Becoming A Cub Scout
Cub Scouting is all about fun, and as a parent, you have the opportunity to play a major role in activities that you and your son will remember fondly. You'll have lots of opportunities to develop talents and abilities you didn't even know you have! Cub Scouting is without a doubt one of the very best ways to be involved in your son's development.
Application Form
It's easy to sign up- just fill in an application form and you're on your way. Forms can be obtained at Back to School Night, Scheduled Pack Meetings or through Paul Saksvig our Committee Chairman.
Program Cost
Details are listed below. Paul Saksvig (364-4474, Paul's e.mail) will provide the necessary forms to you.
Make personal checks payable to "Pack 720".
Pack and BSA Fees
Program costs consist of three elements - BSA National Registration fee, local Pack dues, and optional activity fees; BSA registration is an annual fee for each Cub Scout and due when the Pack recharters in February (prorated for new scouts in the Fall). BSA fees include a subscription to Boys' Life Magazine. Pack dues are approximately $50 per year, but can vary slightly, and are due in September; check the information sheet supplied with the registration form for the current dues. The majority of Pack and Den activity costs are covered by the dues however certain optional events, such as camping, field trips, etc, may have additional costs - where applicable these will be detailed in the event registration information.
At least one parent per Cub Scout family should be registered with the Pack. Registered adults pay an annual BSA registration fee due in February, this includes a subscription to Scouting Magazine.
Transfer Fees
If you and/or your Cub Scout are transferring into Pack 720 from another Pack, and are currently paid-up, the transfer fee is $1 per person.
Den Dues
Den dues are included in the Pack fee.
Uniform and Book
Your son will need a uniform and a book appropriate for his age:
1st grade: Tiger
2nd grade: Wolf
3rd grade: Bear
4th and 5th grade: Webelos
Each adult participant should have a uniform, too!
You can get uniform and book costs from our local Scout Shop (355-0628, map) or by checking out Scouting's official catalog website at www.scoutstuff.org. (Talk to the Cubmaster if you can't afford a uniform for your son at this time.) Note that you don't pay sales tax or shipping on items bought or ordered at the Council Scout Shop.
Please note- Pack 720 uses a "Waist & Up" uniform to save costs. This consists of the belt, buckle, hat, shirt (long or short-sleeve) and neckerchief with slide. Official trousers, socks, etc are all optional but jeans work just as well.
Fundraising
As with most volunteer organizations, much of the program cost is covered by fundraising activities. You won't have to pay for the awards your son earns directly; awards are paid for by the Pack. However, your son will be expected to help the Pack with fundraising, primarily our Popcorn Sales held in September and October. Fundraising shouldn't affect his schoolwork or preclude family activities.