GALT, CA (MPG) - Girl Scout Troop 980 transformed the gymnasium at McCaffrey Middle School into a celebration of global culture April 10 during its “World Thinking Day,” marking the event’s 100th anniversary.

Observed by Girl Scouts in more than 150 countries, World Thinking Day focuses on learning about different cultures through research and presentations. Scouts also share a traditional treat from each country, adding a hands-on element to the experience.

The event brought together troops from elementary through high school across Elk Grove/Galt Service Unit 144. Participants explored customs of fellow Girl Scouts from around the world and highlighted their cultural traditions through interactive cardboard displays.

Countries that were represented at the April 10 event included the Central African Republic, France, Greece, Colombia, the Philippines, Japan, Portugal and Spain. Younger scouts wore lanyards with paper “passports,” visiting each country’s display to collect stamps, while older scouts led activities including games and a coloring station.

 

Girl Scouts from Elk Grove/Galt Service Unit 144 pose for a photo in front of a display celebrating Girl Scouts in Colombia, wearing lanyards with paper “passports” used to collect stamps at each country station they visited during World Thinking Day on April 10.

The celebration also coincides with the birthday of Olave Baden-Powell, a key figure in the original Girl Guide movement in England. Girl Guides is the sister organization to the Girl Scouts under the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, with Girl Scouts being primarily based in the United States and Canada.

Service Unit Coordinator Kara Joseph of Elk Grove/Galt Service Unit 144 said the day was created to unite scouts and guides worldwide as the organization expanded.

“As it grew, they wanted us to take a day to stop and think about each other… wish each other well, and sort of connect with the larger movement,” Joseph said.

Joseph added that scouts select a country to study, researching how Girl Scouts or Girl Guides in that nation operate, from uniforms and patches to school systems and whether they sell cookies or other treats.

“It’s just an opportunity for them to start to understand that they’re part of an international organization and sisterhood…,” Joseph said. “That there are girl scouts and girl guides around the world who are doing similar things, have similar experiences.”

The event also featured a guest speaker who offered words of encouragement aimed at uplifting young girls as they consider their future paths.

 

Younger Girl Scouts, wearing their lanyards with paper “passports,” visit each country display to collect stamps during World Thinking Day on April 10 at McCaffrey Middle School. 

Guest speaker Anngela Schroeder, a published author of modern-day Jane Austen fan fiction and an Amazon bestselling writer, addressed attendees as a former scout and shared how her experience shaped her personal and professional growth. 

Schroeder, who is also an English teacher at Liberty Ranch High School, said that being part of the organization growing up helped her to develop practical skills and resilience.

“You will always be able to reflect back on being a Girl Scout and what Girl Scouts has done for you, even if it’s just learning how to tie a square knot…” Schroeder said during her speech.

She added that the perseverance she developed through Girl Scouts played a big role in her journey as a writer and said speaking at the event held special meaning as a former scout.

“It was a nice full circle moment because Girl Scouts has given me so much,” she said.

 

Liberty Ranch High School English teacher and Amazon best-selling author Anngela Schroeder is pictured with her published books displayed at McCaffrey Middle School’s gymnasium during World Thinking Day on April 10.

Schroeder also said that World Thinking Day gives girls an opportunity to build their leadership skills.

“I think this is a fantastic event because it helps the girls research different parts of the world… and I think it will help them become better leaders because of the skills that it’s giving them,” Schroeder said.

Galt High School freshmen and local Girl Scouts Allison Miller and Crystal Lamb, who helped host the event, said it remains a tradition they remember from their younger years.

“It feels nice when you put something together, and you see everyone else enjoying it, and just putting the effort into building a great memory,” Miller said. “Because a lot of my core memories are of World Thinking Day when it comes to Girl Scouts.”

Crystal added, “...I haven’t done it since I was little, but to see their curiosity and all the countries where there’s Girl Scouts, it’s just really cool.”

 

Spanish bread treats were served alongside the display highlighting Spain, its Girl Scouts and traditions.

Girl Scout leader for Troop 980 and Galt resident Lisa Miller said the event encourages younger scouts to reflect on their individuality while embracing others.

“The organization really provides opportunities for girls to not only be themselves, but to be a better version of themselves,” Miller said.