How to Choose A Boy Scout Troop?

The most important thing is to visit the troop.  When visiting a Boy Scout Troop we believe that there are some things that you will want to look for to help identify a well ran troop.  They are:

a. The Troop Meeting run by Youth - The troop gives the youth an  opportunity for Scouts to learn leadership through participation.

b. Patrol Method Used - The Patrol Method gives Scouts and experience in group living and participating leadership.

c. Trained Adults - There are basic training requirements that all should have adult leaders should have participated.

d. Uniformed Youth & Adults - The uniform makes the Scout troop visible as a group. It shows each Youth and Adult’s commitment to the aims and purposes of Scouting whether they are the Class A or Class B uniforms.

e. Troop Meeting Planned by Youth - Patrol Leaders should be an integral part of the planning of the Troop meetings, campouts and activities. It is an important part of the leadership experience.

f. Troop Calendar Planned with Youth - Ask who planned the calendar. It should be planned by the Patrol Leaders and along with the Troop Committee.

g. Troop Calendar Published - It needs to be planned and published or it does not exist.  Ask for a copy of the calendar.

h. Troop Program Explained During Visit - Each Scout program should plan programs that work towards the three aims of Scouting.

i. Dues and Fees Explained - You should know how the Troop program is financed and what the money you are paying is used for. Find out what the campouts and activities cost.

j. Troop Fund Raising Assists Youth - We believe the purpose of fund raising is to help you and your son participate in Scouting. We usually return one half of sales, not profits, as Scout Bucks.

k. Enthusiasm of Youth & Adults - If the youth and adults are not excited by their program, why should you join!

l. Did You get Asked to Join - Not only should you be made to feel welcome at the Troop Meeting.

m. How does your Son Feel - What was your son’s impression of the visit. When he joins a program, you also become part of it.