A Girl Scout's attainment of specified requirements are recognized by special recognitions. Leaders work in partnership with girls to decide when recognitions, such as Try-it Insignias, Badges Insignias, interest projects or pins have been completed, following guidelines in Girl Scout handbooks.

A leader can guide a girl in choosing awards that suit her specific interests, talents, and abilities. At all times, leaders play a key role in stressing understanding of the purpose of doing the activities and appreciating the fun and value of doing something for its own sake, not just to obtain a recognition.

Girl Scout Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards for Older Girl Scouts
Girl Scout Gold Award: This is the highest award for girls in Girl Scouting. Only Senior Girl Scouts, grades 9 – 12, are eligible for this recognition. The requirements for the Gold Award include efficient organization, time management, and leadership skills resulting in a 50-hour community service project. Only about 6% of Senior Girl Scouts nationally achieve this award each year.

Girl Scout Gold Award recipients are honored by the Girl Scouts - Illinois Crossroads Council and their families and friends every spring at the Celebration of Achievement ceremony.

Girl Scout Silver Award: This is the highest award for Cadette Girl Scouts, grades 7-9. The Girl Scout Silver Award recognizes efforts in a wide range of Girl Scout and community activities, as well as each girl’s commitment to working to better the lives of others. This project is done outside the regular Girl Scouting activities, and reflects some area of need in the community.

Girl Scout Bronze Award: This is the highest award that a Junior Girl Scout, grades 3–6, can earn. It shows a promise has been made to help others and improve a community and the world, while becoming the best person that a Junior Girl Scout can be. This project involves working under the supervision of a leader or advisor.