Donna and Jen organise Brownies Disney trip
East Lothian’s Brownies are preparing to travel internationally for the first time with a trip to Disneyland Paris in 2026.
Homelessness team colleagues Donna Gibson (pictured right) and Jen Gentle are both Brownie Leaders; Donna joined Brownies aged 7 and, as she explains “never left!”. After progressing through Guides and returning to the same unit as a Young Leader, she started her qualifications and started as a Leader 24 years ago.
Making dreams a reality
The Disneyland trip was originally to take place in October 2020 but cancelled due to Covid. Now, Donna and Jen are more determined than ever to make this dream trip a reality. The trip brings together Brownies from across East Lothian’s units with 28 children due to attend and fundraising has begun in earnest.
“Our trip to Disneyland Paris will encourage the Brownies to step outside their comfort zone, gain confidence and make new friends. It’s an amazing opportunity for the girls to experience international travel something they may never get the chance to do themselves,” says Donna.
Fundraising to support families
Although families are paying towards the trip, Donna is keen to raise as much money as possible through fundraising events to reduce the financial impact, recognising the challenges that some families face. “Many of the Brownies on the trip are from deprived areas and will never be able to have an experience like this outwith Girlguiding,” she says. “They’ll not only have great fun but also learn about a different culture, try new experiences and make memories that will last a lifetime.”
Jen (pictured right) is also currently running a ‘Guess the Bear’s birthday’ competition to win a cuddly Stitch toy from the Disney movie Lilo and Stitch. Stitch is suitable for age 0 onwards so could be regifted to a baby or toddler. If you would like a guess, contact Jennifer Gentle - each date costs £2.
Brownies units meet across East Lothian welcoming girls aged between 7 and 10 years old. It provides a safe and inclusive environment for girls to build confidence, develop leadership skills and explore new interests through a variety of activities and challenges.
Get involved!
To find out more about the trip or want to hear about forthcoming fundraising events, please contact Donna Gibson.
Donate to Donna and Jen’s JustGiving page now
