Parent Handbook

A PDF copy of the Parent Handbook is available HERE

Welcome to Pack 850’s family

Welcome to Cub Scout Pack 850! We are excited to have you as part of our Scouting program. We work hard to make every season better than the one before and are confident that with your support, this will be the best season ever!

This parent handbook has all the important information you will need to familiarize yourself with everything Cub Scouting and everything Pack 850. It is designed for you, the parents in our Pack, so please review it completely.

We have worked hard during the off-season to put together the most appropriate and exciting program yet. Our Pack is proud to offer outstanding programs such as the World Conservation Award, and optionally, the Religious Emblem Program as well as camping and many outdoor adventures and experiences. Our Den Leaders are committed to exceeding your expectations in helping your cub(s) to do their best. They are trained in helping your cub(s).  A true Scouting adventure is awaiting your cub(s) at Pack 850! 

We welcome your family to our Pack 850 family and look forward to many years of adventures, excitement and learning.  Please do not hesitate to contact us for any reason; we are here to serve!

Yours in Scouting,

Your Committee Chairperson 

About this Manual

The Committee of Pack 850 has attempted to clarify most of the critical issues surrounding Cub Scouting in today's active environment. Any guidelines described within this document act to supplement but are not intended to conflict with the national Scouting America policies. If any conflict between Scouting America policy and the Pack policy occurs, Scouting America policy will take precedence.

This document is to be viewed as a "living document" subject to periodic review and change. Cubs and their Families can make suggestions for the manual directly to the Cubmaster.

The Cubmaster will forward those suggestions to the Committee Chair. All recommendations for approval by the Pack Committee then go to the Chartered Organization Representative for approval.

Hopefully, most issues have been addressed. It should be noted that it is impossible to document all the different issues in such a manual. Issues not covered in this manual will be handled, to the best of Pack 850 Leadership abilities, at the time of the occurrence.

Additional and supplemental documents can be found at our web site: www.pack850miami.com

PACK 850 AT A GLANCE

Meetings: Wednesdays 6:30-8:00 pm at Norma Butler Bozzard Elementary (15950 SW 144th St, Miami, FL 33196) in the Cafeteria

Communications: Whatsapp

Advancement Tracking: Packmaster Software

Handbooks & Uniforms: Miami Scout Shop, 15255 NW 82nd Avenue, Miami Lakes, FL 33016

Pack 850 specific merchandise: R&L Printing

Training: my.scouting.org

Website: www.pack850miami.com

General email: Info@pack850miami.com

Where does Pack 850 fit within Scouting America: We are part of the Everglades District in the South Florida Council

Chartered Organization: kids 4 kids in Country Walk. Director: Beth Davis

Click HERE for contact information.

Mission of Cub Scouting

The mission of Scouting America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.

The mission of the pack is to provide a positive atmosphere where, with your help, the Cubs will grow and develop. In Cub Scouting, a framework is provided with guidelines upon which we build. We build upon the framework by inserting fun and excitement into the learning process. Many times, the cubs do not realize that they are learning anything; they are having too much fun to recognize it. That's when we know we are doing it right!

The pack operates under the rules and policies as set forth by Scouting America (SA), the bylaws of our chartering organization and the Pack bylaws provided herein. SA rules and regulations will take precedence if ever a conflict arises.

Aims of Cub Scouting

The aims of Scouting are character development, leadership development, citizenship training, and personal fitness (Mental & Physical).

Our Purpose

The Cub Scouting program has 10 purposes related to the overall mission of the SA:

1. Character Development

2. Spiritual Growth

3. Good Citizenship

4. Sportsmanship and Fitness

5. Family Understanding

6. Respectful Relationships

7. Personal Achievement

8. Friendly Service

9. Fun and Adventure

10.  Preparation for Boy Scouts

 Our Methods

The Methods of Cub Scouting

To accomplish its aims Cub Scouting uses seven methods:

1. Living the Ideals
Cub Scouting’s values are embedded in the Scout Oath, the Scout Law, the Cub Scout motto, and the Cub Scout sign, handshake, and salute. These practices help establish and reinforce the program’s values in scouts and the leaders who guide them.

