Leader's Weekend 2024 Workshops
We are thrilled to be bringing back Leader's Weekend for our volunteers! This special weekend at Camp Kaufmann from October 4-6, 2024, is an opportunity for troop leaders to connect with each other and learn new skills to bring back to their troops.
Below is the list of workshops that will be offered to participants on Saturday, October 5. After registering for the event, participants will be prompted to complete a Formstack survey with their workshop choices. One workshop should be selected for each time block. Please note that each workshop has limited capacity, and will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Time Block A: 9:00 - 10:15 AM
Activity A1
Beautify the Lake Trail
Join our interim CEO, Karen Lundgard, in restoring the gorgeous Lake Trail. We’ll be cutting back overgrown areas, clearing the path, addressing muddy areas and ensuring that it’s fresh and ready for our campers!
Activity A2
Box Oven Bonanza: Bake & Create with Cardboard
Step into the world of DIY baking with a twist in our Box Oven Bonanza workshop! Learn how to craft your own oven from a simple cardboard box and use it to bake delicious brownies. This hands-on session combines creativity and cooking as you assemble your box oven and watch it work its magic. Once the brownies are ready, you’ll enjoy a tasty treat and take home the skills to replicate this fun, eco-friendly baking method. Get ready to turn a box into a baking marvel and savor the sweet rewards of your hard work!
workshop capacity: 5-15
Activity A3
Denim DIY: Craft Your Chic and Functional Apron
Give your old jeans a stylish new life by transforming them into a chic, functional apron! In this workshop, you'll learn how to upcycle denim into a unique apron, complete with pockets to keep your tools within reach. We'll also decorate your apron with vibrant fabric prints from your stash. Not only will you earn eco brownie points, but you'll also leave with a custom apron that's perfect for any project.
Activity A4
Motors in Motion: Build and Innovate
Join Camp Padre for an exciting, hands-on STEM workshop where you'll dive into the world of motorcraft! In this interactive session, participants will get to design, build, and test their very own motor-powered projects. Get ready to rev up your creativity and see your creations come to life!
workshop capacity: 15
Activity A5
Highest Awards Master Class: Crafting Exceptional Projects
Unlock the secrets to guiding your Girl Scouts toward success in their Highest Awards journey! In this engaging and informative master class, you'll dive into the essentials of developing standout projects. Whether you're looking for inspiration, the latest updates, or expert advice on the key elements, this workshop has it all. Gain the confidence and knowledge to help your scouts tackle their Bronze, Silver, or Gold Award projects with creativity and impact. Join us for a session filled with practical tips, success stories, and the tools you need to support Girl Scouts in achieving their highest potential!
workshop capacity: 30
Time Block B: 10:30 - 11:45 AM
Activity B1
EcoCraft Creations: Turning Nature into Art
Let’s move away from foam crafts at camp! We have a more economical and eco-friendly alternative. We’ll be using natural materials found around camp, along with some paint, glue, and paper,to create animal critters, bookmarks, and vegetable paintings. These crafts are perfect for sharing with girls of all ages!
workshop capacity: 20
Activity B2
Knots & Bonds: Mastering Square Knots for Friendship Bracelets
Unlock the secrets of knot-tying in this hands-on workshop designed for leaders who want to pass on valuable skills to their girls. You'll learn how to tie essential knots, including the versatile square knot, and discover how to transform this skill into a fun activity by creating your own friendship bracelet. Perfect for troop bonding and outdoor adventures, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge to teach and inspire your girls. Join us and weave together knots of creativity and friendship!
workshop capacity: 5-15
Activity B3
Discover Your Troop Leadership Style
Explore the different types of leadership styles and how they influence your approach to guiding your troop. In this workshop, you'll identify your own leadership style, understand its strengths, and learn how it affects your interactions with your troop members. Through engaging activities and discussions, discover strategies to leverage your unique leadership qualities to create a positive and supportive troop environment. Whether you're a seasoned leader or new to the role, this session will provide valuable insights to enhance your leadership journey.
