This is for a ceremony only. It does not meet the Rainbow Bridging badge requirements – unless additional steps are taken. Troops should earn their Rainbow Bridging badge at a troop meeting prior to this ceremony, where they are awarded their Rainbow Bridge badge.
Preparation:
Decorate a symbolic bridge (real or makeshift) to represent the transition. Arrange for Girl Scout Seniors to wear their current sashes or vests and have Ambassador uniforms or bridging patches ready on the other side.
Step 1: Welcome Speech
The leader begins the ceremony:
“Today, we gather to celebrate a significant milestone in your Girl Scout journey. As Seniors, you’ve explored the wider world and laid the foundation for your future. Now, you’re ready to take the next step and embrace the opportunities and challenges of becoming Girl Scout Ambassadors—the highest level in Girl Scouting.”
Step 2: Reflection
A Senior Scout or leader reflects on the Senior experience:
“As Seniors, you’ve developed confidence, explored your interests, and discovered your ability to make a difference. You’ve grown as leaders, friends, and community members. This next step marks a new chapter, where you’ll use your voice to impact the world even more deeply.”
Encourage Scouts to share a favorite memory or achievement as Seniors. – Additional Step to Earn the Rainbow Bridging Badge – have other Seniors there to hear their memories.
Step 3: Bridging Across
Call each Scout by name to cross the bridge:
“Now, we invite [Scout’s Name] to cross the bridge. As you step forward, you leave behind the achievements of your Senior years and step into the exciting opportunities awaiting you as an Ambassador.”
As the Scout crosses, another leader or Ambassador welcomes them:
“Welcome, [Scout’s Name], to Girl Scout Ambassadors. Here, you will continue to grow, challenge yourself, and inspire others as a leader.”
Present the Ambassador uniform, sash, or bridging patch.
Step 4: Ambassador Aspirations
Once all have crossed, the leader shares what it means to be an Ambassador:
“As Ambassadors, you’ll take on new journeys like ‘Your Voice,’ ‘Justice,’ or ‘Bliss.’ You may earn the prestigious Gold Award, take action to effect meaningful change, and explore your passions—whether through travel, community advocacy, or personal challenges. This is your time to soar!”
Additional Step to Earn the Rainbow Bridging Badge – have an Ambassador there to tell them what they have to look forward to as Ambassadors
Step 5: Commitment and Celebration
Lead the Girl Scout Promise as a group:
“As we step into this next level, let’s renew our commitment to the values that unite us. Together, let’s recite the Girl Scout Promise.”
The leader concludes the ceremony:
“Congratulations to our newly bridged Girl Scout Ambassadors! We are excited to see the incredible things you will achieve as you continue your journey. Wear your new uniform proudly and remember the impact you can make in the world.”
End with applause, group photos, and a celebration.
References:
Bridging Guide by GSNORCAL
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For More Fun Ideas and Plans
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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- Return to the GSUSA Bridging page.
- Return to the GSUSA Ceremonies page.
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- Return to the Senior Badge List.
- Return to the Ambassador Badge List.
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