2. Belonging to a Den
The den—a group of six to eight cubs who are about the same age—is the place where Cub Scouting starts. In the den, Cubs develop new skills and interests, they practice sportsmanship and good citizenship, and they learn to do their best, not just for themselves but for the den as well.

3. Using Advancement
Recognition is important to cubs. The advancement plan provides fun for the cubs, gives them a sense of personal achievement as they earn badges, and strengthens family understanding as adult family members and their den leader work with cubs on advancement projects.

4. Involving Family and Home
Whether a cub lives with two parents or one, a foster family, or other relatives, the family is an important part of Cub Scouting. Parents and adult family members provide leadership and support for Cub Scouting and help ensure that cubs have a good experience in the program.

5. Participating in Activities
Cubs participate in a huge array of activities, including games, projects, skits, stunts, songs, outdoor activities, trips and service projects. Besides being fun, these activities offer opportunities for growth, achievement, and family involvement.

6. Serving Home and Neighborhood
Cub Scouting focuses on the home and neighborhood. It helps cubs strengthen connections to their local communities, which in turn support the cubs’ growth and development.

7. Wearing the Uniform
Cub Scout uniforms serve a dual purpose, demonstrating membership in the group (everyone is dressed alike) and individual achievement (cubs wear the badges they’ve earned). Wearing the uniform to meetings and activities also encourages a neat appearance, a sense of belonging, and good behavior.

Program

Cub Scouting is family scouting. Your family will travel the road through the ranks to the Arrow of Light together with your cub(s) and as part of a pack. Together, we will laugh and cry, struggle and surmount, hike, camp, enjoy and respect the outdoors, and build character. Your cub will not only be prepared to transition over from Cub Scouting to Scouting BSA, but more importantly be better prepared for life.  Pack 850 follows the recommended program by Scouting America (SA).

Cub Scout Background

In 1916, Sir Robert Baden-Powell introduced the "Wolf Cub" program for younger boys. This program soon found its way to numerous communities in the Americas. There were also other 'younger boy' organizations such as the "Little Lodge" of the "Woodcraft Indians," the "Boy Pioneers," and the "Boy Rangers." Some Scout BSA Troops were also sponsoring unofficial "Junior Troops" and "Cadet Corps." Finally, after 20 years of Scouting in America, "Cubbing" was introduced! What has followed has been nothing short of phenomenal! Boasting over 50,000,000 members since its inception, no program in history has had the far-ranging impact on American youth than Cubbing and Cub Scouting have!

Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting, based Cub Scouting on one of the stories in Rudyard Kipling's Jungle Book. It was called "Mowgli's Brothers." We know it as "The Story of Akela and Mowgli." A copy of part of the story is in the Wolf Cub Scout Book. The story is continued in the Bear Cub Scout Book. A part of the story is also in the Cub Scout Leader Book.

Cub Scouting has drawn upon the adventure and lore of the Native American, just as Seton's Native American lore influenced Boy Scouting; but a strong influence from Kipling's Jungle Book still remains.  The words "Law of the Pack," "Akela," “Baloo”, "Wolf Cub," "den," and "pack" all come from the Jungle Book. The gold and silver arrows, Webelos, and Arrow of Light are taken from our Native American heritage.

Boy Scouts of America (BSA)(rebranded as Scouting America (SA) to represent its inclusion of girls into its programs) was incorporated to provide a program for community organizations that offers effective character, citizenship, leadership, and personal fitness training for youth. Specifically, SA endeavors to develop American citizens who are physically, mentally, and emotionally fit; have a high degree of self-reliance as evidenced in such qualities as initiative, courage, and resourcefulness; have personal values based on religious concepts; have the desire and skills to help others; understand the principles of the American social, economic, and governmental systems; are knowledgeable about and take pride in their American heritage and understand our nation's role in the world; have a keen respect for the basic rights of all people; and are prepared to participate in and give leadership to American society.

After receiving overwhelming demand from chartered partners, Boy Scouts of America voted to offer our iconic programs to both boys and girls and was rebranded as Scouting America.

