For questions on any aspects of training, contact Lori Coleman, Director of Volunteer Training, at (908)725-1226 ext. 150 or by . For information on which courses are appropriate for you, download Training Steps.

Training for New Girl Scout Leaders and other Volunteers

Orientation Self-study
This course provides an overview of Girl Scouting past and present. Orientation is a pre-requisite to all adult volunteer positions. (We recommend taking this course within the first month in your volunteer position.) This course is also the first step for Senior Girl Scouts to earn LIT (Leader in Training).
For: All New Adult Girl Scout Volunteers (and High School Girls working on LIT)
Course is available online: Online Orientation
For those without computer access: A self-study module is available. Please call the Council Service Center (908) 725-1226 to arrange for an Orientation Kit. Ask for the receptionist.

Volunteer Basics Self-study
Adults in the community looking for volunteer opportunities are invited to go through this self-study training to learn more about our council and volunteering in our organization as a trainer, episodic volunteer, team member, activity planner, event coordinator, or work with one of our grant-funded groups, such as GSBB (Girl Scouting Beyond Bars). Certain positions will also have in-person training (GSBB, some council or team positions) that will be explained by the department you are volunteering for.
For: Adults who wish to volunteer for the council in a position other than troop leader/co-leader
Prerequisite: Completion of Orientation self-study course
Course is available online: Online Volunteer Basics
For those without computer access: A self-study module is available. Please call the Council Service Center (908) 725-1226 to arrange for a self-study kit. Ask for the receptionist.

Basic Leadership Training
This course welcomes you to Rolling Hills Council. It covers the policy and paperwork available for troop maintenance, meeting planning, program goals, and resources. We will give you a tour of the resources at the council Service Center and allow time for your questions.
For: All new troop leaders and co-leaders, including co-op troop leaders
Prerequisite: Completion of Orientation self-study course
Time: 2 hours in-person
Limit: 5 minimum, 20 maximum
Cost: None

New Leader Day
This fun training event was developed to welcome new leaders to our Girl Scout community and provide a fun and relaxed day to ease their way into their new position. The day begins with breakfast and time to meet and greet leaders new and experienced, followed by Basic Leadership Training. A luncheon is served and then the afternoon is full of opportunities to explore the information about Daisies, Brownies or Juniors; resources available through council program and training; ideas for troop activity and program; AND MORE! There will also be time to explore the council shop, Patches Plus, and the library.
For: All leaders and co-leaders new to Rolling Hills Council
Limit: 10 minimum, 70 maximum
Prerequisite: Completion of Orientation
Cost: $8 (covers meals and supplies)

Catch-up Workshop
If you have a troop that is getting a late start, or you're taking over for another leader, or you just haven't gotten to training yet, we're offering this crash course to give you the chance to get the basics on troop leadership and ask questions. Level information will be covered very briefly, but you should try to attend level training at your earliest convenience. Orientation should be completed (online or self-study) before you attend. If you've been putting it off and putting it off - now is the time for training! We're here to help!
For: Leaders and co-leaders new to Rolling Hills Council
Prerequisite: Completion of Orientation

Basic Level Trainings

New leaders who have completed Orientation and Basic Level Training then progress to the training for the level they will be working with: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadettes, Seniors or Ambassadors. Descriptions are outlined below. As troops move through the levels, leaders train for the level they will bridge to before or soon after bridging.

Daisy Leader Training - "Daisy Flower Garden"
Discuss age characteristics for Kindergarten and first grade girls and use that discussion to explore ideas for meetings, trips, service, and more. Time will be spent discussing finances and starting your troop. Learn about the Daisy program, which teaches the Girl Scout Law, and share ideas for introducing girls to Girl Scouting and its rich traditions.
For: Adults (to be done during 1st three months, preferably before the 1st meeting)
Limit: 8 minimum, 20 maximum
Prerequisite: Orientation and Basic Leadership Training

Brownie Leader Training - "Brownie Quest"
Second, and third graders are developing into their own - learning sound decision-making and gaining self-confidence in expressing their opinions. This course discusses this development and how it applies to planning meetings, trips, and events. Time is spent discussing goal-setting and finances, including the product sale programs, outdoor progression, service, and trip planning. Explore the resources available including the Handbook, Try-It Book and the other programs available through council.
For: Daisy leaders bridging to Brownies and new Brownie leaders (to be done during 1st three months, preferably before 1st meeting)
Limit: 8 minimum, 20 maximum
Prerequisite: Orientation and Basic Leadership Training

