Chapter 5: Money-Earning Basics

Girls earn money in two distinct ways:

• "Council-sponsored product sales” are council-wide sales of Girl Scout authorized-products (such as Girl Scout Cookies, magazines, or nuts and candy) in which members participate as part of the Girl Scout program.
• "Group money-earning” refers to activities organized by the group (not by the council) that are planned and carried out by girls (in partnership with adults) and that earn money for the group. These activities must be approved by the council in writing. GS-TOP provides money earning approval forms through the council’s website and offices.

Girls’ participation in both council-sponsored product sale activities and group money-earning projects is based upon the following:

• Voluntary participation

• Written permission from each girl’s parent or guardian

• An understanding of (and ability to explain clearly to others) why the money is needed

• An understanding that money-earning should not exceed what the group needs to support its activities.

• Observance of local ordinances related to involvement of children in money-earning activities, as well as health and safety laws

• Vigilance in protecting the personal safety of each girl

• Arrangements for safeguarding the money

In addition, consider the following reminders or cautions:

• Groups must participate in at least one council-sponsored money-earning project in a calendar year BEFORE asking for approval for additional money-earning projects, except in the case of a new group registering after December 1. (council policy)
• Any group money-earning activity shouldn’t compete with the Girl Scout Cookie Program or other council product sales.
• Obtain written approval from GS-TOP before planning a group money-earning activity; submit a request for approval on the group money-earning form.
• Girl Scouts forbids use of games of chance, the direct solicitation of cash, and product-demonstration parties.
• Group money-earning activities need to be suited to the age and abilities of the girls and consistent with the principles of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience.
• Money raised is for Girl Scout activities and is not to be retained by individuals. Girls can, however, be awarded recognitions and/or may earn Cookie Bucks from their Girl Scout cookie sale.
• Funds acquired through group money-earning projects must be reported and accounted for by the group, following council procedures.

The best way to earn money for your group is to start with the Girl Scout Cookie sale and other council-sponsored product sales. From there, your group may decide to earn additional funds on its own.