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Here are some answers to questions you might have as you consider joining Boy Scout Troop 335.
Can try out the troop without joining?
Absolutely. You can come and test out any meeting for absolutely free. If you want to learn a little more about our troop please attend our Open House in January to discover what it means to be a Boy Scout.
Did I have to be a Cub Scout to be a Boy Scout?
No. While this is the most common path to Boy Scouts, any boy between the ages of 11 and 17 can join. There are many benefits to joining Boy Scouts, regardless of the boy's age.
Are you a Co-Ed Troop?
Currently there are no such thing as "Co-Ed" Troops in Scouts BSA of the Boy Scouts of America.
Is there a Scouts BSA Girl Troop affiliated with Troop 335?
At this time, Northmont Presbyterian (our charter organization), does not sponsor a Scouts BSA Girl Troop. There are several Scouts BSA Girl Troops in Seneca District to choose from. We encourage everyone to be a part of the Scouts BSA program.
What are the joining requirements?
The following link provides the BSA requirements: http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/BoyScouts/AdvancementandAwards/joining.aspx
What are the physical requirements?
Scouting is an activity-based learning experience, however, accommodations are made based upon a scout's specific physical and mental abilities.
How old do I need to be?
To be eligible, a boy must be 11 years old, or have completed the fifth grade or earned the Arrow of Light Award and be at least 10 years old. A boy must not yet be 18 years old.
Why should I join scouts?
Well, first it is a lot of fun, teaches valuable skills and encourages moral,social, and leadership development. In addition, according to the BSA, boys who are in scouting for 5 or more years are more likely to
- Graduate from high school (91% versus 87%)
- Graduate from college (35% versus 19%)
- Earn higher annual household incomes ($80,000 versus $61,000)
- Have lifelong friendships (89% versus 74%)
- Attend religious services (87% versus 77%)
- Believe helping others should come before one’s own self-interest (92% versus 83%)
What does it cost?
Troop dues are $175 per year per year. A discount may be offered which is determined by the amount of fundraising that the troop did the previous year. Dues include the BSA re-chartering fee, BSA insurance, Troop Dues and Boys Life magazine. In addition, scouts pay per trip that they attend. Camping trips average about $15-20 per trip.
How do I choose a Boy Scout Troop?
Take time to visit multiple troops and write down pros and cons to each. Consider proximity and types of activities that the troop participates in. Watch the interaction between the scouts and the adult leadership; is that the type of mentor ship you want for your son? Most importantly, make sure your son fits in with the personality of the troop.
Do scouts in Troop 335 have to attend every campout?
The troop understands that there are multiple demands on your time but encourages as much participation as possible.
Can a mother camp with the troop?
Yes. Moms like to camp also. Appropriate Scouts BSA guidelines for Youth Protection are followed.
What fundraisers does the troop do?
Troop 335 participates in the Council popcorn sale and sells holiday greens every fall.
Are adult leaders trained?
All Troop 335 Adult leaders must comply with the BSA Adult Leader requirements. Many Adult Leaders participate in additional BSA/Outdoor training activities such as Wood Badge and Leave No Trace to ensure the highest quality program possible.
Do you meet during the summer?
Yes, we meet year round.
Does the troop attend summer camp?
Yes. The troop attends Seven Ranges Scout Reservation in Kensington, Ohio
Do you have to be a member of Northmont Presbyterian Church to join the troop?
No. However, "A Scout is Reverent" and should practice their faith. We welcome and celebrate religous diversity in Scouts BSA.
Can I play sports and still be in Boy Scouts?
Yes, many of the scouts in Troop 335 participate in other activities such as sports and band. However, a scout is expected to participate in as many of the troop activities as possible. Advancement is self paced which gives the scout flexibility to participate. While achieving Eagle Scout should be the goal of every scout, not every scout achieves that rank. We have had Scouts who participated in football, track, hockey and other sports while still earning their Eagle award.
What items are necessary in Boy Scouts?
Your son will need a full Class “A” uniform including a Scout shirt (long or short sleeve) with all appropriate markings, green Scout pants, and if shorts are worn, Scout socks. A BSA neckerchief with any slide are acceptable neckwear. These items can be purchased from the Pittsburgh Scout Shop at 1275 Bedford Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 . We have an uniform exchange so you may not have to purchase a new uniform (depending on sizes available).
Here are some other items your son might find useful. They make great gifts!
- Head Lamp
- Compass
- Pocket Knife
- Mess Kit and Utensils
- Water bottle.
- Sleeping Bag
- Sleeping Pad
- Rain Gear
- Hiking Boots
- Wicking Clothing
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