Joining the Pack

Join anytime

Each year the scouts advance to the next rank automatically, but during the school year, the scouts work on achieving the rank badge for their level by accomplishing a series of adventures and activities.  Scouts proceed to the next level, regardless of whether or not they achieve the rank badge (In other words, a new 3rd grader starts directly in Bears den) they can join the fun at any time.   Scouts have fun earning achievements (belt loops/patches/pins) all year long, so while typically you earn your rank (rank patch) if you start at the beginning of the school year, this timeframe is not mandatory.

Why join?

The mission of our Cub Scout pack is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values represented in the scout oath and scout law, as well as prepare them for Boy Scouts, Venturing, Sea Scouting and Exploring programs available to older scouts.

Join now

If you are new to scouting and have never registered with Scouting BSA: fill out an application for pack 1533 and we’ll be notified and can set everything else up!  If you have any questions before applying, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

APPLY NOW

If you are transferring from another pack, there is a paper form for transferring. Please contact us so that we can add you to pack communication and so that we can get you and collect the completed form at the next pack/den event.

Now what?

Scoutbook Account

When you join the pack, the first thing that happens is you get set up in Scoutbook.  Scoutbook is how leaders and parents communicate and track advancement and achievements. You will receive an email with your account information.

Handbook

The scout store sells the den level handbook that describes the different achievements.  All of the information is available online, but it is a good habit to get the book to get the scouts reading about the activities and so you can work on activities and achievements at home.

Uniform

Next, you’ll need a “Class A” uniform.  The scouting store will set you up with your scout shirt, belt and hat.  We have decided as a pack that official uniform pants/short are optional.  Ideally pants have belt loops, so a belt can be worn- since “adventure loops” slip over the official cub scout belt.  If you aren’t sure of your den number, please ask a leader.  The pack provides the uniform neckerchief, which you will receive at your first official den or pack meeting.  You can also purchase a neckerchief slide if you like, but we have a limited amount available, and make them out of various materials (leather, string, wood, etc.) during the school year. Class A uniforms are worn to most pack meetings and some outings.

In the fall and spring, there is also a “Class B” pack t-shirt order.  Class B t-shirts can also be purchased at the scout store and are worn on hikes, to most den meetings and on outings where a t-shirt is preferred.

Dues

Finally, you’ll need to pay dues.  The pack collects dues so that we can avoid fundraising completely!  The dues for the 2022-2023 school year are $145 for returning scouts ($115 if you registered as a new scout this year).  Dues are discounted accordingly for scouts on free or reduced meal program. Dues pay for fall and spring campouts, all belt loops and patches earned throughout the year, the pinewood derby car kit, space derby rocket, raingutter regatta boat, and supplies for most pack and den level materials.  Note: there are additional activity fees for optional special events and activities.