Date: Fri Sep 26, 6:00 PM CDT - Sun Sep 28, 11:00 AM CDT
Category:
- Adult Training
Level:
- Volunteers
Volunteer Conference 2025
Join us at Camp Mitre Peak for our in-person Volunteer Conference. If you are a leader, co-leader, parent, or Girl Scout Volunteer of any kind, this weekend is for you!
Service Unit Summit is happening Saturday at the Volunteer Conference. The Service Unit Summit is for all service unit team members and anyone who would like to learn more about what the service unit does and how you can get involved.
Troop funds may be used to pay for registration as it is a training weekend!
REGISTRATION INFORMATION:
- Early bird registration ends Friday, July 18, 2025 - $50 (save $10!)
- On-time registration Saturday, July 19 - Friday, August 22, 2025 - $60
- Late registration Saturday, August 23 to Monday, September 15, 2025 - $70 and no conference t-shirt and classes will be assigned
Camp Mitre Peak (https://bit.ly/Camp_Mitre_Peak) is our council camp and is located in the beautiful Davis Mountains of southwest Texas. You will be sleeping in cabins with bathroom facilities located in a separate building. During the day you will attend a variety of breakout sessions, meet volunteers from all over our council, and get energized for this upcoming year! At night, gaze up at the Milky Way (you will be amazed at the stars), gather around a campfire to learn new songs, and experience the magic that is camp.
Once you've completed your registration, keep an eye on your owl post (well... email) for a confirmation message. Inside, you'll find a special link to choose your breakout sessions, share your t-shirt size, and make your lodging request.
Don't wait! Breakout sessions are filled on a first come, first served basis - and some of the most enchanting ones disappear faster than a chocolate frog! Claim your spot before it vanishes!
Of course, fabulous prizes abound and our council Girl Scout Shop will be open.
If you have any questions about Volunteer Conference or Camp Mitre Peak, please email info@gsdsw.org.
Can't wait to see you there!
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Here are the available breakout sessions:
Service Unit Summit at the Volunteer Conference: Join us in person for the Service Unit Summit, held during our Volunteer Conference! This special summit brings together service unit teams from across the council to dive deeper into their roles, reflect on past successes and challenges, plan their annual calendar, and build strong support networks for the year ahead. It's a valuable opportunity to connect, collaborate, and kick off the new Girl Scout year with confidence. While in-person attendance is highly encouraged, a portion of the summit will also be offered virtually for those unable to attend on-site. All upcoming service unit teams and those interested in helping in the future are welcome - don't miss it!
First aid and CPR Certification: Not certified or need to be recertified in first aid and CPR? This is the place to do it. The additional cost of $50 is payable to the instructor by cash, check, Zelle, or Venmo. Troop funds may be used for this training. Taught by Renne Logsdon-Alarco, GSDSW Volunteer.
Astronomy and the Milky Way: Join us for an enchanting evening under the stars! Step into the world of astronomy, just like the students of Hogwarts, and explore the wonders of the night sky. Learn the stories behind ancient constellations, unravel the mysteries of the Milky Way, and - if the skies allow - peer through a telescope to glimpse the shimmering rings of Saturn. No need to climb the astronomy tower for this one! Taught by Adam Jones, GSDSW Caretaker/Maintenance (Camp Mitre Peak).
Transfiguration of Glass: Ready your wands and your kilns! Discover the magic of glass fusing. From layering colorful shards like spell ingredients to watching them melt and merge in a fiery furnace (no dragon fire required!), glass fusing is a bit like Transfiguration - only more sparkly. Whether you're crafting your own Marauder's Map-inspired coaster or a sun-catching charm for the Owlery, learning the art of glass fusing is where creativity meets a touch of enchantment. Just remember: safety goggles are the real Invisibility Cloak in the studio! Each participant will make a work of art (about 2" x 2") to take home. Taught by Rink Somerday, GSDSW Director of Programs.
Wand Making: Every witch or wizard knows the wand chooses the wizard - but what if you could make your own? Step into "Ollivander's workshop" and explore the magical art of wand making! From selecting the perfect wood to carving, sanding, and decorating with unicorn-hair flair, crafting your wand is a journey of self-discovery and spellbinding creativity. Whether you're adding a phoenix feather core (or glitter glue) or etching runes for luck, remember: a wand made with intention holds the truest magic of all. Taught by Sandra Storh, GSDSW Volunteer.
