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What is the responsibility of a parent of a new Scout?
Scout patrol and troop meetings are intended to be an activity for youth. They are not a family activity, and the presence of parents can be a distraction. However, parental involvement is not forbidden. If a parent or guardian would like to be present during a troop meeting, they should consult with the Scoutmaster in advance so a way can be arranged for them to observe. There also might be provision for them to register for a position on the troop committee or as an assistant Scoutmaster. There are always ways for a parent or guardian to be involved.
How do adults get involved?
All troops are chartered to a local organization. The chartered organization serves as a sponsor of Scouting and is essentially the owner/operator of the Scouting unit. In this role, the head of the organization approves all adult volunteer leaders. All leaders are required to take our child safety course called “Youth Protection,” and specific training for their role in Scouting is available either online or in a classroom setting. To help the organization maintain a quality program, there is a person assigned to be a liaison between the unit and the chartered organization. In addition, every unit has a committee (typically made up of Scouting parents) that oversees proper operation and ensures a safe and fun program.
What is a Merit Badge Counselor and why should I be one?
A Merit Badge Counselor is a registered adult in the BSA that teaches youth in a particular subject. The Merit Badge Counselor, therefore, has a pivotal role in the advancement process for our older Scouts, and the Scouting experience for all Scouts. It’s not just older youth who can earn merit badges – any Scout can work toward completing the requirements and earn any merit badge at any time. The minimum age is the age at which they join Scouts BSA, and has until they turn eighteen to complete them. It’s a common misconception that Scouts must be of a certain age, rank or ability in order to work on merit badges, or that there is a time limit other than their 18th birthday. And while the Scout and Scoutmaster should discuss embarking on a merit badge, the decision to do so is the Scout’s.
A Merit Badge Counselor must be a man or woman of good character, age 18 or older, and recognized as having the skills and education in the subjects they cover. It is important, too, they have good rapport with Scout-age youth and unit leaders. Click the links below to learn more about the program and how to volunteer to help our youth learn more about the world around hem.
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