Public radio from Western Michigan University 102.1 NPR News | 89.9 Classical WMUK
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Interviews with news makers and discussion of topics important to Southwest Michigan. Subscribe to the podcast through Apple itunes and Google. Segments of interview are heard in WestSouthwest Brief during Morning Edition and All Things Considered

WSW: Girl Scouts Are "So Much More" Than Selling Cookies

Courtesy of Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan

Simon Purdy says in some ways the Boy Scouts opening up more programs to girls represents progress. But Purdy who evaluates data on programs for Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan says the Girl Scouts has a lot to offer which is tailored to girls.

Purdy, Continuous Improvement and Strategic Manager for Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan joined WMUK’s Gordon Evans to discuss how the organization is responding to the Boy Scouts decision to allow girls to join Cub Scouts, earn merit badges and obtain the rank of Eagle Scout.

While Purdy says there are some girls who want to join the Boy Scouts, he says research shows that a single gender environment gives girls the ability to make decisions and develop skills they may not otherwise. Purdy who is also a Sociology instructor at Western Michigan University says more research is needed, but he says the benefits of single gender learning seem to be more important to girls.

Asked about the future, Purdy says the Girl Scouts does not expect to see many girls leaving the organization for the Boy Scouts. But he says it’s important to let girls and their families know about the programs available. Purdy says there are a wide array of programs, including outdoor survival, fire building and climbing walls. Purdy says the Girl Scouts is “so much more” than selling cookies.

Gordon Evans became WMUK's Content Director in 2019 after more than 20 years as an anchor, host and reporter. A 1990 graduate of Michigan State, he began work at WMUK in 1996.
Related Content