What is Girl Scout Councils?
Girl Scout Councils insurance refers to liability and related coverages designed for councils, service units, camps, and organized activities run under the council umbrella. Policies focus on protecting the organization from third-party claims for bodily injury and property damage, and often complement other protections such as property coverage, participant accident coverage, and event liability limits for ceremonies, fundraisers, or camp programs.
Who needs it
Councils and chartered organizations, camp operators, troop leaders who manage large events, and event organizers affiliated with scouting typically seek this coverage. Smaller service units or volunteer-run camps may also need council-level protection when they host public events, operate facilities, or take groups on trips that create commercial auto exposure or transportation risks.
What it typically covers
Standard elements of Girl Scout Councils insurance commonly include general liability for bodily injury and property damage, participant accident benefits to address injuries to youth, and coverage extensions for event liability and equipment coverage. Many programs add endorsements for abuse and molestation defense, hired/borrowed auto or non-owned vehicle liability for volunteer drivers, and limited professional liability for program leaders.
For councils that transport members or rent buses, separate transportation liability or specialized Scout Transportation Insurance can be important to fill gaps in underlying policies. See the Scout Transportation Insurance resource at https://completemarkets.com/Scout-Transportation-Insurance/Storefronts/ for more details on that exposure.
Common exclusions or limitations
Typical exclusions include intentional acts, criminal conduct, punitive damages, and certain professional services unless specifically endorsed. Property damage to owned facilities or equipment is often limited unless a property policy or equipment coverage is in place. Abuse and molestation coverage may be limited or require higher underwriting standards and reporting controls.
Factors that influence cost
Underwriting factors include the size of the council, number of members, history of claims, types of activities (high-risk vs. low-risk programs), facility exposures, and the extent of volunteer driving for outings. Risk-management practices such as background checks, certified training for leaders, and formal safety protocols typically help reduce premiums. The presence of on-site camps or frequent off-site trips increases both exposure and cost.
Proof of insurance & compliance
Councils and event organizers often need certificates of insurance to satisfy landlords, vendors, or venue operators. Certificates outline limits and additional insured endorsements when required by contract. When arranging rentals, vendors, or facility permits it's common to furnish a certificate showing general liability limits and any required additional insured wording.
Useful resources include the council-focused coverage overview at https://completemarkets.com/Girl-Scout-Councils-General-Liability-Insurance/Storefronts/ and a general guide to Girl Scouts insurance options at https://completemarkets.com/Girl-Scouts-Insurance/Storefronts/ for broader program-level considerations.
How to get a quote
Gather basic details before you request pricing: number of members, list of regular activities, whether you run camps or overnight trips, vehicle use for transportation, and any prior claims history. When you’re ready to compare options, it's a good idea to talk to your agent about endorsements, limits, and certificates—this helps make sure the quote reflects your actual operational risks. If you prefer an online request, start here: talk to your agent.
Risk scenario: A council-hosted community event with a rented inflatables vendor can create spectator injury and equipment liability exposures that are best reviewed in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does standard council liability cover volunteers?
Many general liability policies extend coverage to volunteers for claims arising from covered activities, but specifics vary by policy—check volunteer definitions and any volunteer accident options.
Is transportation automatically covered for troop trips?
Transportation coverage is often limited or excluded under standard liability policies; separate transportation or non-owned auto endorsements are commonly required for volunteer drivers or rented vehicles.
Do I need a certificate of insurance for a facility rental?
Yes, most facilities ask for a certificate showing liability limits and any required additional insured endorsements; the venue contract will specify what they require.
Still have questions? Talk to a local insurance expert.