What are the requirements to join Cub Scouts?

Tiger Cubs(entering first grade or age 7), Cub Scouts (entering second or third grade, or age 8 or 9), Webelos Scouts (entering fourth or fifth grade, or age 10). 

What does Cub Scouting offer my son?

Cub Scouting offers fun and challenging activities that promote character development and physical fitness. Service projects, ceremonies, games, and other activities guide boys through the core values and give them a sense of personal achievement. Through positive peer group interaction and parental guidance, boys also learn honesty, bravery, and respect. 

How does participation in Cub Scouting affect participation other activities?

The Cub Scout program is designed to compliment many other extracurricular activities.Typical time commitment is two Den meetings and one Pack meeting per month.Boys who participate in organized sports like soccer, baseball, basketball,swimming, gymnastics, etc, or academic-based extracurricular activities like music, art, science etc., can be recognized for these activities though Cub Scout belt loops and pins which are worn on their uniform. 

What are the responsibilities of a parent?

             o Provide help and support for the den and pack.
             o Work with your son on advancement projects and activities.
             o Attend pack meetings with your son and present his advancement awards to him at the pack meeting.
             o Attend and assist with den outings.
             o Attend Cub Scout Family campouts with your son.

Do Cub Scouts go camping?

Yes, but they ease into it. They may go camping with a parent, or even with the entire family. More on Cub Scout camping can be found at Scouting.org. 

What other activities are available to Cub Scouts and their families?

Pack 540 is very active, providing a rich environment for boys and their families. In addition to Den specific activities, past Pack 540 events have included:

o Pinewood Derby
o Scouting for Food
o Blue & Gold Banquet
o Summer Camp
o Monthly Pack Hikes as a part of our Hiking Staff program
o and much, much more!

How much is it going to cost?

The annual Pack 540 dues of $100 covers such items as the National registration fee, the neckerchief and handbook appropriate for your son's rank, the rocket and pinewood derby kits, and all patches and awards for the year.  This cost is off-set through fund raisers such as popcorn and activity book sales.

Other costs include uniforms and some activity fees including those for the Day Camp and Resident Camps.  

Where can I buy uniforms, pack and den number patches?

There are two official BSA Scout Shops in our area, Springfield and Richmond, or you can find everything you need online at www.scoutstuff.org.