Each year, the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) celebrates World Thinking Day, which this year is Wednesday, Feb. 22. For nearly 100 years, Girl Scouts around the world have used the holiday to discuss how they can help others and show gratitude for volunteers and parents who make Girl Scouts possible.

On Feb. 13, members of the Conestoga River Girl Scouts from Penn Manor, Hempfield and Lancaster city gathered to celebrate World Thinking Day, and the girls learned about the many World Centers in other countries and commemorate their connection to international members of the organization. World Centers are spaces provided by WAGGGS for Girl Scouts to connect with each other and continue to hone their skills as Scouts. There are World Centers in Switzerland, London, Mexico, India and Africa.

"We look at World Thinking Day as a day of appreciation and thanking everyone -volunteers, parents and leaders," said Linda Davis, service unit lead for Conestoga River Girl Scouts. "We're thinking about them and how much we appreciate all that they do for Girl Scouting."

The girls learned about each of the five World Centers and made a charm pin for each location. They received five charms, and each charm represented the national flower for each of the World Centers' countries. The program began with a scavenger hunt and concluded with a sing-along.

Each World Thinking Day is given a theme by WAGGGS. This year, the theme of the holiday is "Our World, Our Peaceful Future." To earn their World Thinking Day award, Girl Scouts will explore different issues that affect the environment and learn how to secure a viable future for girls around the world. During their meeting, members of Conestoga River Girl Scouts discussed recycling and received an informational handout on sustainability. "When I asked how many girls recycle at home, I saw almost every hand go up," Davis said. "It's great that they recognize the importance of it and saving our Earth."

Davis has been involved with Girl Scouts for 57 years, beginning her journey as a Scout and remaining engaged as a volunteer. She oversees the troops in Conestoga River Girl Scouts with co-service unit leader Louise Brown. Davis and Brown coordinate events for the girls with different events with volunteers.

"Girl Scouts grows girls of courage, confidence and character. It helps them to be girls, have fun events and grow into leadership positions," Davis said.

Girl Scouts is always in need of volunteers. To learn more or to become a volunteer, visit http://www.gshpa.org.