yeah, it's actually organized by the girl scouts. school counselors "nominate" certain girls that need additional attention or mentoring, usually because they're "at risk" kids for all the unfortunate things that kids (girls) can be at risk for.
what's really cool is that the school supports it so much that they give quite a bit of latitude to take the girls places and do things with them. we're having a sleepover in two weeks (start praying now, please) and one of my favorite things to do is take them riding. i love seeing their confidence/trust grow in such an organic and beautiful way.
i'd like to think i'm helping them and showing them the way, but usually it feels like the opposite. they're such a blessing to my life, and have made me so thankful for the things i didn't have to experience. kids hold a mirror up to you, whether you want to see it or not.
oh, and a funny thing: i was never a girl scout. : )