New to the Troop? Have you filled out our New Family Form?
Troop Meetings
Our meetings are “Scout-Led” with the Senior Patrol Leader in charge. Each meeting generally has the following activities:
- Opening flag ceremony
- Meeting organizational announcements
- Merit badge and general advancement activities (monthly)
- Campout planning (as needed)
- Recognition of any advancement earned that evening
- General announcements
- Closing
The uniform (Khaki Shirt) is required for every meeting and at mealtimes on every outing adventure.***
Parents are encouraged to stay for the meetings
First Meeting Troop 396 and Information About Rank
This document is given out just prior to your first Troop Meeting with us; it has key leader contact information, important dates, answers some financial questions, and goes through the first rank your Scout will attain.
Troop Technology
This document covers the various technology solutions the Troop uses to stay connected, track advancement, and keep families informed of events.
Needed Equipment
- Uniform (Khaki shirt with required patches)***
https://www.scoutshop.org/scouts-bsa-collection - Troop will provide troop unit patch, shoulder tabs, and patrol patch
- Scout book to be provided by the Troop after unit fees are paid
- Camping Equipment (not needed immediately, but eventually):
- Sleeping bag
- Ground pad (foam, Thermarest-type)
- Camp chair/stool
- Flashlight
- Water bottle or canteen
- Personal mess kit
- Rain gear
- A very good pair of waterproof hiking shoes
- The Troop owns several tents and other equipment for our Scouts to use
*** Our Troop has a Uniform exchange program where families donate their used uniform pieces for another Scout to use.
“How can I be involved?”
Adults can be involved in Scouting in many ways, including:
- Volunteering: Adults can volunteer in a variety of roles, such as teaching merit badges, leading hikes, or helping with cooking.
- Developing leadership skills: Adults can develop leadership and physical skills through training experiences.
- Serving as a role model: Adults can provide an ideal learning experience for youth.
- Improving communities: Adults can help ensure the success of Scouting in their communities.
- Serving on committees: Adults can serve on committees
To volunteer in Scouting, adults must:
- Complete an adult application on-line
- Complete Youth Protection Training
- Be approved by the committee chair and chartered organization
- Register in the position(s) they are serving in
- Be 21 years of age or over for all Scouting activities, including all meetings
- Be a registered female adult leader 21 years of age or over in every unit serving females
Adults can earn awards and recognition for their involvement in Scouting, which typically include certificates, pins, medals, and patches. To get more involved in our Troop talk to our Committee Chair!
Online Resources for Scouting Parents
- Scouting.org: The official website of Scouting America provides detailed information on programs, advancement tracks, and resources.
- ScoutShop.org: the official online retail store of Scouting, where you will find everything from camping supplies to everyday essentials like pocket knives, water bottles, apparel, and more. It is also home to this amazing blog everyone on Earth should know about.
- Local Scouting Forums and Social Media Groups: Connect with other parents on social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok and share experiences and advice.
- The Scout Shop Blog: Offers expert advice, product highlights, and tips to help you make the most of your Scouting experience.
- Aaron on Scouting: Provides updates, stories, and valuable insights from the official Scouting magazine, keeping you informed and inspired.
- Scout Life Magazine: A publication with tips, stories, and guidance on maximizing your child’s Scouting experience.
- YouTube Channels: Learn from experienced leaders, parents, and Scouts who share their insights through tutorials and discussions.
Additional Information
Health and Medical information record requirements