Cub Scouting is a year-round family program designed for boys and girls who are in kindergarten through fifth grade (or 5-10 years of age). Parents, leaders, and organizations work together to achieve the purposes of Cub Scouting. Currently, Cub Scouting is the largest of SA's five membership divisions. (The others are Scouting BSA, Venturing, Sea Scouts and Exploring. )

Meetings

There are five unique meetings that serve to support and provide the necessary resources to meet the mission and purpose of the program. These are den meetings, pack meetings, committee meetings, district roundtable, and district committee meetings.  As parents, you are not required to attend all these meetings. Remember that all our leaders are volunteers and may call on you to assist from time to time.

Most activities happen right in the den and pack meetings.  Making these the most important meetings to be present for. Den meetings will follow a theme emphasizing one of the core values of cub scouting. Each of the dens will center their activities on these themes. At the conclusion of each theme, there will be a pack meeting celebrating the cubs’ achievements, and advancements and dens generally do a presentation, skit or song related to the theme.

Please note that the dates and times below are “Typical” and subject to periodic changes to best accommodate the activity, the participants, holidays and the school schedule.

Den Meetings

Each cub starts as a member of a den but is a part of a much larger network of cubs that will support their growth and development throughout their scouting adventures. Members, who join our pack, are assigned to a den based upon their grade in school, which defines which rank they will work towards (some cubs may be assigned by age). Although we remain active year-round, the pack’s regular schedule works in concert with the school calendar year beginning in August and ending in mid-June with the main activities beginning in September. Pack 850 also schedules at least one pack activity each month during the summer months so that scouts can stay in touch and engaged. Dens normally meet on the same day, time and location as all the other dens.  This is not a requirement and the leader can change the date, time and place to accommodate the needs of the adventure, the cubs and/or the parents.

When: Wednesdays from 6:30-8:00 pm unless notified otherwise

Where: Norma Butler Bozzard (15950 SW 144th St, Miami, FL 33196) in the cafeteria unless notified otherwise

Why: The cubs will work on meeting their rank’s adventures and elective activities in the Scout Handbook. All the adventures cannot be accomplished at the den meetings. Some of the adventures will need to be completed at home and require family involvement. Please review the requirements in your cub’s Handbook and help him/her complete the requirements needed for the rank.  While Lion, Tiger, Wolf and Bear requirements are signed off in their books by their parents, Webelos and Arrow of Light (AOL) advancement (4th and 5th graders) unless otherwise mentioned, are signed off by their Den Leader.

Who: The den allows the cubs to get to know each other better and engage in activities that would be difficult in a larger group. Each den is led by a Den Leader who may be assisted by an Assistant Den Leader and/or a Scout Den Chief. The den also provides leadership opportunities for the cubs as they elect "denners" or help to teach each other. Den Leaders are trained parent volunteers.

Den meeting activities are planned around the monthly theme and include games, handicrafts, hikes and other outdoor fun, practicing skits and stunts in preparation for the next pack meeting and taking part in simple ceremonies and songs. Sometimes work on advancement requirements is included, but most of that work is accomplished by the cubs with their parents (see details on the Webelos rank for an exception). The Den Leaders may ask for special help occasionally from parents (helping with a meeting, sharing a special skill, or just providing a snack for the cubs). Parents are required to attend each meeting if their cub is a Lion or Tiger Cub.

In addition to its regular meetings, the pack sponsors certain special projects. These include community projects (e.g., a Thanksgiving Food Drive for the needy), outdoor activities (e.g., field trips, family campouts, etc.), fund raising activities (e.g., fall popcorn sales), and fun competitions (e.g., Pinewood Derby). Each pack is led by our Cubmaster. The Cubmaster (aka ‘Akela’) is an adult volunteer who serves as master of ceremonies at all pack activities, assists all meetings and leads pack activities of all kinds. Our Cubmaster may have one or more Assistant Cubmaster(s) who will help at these functions.

Pack Meetings

In addition to den meetings, all the dens meet as a Pack to receive awards, recognition, and advancements. The pack meeting is the climax of the month's den meetings and activities. It gives the dens something to look forward to and work toward. This is a chance to recognize the cubs, their parents, and their leaders.

When: Once a month; typically, the last Wednesday of the month, from 6:30pm-8:00pm

Where: Norma Butler Bozzard (15950 SW 144th St, Miami, FL 33196) in the cafeteria unless notified otherwise

Why: The cubs will be recognized for advancements, awards, and achievements. The cubs will have time to be silly and have fun as they showcase their talents through skits, songs, and crafts.

