From: DAVEHR66@AOL.COM
Date: Sun Nov 14 1999 - 08:37:34 CST
PICKING A BOY SCOUT TROOP
Courtesy of Troop 110, Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, Farmington, Michigan
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-run troop. All Scout
programs should work toward the three aims of Boy Scouting. The methods are
designed to accomplish these aims and strive to instill values based on those
found in the Boy Scout Oath and Law. See the BSA Mission Statement that goes
into more details.
We have put together a list of items we think you should look for and examine
when you visit a Boy Scout Troop. The Scout program is for Youth from ages
11-18, so your decision is an important one. Talk it over with your Son!
Troop Meeting run by Youth - The troop is a real life opportunity for Scouts
to learn leadership through participation. It is unfortunately a well kept
secret that the Scout program is a leadership training program with the
outdoors as a laboratory.
Patrol Method Used - The Patrol Method gives Scouts an experience in group
living and participating in leadership activities. The patrols determine
troop activities through their elected representatives.
Trained Youth & Adults - Understanding the concepts of leadership helps each
person accept the leadership roles of others and guides them toward the
citizenship aim of Scouting.
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.
Troop Meetings Planned by Youth - Patrol Leaders' Council of the Troop should
plan the Troop meetings, campouts and activities. It is an important part of
the leadership experience.
Troop Calendar Planned by Youth - Ask who planned the calendar. It should be
planned by the Patrol Leaders' Council and approved by the Troop Committee.
Troop Calendar Published - It needs to be planned and published or it does
not exist.
Troop Roster Published - Look and see if you find someone you know and then
call them. Ask them about the program, leaders and activities.
Troop Monthly Mailings - Even the best calendar needs updating.
Troop Program Explained During Visit - Each Scout program should plan
programs that work towards the three aims of Scouting.
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.
Troop Fundraising Assists Youth - We believe the purpose of fund raising is
to help you and your son participate in Scouting. Most of the profits go to
items that benefit the Scouts.
Enthusiasm of Youth & Adults - If the youth and adults are not excited by
their program, why should you join!
Were you asked to Join - Not only should you be made to feel welcome at the
Troop Meeting.
How does your Son Feel - What was your son's impression of the visit. When he
joins a program, you also become a part of it.
