The Girl Scouts of Orange County recently received $2.8 million from philanthropist Mackenzie Scott, as a part of the largest-ever donation to the Girl Scouts of the USA.
“Locally, this is a vital accelerator for Girl Scouts of Orange County’s ongoing efforts to help all girls cultivate the skills and connections to live their best lives,” said Vikki Shepp, CEO of the organization’s Orange County branch, in an Oct. 18 press release.
Scott donated $84.5 million to 29 local councils of the Girl Scouts of the USA, which has over 100 councils worldwide.
Scott—a writer, mother, and the former wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos—has a reported net worth of $34 billion. Since declaring in 2019 her wish to donate her fortune, she has already given away over $12 billion, according to media reports.
Shepp also said girls develop positive character and lifelong skills such as resilience, confidence, problem-solving, and decision-making, through joining scouts.
“In today’s complicated world, Girl Scouts is an essential force in girls’ lives as they explore their ambitions, realize their dreams, and become leaders in our communities and their own lives,” she said.
The donation will also help improve the organization’s Camp Scherman in Idyllwild and “foster meaningful program innovation” to facilitate career readiness, mental wellness, outdoor activities, and academic programs, according to the statement.
The organization serves about 15,000 girls and 10,000 adult volunteers in the county, but the numbers may grow with the additional funds, according to its website.
The Girl Scouts of Orange County declined to comment further on the matter.
