The Olave Baden-Powell Society: supporting WAGGGS since 1984
In 1984, the World Conference of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) agreed that a scheme should be set up to recognize major donors and to invite others who valued the work of Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting to join. While there have been many developments and innovations as OB-PS has grown over the past 40 years, the goal of the society remains unchanged. Today it is expressed in OB-PS’ Mission.
The Mission of the Olave Baden-Powell Society
To inspire generosity and sustained financial support for the advancement of girls and young women through the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts.
The original vision for the society saw this initiative as an important element of WAGGGS’ overall fundraising efforts. It has proven to be so. Today, OB-PS is a steadily growing international network of the WAGGGS supporters, providing vital financial help to the Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting Movement worldwide. Over 1,950 people from 63 countries have joined forces to support the work of WAGGGS and its Member Organizations in 153 countries.
HRH Princess Benedikte (L), OB-PS’s First President, Bonnie-Jean Fetridge (C) and Queen Ingrid (R) at the first OB-PS Presentation Ceremony.
It was agreed that a Royal Patron should be sought for the Society and Her Majesty Queen Ingrid of Denmark and her daughter, Princess Benedikte of Denmark were duly contacted to determine whether they would be willing to accept the role. They eagerly accepted the role and HRH Princess Benedikte continues to be the patron of OB-PS to this day.
Since its founding the Society has grown steadily, with the number of supporters increasing from 54 in 1985 to over 1,950 today, and the number of countries represented rising from 13 in 1985 to an impressive 63 by 2024.