Junior Leader/Advisor Training - "Agent of Change"
At this age level, girls learn to take more responsibility for choosing their own paths. In this course you will learn about different forms of troop government for girls in fourth and fifth grades and examine the new Leadership Experience resources and the badge program. Goal-setting will be discussed with regard to service, outdoor progression, travel, finances, product sales, and additional money-earners.
For: Brownie leaders bridging to Juniors and new Junior leaders (to be done during 1st three months, preferably before 1st meeting)
Limit: 8 minimum, 20 maximum
Prerequisite: Orientation and Basic Leadership Training

Cadette Advisor Training - "aMaze"
Girls in sixth, seventh and eighth grade have many challenges today. This session will provide ideas to make Girl Scouting accessible to girls and keep things flexible while providing the same great program opportunities. Discuss ways to encourage leadership in girls at this age level, and review resources such as the Handbook, Leader's Guide, IPA book and the focus books. Travel and outdoor event planning will be examined along with goal-setting and budgeting using the product sale program and additional money-earners. We will look at the Silver Award program and review the steps to the Silver.
For: Junior leaders bridging to Cadettes or new Cadette leaders (to be done during 1st three months, preferably before 1st meeting)
Limit: 8 minimum, 20 maximum
Prerequisite: Orientation and Basic Leadership Training

Senior Advisor Training - "GIRLtopia"
This is the place to find out about the Gold Award. We will review the steps to the Gold, along with ideas for projects and service opportunities along the way. This course will provide you the opportunity to learn more about the new Leadership Experience and the wonderful resources in the program. Time will also be spent discussing travel planning and outdoor progression, and fostering leadership in girls, budgeting, time management, and helping them incorporate their Girl Scout experience into job and college applications.
For: Cadette leaders bridging to Seniors or new Senior leaders (to be done during 1st three months, preferably before 1st meeting)
Limit: 8 minimum, 20 maximum
Prerequisite: Basic Leadership Training

Ambassador Advisor Training - "Your Voice, Your World"
Being an advocate means to raise your voice to affect change. When your group of Ambassadors go out into the world as advocates, they will be joining a long line of women who have raised their voice for change throughout history. This journey follows eight sequential steps that the girls can easily fit into their busy lives. Each step builds on the one before, giving the girls new insights, stronger skills and greater confidence. This course will provide you with the opportunity to learn more about scheduling the journey with seven sample sessions. We will review the steps to the Gold Award, share ideas for projects and service. Time will also be spent discussing travel planning and outdoor progression.
For: Senior leaders bridging to Ambassadors or new Ambassador Leaders (to be done during the first three months, preferably before the first meeting)
Limit: 8 minimum, 20 maximum
Prerequisite: Orientation and Basic Leadership Training

American Heart Association Trainings

Girl Scouts of Rolling Hills Council offers courses through the American Heart Association for all our members and troop families. If GSRHC offerings do not meet your scheduling needs, we encourage you to contact Hunterdon Medical Center, Somerset Medical Center, your local hospital, the American Heart Association or Red Cross of Central NJ for their schedule of course offerings.

You will be required to provide a copy of your certification card with camping and trip applications and certain recognition forms. For an explanation of GSUSA-mandated requirements for first-aiders, please read Girl Scout Policy Regarding First Aid & CPR.

* If a course is divided between two or three sessions, you must attend all sessions.
* All course fees must be prepaid. Make checks payable to G.S.R.H.C.
* Pre-registration is required for ALL courses.
* Be on time.

Note: In order to receive certification, you must complete all course requirements. Any participants arriving later than 10 minutes past the starting time of the course will not be admitted to the course in accordance with provider regulations and as a courtesy to our volunteers. Also, participants must stay through the end of the session.

Level 1 First Aider Certification

Heartsaver First Aid
Receive a certification card valid for two (2) years. This certification course when combined with a CPR (Adult/Pediatric) course meets the criteria for a LEVEL ONE FIRST AIDER (fulfills council/GSUSA requirement). Materials provided can be kept for use in your troop first aid kit. Must pass written test to receive certification. Please indicate special needs (Course is hands-on and generally held downstairs at the Council Service Center.) Provide copy of current certification for $5 discount. It is recommended that you review course materials before the class. Books are available for pick-up or can be shipped to you for an additional $5 each.
For: Ages 16 and up
Time: 4 hours
Cost: $25 includes book, supplies and certification card
Wear: Comfortable clothes
Limit: minimum 6 students, maximum 12
Registration by mail or in person only. Use special First Aid/CPR Registration Form.

