In an effort to support the next generation of leaders, United Airlines has announced a new initiative to raise miles for the Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA), aiming to offset travel costs for Girl Scouts engaging in educational experiences and leadership programs nationwide.
Coinciding with International Women's Day and the 112th birthday of the Girl Scouts, United is calling on its MileagePlus members to contribute miles towards funding transformative travel experiences for Girl Scouts.
United pledges to match the first one million miles donated to GSUSA through its Miles on a MissionSM program, United's flagship fundraising and crowdsourcing initiative. This move is designed to leverage travel as a crucial component of the Girl Scouts' developmental journey, encouraging them to explore the world, forge global connections, and cultivate lifelong skills. In 2023 alone, over 59,000 Girl Scouts traveled either within the country or abroad, often utilizing funds from the iconic Girl Scout Cookie Program to finance their expeditions.
Wendy Lou, Chief Revenue Officer and Head of Membership at GSUSA, expressed her gratitude for the partnership, highlighting the timely support as the 2024 cookie season wraps up. "As troops look towards innovative ways to utilize their cookie earnings, including travel, we're hopeful this initiative will enable them to extend their travel ambitions even further," Lou said.
Since 2022, United Airlines has backed GSUSA in its mission to offer a broader range of educational opportunities, including STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs, for Girl Scouts. This partnership has led to the creation of resources aimed at volunteers and council staff to facilitate STEM learning, aligning with GSUSA findings that Girl Scout STEM participants exhibit greater confidence and interest in STEM subjects and career paths.
Helon Hammond, VP of Global Learning, People and Community Impact for United, reaffirmed the airline's commitment to fostering connections and uniting the world through aviation. "Supporting the Girl Scouts of the USA aligns with our belief in the power of travel to expand horizons and inspire young individuals to pursue learning and careers in aviation," Hammond stated.
United encourages MileagePlus members to contribute their miles to GSUSA by April 12, offering a unique opportunity to support Girl Scouts in realizing their travel dreams. For more information on how to donate miles or become a MileagePlus member for free, visit united.com/donate. To learn more about joining, volunteering, or donating to the Girl Scouts of the USA, visit girlscouts.org.
About Girl Scouts of the USA
The Girl Scouts of the USA empowers girls to achieve their dreams and build a better world. Through diverse programs across the nation, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can embrace their true selves as they uncover their strengths and tackle new challenges. Supported by dedicated adult volunteers, mentors, and millions of alumni, Girl Scouts lead the charge in finding their voices and effecting change on the issues they care about most. For opportunities to join, volunteer, reconnect, or donate, visit girlscouts.org.
