Summer is here, and for many troop leaders, it’s a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of the troop year—but it’s also the perfect time to recharge and prepare for what’s ahead. Instead of letting the months slip by, why not find the balance between rest and productivity? This summer, you can celebrate your accomplishments, nurture your spirit, and set your troop up for amazing adventures next year. Here’s how!

Celebrate Your Accomplishments

First things first, take a moment to pat yourself on the back. Leading a troop takes dedication, love, and lots of energy. Why not host a celebration for your leadership team?

Plan an evening with no agenda, just fun. It could be dinner at your favorite local spot or a casual backyard barbecue. Use this time to laugh, reflect on the past year, and strengthen the bonds with those who make your troop flourish. Sometimes, a little celebration is all we need to refill our cups.

Plan Some Fun and Fellowship

Summer is a wonderful time to keep your troop connected. While you might not have full troop meetings, sprinkle in a few relaxed gatherings. Consider organizing a beach day or a night at the trampoline park. The goal here isn’t just to stay in touch but to foster joy and strengthen your troop’s sense of community in a laid-back setting.

These moments remind your girls (and their families) why they joined the troop in the first place—to feel part of something special.

Start Prepping for Your New Family Info Night

If your troop hosts a new family info night, now is the ideal time to start preparing. Draft your talking points and organize any materials you’ll need, like welcome packets or troop brochures. Think about the questions new families are likely to ask.

What sets you apart? What unique experiences does your troop offer? Create an inviting, well-prepared presentation that helps new families feel excited and confident about joining.

Draft Your Next Year’s Calendar

A little time spent planning your calendar this summer will save you a lot of stress later. Start by penciling in your regular meeting dates, known events (like camp days and badge ceremonies), and big milestones like the National Day of Service.

Here’s a pro tip for a smoother year ahead: add deadlines for important tasks to your calendar now. For example, include a deadline for submitting badge orders with plenty of notice for your leaders. Little details like these make a big difference when the year is in full swing!

Schedule Leader Training and Development

Great troops are built on strong leadership. Take this time to plan a leader training day or workshop. Choose a date that works for your team and start brainstorming topics you’d like to cover.

Make this a collaborative experience. Consider hosting a potluck brunch where each leader brings a dish. Create a warm and welcoming environment where your team can bond while building their skills.

Not sure where to start with topics? Think about things your team struggled with this past year or new ideas you want to introduce. Whether it’s tips for better delegation or engaging new badge activities, there’s always room to grow.

Update Certifications

Make sure you and your team stay up to date with certifications like CPR and first aid. These small but important steps not only ensure safety but give parents confidence in your leadership.

If certifications have lapsed or will expire soon, take this opportunity to book a refresher course. Many local organizations or community centers offer summer training sessions, making it easier to fit into your schedule.

Take Time for Rest and Reflection

Finally, don’t forget to rest. Yes, planning and preparation are important, but so is pausing to recharge. Use this summer to pray, reflect, and ask for guidance on how God wants you to lead your troop in the year ahead.

Leadership is a calling, and when we take the time to connect with our purpose, it shines through in everything we do. Whether it’s journaling, walking in nature, or simply taking a quiet moment with your morning coffee, use this time to nourish your soul.

Make the Most of Your Summer

With a little planning and a lot of heart, this summer can be both restful and productive. Whether you’re celebrating with your leaders, building connections with your troop, or preparing for the next year, every step you take now will make a difference.

Need more help with organizing your year? Check out my Troop Coordinator’s Notion Template. It’s designed to help you stay on track, streamline your plans, and keep the overwhelm at bay. Together, we’ll make this your best troop year yet!