Girl Scouts of the USA, whose national headquarters is located in New York City is the largest voluntary organization for girls in the world. Founded in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low, Girl Scouts' membership has grown from 18 members in Savannah, Georgia, to 3.7 million members throughout the United States, including U.S. territories, and in more than 90 countries through USA Girl Scouts Overseas. Girl Scouts of Western New York is one of over 180 councils organized and chartered in the United States to administer and develop Girl Scouting within its particular geographic jurisdiction.

 COUNCIL FUNDING

Girl Scouts of Western New York is a non-profit agency that receives funding from the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County, United Way of the Tonawandas, United Way of Cattaraugus County, Inc., United Way of Gowanda, United Way of Niagara, Eastern Niagara United Way, United Way of Eastern Orleans County, United Way of Genesee County, United Way of Greater Rochester, United Way of Livingston County and United Fund of Dansville, United Way of Northern Chautauqua County, United Way of Southern Chautauqua County, United Way of Western Orleans County, United Way of Wyoming County and through donations, bequests, grants, sponsorships, and product sales.

A membership fee of $12, for each girl and adult, goes directly to Girl Scouts of the USA. Membership includes insurance coverage and access to all camps and programs. No girl or adult is refused membership because of an inability to pay. Financial assistance is available (based upon confirmation of economic need) in the form of membership dues assistance, camperships, and girl and adult opportunity funds.