From the CEO: Response to Apalachee High School Shooting

September 05, 2024

Dear Girl Scout Families,

I am heartbroken about Wednesday’s school shooting at Apalachee High School in Barrow County. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragedy, especially the victims and their families. We also extend our support to our sister council, Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia, who have many Girl Scout youth and adult members living in that community.

While it is difficult for us as adults to process these events, children are especially vulnerable to fear and anxiety. Below you will find some resources you may wish to use as you navigate difficult conversations with your girls:

Girl Scouts of the USA When Violence on the News Shakes Her World: For child-centered grief and trauma resources
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network has many resources on grief and trauma, but here are some aimed at helping adults talk to children about violent events and grief:
- For Teens: Coping After Mass Violence: Offers information for teens about common reactions to mass violence, as well as tips for taking care of themselves and connecting with others.
- Tip Sheet on Talking to Children About Mass Violence: provides common reactions children and families may be experiencing after a mass violence event and what they can do to take care of themselves
For mental health crises
- Call 911
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988 or visit www.988lifeline.org for online emotional support
- The Crisis Text Line connects you to a trained crisis counselor to receive free, 24/7 crisis support via text message: text HOME to 741741
- The Disaster Distress Helpline is a 24/7 national hotline dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster (more info at National Institute of Mental Health): Call or text 1-800-985-5990 to connect with a trained crisis counselor
For families or troops seeking mental health care services
- National Alliance for Children's Grief (NACG) links to local support groups and professionals
- SAMHSA's Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
- Mental Health America (MHA) links to affiliates across the country and offers resources for finding treatment

We also want to remind our Girl Scout families to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement. Remember to always be aware of your surroundings and take steps to protect yourself and those around you. The safety and well-being of our Girl Scout community is our top priority, and we want to assure you that we are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of our members at our camps and events.

Our hearts are with the Apalachee High School community during this difficult time, and we are committed to supporting our Girl Scout members and their families as we work together to heal and move forward.

In Service,

Jai Ferrell
CEO, Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta