On your mark, get set, cookies

LIMA — The clock has struck midnight and Girl Scout cookie season is upon us once again. The joyous time of year is not just for sweets consumption but for the empowerment of young girls.

“Our mission is to build girls with courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place,” said Devon Beck-Monahan, Girl Scouts Director of the Product Program. “Everything that we do is to build girls that will be the future leaders of tomorrow. Obviously, selling cookies is a part of that. We like to say we are creating entrepreneurs or girls with entrepreneurial mindsets.”

As the girls learn and grow, they are encouraged to pursue paths they find interest in. Some girls learn about STEM, robotics or nature while being a part of Girl Scouts. Beck-Monahan said selling cookies also helps the scouts fund what they hope to do in the program. This can range from traveling around the world to purchasing their uniform.

Beck-Monahan said the girls gain a sense of confidence while learning to sell cookies.

“My niece for example, when she was in kindergarten started out as Girl Scout Daisy,” said Beck-Monahan. “The first time she sold cookies I had her go through her sales pitch and goal.”

“She was so nervous at the beginning and hid behind my legs timidly, but by the end, she was marching up right up to people sticking her hand out and introducing herself. Literally, just in a day, you can see some of that growth that happens and they carry that forward with them. It is really exciting to watch that.”

As the world has transitioned to a digital age, the Girl Scouts have followed suit. Scouts are able to sell cookies by taking orders in person or even online.

“On the online store, Girl Scouts are encouraged to write their story, upload pictures and engage with customers that way,” said Beck-Monahan. “It is just teaching them how to run an online business.”

This year, the Girl Scouts will be introducing a new cookie. The Raspberry Rally will be available solely online. The hope is to increase knowledge of the girls’ digital marketing skills.

Girl Scout cookie orders will be accepted starting Friday, Jan. 6. until Sunday, March 19. Pop-up shops will begin on Friday, Feb. 17. Direct orders for delivery will begin Monday, Feb. 27.

Reach Precious Grundy at 567-242-0351.