bridging Ceremonies by GSEM

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