In 2019, Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama (GSSA) started work
to identify the facilities and resources needed to provide
the Girl Scout outdoor experience desired by our Girl Scout members.
This work, carried out by our Long-Range Property Planning (LRPP)
Committee, a committee of long-time Girl Scout volunteers, and GSSA
member (adult and girl) survey results, has provided data-driven
information to assist in setting priorities for future investment in
facilities and resources.
GSSA’s Board of Directors has
utilized this research, analysis, and recommendations to make
long-term property decisions that will support girl programs and
experiences while ensuring the sustainability of our
organization. We are excited to announce that our Board has
approved the following plans that will see our properties into the future!
Camp Sid Edmonds, Bay Minette
Over a period of five years, Camp Sid Edmonds will transition
to a resident camp facility. The future Camp Sid will provide a wide
range of exciting programming opportunities for our girls in an
environment that is modern and provides for their individual needs as
they progress in Girl Scouting.
Our improvements at Camp
Sid, including the construction of a Dining Hall/Recreation Center,
three campsites, two bathhouses, a recreational pavilion, and an
equine facility, will entice more girls to get outdoors and enjoy
camping and nature.
Scoutshire Woods, Citronelle
Scoutshire Woods will remain open for camping and events, and
we will work with the Mobile County School System, from whom the
property is leased, to maintain this historic property. Projects that
will be completed by summer 2021 include renovation of the bathhouse
and replacement of tents at the High Winds Unit. We are excited to
continue to offer opportunities for fun and learning at our beloved
SSW.
Kamp Kiwanis, Eclectic
Kamp Kiwanis will remain a resident camp facility and continue
to welcome troops for camping and events. Priorities at this camp
include a new bunkhouse (formerly the Pioneer unit house) in the
Pioneer Unit, which will be completed by June 2021. This bunkhouse
will sleep 18 and be a completed renovated facility for our girls.
GSSA will also make upgrades throughout the camp property to enhance
the experience of our girls and volunteers when they visit.
Camp Humming Hills, Elba
Camp Humming Hills will continue to provide facilities for
council events and troop outings on a limited basis throughout the
year. This property provides our girls with an oasis of serenity in
the beautiful southern Alabama forest.
GSSA’s
priority is to continue to provide the best outdoor and camp
programming opportunities for girls and to ensure Girl Scouting
remains strong for future generations. We are deeply committed
to using our resources wisely, and evaluating the ability of our camp
properties to enable our council to better serve girls with the
21st-century leadership programming they want today.