Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Boy Scouts of America?
Boy Scouts of America (BSA) provides an educational program for boys and young adults to build character, to train in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and to develop personal fitness?
What are the differences between Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting and Venturing?
Cub Scouting is a year-round family program designed for boys who are in the first grade through fifth grade (ages 7-10). Boy Scouting is available to boys ages 11-17 and assists them in developing character, citizenship and personal fitness. Venturing is a youth development program of the Boy Scouts of America for young men and women ages 14-20.
How often do Scouts meet?
Cub Scouts attend Den meetings once a week and a larger Pack meeting once a month. Cub Scouts also attend occasional, age-appropriate weekend campouts. In the summer a week-long day camp is available, culminating with an overnight tent stay.
Boy Scouts attend Troop meeting once a week and leadership meetings at the discretion of the troop. They have more frequent campouts, generally with two-night tent overnights. Summer camp lasts a full week, with overnight tent camping throughout the week. Older Boy Scouts also have a variety of high adventure programs available, involving activities including mountain hiking, rafting, scuba diving and other adventures.
Venturers meet at the discretion of their crew.
What is the annual fee for Scouting?
National fees are $15 annually, Boys’ Life magazine subscriptions are $12 annually, and unit fees vary. (Unit fees are the fees that individual packs, troops or crews charge). Please check with your unit regarding specific costs and financial assistance options.
In addition to fees, each Scout will need a uniform and a handbook, though it is not necessary to make these purchases immediately. Some units may offer gently used second-hand uniforms for sale or exchange.
Is financial aid available?
Boys Scouts of America is an inclusive organization that strives to reach as many youth as possible, regardless of ability to pay. Many units offer assistance; please check with the individual unit for confidential information regarding financial aid, scholarships and/or workerships.
Where can BSA literature, uniforms and other program materials be purchased?
Several Scout Shops are available in Orange County. To view locations and hours, go to: Scout Shops Locations (add link)
Is U.S. citizenship a requirement to belong to Scouts?
No, citizenship is not required for either Scouts or their families.
What are parental expectations?
Scouting is a family-centered organization. Though Scouts are responsible for their own merit badge work, parental support is critical to the Scout structure. Parents are encouraged to check with their unit leadership to determine how they can assist.
Do Scout parents have to be knowledgeable about camping and the outdoors?
No, camping/outdoor skills are not a requirement of Scout parents. Many of volunteer positions, such as administrative support, do not require camping skills. For parents who would like to learn more about camping/outdoor skills, Boy Scouts of America provides training to accommodate all skill levels.
Can women be Scout parents?
Yes, every Scout leadership position is open to women. More than one-third of Scout volunteers are women.
What is the Scout website?
The Orange County Council site is located at: http://www.ocbsa.org/. The national website is at: http://www.scouting.org/. To read additional frequently asked question, go to: http://www.scouting.org/FAQ/Visitor.aspx.
Do Scouts accommodate special needs and/or bilingual children?
Yes. For more information about special needs or bilingual opportunities in central Indiana, please contact the Boy Scouts at 714-546-4990.
