This last month has been a whirlwind of travel for the project team. We visited Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Manitoba and Saskatchewan – and we had the opportunity to meet with groups from across Ontario. Along the way, we met with Council members, advisers, Guiders, volunteers, staff and, of course, Girls.
Everyone has been really interested and engaged in Girls First – our progress to date and where we're headed. There have been so many amazing questions, and the feedback has been tremendous. This continues to help the project team see things from different perspectives, which can only make the program stronger, more Girl-focused and user-friendly. It is so encouraging that the new program content and structure is resonating well with members, and that everyone is excited that there will still be badges and awards. Most importantly, Girls have been thrilled to see the topics they asked for covered in the new program.
We've also got some great feedback on the program's new digital platform – that it will make things easier for Guiders, will save time because the activities will all be in one place, and provide easy access to tools that will help with meeting planning and badge tracking. We know connectivity may be an issue in some areas, but have also learned from rural members what their preferred solutions are. And, last but not least, Girls and Guiders alike are super excited by the program content feedback feature – which will allow everyone to rate activities and share their thoughts. This will be an important tool for us, as we will use it as a way to track what's working and what's not.
The wish list for the platform keeps growing too! Our focus and priority is getting the program out, but we are definitely tracking that wish list and will consider what is feasible for the launch and ongoing enhancements.
Perhaps the one thing that really stands out for us as we meet members from across the country is that everyone's passion for Guiding is so strong. The interest in the new program is incredibly energizing. We truly value how engaged members are in the Girls First process. It is this collaborative process that will ensure Girls First empowers every Girl to be everything she wants to be.
Our next "From the Field" update will focus on our upcoming meetings in Nova Scotia. That will wrap up this consultation phase – we will then put member feedback to work in early 2018 – strengthening the program and developing resources for a successful rollout throughout the 2018/19 launch year.
What our members are saying:
They are excited for the choices they will get to make when the new program is released.
Amy from Happy Valley is excited for the emphasis on Girls voice.
Natalia and Roxanne from Saskatoon are really excited about the principles and topics in the new program.
We reflect on our year learnings from the field and address Girls and Guiders FAQ.