GSSEM Receives Historic First-Time Funding From State of Michigan
One million in funding will go toward uplifting local girls into future leaders.
July 06, 2023
Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan has announced plans to bring the Girl Scouts L.E.A.D. Institute to Metro Detroit using the $1 million in historic funding it has received from the state's budget.
GSSEM, through the L.E.A.D. Institute, intends to bring the benefits of Girl Scout programming to Southeast Michigan's youth by providing an education and experience destination where they can learn, experience, adventure, and discover (L.E.A.D.).
"The significant investment by the State of Michigan proves that young women matter and we are committed to investing in them as future leaders of our state," said GSSEM Monica Woodson. "We are grateful to Governor Whitmer, Speaker Joe Tate, Sens. Sarah Anthony and Winnie Brinks, Rep. Angela Witwer, and the Detroit Legislative Delegation for putting the issues of girls and women first and supporting our vision throughout the budget process. With their support, GSSEM will continue our mission of bringing life-changing programs and experiences to help young people prepare for bright futures and make positive contributions to their communities."
Powered by Girl Scouts but available to all youth in the community, L.E.A.D. Institute is an education and experience program meant to bridge the gap in educational and recreational opportunities for youth that have otherwise been limited or cut in their communities. Girl Scouts program pillars of Entrepreneurship, Outdoor Education, STEM and STEAM, and Life Skills will be the foundation of all L.E.A.D. Institute offerings and experiences. Examples of possible programs could include financial literacy, game design and programming, healthy relationship building environmental conservation, coding, nutrition, and more.
Planning for the Girl Scout L.E.A.D. Institute is a multi-step, diversified process that will focus on private and public support. Phase one of the campaign will use state funding to support research and data around the project while phase two will surround the solicitation of annual capital support to grow the long-term funds needed to support programming and education in perpetuity.
"It's crucial we work with partners in the community to provide these kinds of enriching opportunities for our youth," Woodson continued. "We are proud to lead the charge in empowering and supporting young girls in this generation and the next."
With the help of volunteers and community partners, GSSEM encourages thousands of girls across Southeastern Michigan to think beyond the cookie box and discover their passions, connect with their communities, and take action to make the world a better place. With the help of dedicated volunteers and community partners, GSSEM offers girls scouts a diverse range of programming, exciting adventure opportunities, and hands-on experiences. Through a variety of activities, Girl Scouts develop confidence, overcome barriers, and embrace new experiences.