workshop capacity: 25
Activity B4
Catch the Wave: Boating & Fishing Adventures
Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-time boater, this session offers the perfect blend of relaxation and skill-building. Learn the basics of safe boating, fishing techniques, and how to reel in the big one! With experienced guides to help you along the way, you'll gain confidence on the water and maybe even catch a fish or two. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of the lake while honing your outdoor skills.
workshop capacity: 20
Activity B5
Fiesta Creations: The Art of Piñata-Making
Get ready to add a splash of color and creativity to your weekend with Marta Escobar’s piñata-making workshop! In this fun and hands-on session, you’ll learn the traditional art of crafting piñatas, from shaping the base to decorating with vibrant tissue paper. Marta will guide you through each step, sharing tips and techniques to create your own festive masterpiece. Whether you’re making it for a special celebration or just for fun, this workshop will leave you with a beautiful piñata and the skills to make more in the future. Let’s bring some fiesta flair to the party—¡vamos a hacer piñatas!
Time Block C: 1:15 - 2:30 PM
Activity C1
Trailblazers: Exploring Nature on a Guided Hike
In this workshop, we’ll explore the trails at Camp Kaufmann, focusing on Laurel Way and the Lake Trail. You’ll learn essential hiking skills for guiding girls both in the city and at camp, including basic compass techniques, making "gorp" (trail mix), and engaging in an outdoor "wide game." Be prepared to walk over rough and uneven terrain. Please note that this is a three-hour hike that extends across three workshop time slots. Participants who select this activity will not choose an activity for Blocks D and E.
workshop capacity: 15
Activity C2
Aim High: Archery Skills & Precision
Whether you're new to archery or looking to perfect your shot, this session is designed to help you hit your mark. Learn the fundamentals of archery, including proper stance, aiming techniques, and safety practices, all under the guidance of skilled instructors. With each shot, you'll build confidence, improve your precision, and experience the thrill of hitting the bullseye. Join us on the range and discover the archer within you!
workshop capacity: 15
Activity C3
Handmade Greetings: Craft Your Own Cards
Join us for a creative and fun card-making workshop where you'll learn to design and craft two unique, handcrafted cards. Say goodbye to store-bought cards and discover the joy of personalizing your greetings! In this workshop, you'll also learn about various card-making tools and techniques. We'll provide all the materials you need, and you'll leave with two beautiful cards that you can use for upcoming occasions. Perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike, this session is all about creativity, sustainability, and the joy of giving.
workshop capacity: 12
Activity C4
Cozy Creations: DIY No-Sew Pillows
Discover the joy of crafting without the hassle of needles and thread in this fun and easy no-sew pillow workshop! Perfect for crafters of all skill levels, this session will guide you through the steps to create your own custom pillow using fabric, scissors, and a bit of creativity. Choose from a variety of fabrics, colors, and patterns to design a pillow that reflects your style. Whether you're making a decorative accent for your home or a thoughtful gift, you’ll leave with a cozy creation that’s uniquely yours—no sewing skills required!
Activity C5
Denim DIY: Craft Your Chic and Functional Apron
Give your old jeans a stylish new life by transforming them into a chic, functional apron! In this workshop, you'll learn how to upcycle denim into a unique apron, complete with pockets to keep your tools within reach. We'll also decorate your apron with vibrant fabric prints from your stash. Not only will you earn eco brownie points, but you'll also leave with a custom apron that's perfect for any project.
