Developing an Umbrella group to salvedge small units; An umbrella with each historic unit number being a patrol within the larger group.?

[skeptic]

As we again are looking at our over a century old troop folding due to the many issues with program and leadership for a broad enough program, I reviewed the concept noted.  I could see that it would be viable in some ways, but finding a way to keep the separate units' tenure could be a challenge.  On the other hand, it might be viable with some tweaks to fit the histories and such, but cooperative programs.  

 

Does anyone know of something like this happening?  How do you work with the historical elements?  I find myself recollecting that in the thirties we had a Sea Scout Patrol that was chartered separately, but was still part of our larger unit.  We had a troop charter and a secnd "Patrol" charter for the crew.  That seems a logical concept now.  thanks for reviewing this.  

[qwazse]

I joke with scouts that dens have numbers, patrols have names!”

But, I get your point. The challenge is finding that charter organization who wants to support the program you have in mind.

[jcousino]

To me, one of the hard parts may be dealing with the egos of the adults from the combined units. The fight will be over who's in control. This is the way we did it; no, we did it this way. Does not change the cause of the failed units. Until we address the reasons youth are not coming or staying, scouting will go the way of G-scouting.

[Tron]

I just don't think it will work. From the egos j cousino mentions to the CO issues. 

The reality of the situation is not anything someone did or didnt do in scouting. The main issue with units folding due to lack of recruitment; 2% of the area youth is the recruitment goal, it's the same goal as 1970. 

 

When an area has only enough youth tp support 1 or maybe 2 troops the adult leaders need to recognize the limitation and set expectations realistically.