Heartsaver CPR (Adult/Child) with A.E.D.
Receive a certification card valid for two (2) years covering CPR for the Adult and Child. This certification course when combined with a First Aid certification course meets the criteria for a LEVEL ONE FIRST AIDER (fulfills council/GSUSA requirement). Course also instructs and certifies in the use of an A.E.D. (Automated External Defibrillator). Materials provided can be kept for use in your troop first aid kit. Please indicate special needs (Course is hands-on and generally held downstairs at the Council Service Center.) Provide copy of current certification for $5 discount. It is recommended that you review course materials before the class. Books are available for pick-up or can be shipped to you for an additional $5 each.
For: Ages 16 and up
Time: 4 hours
Cost: $25 includes book, supplies and certification card
Wear: Comfortable clothing - NO LIPSTICK OR HEAVY MAKEUP (it stains the mannequin)
Limit: minimum 4 students, maximum 12
Registration by mail or in person only. Use special First Aid/CPR Registration form.

Outdoor & Overnight Trainings

Outdoors & Overnights Step 1 - Self-study
Training for Overnights
This course provides necessary information regarding safety and policy and is required for any overnights (1 or 2 nights). It prepares you for troop overnights at museums, hotels, conference centers, camp cabins, platform tents while attending camporees. It does not cover fires or outdoor cooking. Meal-prep is limited to traditional kitchen and basic meals or re-heats (like home).
For: Leaders at any age level.
Course is available online: Outdoor & Overnights Step 1 Self-study
For those without computer access: A self-study module is available. Please call the Council Service Center (908) 725-1226 to arrange for an Orientation Kit. Ask for the receptionist.
This course is a prerequisite for all other Outdoor training courses.

Outdoor & Overnights Step 2 - Camp Skills
This 3-hour course covers basic camping skills including fire building and extinguishing, shelters, knife safety.
For: Leaders at any age level.
Prerequisite: Outdoors & Overnights Step 1 or Outdoor Orientation
Cost: $10 (covers supplies and handouts)
Limit: 10 minimum, 30 maximum
Registration by mail or in person only.

Outdoors & Overnights Step 3 - Camp Kitchen
This 3-hour course is required for a troop to cook outdoors.
For: Leaders at any age level.
Prerequisite: Basic Outdoor Skills
Cost: $10 (covers meal supplies and handouts)
Limit: 10 minimum, 30 maximum
Registration by mail or in person only.

Beyond the Basic Outdoor
This course includes the Outdoors & Overnights Steps 2 & 3 (Camp Skills & Camp Kitchen) trainings as well as an overnight. It is great for leaders who would like time to get to know Camp Hoover a bit more or for those who are new to the camping experiences. You will have many opportunities to enhance the experience with advanced menus, games, songs, skits, and more! It's truly a fun and educational overnight - well worth it if you can fit it in!
For: Leaders at any age level.
Prerequisite: Outdoors & Overnights Step 1 or Outdoor Orientation
Cost: TBA (covers meal supplies and handouts)
Offered only by Washington Rock Council at Camp Hoover (See Additional Outdoor Training Opportunities for scheduled trainings)
Register with Washington Rock Council.

Other Trainings and Workshops

Journey Trainings
If you select Journey training at any level, it means you will only learn about the new resources that arrived in August 2008. During this training you will become familiar with your level specific Journey and how to present it to your Girl Scouts. This training is for leaders who have already taken the level training before August of 2008, but want to know about the new books and how they could add to our badge books. (Example - you are a Junior leader and have already taken Junior training. If you are interested in the new Junior Journey, you would take this course). This training is one hour long.

Bridging Workshop
Bridging Ceremonies can be very memorable and are a significant part of growing in Girl Scouting. This workshop lays the groundwork for planning a memorable Bridging Ceremony and helps you prepare with all the steps that lead up to it at each level.
For: Adults with troops bridging to the next level
Limit: 10 minimum, 30 maximum
Offerings: Winter
Subjects Covered: Special traditions at each level, the importance of working with other levels, details that go into a successful ceremony

Ceremonies Workshop
Learn to plan and conduct a variety of ceremonies for all types of Girl Scout events, including Flag, Investiture, Fly Up, Rededication, Court of Awards, Bridging, Scouts' Own and others. Sample programs, Council resources and girl involvement will be discussed.
For: Adults, especially SU Team members, and leaders responsible for troop ceremonies
Limit: 10 minimum, 30 maximum

Money Earners Workshop
This training will show a leader how to present running a badge night to the girls in the troop: how to present it so the girls can make it their own, how to set up registration, pre-activity ideas, smooth rotation, endings, how to run a round robin, what other fund raisers have been successful in the past.
For: Leaders of Junior, Cadette, Senior or Ambassador troops
Prerequisite: Basic Level Training

