For the past century, the Girl Scouts of the USA has helped mold young women, broken down barriers and showed that the female-driven organization can have just as much of a community impact as its male-dominated counterpart.

The organization started small, boasting just 18 members in a Savannah, Ga., troop 100 years ago. It has now grown to include more than 3.2 million members and volunteers.

Just like the Boy Scouts, the Girl Scouts of the USA were once — and can still be — an integral part of the fabric of American culture.

The organization has helped shape so many young women and provided lessons that can translate to success in life.

According to one of the organization’s stated goals, “girls discover the fun, friendship, and power of girls together. Through a myriad of enriching experiences, such as extraordinary field trips, sports skill-building clinics, community service projects, cultural exchanges, and environmental stewardships, girls grow courageous and strong. Girl Scouting helps girls develop their full individual potential; relate to others with increasing understanding, skill, and respect; develop values to guide their actions and provide the foundation for sound decision-making; and contribute to the improvement of society through their abilities, leadership skills, and cooperation with others.”

But, perhaps most importantly, the Girl Scouts offer good old fashioned fun. That is something that cannot be overlooked and we hope continues for the next 100 years.