Time Block D: 2:45 - 4:00 PM
Activity D1
Aim High: Archery Skills & Precision
Whether you're new to archery or looking to perfect your shot, this session is designed to help you hit your mark. Learn the fundamentals of archery, including proper stance, aiming techniques, and safety practices, all under the guidance of skilled instructors. With each shot, you'll build confidence, improve your precision, and experience the thrill of hitting the bullseye. Join us on the range and discover the archer within you!
workshop capacity: 10
Activity D2
VTK Unleashed: Empowering Volunteers, One Toolkit at a Time
Dive into the Volunteer Tool Kit (VTK) with Debbi in this dynamic, hands-on workshop designed to empower you with the tools and tips you need to lead with confidence. Learn how to navigate the VTK like a pro, customize meeting plans, and streamline your troop management tasks—all while saving time and enhancing the Girl Scout experience for your troop. Get ready to unleash the power of the VTK and take your leadership skills to the next level!
workshop capacity: 25
Activity D3
Wax & Wick Wonders: Craft Your Own Candles
Discover the art and science of candlemaking in this illuminating workshop! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crafter, you'll enjoy creating your unique candles from start to finish. Learn about different waxes, wicks, and scents, and experiment with colors and molds to design a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. This hands-on experience will ignite your creativity and leave you with beautiful candles to take home. Get ready to shine with your handmade creations!.
workshop capacity: 12
Activity D4
Motors in Motion: Build and Innovate
Join Camp Padre for an exciting, hands-on STEM workshop where you'll dive into the world of motorcraft! In this interactive session, participants will get to design, build, and test their very own motor-powered projects. Get ready to rev up your creativity and see your creations come to life!
workshop capacity: 15
Activity D5
Exploring AI: How Machines Learn to Recognize Our World
In this interactive session, you'll explore the basics of AI and its impact on everyday life. After a brief introduction, you'll use Teachable Machine to train an AI model to recognize sketches, gaining hands-on experience with how AI learns and the challenges it faces.
Time Block E: 4:15 - 5:30 PM
Activity E1
Beautify the Lake Trail
Join our interim CEO, Karen Lundgard, in restoring the gorgeous Lake Trail. We’ll be cutting back overgrown areas, clearing the path, addressing muddy areas and ensuring that it’s fresh and ready for our campers!
Activity E2
Ignite Your Inner STEM Star: STEM Skills Workshop
Get ready for a hands-on STEM skills workshop designed to supercharge your skills and inspire your Girl Scouts! In this session you will learn to facilitate fun coding and engineering activities for younger Girl Scouts. No experience in coding or engineering necessary, we will share STEM strategies and activities to engage girl scouts whether you are new to STEM or a STEM master. Let's spark curiosity, foster innovation, and make STEM an unforgettable part of your Girl Scouts' adventures!
workshop capacity: 25
Activity E3
Fiesta Creations: The Art of Piñata-Making
Get ready to add a splash of color and creativity to your weekend with Marta Escobar’s piñata-making workshop! In this fun and hands-on session, you’ll learn the traditional art of crafting piñatas, from shaping the base to decorating with vibrant tissue paper. Marta will guide you through each step, sharing tips and techniques to create your own festive masterpiece. Whether you’re making it for a special celebration or just for fun, this workshop will leave you with a beautiful piñata and the skills to make more in the future. Let’s bring some fiesta flair to the party—¡vamos a hacer piñatas!
workshop capacity: 12
Activity E4
Rhythms of the East: Beginner’s Guide to Middle Eastern Dance
Join Nicolette Tartaglia for an enchanting journey into the art of Middle Eastern dance. In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll explore the graceful movements, mesmerizing rhythms, and cultural significance of this ancient dance form. Whether you’re a novice or simply curious, Nicolette will guide you through the foundational techniques, helping you build confidence and discover the joy of dance. No experience is necessary—just bring your energy, an open mind, and a willingness to let the music move you! Get ready to connect with your inner dancer and enjoy a unique cultural experience that will leave you inspired.
Activity E5
Wax & Wick Wonders: Craft Your Own Candles
Discover the art and science of candlemaking in this illuminating workshop! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crafter, you'll enjoy creating your unique candles from start to finish. Learn about different waxes, wicks, and scents, and experiment with colors and molds to design a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. This hands-on experience will ignite your creativity and leave you with beautiful candles to take home. Get ready to shine with your handmade creations!
workshop capacity: 12