Who: The Cubmaster is responsible for hosting this meeting. Parents, cubs, leaders, and families are encouraged to attend as a means of showing support and recognition of the hard work performed by the cubs.

Pack Meeting Plans

Meeting plans are guides for the leaders on how to conduct each meeting. There is a plan for each month that corresponds with a point of the Scout Law. In addition, each plan has a theme to help make the pack meeting even more fun! The plans do not have to be used in a specific order, but some do have reminders to include activities from the required adventures to help the cubs earn their rank.

Our Pack meetings will loosely follow the suggested themes.  We will swap their order to align with our calendar of activities, campouts, field trips, etc. 

Committee Meetings

When: Usually once a month; typically, the third Monday of the month. Specific date, time and place for each committee meeting will be communicated by the Committee Chair.

Why: The committee reviews the progress of the pack for achievement of its objectives, reviews the pack finances, adjusts the upcoming calendar, recruits volunteers to serve as chairs and members of the various committees required to run the pack, identifies any shortfalls, and develops contingency plans.

Who: The Chairperson is responsible for hosting this meeting. All parents should attend to witness the intricacies involved in administering the Pack and to volunteer to assist where possible.

District Roundtable Meetings

Roundtables play a significant role in providing continuous supplemental training for unit leaders. This monthly event provides program topic guidance and structure suggestions for unit leaders.

A fun environment creates excitement around the coming month of activities and program for unit leaders to carry back for implementation in their units.

When: Usually once a month; typically the first Monday of the month, from

7:30pm-9:00pm at Kendal United Methodist Church 7600 SW 104 ST Pinecrest, FL 33156

Why: All the Packs in the District exchange information/announcements that affect the whole district. Just-in-time training is provided and program updates from the National Council are presented and discussed.

Who: The District Roundtable Chairperson is responsible for hosting this meeting. The pack cubmaster and committee chair attend to represent the pack but all parents are welcomed and encouraged to attend to learn about Scouting events/activities, plans, and information that might benefit our Pack. ***This meeting is optional for parents and is only for adults.

District Committee Meetings

Councils are divided into districts (more info on SA’s organization in a minute). Each district has committees that mirror those of the pack and serve to support all the units in the district. For example, if you are the camping committee chair, you may be asked to participate in the district’s camping committee.

When: Usually once a month; typically, the second Monday of the month, from

7:30pm-9:00pm location TBD since sometimes it is offered over video conference.

Why: Participation from the different packs in the district provides the feedback for determining the best practices for the disciplines and opportunities for improvement in the program e.g. camping, fundraising, community service, training, etc.

Who: The District Committee Chairperson is responsible for hosting this meeting.

 ***This meeting is optional for parents and is only for adults.

Scouting America Organizational Structure

Scouting BSA is owned by the National Council of Scouting America. It was incorporated on February 8, 1910, and chartered by Congress in 1916 . In the Report of The House Committee on the Judiciary in support of the Act, Congress stated:

"The Boy Scout movement is ... intended to supplement and enlarge established modern educational facilities in activities in the great and healthful out of doors where may be the better developed physical strength and endurance, self-reliance, and the powers of initiative and resourcefulness, all for the purpose of establishing through the boys of today the very highest type of American citizenship. It tends to conserve the moral, intellectual, and physical life of the coming generation, and in its immediate results does much to reduce the problem of juvenile delinquency in the cities...The importance and magnitude of its work is such as to entitle it to recognition and its work and insignia to protection by Federal incorporation. The Scout scheme is based upon the methods involved in educating the boy. It is a scheme of placing the boy on honor. In addition to requiring him to live up to a standard or code of laws which insure development of character along proper lines, it requires him to study in order to pass certain tests of qualification. The passing of these various tests ~ is recognized by the award of appropriate badges or medals and insignia."

Boy Scouting was modeled after the Scouting movement founded by Lord Robert S. Baden-Powell in England in 1908.

The National Council

The National Council is led by a volunteer board of directors, the National Executive Board. The administration is performed by a staff of professional Scouters.

