--
Been there, done that, so on and so forth. Two years ago we resurrected a
dead Troop with 10 Webelos and 5 Scouts from the old Troop. I believe
success starts with a program plan. Our plan was to be a Boy Run Troop with
FUN as a primary objective for every Troop activity. We also were looking
for the ideal Troop size of 30 - 35 Scouts to give all boys a chance to be
leaders.
Two years later, we have 65 Scouts, averaging 2 new Scouts every month with
another joining last night.
If you build a Quality Boy Scout Program (I am not talking about the
Quality Unit Requirements), then you will grow. Parents know a good Troop
when they see one.
Our leadership puts the Quality Unit requirements on a very low priority.
We are too busy trying to build a Quality Troop with the Scouts to worry
about it. As for our guidelines, the Scout Aims, Methods and Scout Masters
Handbook give a great guide for a good Boy Run Quality Troop.
Jim, our problem now is how to provide the same quality program to a Troop
that grew 3 times in one year. This is a real challenge. We are looking at
a lot of options. I suggest you make plan now so when you get your magic
number, you kick in your plan to maintain all your goals without playing
catch up. ITS A GOOD PROBLEM, but I wish we were better prepared.
>What do they really want? Am I supposed to find a new sponsor? Overcrowd
>my meeting hall? Plan "split" campouts so everyone can go? Grow to 50,
>75, 100, 150? Why don't they do their job of starting up new units,
>instead of expecting leaders to grow unrealistically large troops?
Our District is lucky. We have very experienced DE who agrees with you. He
would like to see most Troops stay around 40. It's going to be fun watching
our District for the next few years.
I wish you the best of luck Jim. I have done a lot in my life, but building
a successful Troop is on the top my list. The Church I belong to has the
best Pack in Oklahoma but no Troop. I have 16 great Webelos that could to
start the Second best Troop. Who knows, maybe.
I love this Scouting stuff.
Barry Runnels
"Mighty" Pack 339
Troop 386
Edmond OK
