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 Use Resources Wisely

Items Needed

• Bridge or pathway for crossing
• Silver key necklaces or chains
• Cadette pins, certificates, or other recognitions
• Printed or memorized “Look Wider Still” quote

Before the Meeting

• Set up a symbolic bridge or pathway for crossing, adorned with silver decorations to highlight the key theme.
• Prepare silver key necklaces or chains for each Junior scout.
• (Optional) Arrange for Cadette scouts or leaders to welcome Juniors on the other side with a handshake or warm embrace.
• Have badges or pins ready for presentation during the ceremony.
• Select a Girl Scout song and flag ceremony for the opening and closing.

Ceremony Instructions:

• Begin the ceremony with the flag presentation and recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. Follow with a Girl Scout song chosen by the troop.
• Any Junior pins, badges, or other recognitions they earned before this meeting are distributed at this time.
• The troop leader welcomes everyone and introduces the ceremony:
  “Today, we celebrate the incredible growth and accomplishments of our Junior Girl Scouts as they take the first step into their Cadette journey. This bridge represents their transition and the opportunities waiting to be unlocked.”
• Each Junior steps forward one at a time to cross the bridge. At the midpoint, the leader briefly pauses them and says:
  “As you cross this bridge, you are unlocking the door to a new chapter in your Girl Scout journey. Carry with you the lessons of friendship, courage, and service from your Junior years.”
• Scouts continue across the bridge and are greeted on the other side by Cadette scouts or leaders, who offer their congratulations and warm welcomes.
• Once all scouts have crossed, the troop leader presents each girl with a silver key necklace. The leader explains its significance:
  “The key represents your challenge
  to look wider still in all you do
  while always remembering to be
  honest and fair,
  friendly and helpful,
  considerate and caring,
  courageous and strong,
  responsible for what you say and do,
  respectful of yourself and others,
  respectful of authority,
  wise in your use of resources,
  and always trying to make the world a better place
  while being a sister to every Girl Scout.”
• Any Cadette pins, badges, or other recognitions they earned as part of the Look Ahead portion of their Rainbow Bridging badge are distributed at this time.
• Form a Friendship Circle with all attendees, including family and friends. Sing a chosen Girl Scout song to celebrate the unity and excitement for the journey ahead. The troop leader concludes with final words:
  “As Cadette Girl Scouts, you have the key to unlocking opportunities for growth, leadership, and service. We are so proud of you and cannot wait to see all the incredible things you will accomplish. Look wider still in all you do.”

References:

• “The Silver Key for New Cadettes.” Use Resources Wisely, 10 May 2015, useresourceswisely.com/2015/05/10/the-silver-key-for-new-cadettes/. Accessed 5 Apr. 2025.

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Scouts

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

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 Junior Badge List.
• Return to the Cadette Badge List.

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