Girl Scouts of CT leaving its Hartford HQ next month

Move follows announced sale of Washington Street property to Hartford HealthCare

Girl Scouts of Connecticut recently announced the sale of its historic Hartford headquarters as part of the organization’s new infrastructure plan, which includes five regional communities and 88 volunteer service units around the state.
Photo courtesy of Girl Scouts of Connecticut

HARTFORD – The Girl Scouts of Connecticut will vacate its 340 Washington St. headquarters and shop by Nov. 30 once the sale of the historic building goes through to Hartford HealthCare. The announcement is part of a new infrastructure plan for the nonprofit.

During the transition, the Hartford-based staff will be temporarily relocated to the North Haven office at 20 Washington Ave. The retail store’s last day in Hartford will be Friday, Nov. 14. In early December, the shop will re-open temporarily at Camp Merrie-Wood in Manchester. In the meantime, members may continue to shop in the Girl Scouts’ other locations in North Haven, Lebanon, or Wilton.

“We know our Hartford headquarters holds a special place in the hearts of many of us,” a Oct. 27 Girl Scouts of Connecticut statement read. “It has been a hub for countless memories, milestones, and moments of impact. While we honor this rich history, we are equally excited about the opportunities ahead.”

According to the statement, the Girl Scouts have already identified a new location in Hartford County that will allow the organization to better serve the girls, volunteers, and families.

“Today, we proudly serve more than 16,000 youth members and over 9,000 adult members across Connecticut through 89 volunteer-managed Service Units. And now, we’re taking the next step forward,” said Elicia Pegues Spearman, CEO of Girl Scouts of Connecticut. “Post-covid, the Hartford Service Center became much less utilized by staff, volunteers and members.

“Hartford HealthCare has expanded its footprint and expressed interest in purchasing our building. This sale supports our long-term sustainability and allows us to find a new location in Hartford County that better meets today’s needs for membership, retail sales and staff operations.”

Girl Scouts of Connecticut will host a farewell reception for its Hartford headquarters on Nov. 13 at 6:30 p.m. at 340 Washington St. for Girl Scout members, staff and volunteers. For more information about the event, click here.