Broom Making: Kick off the weekend with a hands-on broom-making session! In this creative and practical workshop, each participant will craft their very own functional broom to use throughout the weekend and take home afterward. Whether you're channeling rustic charm or magical vibes, this activity is a fun and engaging way to start the conference. All materials provided-just bring your creativity! Taught by Patty Craven, GSDSW CEO.
Defense Against the Dark Arts (Conflict & Behavior Management): Step into the Defense Against the Dark Arts and learn how to face the tricky "dark arts" of conflict with the same calm, clever spells that keep Hogwarts safe. From navigating heated duels of words to defusing tense situations with empathy and teamwork, this session teaches leaders how to transform conflicts into opportunities for growth - no Expelliarmus needed! Whether you're handling disagreements in your troop or calming stormy discussions, discover the magical tools to lead with patience, understanding, and a bit of wizardly wisdom. Taught by Vanessa Whitaker, GSDSW Volunteer.
Accio Coordinates! A Spellbinding Geocaching Quest: Step into the wizarding world and become a master of magical tracking! In this Harry Potter-themed geocaching class, you'll learn how to harness Muggle GPS technology to create and hide your very own enchanted cache. Just like the creators of the Marauder's Map, you'll explore the grounds of Camp Mitre Peak to uncover secrets, chart coordinates, and leave clues for fellow witches and wizards to discover. Whether you're a Gryffindor trailblazer, a clever Ravenclaw, or a curious Hufflepuff, this class will teach you the spellbinding basics of geocaching with a touch of Hogwarts charm. Mischief managed? Not quite. The adventure is just beginning! Taught by Patty Craven, GSDSW CEO.
Spellbook Journaling - Crafting Magical Badge Trackers & Troop Memory Books: Calling all creative witches and wizarding leaders! In this enchanting session, you'll learn how to transform ordinary notebooks into magical spellbooks-perfect for tracking badges, logging adventures, and preserving your troop's most memorable moments. Whether you're designing a badge tracker worthy of Hermione or a memory book that rivals the Hogwarts library, you'll leave with spellbinding ideas, creative prompts, and charming templates to bring your Girl Scout journey to life on every page. Quills are not required-but a little imagination is pure magic! Taught by Amy Alvarado, GSDSW COO.
Battle for the House Cup with Magical Kickball: Kickball gets a magical makeover! Represent your Hogwarts House in this enchanted game where bases are spellbound, bludgers are flying, and House Points are on the line. Play for glory, fun, and the chance to win the House Cup! Taught by Eddie Rayas, GSDSW Director of Engagement.
The Leadership Prophecy - New GS Leadership Awards: Calling all troop leaders, mentors, and magical guides! Just like Hogwarts professors nurture young witches and wizards, Girl Scout volunteers help girls discover their power and lead with courage and character. The new Girl Scout Leadership Awards offer exciting ways to recognize that growth at every level, complementing the time-honored Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards, each a rite of passage for girls becoming changemakers. As a leader, your support helps girls believe in their magic and turn it into real-world impact because even the greatest witches and wizards didn't do it alone. Taught by Rink Somerday, GSDSW Director of Programs.
Muggle Handicrafts: Pick up your hook, and together, we'll make a bookmark in the Hogwarts House colors (or any color combination you prefer)! These handy Muggle objects are terrific if you haven't mastered the "turn to the page I left off at" spell yet, first-years. You can leave them in your book, and it will save your place so the next time you pick it up, you know exactly where you left off. This quick project will leave you wanting to learn more - and your instructor will give you resources (and maybe a couple of spells) for further learning as well! Taught by Alison Westermann, GSDSW Volunteer.
Adventures & Arithmancy - Troop Secrets Revealed: Calling all new and experienced troop leaders! Join us for a hands-on, Harry Potter-themed workshop where you'll master the spells of managing troop finances, planning magical adventures, and completing the forms that keep your troop safe. Through engaging games, real-world scenarios, and a bit of wizarding fun, you'll leave with the confidence to handle year-end reports, trips and sleepover planning, high-risk activities, and more. Whether you're just getting your wand or brushing up on your charms, this class is the refresher every leader needs! Taught by Katie Craven, GSDSW Volunteer, and Eddie Rayas, GSDSW Director of Engagement.
