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 Cadettes to wear their current sashes or vests and have Senior uniforms or bridging patches ready on the other side.
Step 1: Welcome and Introduction
Leader begins the ceremony:
“Welcome everyone! Today, we celebrate a key milestone in your Girl Scout journey as our Cadettes prepare to bridge to Seniors. This is an exciting step where new adventures, challenges, and leadership opportunities await!”
Step 2: Reflection on Cadette Years
A Cadette shares her experience:
“As Cadettes, we’ve explored our talents, worked on inspiring Journeys like ‘MEdia’ and ‘aMAZE!’, and created positive change through our Silver Award projects. These experiences have helped us grow, learn, and build the foundation for what’s next.”
Encourage other Cadettes to share a favorite memory or project that made an impact. – Additional Step to Earn the Rainbow Bridging Badge – have other Cadettes there to hear their memories.
Step 3: Bridging Across
Leader calls each Cadette by name to cross the bridge:
“Now, we invite [Scout’s Name] to cross the bridge. With each step, you embrace the new opportunities and challenges that come with being a Girl Scout Senior.”
As the Scout crosses, a leader or Senior welcomes them:
“Welcome, [Scout’s Name], to Girl Scout Seniors! We’re thrilled to see you take on this new role, where you’ll continue to lead, grow, and make an even greater impact.”
Present the bridging patch or Senior sash.
Step 4: Embracing the Senior Role
Leader shares about the Senior experience:
“As Seniors, you’ll have even more opportunities to explore your passions, from inspiring Journeys like ‘Sow What?’ to preparing for your Gold Award—the highest honor in Girl Scouting. You can also take on leadership roles, travel to amazing destinations, and challenge yourself with exciting adventures. The possibilities are endless!”
Additional Step to Earn the Rainbow Bridging Badge – have a Senior there to tell them what they have to look forward to as Seniors.
Step 5: Closing and Celebration
Leader concludes:
“Congratulations to our new Girl Scout Seniors! Wear your bridging patch with pride and embrace this new phase of your journey. Together, let’s recite the Girl Scout Promise to reaffirm our commitment to making the world a better place.”
End with applause, photos, and refreshments or a fun activity to celebrate the occasion!
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 Cadette Badge List.
- Return to the Senior Badge List.
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