How Junior Maine Guide Transformed Reese's Camp Experience
Inspired by the older Girl Scouts she was around as a camper, Reese always dreamed of becoming a Junior Maine Guide (JMG). Hearing stories about the hands-on skills and outdoor adventures ahead, she couldn’t wait to follow their footsteps. Girls aged 14-17 can earn their JMG certificate at Camp Natarswi where they will attend camp for 3 weeks to perfect 21 specific outdoor skills. The girls will then head off to test those skills on a 5 day adventure at the final test encampment, with other JMG candidates. Girls at Camp Natarswi have been earning their JMG certificates for nearly 90 years.
In the process of JMG Reese learned many skills both physical and wilderness including axemanship, knife safety, tree identification, compass navigation and so many more. All of the new skills she learned helped prepare her for both the practical challenges and written tests.
“These different skills were so fun to learn but I think the best part of it all was meeting new people and learning so much,” said Reese. “Not just the skills you have to know for the program but things like how to have confidence in your tests.”
Reese’s favorite part of the whole experience was having fun with her peers and the testers. She shared that she really wants to encourage other Girl Scouts to pursue JMG, and calls it an empowering experience where you build lifelong friendships with people who share your passions.
Reese has been going to Girl Scout Camp at Camp Natarswi for 8 years and says her favorite camp tradition is cookouts. Beyond the fun, camp has boosted her leadership and social skills, making it easier for her to connect with others. Reese already can’t wait to return next summer and is looking forward to seeing the new JMGs!