Chromomancy - The Magic of Color and Pattern: Dive into the vibrant world of chromomancy, where you will learn to transform mundane fabrics into dazzling displays of magical color. Through the careful brewing of chromatic potions (commonly known as dyes), the casting of folding enchantments, and the application of color charms, you will create wearable masterpieces that celebrate House pride or simply delight in whimsy. Whether crafting a bold Gryffindor scarlet or a subtle Ravenclaw blue, graduates of this course will leave with enchanted garments as unique as they are. Please bring a 100% cotton t-shirt to tie-dye. Taught by Cheryl Martinez, GSDSW Volunteer.
Care of Magical Creatures (Working with Mixed Ages or Abilities): Every troop is a bit like Hagrid's backyard - filled with magical beings, each with their own spark, quirks, and needs. In this enchanting session, you will be guided through the art of caring for your "creatures" (a.k.a. Girl Scouts!) when they come from different age levels or have unique abilities. You'll learn spells (okay... strategies) to run engaging, inclusive meetings, modify badge work, and create a troop culture that celebrates every girl's magic. Whether you're working with Daisies and Cadettes together or supporting Girl Scouts with special needs, this session will leave you feeling like a true Magical Creature Master. Taught by Patty Craven, GSDSW CEO.
Botanical Magic - From Field to Guidebook: Go outside and uncover the magic hidden in the plants all around you! In this hands-on Herbology session, you'll learn how to identify magical (and Muggle) plants, from charming wildflowers to curious herbs - just no mandrakes, we promise. Then, preserve your discoveries with the enchanting art of flower pressing, creating your own magical specimen book. Whether you're a budding botanist or a seasoned herbologist, this session blends science, creativity, and a bit of wizarding wonder to help you connect with nature in true Hogwarts style. Taught by Rink Somerday, GSDSW Director of Programs.
Advanced Edible Potions - Spiced Infusions & Fiery Mixes: Step into the Potions classroom - aprons over robes - as we brew up something a little tastier than your average elixir! In this flavorful twist on traditional potion-making, students will chop, stir, and blend their way through the magical art of salsa creation. From fire-roasted ingredients to charm-worthy cilantro, you'll explore flavor combinations worthy of a cauldron competition. Whether you're brewing up a mild charm or a dragon-worthy spice potion, you'll leave with your own magical mixture - and maybe a new appreciation for herbology and culinary hexes! Taught by Rebekah Rayas, GSDSW Volunteer.
Forbidden Forest Code (Leave No Trace): Venture into the wizarding world's version of "Leave No Trace" as we explore how to treat magical spaces with care and respect. Just like Hagrid teaches his students to protect creatures and tread lightly in the Forbidden Forest, you'll learn how to explore nature - magical or Muggle - without leaving a mark. Taught by Haley Rose, GSDSW Volunteer.
Quidditch Training Camp - Archery Edition: Channel your inner Seeker and take aim like a true Chaser in this magical twist on archery! In Quidditch Training Camp, participants will rotate through fun, fast-paced archery challenges inspired by the wizarding world - shoot through Quidditch hoops, knock out bludgers, and try to catch the elusive Golden Snitch. Whether you're a seasoned archer or just broomstick-curious, this hands-on session is designed for all skill levels and full of spellbinding fun. House pride is encouraged, and robes are optional! Taught by Katie Craven, GSDSW Volunteer.
Curio Crafting Class: Come into a crafty corner of the wizarding world, where forgotten odds and ends are full of magical potential! In this breakout session, witches will turn curious bits and bobs into something truly enchanting - a personalized wand holder. Just like any good curio shop, we believe nothing is junk if you know how to enchant it with a little creativity. You'll leave with a one-of-a-kind creation and plenty of ideas to take back to your troop's common room! Taught by Evelyn Kiper, GSDSW Volunteer.
Enchanted Trinkets - S.W.A.P.S. and Pocket Charms: Enter the Room of Crafty Requirement and unlock the magic of S.W.A.P.S. (Some Whatchamacallit Affectionately Pinned Somewhere) - those tiny treasures that carry big stories! In this hands-on session, you'll create enchanted little keepsakes to trade with fellow witches, wizards, and Girl Scouts alike. Think potion vial pins, mini spellbooks, and charms worthy of Diagon Alley. Whether you're a first-year or a SWAPS master, you'll leave with spellbinding creations and a bag full of magic ready to be shared, one pin at a time. Taught by Lindsey Bell, GSDSW Retail and Support Manager.
