"The Anonymous Letter"

 Part 2 of 3

Part 2 continues our analysis of the 2015–2018 Girl Scouts movement-wide strategy, examining the deeper challenges that shaped this turbulent period.

   We argue that GSUSA’s struggles were not solely the result of a problematic CEO but rather a convergence of factors, including internal mismanagement, a toxic work culture, and negative media coverage.

   This segment highlights specific instances of poor leadership, such as the dismantling of successful fundraising campaigns and GSUSA leadership publicly humiliating employees. (We will explore GSUSA HQ leadership in greater detail in future episodes.)

   We also examine whistleblowers’ claims that GSUSA had created a crisis of public trust, negatively affecting donations and volunteer recruitment. Despite the organization’s ambitious strategic goals, poor execution, internal conflict, and damaging publicity ultimately hindered their success.