Girl Scouts promote National Great Outdoors Month

June 2011 marks the eighth annual National Great Outdoors Month! Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois encourages girls across northern Illinois to get outside and experience the great outdoors. Girl Scouts has a long history of sharing the wonders of nature with girls. Every Girl Scout knows outdoor recreation and camping provides physical, mental and social benefits and helps people live healthier lives. The American Camp Association agrees, stating that camp helps children “stay fit and active, and fosters creativity and innovation.”

Girl Scouts has a longstanding commitment to the well-being of girls and an understanding of the complex issue of girls' health. We know healthy living combines good nutrition and physical fitness with emotional and social well-being.

GSNI camps teach healthy living through exciting outdoor activities, healthy food choices, team-building and increased self confidence. Girls explore the wonders of nature while gaining a greater understanding of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

In honor of National Great Outdoors Month, GSNI encourages you to explore the great outdoors with the special girls in your life. Make a difference and show the next generation of leaders how important our open spaces are while instilling in them an appreciation for good health that will last a lifetime. For more information on Girl Scout outdoor activities and camps, visit www.girlscoutsni.org/camp.html.