If your child is curious, creative and ready to make new friends, the Girl Scouts of Metro Detroit offer endless opportunities to grow, lead and have fun.
Whether you’re looking to learn more about local troops, upcoming events or how to register, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to join the Girl Scouts community right here in Metro Detroit.
How to sign up for Girl Scouts locally
The first step is deciding how you’d like to participate. Many girls join a troop, which typically meets weekly or biweekly, giving them a chance to bond with peers and leaders while working on projects and activities together.
If joining a troop isn’t feasible — perhaps due to location or schedule — you can also register as a Juliette, also called an Individually Registered Member (IRM). This option allows girls to participate independently and with more flexibility, while still enjoying all the benefits of being a Girl Scout.
Becoming a Girl Scout
Once you’ve decided, you can register through the GSSEM “Join” page. The process involves filling in details like your ZIP code, grade level and contact information.
Membership is $45 per year for girls at the national level, though there may be additional fees for council programs or activities. Importantly, financial assistance is available directly through GSSEM, so if cost is a concern, you can ask about support during the registration process.
Check for badge workshops and local events
Beyond troop meetings, there are plenty of exciting events and badge opportunities throughout Detroit. For instance, the Detroit Zoo regularly hosts Scout Workshops that align with badge requirements, though registration tends to fill quickly, so it’s wise to sign up early. The Belle Isle Nature Center also runs badge programs that connect girls to nature and conservation. In addition, GSSEM’s Programs and Events Calendar lists upcoming sessions across the council, including workshops, celebrations, and special events.
How troops are organized
Troops are organized by grade, and each stage offers its own milestones
Volunteer or lead a girl scout troop
Adults who want to be involved can take on leadership roles or help out with local events. GSSEM provides training for new volunteers, including Troop Leader Orientation and Grade-Level Essentials, both of which are available online through the gsLearn platform. Whether you’d like to lead a troop, help organize badge workshops or just lend a hand occasionally, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.
Special local offers to consider
From time to time, GSSEM also offers special registration perks, such as discounts, local credits or extra supplies, especially for those who register early or through certain events. It’s worth checking the website or asking your council representative about these offers when you sign up.
What a Scout year looks like
- Meetings: Twice per month, one to two hours each
- Projects: Food drives, park cleanups, community service
- Special Events: STEM days, cultural celebrations, award ceremonies
- Camping: At least one troop trip per year
- Year-end ceremony: Recognition of badges, awards and achievements
Local class/badge opportunities in metro Detroit
These programs are really happening in Detroit and the surrounding region, and they are being put on by Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan (GSSEM) or other local groups.
|
Program/Activity |
Ages/Levels |
What You’ll Do |
| Workshops at Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center | Daisies, Brownies, Juniors, Cadettes | Get badges by taking part in outdoor and nature classes. Some examples are Eco Learner (Daisies), Eco Camper (Juniors), and so on. Belle Isle Nature Center |
| Patch/Program Events via GSSEM | All grade levels K-12 | All grade levels K-12 STEM workshops (e.g. robotics, coding), leadership, outdoor experiences, community service and arts & cultural activities. |
| Local Nature Center Badge Programs | Daisies, Brownies, Juniors | Badges that focus on nature can be found in parks and nature centers in Metro Detroit: Belle Isle and the Stage Nature Center |
To begin your journey, you can head directly to GSSEM’s Join Page, enter your information and find the nearest troop or register individually.
