Girl Scouts & NAWIC Overview
Under Construction
In 1998 Girl Scouts Heart of Central California (GSHCC) held a program event called Under Construction at our very own summer camp, Camp Menzies. It was an opportunity for girls to experience overnight resident camp while learning how to build items such as a swimming dock and tables for the dining hall. It was a big hit with girls and immediately we had the idea to expand Under Construction into an annual program event opportunity. Staff felt that if the council was able to secure donations and support from the community and find adult volunteers to mentor and work alongside the girls, Under Construction could be a unique, exciting and educational experience for girls.
In 2005 the GSHCC Under Construction Program officially began. We had the support of various organizations and companies throughout the community. The local NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction) chapter became a partner and has served as volunteer mentors for the last six years. Additionally, Tomboy Tools, White Cap Construction, Deacon Charitable Foundation, Simpson Strong Tie and other companies within the construction industry have partnered with GSHCC to provide tools, safety equipment, building materials, and monetary donations to promote this quality program for girls.
By 2007, Under Construction was one of the most popular programs at GSHCC. Although the program was originally designed for 10 girls, it was expanded to 20 girls due to high interest. Many of the girls attend on a yearly basis and some of the girls are from the GSHCC Outreach Program, which serves girls in staff led troops who come from low income/diverse neighborhoods.
Through the years girls have built staff cabins and a sleeping cabin for summer campers. Girls have experienced the final construction phases such as roof framing and building an adjoining deck. They have also learned new construction techniques and the importance of safety on the work site. As of 2011, a total of six cabins have been completed and built by girls who participated in our Under Construction Program. This upcoming summer, girls will continue building other structures as they learn even more about the construction process.
The GSHCC Under Construction program not only helps open pathways for girls to experience construction opportunities in the future, but also builds leaderships skills, improves self confidence and creates wonderful camp memories that last a lifetime. We are extremely proud of this unique program and the opportunities it offers girls and look forward to continuing it for many years to come.
Join us as we build girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place – support the GSHCC Under Construction Program!
