With Girl Scout Cookie Weekend just ending and cookie season continuing until April, troops across the nation are hoping to draw in locals with an annual fundraiser and delicious treats.
Promoting entrepreneurship and community, Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia are partnering with Augusta’s Elks Club, Outback Steakhouse and Augusta Technical College to host the third annual Cookies and Cocktails fundraiser.
On Thursday evening, Feb. 22, guests of Cookies and Cocktails will taste specialty creations from Augusta Tech’s culinary students, inspired by the favorite flavors of Girl Scouts cookies.
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“This is one of the annual events that a lot of Girl Scouts councils do. It’s a fun and relaxed evening, where couples or individuals can come and have amazing food from Outback Steakhouse,” said Community Engagement Manager Shawn Risher for Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia.
Located at 205 Elkdom Court, the Elks Lodge will open its doors to attendees from 7 to 9 p.m., where they will enjoy a full bar with cookie inspired cocktails, savory hor d’oeuvres from Outback Steakhouse and live music.
“Augusta Tech students are actually competing against each other for a Master Chef Style trophy for bragging rights for the whole year by making desserts from our cookies,” Risher said. “We’re happy to have them as a partner.”
Tickets will be sold for $50 for individuals or $80 for pairs. Other donation opportunities include the Tagalong Sponsorship for $250, the Samoa Sponsorship for $500 and the Thin Mint Sponsorship for $1,000.
“Folks can just come and enjoy themselves with lots and food and desserts, while learning a little more about Girl Scouts,” said Risher.
To purchase tickets for the fundraiser, visit: https://crm.bloomerang.co/HostedDonation?ApiKey=pub_403aa3a1-584e-11ea-8134-0ab2f2f28c00&WidgetId=72173569
On hand and in demand for those not able to attend the annual fundraiser, troops from Girls Scouts of Historic Georgia are inviting customers to pick up a box of cookies for $5 a box.
Whether a customer buys a classic thin mint flavor or tries out a new “Adventurefuls” treat, a troop earns 75 cents, about 15%, per sold box, which helps scouts attend camp or plan a patch-earning field trip.
According to Risher, selling cookies teaches girl scouts decision making, money management, business ethics, goal setting and improves people skills.
“We are the largest, girl-led entrepreneurial organization,” Risher said. “This is my daughter’s first year selling cookies. She’s 7, and it has taught her so much just from cookie sales – how to work and having a great work ethic, how to follow-up with people.”
For those unable to consume cookies due to dietary restrictions or allergies, Risher said community members are also encouraged to directly donate to troops when they see a booth. Complete proceeds from in-person donations go directly towards benefiting scouts.
Those interested in purchasing a box of cookies or donating to a local troop can locate a nearby booth by visiting the Girl Scout Cookie Finder.
“As consumers open their favorite package of Girl Scout Cookies, they are unboxing the future for girls in their community,” stated a press release from Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia. “Behind every Girl Scout Cookie purchase is a troop exploring their leadership potential, building lifelong friendships and making the world around them a better place.”
To find out more Girl Scouts, visit: https://www.girlscoutcookies.org
Liz Wright is a staff writer covering education, lifestyle and general assignments for The Augusta Press. Reach her at liz@theaugustapress.com
