For decades, the Archdiocese of Cincinnati and Girl Scouts of Western Ohio have worked together in the character and leadership development of young girls. At the present moment, however, we find ourselves with areas of significant differences.  The Catholic Church is a religious organization, and Girl Scouts is a secular organization. Nevertheless, these differences do not prevent us from seeking common ground that allows us to be united in our commitment to young girls and our shared hope for their future as leaders of our communities.

In recent months, our two organizations have engaged in intentional dialogue, grounded in mutual respect and a shared dedication to the well-being of girls. These conversations explored ways to continue working together in pursuit of our missions, even amid differences in our understanding of identity and the human person. The dialogue has been both fruitful and constructive, helping us envision the next chapter of our relationship.

As a result of this renewed clarity and common ground, the Archdiocese of Cincinnati and Girl Scouts of Western Ohio are pleased to announce the continuation of our longstanding partnership. Together, we will build on our decades of collaboration and continue to work together to strengthen and support the girls in our communities.

“I am proud of this dialogue and the way we have focused on our shared desire for the flourishing of young women in virtue and faith, rather than being solely focused on our differences,” said Most Reverend Robert Casey, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. “Girl Scouts is a secular organization, and as such, they do not share all of our views. As the Catholic Church we are called to uphold the Gospel and teach young people the Truth of the Catholic faith. Despite these differences, we have reached a mutual understanding that allows us to fulfill our mission as Church in the faithful formation of young girls while also accessing all that is best about Girl Scouting.”

“Girl Scouts of Western Ohio and the Archdiocese of Cincinnati have helped generations of girls to grow in their faith and develop the critical thinking and decision-making skills they need in order to act on the values of their faith in our complex world,” said Aimée Sproles, President & CEO of Girl Scouts of Western Ohio. “At Girl Scouts, we believe that a part of girls’ healthy development is encouraging girls in their spiritual journey, through partnerships with their individual faith communities. This renewed partnership allows our Catholic Girl Scouts to have the support of their family and the Catholic community as they grow in courage, confidence, and character.”

As of this announcement, Girl Scout troops are welcome on Catholic campuses with the support and approval of the parish pastor and after entering into the Archdiocese and GSWO Facility Use Agreement with parishes. Upon meeting these requirements, Girl Scout troops can continue as a ministry or extracurricular activity on Catholic parish and school campuses.

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The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cincinnati is the 45^th largest Catholic diocese in the country, with nearly 440,000 Catholics, and has the fifth largest Catholic school system in terms of enrollment with more than 41,000 students.  The 19-county territory includes 199 canonical parishes organized into 57 Families of Parishes, and 111 Catholic primary and secondary schools.

Girl Scouts bring their dreams to life and work together to build a better world. Through programs from coast to coast, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges—whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike or advocate for climate justice, or make their first best friends. Backed by trusted adult volunteers, mentors, and millions of alums, Girl Scouts lead the way as they find their voices and make changes that affect the issues most important to them. To join us, volunteer, reconnect, or donate, visit gswo.org, or follow Girl Scouts of Western Ohio on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.