Congressional Aide
Program Mission:
Since 1974, the Congressional Aide program has built teens’ civic knowledge and professional skills while inspiring a lifelong commitment to public service. Girl Scouts Nation’s Capital works with participating offices to give as many Girl Scouts as possible the opportunity to work with and learn from members of Congress and their staff.
Program History:
Congressional Aide is a truly unique program offering Girl Scouts in the Greater Washington Region a closer look into government. For 50 years, Girl Scouts Nation’s Capital has partnered with congressional offices to provide a week-long shadow program to Girl Scouts entering 11th grade, 12th grade, or their first year of college and who have expressed an interest in government. Adapting to COVID-19, Girl Scouts participated virtually during the pandemic.
Program & Application Overview:
Congressional Aide is a truly unique program offered exclusively by Girl Scout’s Nation’s Capital that provides a week-long shadow opportunity to Girl Scouts entering 11th grade, 12th grade, or their first year of college. Applications will reopen for 2026 on January 5, 2026. There are a limited number of placements available, with more applications received than we are able to accommodated. This is a bipartisan program. The application requires a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a health history form. Letters of recommendation may not be written by family members and at least one letter should be from someone outside of the Girl Scout community. Program & Application Overview Girl Scouts can expect to be connected with their Congressional Office via email and will be encouraged to reach out and introduce themselves prior to their week of service. Once Girl Scouts have completed their week, they will be sent an experience survey and commemorative Congressional Aide 50th Anniversary Patch. Once accepted, Girl Scouts will attend either a mandatory virtual or in person orientation session - at which the details of their placement (including the congressional office they have been assigned to) will be shared. Girl Scouts will learn more about program expectations, hear tips from former Congressional Aides and connect with others in the program. A virtual information session for parents and guardians will be held by Council Staff to answer any additional questions.
Grace served in Rep. Abigail Spanberger’s Office in Summer of 2023
“ I would encourage incoming Congressional Aides to not be afraid or discouraged from being themselves. At times, you may experience imposter syndrome but understand that you have worked hard and deserve to be in a Congressional office.”
