March 6, 2026
Local Girl Scouts Working to Reach National Convention in Washington, D.C.

By Cindy Peterson
Local Girl Scouts Working to Reach National Convention in Washington, D.C.

Girl Scout Troop 640 from the South Lake community is inviting families to a day of fun and community support as the troop raises funds for a special trip to the nation’s capital.
The troop will host a family-friendly fundraiser from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 14 at Joe Swaffar Park, 13129 Delaware Ave., Astatula. The event will help the girls raise money for a trip to Washington, D.C., where they plan to explore the nation’s capital and attend the National Girl Scout Convention in July 2026.

According to troop organizers, the trip will allow the girls to spend three days discovering historic landmarks and learning more about leadership and service while participating in the national convention with fellow Girl Scouts from across the country.

The fundraiser will feature activities designed for all ages, including bounce houses, obstacle courses, a game trailer, and a variety of games and activities for families. Food trucks and refreshments will also be available throughout the afternoon.
Guests will also have the opportunity to learn more about Girl Scouts. South Lake Girl Scout recruiter Phyllis will be on site to answer questions for families interested in joining the organization or learning more about local troop opportunities.

Organizers say the event is meant to bring the community together while helping the girls work toward an exciting goal.
“It will be a day to make memories,” Shelly Fender says.

Wristbands will be available for activities, including a $10 game trailer pass, $10 bounce house pass, and a $15 all-access pass. Children ages 5 and under can participate for $5, and parents are also invited to join the fun.
For more information, contact Gloria Gelin at girlscoutleader2012@yahoo.com
Originally from the small town of Berryville, Arkansas, Cindy has become a multimedia specialist in journalism, photography, videography, and video editing. She has a B.S. in Communications from the University of Central Arkansas and produces Style Magazine's Sports Hub Podcast and the Healthy Living Podcast. She also produces for Beacon College’s Telly Award-winning PBS show, “A World of Difference.” When she isn’t working, Cindy loves traveling the National Parks with her husband , Ryan, and son, David, photographing wildlife.







