Among its major functions, the National Council develops program; sets and maintains quality standards in training, leadership selection, uniforms, registration records, literature development, and advancement requirements; and publishes Scout's Life and Scouting magazines.

The National Council maintains national high-adventure bases for use by Scouts. The bases are in Minnesota, Florida, and New Mexico. It also organizes a national Scout Jamboree every 4 years.

The National Council is funded from membership dues, corporate sponsors, and special events.

It is a not-for-profit private corporation.

The National Council is comprised of the following members:

• All members of its Executive Board

• Members of the Regional Executive Committee

• Local Council Representatives (president and council commissioner plus an additional member for every 5,000 youth members)

• Members at large elected by the National Council for 1 year terms

• Honorary (non-voting) members as elected by the National Council for 1 year terms.

It meets annually at the call of its Executive Board for the reception of reports of various officers and committees and to elect members both at large and honorary as well as to transact such business as presented by the Executive Board.

Its officers include a President, Executive Vice-President, one or more Vice Presidents, Treasurer and Assistant Treasurers, the National Commissioner (who is the chief morale officer and who represents BSA in national affairs); the International Commissioner (who represents BSA in international affairs) and the Chief Scout Executive who is designated as "the chief executive officer of the Corporation and shall have general direction of the administrative work of the corporation". He is required to prepare an annual report of BSA to transmit it to Congress and to present it to the annual meeting of the National Council.

The Executive Board is the governing body of BSA. Members (not to exceed 64) are elected for 1 year terms at the annual meeting of the National Council. Regional presidents are ex officio members of the Board. The chairman of the Advisory Council (to the Executive Board) and chairman of the Board of Regents of the National Eagle Scout Association, are likewise ex-officio members. Up to five registered Youth Members from around the nation may be appointed by the President with approval of the Board to a one year term. Regular meetings of the Board occur three times each year.

The Executive Committee of the Board consists of the President of the Board, the executive vice president, the vice presidents, Regional presidents, the international commissioner, the national commissioner, the treasurer, the assistant treasurers, the Chairman of the support committee of the Executive Board, Chairman of the Advisory Council, the Chief Scout Executive and the immediate past-President.

It meets at the call of the President and may exercise all the powers of the Executive Board during the intervals between Board meetings.

Various Standing Committees of the Board are provided for, to wit: Support, Nominating, Audit, Finance and Contract Review.

An Advisory Council to the Board also exists. It is large in number consisting of the National Council together with "United States citizens who, because of experience, have a particular expertise that would benefit the national movement." Those members have no specified term. They are elected by the Board. The chairman of the Advisory Council is appointed by the President of the Board and serves a term of 1 year. One annual meeting of the Advisory Council is mandatory. It advises "on matters of major national concern."

All are volunteers except for the National Commissioner, International Commissioner and Chief Scout Executive

The Council Service Territory

For ease in administration the Executive Board divides up the United States into sixteen council service territories. Pack 850 is in Council Service Territory (CST) 16. The transition from four regions to sixteen National Service Territories was made as an effort to reduce staff plus save costs. At the territory level, there is minimal staff and no board or committee structure

The Local Council

The National Council does not attempt to administer directly the more than 150,000 registered Scout units (troops, packs, venturing crews, etc.). To achieve this, each year, the National Council issues a charter to an autonomous organization called a local council. The United States and its territories is divided into local councils. Local councils are usually not-for-profit private corporations registered within the State in which they are headquartered.

Florida has seven (9) councils.

1.     Alabama-Florida

2.     Central Florida

3.     Greater Tampa Bay Area

4.     Gulf Coast

5.     Gulf Stream

6.     North Florida

7.     South Florida

8.     Southwest Florida

9.     Suwannee river Area

Since they are autonomous corporations they may administer any program they wish. Local councils petition the National Council and are issued a charter each year to administer the BSA program in their area. To qualify for a charter, they must adhere to certain program, financial and accounting standards. Local councils are privately funded and are not financially linked to the National Council or local units. Funding comes from donations, corporate sponsors, and special events.

Each council has a headquarters city from which it administers the Scouting program within its geographical boundaries. Like the National Council, the local council is led by volunteers, with administration performed by a staff of professional scouters. The Council President is the top volunteer; the Scout Executive is the top professional.

