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Current COVID-19 Guidelines for GSHCC Members

Updated July 19: Click here for a printable version

There are many reasons individuals and families may be making the decision to continue to wear a mask and social distance. These might include being or having a family member that is immune-compromised, having an allergy to the vaccine, personal comfort level, etc. As Girl Scouts, we respect that each family will make the decision that feels right for them. At no time will anyone’s decision to wear a mask be challenged, questioned, or an issue.

Staff members are required to follow Cal OSHA requirements, as well as state and county guidelines. This means they may be masking at times when it may seem unnecessary to do so, however, please understand these guidelines may vary for them. 

If Troop/Service Unit Leaders or Event Staff feel the need to require masks in any youth setting for health and safety reasons, based on activities or current local conditions, GSHCC will support this decision.

All guidelines will continue to be updated as appropriate based on CDC and CA Department of Health updates. CDC and CA Department of Health recommendations are continually monitored by GSHCC staff. The CADPH youth sports guidelines are no longer in effect. 

Please note that if individuals are feeling ill, they should stay away from in-person meetings or gatherings.

In-Person COVID Guidance Grid

Masks

Masks will only be required indoors when youth are present for all, regardless of vaccination status. Masks are not required in adult-only settings indoors or outdoors for vaccinated individuals. Unvaccinated individuals should continue wearing masks. 

  • These guidelines align with the California Department of Health’s (CDPH) Guidance for Use of Face Coverings as of 6/15/2021, as well as CDPH’s COVID-19 and Reopening of In-Person Instruction Framework & Public Health Guidance for K-12 Schools in California focusing on youth and adult settings as of 1/14/2021.
  • This protocol will be reviewed again when vaccines for ages 5+ are readily available.
  • The following individuals are exempt from wearing masks at all times, and therefore, should remain a safe distance from girls and other adults:
    •  Persons with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents wearing a mask. This includes persons with a medical condition for whom wearing a mask could obstruct breathing or who are unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove a mask without assistance.
    • Persons who are hearing impaired, or communicating with a person who is hearing impaired, where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication.

Social Distancing

Social distancing will only remain in place in indoor settings and when youth are present, and/or when specific building requirements are set.

Camping

Overnight camping is allowed in outdoor settings. Girls may share sleeping structures under the following conditions:

  • Parents/guardians and troop leaders agree that girls may share sleeping structures.
  • Sleeping structures (tents, cabins, dormitories, etc.) are well ventilated with open windows or other ventilation systems in use.
  • Campers are distancing as much as possible (sleeping head to foot in ground tents, cots, or sleeping mats separated in buildings, etc.).

Carpooling

Carpooling is allowed with masking, under the following conditions:

  • If parents/guardians and troop leaders agree that girls may share a carpool while on a Girl event or activity.
  • These guidelines are consistent with public transit guidelines.

Food

Avoid any self-serve, shared food or drink options at Girl Scout meetings or events.

  • ServSafe measures should continue to be used in all Girl Scouts settings where food is being served.
  • Buffet-style food service is not recommended but is allowed.
  • Prepare pre-packaged individual servings (for example, when planning to make s’mores, offer each participant their own set of ingredients).
  • Food practice guidelines as outlined in the CDC’s Small Gatherings: Planning for Food and Drinks remain in place as of 5/20/2021.

Domestic Travel

Domestic travel is now possible, with the following advisory from the state of California:

  • California no longer has a travel advisory in effect. There is now no state recommendation to test and quarantine before and after travel.
  • The California Department of Public Health asks that you do the following:
    • Delay travel until you’re fully vaccinated.
    • If you’re not fully vaccinated, but choose to travel, get tested before and after.
    • No matter your vaccination status, wear a mask while on public transportation or in a transportation hub.
    • Get tested if you feel sick, and avoid traveling if you have or may have had COVID-19.
  • The Trip or High Adventure Approval form should continue to be completed for all domestic travel.
  • See the CDC’s travel guidelines and read more at CDPH’s travel flyer PDF.

International Travel

 International travel is possible under the following conditions, as outlined by the CDC’s International Travel During COVID-19 as of 6/10/2021.

  • Travelers must be fully vaccinated.
  • Fully vaccinated people should follow the guidelines outlined in the link above.
  • Unvaccinated people should also follow specific guidelines for them outlined in the above link.
  • Travelers should check the U.S. Department of State’s International Travel Advisories to understand which countries are Level 4 (Do Not Travel status) and Level 3 (Reconsider Travel). Travel to Level 4 and Level 3 countries will not be approved by GSHCC.
  • The Trip or High Adventure Approval form should continue to be completed for all international travel.

County Health Department Requirements

For COVID guidelines by county, visit: covid19.ca.gov.

More Safety Measures & Guidance

Check the Safely Reopening California site for continued safety measures and guidance.

Questions?

Please contact customercare@girlscoutshcc.org.

Please note, the majority of staff continue to work remotely. We have added staff members to our Customer Care Team so we can more quickly address any questions or concerns our members have. For the quickest response, please reach out to us via the email address above.