Outdoor Fun
If you are looking for ways to expand and enhance your meetings, get out! This workshop is jam-packed with fun ideas. Step outside and bring a new world to your girls. Learn games, nature activities, and ideas for hikes, and action songs to teach your troop. Then get a peek at the resources we have for you at council to bring the great outdoors to your meeting, and your troop to the great outdoors.
For: Troop leaders of Daisy, Brownie and Junior level troops (Also for those Cadettes/Senior/Ambassadors training for LIT, Program Aide, and Camp Counselors)
Limit: 10 minimum, 20 maximum

Song Leader Workshop
Here's your chance to learn all those songs you've wanted to teach your troop. Come learn how to be a song leader and learn a variety of songs and singing games. Learn how to teach songs and how to conduct singing workshops in your service unit.
For: Adults
Bring: Paper, pencil, tape recorder, blank tape and the pocket songbook (if you have one)
Limit: 10 minimum, 30 maximum

Sing-Along Song Workshop
Learn songs and motions to sing with Daisy and Brownie Girl Scouts. Bring the kids to sing-along, too!
For: Daisy and Brownie Leaders
Bring: Tape recorder and blank tape (if you have one)
Limit: 10 minimum, 30 maximum

True Colors
An easy, entertaining way to begin to understand yourself and others. Identifying your personality characteristics becomes an invaluable tool for enjoying success in your professional or volunteer life, as well as with family and personal relationships.
For: Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors, Ambassadors and all adults
Cost: $5 (includes patch, supplies)
Limit: 10 minimum, 20 maximum
Registration by mail or in person only.

How to Run a Campfire
This training covers all aspects of campfire planning. You will be provided with a campfire program planner, survey form, songs, skits, stunts, cheers, stories, ceremonies, safety rules and magical colored flames (colorants). You will also learn how to recruit troops to add to your program.
For: Leaders and other adults

Taming the Meanies
We know the girls tend to "clique" but how do we stop exclusion? How do we shift from exclusive to inclusive? We will focus on the Promise and Law, pluralism, and team building to work toward "Every Girl, Every Where."
For: Leaders of all level troops
Limit: 10 minimum, 20 maximum

Service Team Trainings

Service Unit Manager
The course gives an overview of the Service Unit Manager's role and responsibilities and in-depth training on directing the work of the Service Team members and overseeing the management of the Service Unit.
Prerequisite: Orientation and appointment to Service Unit Manager position

Service Unit Registrar
This course gives an overview of the responsibilities of the Service Unit Registrar and in-depth training on editing and processing membership registrations, maintaining troop number and registered troop listings, and training troop leaders with regard to completing registration forms.
Prerequisite: Orientation and appointment to Service Unit Registrar position
Offerings: This course is offered on an as-needed basis. Contact to arrange an appointment.

Service Unit Organizer
Learn the secrets and develop the skills necessary to organize girls into troops. What is a recruitment? Can grades and schools be mixed? What do I do with disbanding troops? You'll learn the answers to these questions and much more.
Prerequisite: Orientation and appointment to Service Unit Organizer position

Service Unit Level Consultant
This course gives an overview of the consultant's role and responsibilities on the Service Team and in-depth training on planning and presenting a level corner, assigning of sister troops, maintaining contact with and educating leaders.
Prerequisite: Orientation, appropriate Level training and appointment to Service Unit Consultant position

Service Unit Outdoor Consultant
Review what the position actually involves. Share and/or learn new ideas from other consultants. Help to plan new outdoor programs which will benefit your service units.
Prerequisite: Orientation and appointment to Service Unit Outdoor Consultant position
Limit: 10 minimum, 30 maximum

Service Unit Service Projects Manager
This course gives service project suggestions, see what troops are doing, what they can do and how to communicate it all! Bring your ideas to share!
Prerequisite: Orientation and appointment to Service Unit Service Projects position

Service Unit Training Coordinator
This training will guide you through the job description and give you experience in promoting training courses, registering leaders for trainings, keeping the council current on the training needs of the service unit, and maintaining adult Girl Scout records for the service unit with training details. Learn the purpose of a training design and a mini-module and practice running one.
Prerequisite: Orientation and appointment to Coordinator position
Offerings: Can be run as a one-on-one or small group session. Contact the for information.

Service Unit Adult Awards
This course gives an overview of the Adult Awards program. The training will cover the importance of adult awards within your service unit, the awards applications, their criteria, and the application process. It will also cover getting letters from troop parents and girls, record keeping, and ways of presenting awards within the service unit.
For: Service Unit Adult Awards Chair and Committee Members
Prerequisite: Orientation and appointment to Awards position