Pack 850 is in the South Florida Council which is headquartered at 3551 SW 142nd Ave, Davie, FL 33330. The South Florida Council serves Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties.

The local council's responsibilities include:

• Promoting the Scouting program

• Registration of units and council personnel

• Providing facilities and leadership for a year-round outdoor program, including summer camp.

• To ensure that each Local Unit (i.e. a Scout Troop or Cub Pack) within its territorial area carries out the general principles of advancement in Scouting

• To ensure the integrity of the merit badge requirements for advancement in scouting

• To make Scout training available to the Local Units and community groups using the Scouting program

• To provide adequate leadership and leadership training for the Local Units

• To ensure that standards in Scout policies, badges-and insignia are protected

• To ensure that adequate financing exists for the support of the Local Units.

Membership of the Local Council (minimum age 21) is made up of one representative from each of the chartered local units within its jurisdiction, together with representatives at large from various business, civil, educational, labor, social and religious interests in the community. A minimum membership of 100 adults is required. Each year the members elect 25 to 50 of their number to serve as the local council executive board which is the governing body responsible for the council's operations and assets. Officers consist of a president, one or more vice-presidents and a treasurer. The executive board may also (and usually does) elect a President (volunteer) and a Council Executive (a paid employee).

The District

A Scouting district is an optional geographical area within the local council, as determined by the council executive board. District leaders mobilize resources to ensure the growth and success of Scouting units within the district's territory.

Members of the district committee are volunteers. The district trains adult volunteers, provides district programs for units such as camporees, and Scouting shows, assists in the formation of new units, and helps coordinate the annual giving campaign.

The district committee also provides the unit with a unit commissioner. The unit commissioner gives direct coaching and consultation to the unit committee and other adult leaders.

The volunteers on the district committee can be a helpful resource to the unit committee. Call upon their guidance when needed.

The Scouting professional who provides district service is the district executive. He can be very helpful in showing the unit committee how to accomplish the unit's program goals.

There are six (6) districts within the South Florida council.

·       Sawgrass District serves North Broward County - North of I-595 to Broward / Palm Beach County Line

·       Panther District serves South Broward County - I-595 south to Dade/Broward County Line

·       Phoenix District serves North Miami-Dade County - From the County line going south to Coral Way (SW 24th Street)

·       Everglades District serves From Coral Way (SW 24th St) south --down to the Dade/Monroe County Line

·       Buccaneer District serves Monroe County.

·   ScoutReach District serves ScoutReach units throughout the South Florida Council territory

Pack 850 is a member of the Everglades District. Our District Executive is Kristin Gasser, and our District Commissioner is Frank Casco.

The Chartered Organization

The unit is owned and run by a sponsoring group called the chartered organization. The chartered organization receives a national charter yearly to use the Scouting program as a part of its youth work. The local council helps the chartered organization understand the program, however it is the chartered organization's program and is part of the chartered organizations youth work. These groups, which have goals compatible with those of the Scouting America, include religious, educational, community groups, fraternal, business, labor, and professional associations.

Each chartered organization using the Scouting program provides a meeting place, selects a Scoutmaster, approves the unit adult leadership, appoints a unit committee of at least three adults, and chooses a chartered organization representative.

The leadership structure and makeup of each unit are spelled out in the BSA Rules and Regulations. Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Varsity Teams and Venturing are for young men and women. A volunteer adult member (e.g., Cubmaster) heads the Pack. They are assisted by other volunteer adult members (e.g. Assistant Cubmasters) who attend, guide and instruct at the meetings of the Dens.

A Local Unit is directly chartered to the sponsoring group by the Executive Board of the BSA based on a favorable recommendation from the Local Council. Once a Charter is granted, it is subject to revocation by the Executive Board in the exercise of its sole judgment. In most instances, charters are issued to existing organizations (church, civic, etc.). In some instances, a charter may issue to a unit of interested and qualified citizens formed specifically for that purpose. In either case (existing organization or community unit) the applicant is obliged "to provide adequate facilities, supervision and leadership for a period of at least one year and to try to provide youth members with an opportunity for a quality program experience as set forth in the official literature of the BSA.

