Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) has announced an $84.5 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott in support of the national organization and 29 local councils.

The largest donation from a single individual in GSUSA’s history will help the organization recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and accelerate initiatives designed to give girls the tools to become the next generation of powerful leaders. Those efforts include creating more equitable membership opportunities for under-engaged communities, such as diversity, equity, and inclusion and racial justice initiatives as well as breaking down accessibility barriers and partnering with families and communities.

Other efforts will include an expanded focus on career-readiness and mental wellness, bolstering research as well as staff and volunteer training, and upgrading camp facilities by making climate resiliency improvements, reimagining their physical presence in communities, and expanding accessibility and high adventure elements.

“This is a great accelerator for our ongoing efforts to help girls cultivate the skills and connections to lead in their own communities and globally,” said GSUSA chief executive Sofia Chang. “The support from all our donors, including this generous support from MacKenzie Scott, is critical in delivering on our work of reimagination and transformation. We’re excited to prove how MacKenzie Scott’s investment in girls will change the world—because when one girl succeeds, we all succeed.”

(Photo credit: Girl Scouts of the USA)