Why Join Scouting?
Benefits of Scouting
- Fun for the Whole Family: Scouting is an inclusive experience that welcomes families to participate together.
- Compatible with Other Activities: Scouting fits seamlessly into busy schedules, complementing sports, school, and other pursuits.
- Proven Character Development: Scouting fosters essential life skills, such as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving.
- Improved School Performance: Scouting’s focus on goal-setting and achievement helps young people excel academically.
- New Friends and a Sense of Belonging: Scouting creates lifelong friendships and a sense of community.
- Success Later in Life: Scouting’s lessons and experiences lay the foundation for future success.
- Try New Things: Scouting encourages young people to step out of their comfort zones and discover new passions.
- Provide Service to Others: Scouting teaches the value of service and empowers young people to make a positive impact.
- Build Self-Confidence: Scouting helps young people develop a strong sense of self and confidence in their abilities.
- Reinforce Ethical Standards: Scouting instills essential values, such as integrity, respect, and responsibility.
Scouting Programs
Youth Grades K-5
Cub Scouts
Youth Ages 11-17
Scouts BSA
Co-Ed Ages 14-20
Venturing
Co-Ed Ages 14-20
Sea Scouts
A program for young men and women between the ages of 14 and 20 that promotes citizenship and improve members’ boating skills through instruction and practice in water safety, boating skills, and knowledge of maritime heritage.
Co-Ed Ages 10-20
Exploring
Prepared for Adventure
Scouting introduces young people to the great outdoors, teaching them essential skills, such as navigation, camping, and environmental stewardship. Through Scouting, young people develop a deeper appreciation for nature and their place within it.
Prepared for Leadership
Scouting builds leaders by providing opportunities for young people to develop essential leadership skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and decision-making. Former Scouts have gone on to achieve great things, from business and politics to science and exploration.
Prepared for Service
Scouting empowers young people to make a positive impact in their communities through service projects and volunteer work. By serving others, Scouts develop a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement.
Prepared for Learning
Scouting uses innovative and interactive approaches to learning, harnessing young people's natural curiosity and creativity. From STEM education to outdoor skills, Scouting provides a well-rounded and engaging learning experience.
Commitment to Safety
At Scouting America, the safety of our youth, volunteers, and employees is our top priority. We are committed to creating a secure environment for all participants, and we recognize that safety is a value that must be taught, reinforced, and upheld at every level.
We take a multi-faceted approach to abuse prevention, utilizing the following measures:
- Mandatory Youth Protection Training: All leaders and volunteers must complete youth protection training to ensure they understand and can implement our safety protocols.
- Criminal Background Checks: We conduct thorough background checks on all volunteers and staff to ensure the safety of our youth.
- No One-on-One Interactions: We prohibit one-on-one interactions between adults and youth to prevent potential abuse.
- Mandatory Reporting: We require the immediate reporting of any suspected abuse to law enforcement agencies.
- Volunteer Screening Database: We maintain a comprehensive database to track volunteer screening and ensure that all leaders and volunteers meet our safety standards.
By upholding these measures, we strive to provide a safe and secure environment for all Scouting participants.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Scouting cost?
When compared to the cost of sports and many other activities, there is no doubt that Scouting delivers great value to its members!
Registration Fee: The annual registration fee for a youth to join Scouting is $91.00.
Additional Costs: Other costs associated with Scouting include:
- Uniform items
- Handbooks
- Unit dues
- Activity fees
Fundraising Opportunities: Most units offer fundraising opportunities throughout the year to help fund a Scout’s adventures.
Financial Assistance: Scholarships and financial assistance are available through the council.
Unit-Specific Costs: The unit your family chooses to join will be able to share more specifics about their annual costs.
When and how often do Scouts meet?
Meeting times and frequency vary by unit, but most units meet once per week. In addition to regular meetings, units often have one or more activities per month. For specific details on meeting and activity schedules, contact your local Scouting unit.
Can special needs children get involved with Scouting?
Scouting America welcomes all eligible youth, regardless of ability. Since 1910, Scouting has helped young people of all abilities develop character and leadership skills. To ensure a rewarding experience for children with special needs, unit leaders work closely with parents or guardians to understand individual needs and circumstances. Every effort is made to provide a challenging and fulfilling Scouting experience for all participants.
Is Scouting inclusive?
How to I sign my child up Scouting?
You’ve made a great choice to explore the fun and adventure of Scouting! To get started, simply complete a youth application and submit it, along with the annual registration fee, to your unit’s leadership. They will guide you step-by-step through the process. Haven’t yet found a unit, or need contact information? Click here for options near you!