One of the most treasured ceremonies in Girl Scouting is the bridging ceremony. Bridging is a tradition that honors girls’ achievements throughout the year and celebrates their advancement in Girl Scouts. It is symbolized by crossing the bridge.
This year around the nation, bridging ceremonies look a little different from the past, but East Brunswick Daisy Troop 81624 found a way to celebrate their transition from Daisy to Brownie Girl Scouts.
“Girl Scouts is a big part of our lives and such an important organization,” Julie Peysakhova, troop co-leader, said in a statement provided by AMS Communications. “We wanted to have a safe, in-person bridging experience because our girls have worked so hard and exhibit the true values of Girl Scouts. They completed all of their badge projects, jumped up for every opportunity to help others in the community, and learned to be compassionate, resourceful leaders.”
The troop has been meeting virtually since the governor’s order to shelter in place. They have stayed connected to their friends, even if only by Zoom, to work on badges and participate in other virtual programs offered by the Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey, according to the statement.
“Developing a strong sense of sisterhood and friendship while following the Girl Scout Promise is as important today as it has ever been in the past,” Jennifer Megna, troop co-leader, said in the statement. “We felt fortunate to have been able to plan and successfully execute an amazing bridge ceremony for our Girl Scouts.”
While the girls of Troop 81624 are advancing from first to second grade, they are also advancing from Daisy to Brownie Girl Scouts.
Izabella Megna said, “Girl Scouts are important to me because I can make a difference in the community, and bridging is important to me because I get to learn different things from Brownies, and it can be with my friends from Daisys.”
Madison Austin said, “I’m happy to be a Girl Scout, and I like helping everyone in my family and every Girl Scout.”
Ava Hoffman-Peysakhova said, “I like being a Girl Scout because we get to do so many fun activities, and I get to help lots of people. Bridging was important to me because it means that we are getting older and get to move to the next level of Girl Scouts and do so many more new things.”
“One of the great joys of leading the Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey is supporting the girls as they grow,” Ginny Marino, CEO, said in the statement. “It is particularly fulfilling to see girls who were shy as Daisies advance and initiate projects, lead activities, and share their points of view.”
