Do you have a burning question about the Scouting programs in Rural Retreat? This page answers commonly asked questions.
My child is interested in joining Scouting. How old does he or she need to be to join?
Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA have age-appropriate programs for youth and their families from ages 5-17. Cub Scouts are separated into dens of youth of the same grade. Scouts BSA consists of youth ages 10-17 with each patrol separated by gender.
Here is the breakdown of each group in Scouting:
- Lions (Kindergarten)
- Tigers (First Grade)
- Wolves (Second Grade)
- Bears (Third Grade)
- Webelos / Arrow of Light (Fourth and Fifth Grade)
- Scouts BSA (Ages 11-17, or age 10 and completion of fifth grade or Arrow of Light rank)
Can we get assistance with paying membership fees or for activities?
Scouts can help with their finances relating to the Pack or Troop by participating in fundraising activities. Some of our fundraisers include selling popcorn and “camp cards,” which can either be sold at our “show-and-sell” events or individually. For the Scouts BSA summer camp at Camp Powhatan, Scouts can apply for scholarships that could waive a portion of the fee.
What are the benefits of joining a Cub Scout Pack or Scout Troop?
Even though some of the activities we do can also be done outside of the Scouting program, there are many benefits of being a member of the Scouts. All of our activities are done in a group setting of peers under the supervision of trained adult volunteers. Scouts wear a uniform, which gives them a sense of identity and belonging. Badges are worn on the uniform or a sash, and Scouts are recognized with them for their hard work.
Is Scouting safe? Are Scouts covered by insurance offered by the organization?
Yes, Scouting activities are safe. Scouts are required to go through safety training for using sharp tools, building fires, using computers and the Internet, water activities (swimming and boating), and shooting sports. Additionally, ranks and merit badges have safety and first-aid requirements.
Adults and leaders abide by the Guide to Safe Scouting, and all activities are age-appropriate. All adults are required to complete Youth Protection Training regularly and agree to a background check upon registering. A minimum of two registered, trained adults are present at all activities. Hazing and secret societies within the Scouting program are prohibited.
In case of an accident, Scouts are covered by the insurance provided by the Boy Scouts of America, the parent organization of Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA. Learn more about Safe Scouting at the BSA website.
Can my child be in both Cub Scouts/Scouts BSA and the Girl Scouts?
Yes. Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) is a separate organization from Boy Scouts of America (which allows male and female youth in its programs). Your child is permitted to be in any outside activity while being a member of the pack or troop.
My child also participates in sports, school clubs, martial arts, and/or work. Does he or she still have time for Scouts?
We work with parents to ensure that their child’s schedules are able to align with pack or troop meetings and activities. There may be scheduling conflicts when it comes between Scouting and something else. It is the choice of the Scout and their parents if they should attend an outside activity or pack or troop event scheduled at the same time. The pack and troop leadership do understand school and paid work is a priority.
Where can I buy a uniform, Scout patches, and handbooks?
Scouting supplies can be bought locally at Army & Navy Store in Marion, Va.
Army & Navy Store
219 East Main Street
Marion, Va. 24354
Phone: (276) 783-3832
Scouting supplies can also be bought online at the BSA Scout Shop at www.scoutshop.org. The pack and troop usually have a limited supply of used Scout uniforms that are given to families at no cost on a first come-first serve basis.
Where do you go to summer camp?
Scouts BSA summer camp and Cub Scout family resident camp is held at Camp Powhatan, located in the New River Valley of Virginia. This is the address for the camp:
Camp Powhatan BSA
2600 Max Creek Road
Hiwassee, Va. 24347
Phone: (540) 980-3787
Website
Our organization needs volunteers. Do you Scouts volunteer for the community?
Our Scouts regularly volunteer in the community. Please contact us to get started.