Leadership Summit 2026 is an exciting, volunteer-focused weekend designed to inspire, equip, and connect Girl Scout volunteers from across Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania. Led by experienced staff and dedicated volunteers, this event offers engaging learning experiences that help you build skills, discover new resources, and prepare for a successful year of Girl Scouting.
Customize your weekend by choosing the registration option and sessions that best match your interests, experience level, and goals. With a wide variety of offerings—from beginner to advanced outdoor skills, certifications, volunteer support, networking, and more—there is something for everyone.
Whether you are a brand-new volunteer or have years of experience, Leadership Summit is designed to support you where you are and help you grow with your troop. Each session is intended to strengthen your confidence, expand your toolkit, and leave you feeling energized for the year ahead.
Attending on your own?
No problem. Our Buddy System is here to help you feel welcomed and connected throughout the weekend. Volunteers who opt in can be paired with another attendee for added support and connection. Interested in being a buddy? Let us know during registration. It’s a wonderful way to live the Girl Scout mission and help another volunteer feel at home.
Registration Information:
Registration opens: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Registration closes: Monday, Aug. 17, 2026
Event Details:
Friday, Aug. 28-Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026
Camp Hawthorne Ridge
7755 Hawthorne Ridge Rd
Girard, PA 16417
Schedule and Session Descriptions
Click to view the full schedule and descriptions of the available sessions.
Who Can Attend?
Leadership Summit is open to all Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania volunteers!
Throughout the weekend, you’ll find opportunities to learn, reflect, connect, and recharge. In addition to daytime sessions, evening experiences are designed to deepen learning in fun and meaningful ways while giving you time to build relationships with fellow volunteers.
Join us Friday evening to ease into the weekend with crafts, games, and meaningful connections—or simply take time to relax and unwind after your day. Whether you’re looking to meet new people or recharge in a welcoming space, there’s something for everyone.
New This Year! Join us for Council Connections on Saturday from 11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m. During this relaxed, come-and-go experience, council departments will host tables to share new programs, upcoming opportunities, and resources available to support you. It’s the perfect chance to have quick conversations, ask questions, and make meaningful connections.
Grab your lunch, stop by a few tables, and get to know the people behind the scenes. Council Connections is a great way to better understand how we all work together to support girls—and you!
On Saturday evening, settle into informal roundtable conversations designed to spark ideas, answer questions, and strengthen your Girl Scout network. Prefer something more hands-on or low-key? Jump into a craft, join a game, or explore camp at your own pace—the possibilities are endless.
Close out the day by participating in our Second Annual Eternal Flame Ceremony. If you joined us last year, we invite you to bring your candle back to help re-light the flame and continue this special tradition. New this year? You’ll receive a candle of your own—symbolizing the start of something meaningful to carry forward.
Together, we’ll reflect, connect, and celebrate the shared spirit that brings us together as Girl Scout volunteers.
The following are optional add-ons that require additional fees:
Short-sleeved, unisex T-shirt (limited S-3XL sizes available) |
$15 |
First Aid/CPR/AED (Saturday & Sunday) |
$60 |
Low Ropes/Sling Shot (Saturday) |
$15 |
Archery & Range Safety (Saturday & Sunday) |
$45 |
Youth Mental Health First Aid (Sunday) |
$40 |
Overnight Accommodations
If you are staying overnight, we'll assign you to a platform tent unit at check-in based on troop and service unit numbers. Special accommodation may be available if requested. This includes a need for indoor accommodation, staying together with your fellow troop leaders, or any additional special requests. Be sure to note this while registering