Active adult leadership is required for each pack, troop, varsity scout team and venturing crew. Using the Cub Scout Pack as an example (the requirements are similar for each) the leadership consists of the three members of the unit committee plus a Cubmaster and the assistant Cubmaster(s). Collectively they are known as the unit Scouters. All must be recommended by the Local Council and then approved, commissioned and registered as adult members by BSA. Commissions of Cubmasters and assistant Cubmasters are issued on an annual basis.

Pack 850’s Chartered organization is Kids 4 Kids.  Kids 4 Kids is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization headquartered in Miami, FL. It provides educational support and materials to underserved communities as well as financial assistance. Beth Davis is the Director.

The chartered organization representative is the liaison with the unit's sponsor. As a member of the chartered organization, that person will know the most effective ways to get the organization's assistance and maintain a mutually satisfactory working relationship with the chartered organization.

The chartered organization representative:

• Is a member of the charter organization

• Serves as head of the "Scouting department" in the organization

• Secures a unit committee chairperson and encourages training

• Maintains a close liaison with the unit committee chair

• Helps recruit other adult leaders

• Serves as liaison between the unit and the chartered organization

• Assists with unit rechartering

• Encourages service to the organization

• Is an active and involved member of the district committee and the local council

Pack 850’s Chartered Organization Representative is Giovannie Ulloa.

The Unit Committee

Each local unit must be under the supervision of a unit committee consisting of three or more qualified adults (at least 21 years old) selected by the chartered organization. For each Pack, Troop, Varsity Scout team or Venturing Crew there must be one adult who registers and serves as the unit leader. That person must be approved by and registered with the Local Council.

The unit committee's primary responsibilities are supporting the Unit Leader (Scoutmaster, Cubmaster, etc.) in delivering a quality unit program, and helping unit administration. As the unit committee works on behalf of the chartered organization, the unit must be operated within the organization's policies. Some of the other responsibilities of the committee include:

·      Setting the Pack policies in accordance with BSA and the Charter Organization.

·      Recommending the leadership to the charter organization for final approval.

·      Finding a meeting place.

·      Coordinating the Pack program.

·      Providing encouragement to leaders in carrying out the Pack program.

·      Maintaining the finances and fundraising coordination for the Pack.

·      Maintaining Pack property (officially owned by the Chartered Organization).

·      Assisting with the annual Pack charter renewal.

·      Ensuring quality adult leadership by making sure that the leadership is recruited and trained.

·      Coordinating between the Pack and other scouting units

In the chartered organization relationship, Scouting America provides the program and support services, and the chartered organization provides the adult leadership and uses the program to accomplish its goals for youth. A review of the Chartered Organization Fast Start video and the viewer's guide will prove helpful in understanding this relationship.

Pack 850’s committee is listed on our website, www.pack850miami.com

Parent’s Role

Parents play an important role in the Pack. Since all the leaders in the Pack are volunteers, it takes everyone’s help to be successful. Former First Lady, Hillary Clinton’s book, “It Takes a Village” very clearly illustrates that for kids to succeed, it takes the efforts of many. The same holds true for the success of your cub(s) in our program. Although we understand that you, as parents, have other obligations and may feel are too busy to take on any additional duties, you must remember that the volunteers leading your cub(s) have just as many, if not more obligations and still put in the time and effort to be a meaningful part of your cub’s development.

The Pack depends on the active participation of parents and many others to enrich the lives of our cubs and deliver the outstanding program we have. Cub Scouting is an opportunity for parents and cubs to spend quality time learning and doing things together

So, what do we expect from you?

·      You must take the online ‘Safeguarding Youth Training. Click the link and either sign-in or create an account and complete the training. The Cubmaster or Committee Chair can assist you with getting your SA ID number if you already have one.

·      That you read the scout handbook and assist your cub in completing their adventures

·      That you accompany your cub to Pack and Den activities and take an active role in assisting your cub’s leader plan and deliver each adventure

·      That you take an active role in assisting the Pack in the planning and delivery of events, field trips, camp outs, etc.

