The highly anticipated Girl Scout Leadership Center (GSLC) officially opened its doors on April 11, 2025 at 375 McCarter Highway in Newark, New Jersey. This new, dynamic space was developed to offer leadership development, community engagement, and cutting-edge programming for Girl Scouts and the greater Newark community.
The ribbon-cutting event, marking the official opening of the GSLC, featured powerful speeches from key figures, including Natasha Hemmings, CEO of Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey, Tenisha Malcolm-Wint, Director of the Leadership Center, Dr. Naima Ricks, Board Chair, and Samiyah H., a youth member and Ambassador. Elected officials, such as U.S. House Representative LaMonica McIver, Newark Council President C. Lawrence Crump, and Dr. Sharnee Brown, Chief Education Officer for the City of Newark, also participated in the celebration.
“This Leadership Center represents a beacon of access, equity, and opportunity,” said Natasha Hemmings, CEO of Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey. “It is a place where every Girl Scout, regardless of their zip code, can grow, learn, and lead. Our mission is to empower girls to make a difference, and this center is a physical manifestation of that mission.”
The Girl Scout Leadership Center is located in Newark’s heart, a city known for its diversity and cultural richness. The center serves as a year-round destination for youth programming, including STEM education, entrepreneurship, creative arts, and community service initiatives. It also hosts signature Girl Scout events such as Second Saturdays, badge-earning opportunities, and workshops aimed at helping girls build leadership skills.
The launch of the GSLC is the result of extensive collaboration with the community, with input from Girl Scouts themselves. In particular, seven youth members served as Community Design Leaders, ensuring the center reflects the needs and aspirations of local youth. Their vision helped shape everything from the layout of the center to the vibrant murals that honor Newark’s unique culture.
One of the standout features of the GSLC is its flexibility, designed to accommodate a variety of programs simultaneously. It offers a 5,000-square-foot facility that includes spaces for classes, community gatherings, workshops, and events. The center’s adaptable spaces include a fully equipped conference room, a retail store, and easy access to Newark’s thriving arts scene. It is also ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for all.
The GSLC was made possible through a generous $4.48 million investment and partnerships with local organizations and key contributors, including the Victoria Foundation, the Office of the Newark Philanthropic Liaison, and U.S. Senator Cory Booker. The investment reflects a commitment to providing resources for youth, especially in underserved urban communities.
“We are excited for what the future holds,” said Tenisha Malcolm-Wint, Director of the Girl Scout Leadership Center Newark. “This center was designed with purpose—to give girls the tools they need to become leaders in their communities and beyond.”
With over 1,100 registered Girl Scouts in Newark, this center is expected to serve as a critical hub for leadership development and community engagement. Notably, Newark has seen an impressive 750% increase in Girl Scout membership since 2018, which reflects the growing need for accessible, girl-led, community-based programming.
As part of the Grand Opening celebrations, the Girl Scouts hosted a community festival on April 12, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will feature live entertainment, food trucks, vendor stalls, family-friendly activities, and tours of the center. Over 500 attendees are expected, marking the center’s continued integration into Newark’s vibrant community.
Photo credit: Jennifer Ball/GSHNJ
