Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Cub Scouting?

Cub Scouting is a program for kids ages 5-11 (K-5th grade) focused on Character Development, Spiritual Growth, Good Citizenship, Sportsmanship, Family Understanding, Respectful Relationships, Personal Achievement, Friendly Service, Fun, and Adventure, all while preparing them for Scouts.

Q: Why Pack 53?

Pack 53 is an outdoor-focused group that enjoys camping, hiking, and fishing while teaching respect for nature. We emphasize community service and citizenship, offering a program based on character, family, and fun.

Q: When and where does Pack 53 meet?

We meet on Tuesday nights at 6:30 PM during the school year and offer group activities like hikes, swim parties, and movie nights during the summer months. Our meetings are held at the Waxhaw United Methodist Church, 200 McDonald Street, Waxhaw, NC. Please have a look at our Pack calendar for details.

Q: Who can join a Cub Scout Pack?

Our Pack is open to any kid in Kindergarten through Fifth Grade. Our members typically come from the Waxhaw area and attend school at Kensington Elementary School, Waxhaw Elementary School, and New Town Elementary School.

Q: I’m interested in joining Pack 53. How can I sign my child up?

​You can start your Scout's Scouting Adventure by starting the application process on our JOIN page. You'll receive an email with detailed instructions for completing the required paperwork.

Q: I missed the annual orientation night, can my son still join Pack 53?

Absolutely! We accept new members year-round. Just head over to our JOIN page to start the application process. Your Scout’s Den Leader will work with you to complete the requirements your Scout needs to complete to earn their rank.

Q: Will my child go camping and do outdoor activities?

Yes, each Rank requires your Scout to participate in some outdoor activities (although camping is not specifically required). Each year, we plan to offer overnight activities at least every quarter. When we camp outside, our members are expected to provide their own tents for overnight camping.

Q: What is the difference between a Den and a Pack?

A Den is a small group of Scouts that are in the same grade at school and are all working toward the same rank:

• Kindergarten – Lion Rank

• 1st grade – Tiger Rank

• 2nd grade – Wolf Rank

• 3rd grade – Bear Rank

• 4th grade – Webelos Rank

• 5th grade – Arrow of Light
  
  

A Pack is the collection of all Dens affiliated with a single Charter Organization. 

A Charter Organization is the organization that sponsors the Pack and its Dens. Pack 53’s Charter Organization is the Provisions Waxhaw.

Q: How much does it cost to be a Scout? 

Our Leaders work hard to keep the cost of our program low. Our Annual Dues and various Cub Scout fundraisers cover most of our expenses throughout the scouting year. Your Scout must pay their annual dues when joining the Pack and every fall while your Scout is a member. A breakdown of the cost can be found here.

Q: What does my child need to participate in scouts? What uniform do I need to buy?

Your scout needs a rank-appropriate uniform and handbook they will use throughout the year. Rank-specific shopping list (including optional items) can be found below:

• Kindergarten – Lion Rank

• 1st grade – Tiger Rank

• 2nd grade – Wolf Rank

• 3rd grade – Bear Rank

• 4th grade – Webelos Rank

• 5th grade – Arrow of Light

Scouts typically need to purchase a uniform when joining, becoming a Tiger, and as a Webelos or Arrow of Light candidate. These items can be purchased in-person or online at a Scout Shop. There are three locations in the area:

• Carolina Scout Shop (2121 Westinghouse Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28273)

• Online at Scout Shop

Additionally, you may choose to purchase the Cub Scout six essentials and other camping/hiking gear (i.e., a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat) from any outdoor store.

Q: What should my Scout wear to a Den/Pack meeting?

Scouts should wear their Class A Uniforms to all Pack and Den events unless otherwise instructed in the event invitation.

This includes:

• • The Blue or Khaki Scout Uniforms shirt (or Lion t-shirt)

  • Uniform belt with completed adventure loops

  • Rank-specific neckerchief and slide

  • Appropriate pants, jeans, or shorts that complement their uniform shirt

For Pack and Den events where the Scouts will be more active (i.e hikes, camping), Scouts will be instructed to wear their Class B Activity Uniforms or activity appropriate clothing.

This includes:

• One Class B Uniform t-shirt provided by the Pack (additional shirt may be available for purchase)

• Appropriate pants, jeans, or shorts for the activity

Scouts should always be prepared and dress appropriately for the weather. Consider wearing a long sleeve t-shirt under you Class A uniform for cold days or a jacket.

Q: Where can I get more information?

For general scouting information or to purchase uniforms or other scout supplies, please see Scouting.org and Scout Shop.