Girls flocking to join newly renamed Boy Scouts

It's been one month since girls earned the ability to join Scouts BSA, which is formerly known as the Boy Scouts. Since then, more than 1,000 girl-troops have formed across the country including several in North Carolina.

"We are able to have the same opportunities that they are, which is awesome," said Elizabeth Grochocinski, who is a scout in BSA Troop 2019 in Holly Springs.

The Boy Scouts announced they wanted to make this change last year to become more inclusive. The change officially went into effect on Feb. 1 and since then girls have been able to start learning the curriculum. Troop 2019 went on its first camping trip last week.

"We were out there with a couple of boy troops and they were fine. Everything was great and we competed against them for activities and we were all there. It was a wonderful experience," said Scouting BSA Troop Leader Brenda Schwegel.

The troops are still separated by gender, only gathering for activities. Some of the girls also participate in, and enjoy, Girl Scouts but wanted a chance for a different experience.

"I like the nature and to learn new things about the outdoors," said Sophie Mills, another scout in Troop 2019.

The change also allows young women to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.

"I know that Eagle Scout is a really big deal for a lot of colleges and I know that Girl Scout awards are not really a thing they look at that much, so I'm excited that I can get a good award," said Grochocinski.

"I think that's a great opportunity," Schwegel said. "Eagle Scout is well respected in colleges and workplaces and it will give women an equal chance to let people know they have those abilities, too."