INDIANAPOLIS — A tough break, but not an unexpected one, for Girl Scouts of Central Indiana.
The organization announced Monday the cancellation of all scout day and resident camps across central Indiana, over COVID-19 concerns.
However, the scouts plan to offer in-person outdoor opportunities, called "Lead Your Own Adventure Days", at all their camp properties.
“We remain keenly aware of the concerns related to health and safety and the potential risks associated with large gatherings,” said Danielle Shockey, chief executive officer of Girl Scouts of Central Indiana. “So we made the difficult decision to cancel day and resident camps that have traditionally been offered to Girl Scouts for decades.”
The Lead Your Own Adventure Days start for families June 12 at all five camps: Camp Ada, Camp Dellwood, Camp Gallahue, Camp Na Wa Kwa, and Camp Sycamore Valley. If that goes at planned, the scouts will add edventure days for troops, along with family camping, beginning in July.
All plans are subject to federal, state, and local guidelines. Access to properties will be limited to ensure social distancing, masks will be provided to wear when appropriate, cleaning protocols will be followed, and activities will be self-guided similar to the way state parks are operating.
Said Shockey, “While we yearn for the days when our camps are full of girls singing songs, having fun, and making new friends, we are excited to offer these Lead Your Own Adventure Days for families and troops. We surveyed our Girl Scout families who’ve enjoyed summer camp in the past, as well as those who were planning to camp with us this summer to get their feedback."
Girl Scouts of Central Indiana will also offer virtual outdoor program activities and challenges throughout the summer. “Our virtual programming called Girl Scouts at Home has been very successful, with more than 5,000 views on our YouTube channel since its creation just a few months ago,” said Shockey.
For more information, including registration and fees, visit https://www.girlscoutsindiana.org/
