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Girls in Wisconsin are Facing Serious Challenges and the Data Demands Action
By Girl Scouts of Wisconsin – Badgerland
Twelve-year-old Lily used to love school. But over the past few years, something has changed. Her teachers noticed she had become quieter, falling behind on assignments. Her mom saw it too, noticing less laughter and more isolation. Lily’s story is not unique. In fact, it’s becoming far too common.
Across Wisconsin, girls like Lily are facing invisible pressures, including rising mental health struggles, academic stress, and growing social disconnection. But while these challenges affect thousands, they often remain hidden behind strong faces and silent worries.
This fall, Girl Scouts of Wisconsin – Badgerland is bringing this data to light. On Thursday, October 30, we will gather at The Edgewater in Madison for a pivotal event: Leading with Legacy. At this luncheon, we’ll release a groundbreaking report, The State of the Wisconsin Girl, filled with data, insight, and urgency—a wake-up call for anyone who cares about the next generation.
The State of the Wisconsin Girl Report: A Mirror and a Message
The State of the Wisconsin Girl Report isn’t just a publication; it’s a mirror reflecting what girls are facing today, and a message about what we must do next. Authored by Jenn Hollern, former Deputy Chief Membership Officer at Girl Scouts of the USA, the report explores four key areas shaping the lives of Wisconsin girls:
- Physical health
- Academic performance
- Emotional wellness
- Social well-being
It is both sobering and hopeful. The data shows where girls are struggling, but also where communities have the power to uplift, support, and ignite change.
A Seat at the Table and a Voice in the Conversation
The Leading with Legacy luncheon will bring together community leaders, educators, business owners, Girl Scout alums, and girls. It’s a rare space where data meets dialogue, and where lived experience takes center stage.
Attendees will hear from Jenn Hollern as well as from Girl Scouts who are facing today’s challenges with resilience and strength. They’ll leave not just informed but inspired and empowered to be part of the solution.
“This isn’t just about awareness—it’s about being there for girls when the world falls short,” says Lisa Smith, CEO of Girl Scouts of Wisconsin – Badgerland. “We’re not just preparing girls for the future. We’re walking beside them as they grow, struggle, dream, and rise—giving them what they need exactly when they need it. When we invest in girls, we’re not fixing one part of the system. We’re transforming it. Because girls don’t just shape the future. They are the future.”
A Call to Community
We believe in the power of girls to lead, innovate, and create change. But they can’t do it alone. They need mentors, allies, and advocates who will listen, show up, and invest—not just financially, but with heart and purpose.
This event is more than a moment. It’s the start of a statewide initiative that will continue throughout the years through community conversations, leadership experiences, and bold partnerships, all centered around one question: What will we leave behind for those who come next?
Join Us for Leading with Legacy: The State of the Wisconsin Girl
Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at The Edgewater in Madison
Individual tickets, table reservations, and sponsorship opportunities are available.
Learn more: www.gsbadgerland.org/LeadingWithLegacy
Join the Movement for Change
Girls in Wisconsin face serious challenges. Be the first to see the State of the Wisconsin Girl report on Oct. 30 and join the movement to create a future where every girl can thrive.
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