The Girl Scouts are much more than cookie saleswomen.

That's the message that Amy Goodwin, Service Unit Coordinator for the Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts, would like families to hear.

"Girl Scouts has definitely changed," said Goodwin, who is hosting an informational event for families on September 25 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wareham Free Library. "It's not just crafts and cookies!"

Now, girls who are waiting to be assigned to a troop or are too busy to attend regular meetings may choose to participate various "pathways" of Girl Scouts, including camps and events, without having to join a troop.

The goal is to "develop leadership potential through activities," Goodwin said, "and make a difference" in the community.

One of the community-service efforts in Wareham will be the scouts' Coastal Sweep beach clean-up later this month.

Wareham troops will also host their annual "Trick-or-Treat So Others Can Eat" event in October, during which the girls don Halloween costumes and trick-or-treat for nonperishable food items to donate to local pantries.

Programs, which are held throughout the region, are tailored to each of the Girl Scout age groups — Daisy (kindergarten to first grade), Brownie (grades 2 to 3), Junior (grades 4 to 5), Cadette (grades 6 to 8), Senior (grades 9 to 10), and Ambassador (grades 11 to 12).

"I've seen shy girls, who wouldn't talk to each other, blossom by the end of the year," Goodwin said, noting: "It's been great for my girls."

New troops are forming and volunteers for all troops, but especially for Juniors and Cadettes, are sought. Registration for the year is $12, but financial assistance is available. Volunteers must undergo a criminal background check.

Anyone interested in joining or volunteering can attend the September 25th family event. Registration will be held following the presentation.

Goodwin is also seeking meeting spaces for troops. If you can help, call 508-759-0056.

For more information about the Girl Scouts of Southeastern Massachusetts, visit www.girlscoutseasternmass.org.