·      That you take an active role in becoming a trained leader and take other training as it becomes available

·      That you make resources at your disposal, that may enrich the program, available to the Pack

·      That you track your cub’s progress and keep your Den Leader informed on what achievements have been completed on their own

·      That you assist in maintaining order during any Pack

         or Den functions

Pack & Den Communications

Cub Scouting involves planning, scheduling, execution and management of dozens of den and pack meetings, field trips, special events like the Pinewood Derby and other activities. To enable all these activities to happen requires a great deal of communication between the pack, den leaders, committee members and parents.

Packmaster Software

The pack uses the Packmasterã Software to track all activities and advancements. Once you register, you will receive an invitation to create a Packmasterã account. As soon as you create your account, go to the App Store on your smartphone and download the PM Mobile application and log-in using the same log-in credentials as on the web version. All meetings, campouts, and activities are in the application’s calendar. All paperwork and documents relating to any event is added to the event in the calendar once it has been created. This allows you to access it at any time from your smartphone or desktop.

Whatsapp

Whatsappã messaging is used by the pack and den leaders as a means of electronic communications. You may be added to numerous chat groups based on need and efficiency.

Website

The Pack’s website is www.pack850miami.com, the Pack calendar, contact information, important links, latest photos, etc. can be found here.

Event Plans

Event Plans are detailed plans for selected events. It provides details specific to the event such as; who the event coordinator is, contact information, meeting place and time, emergency services information, event schedule, equipment requirements, etc. so that members are all on the same page. Reading the event plan in its entirety is important. (A sample can be found on our website under the documents tab)

Calendar

Copy and paste the following URL to your online calendar to subscribe to the pack’s Calendar feed.

http://pmweb.troopmaster.com/activitymanagement/icalendar/?id=wQPMMQ~OQ&timezone=Eastern_Standard_Time

Activities

Cub Scouting means "doing." Everything in Cub Scouting is designed to have the cubs doing things. Activities are used to achieve the mission of Scouting—citizenship training, character development, and personal fitness.

Camping

Pack 850 loves to camp! On average, we camp once a month! We camp at our council camps, other Florida council camps, Florida State Parks and other SA approved campsites both near and far.

No Cub Scout may camp without an adult partner! Youth protection guidelines for Scouting America require that all cubs be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all scouting events. No Cub Scout may sleep in a tent with a non-parent/guardian adult for any reason.

Arrow of Light cubs are allowed to sleep in a tent with another same-sex Arrow of Light cub providing there is not more than a two-year difference in age.

SA guidelines prohibit the use of alcohol or drugs on any Cub Scout camping trip or activity. The use of tobacco products must be kept out of range of the cubs.

SA guidelines prohibit campers from bringing family pets on camping trips.

We realize that our calendar is very active, especially when combined with all the other activities going on in the pack and in our family lives. Therefore, it is important that you know that it is not required that you attend all camping trips. Your cub and you will miss out on an amazing opportunity, but we understand!

IMPORTANT: For the parents of Arrow of Light (AOL) cubs, it is important that you work with your Den leader to know what activities are planned for a camping trip. Many of the AOL rank requirements can only be completed while camping. Therefore, if they miss a campout, you are going to want to work with your Den Leader to schedule the make-up activity at a future campout.

Camping Schedule

Most campouts begin on Fridays at 4:30 pm and end on Sunday at noon. A schedule of activities is included in the event plan if one was created for the event. The activities vary depending on the camp site we are in but may include archery, BB guns, hiking, canoeing, nature walks, campfire program, etc.

Camping Costs

The Pack strives to keep costs for all activities to a minimum. When camping, there are normally two fees, the fee for camping and the fee for meals. If the event includes additional activities that require payment (e.g. canoe rentals, rangemaster fees, etc) an additional fee to cover that cost will be incurred. Camping fees are normally around $25.00 and are non-refundable so if you sign up to go camping or to any other activity, you are expected to attend. Meal fees are $15.00 and may be refunded if you let us know that you are not attending before the food is purchased. Once the food has been purchased, meal fees are non-refundable. Unless otherwise noted, meal fees include all Saturday meals, and a cold breakfast on Sunday.

The Pack’s treasurer will invoice you for each event. If you pay by credit card, an additional charge equal to 2.75% is added to cover the charge to the Pack by the card processing company. Members can also pay with check, Cash is not accepted.

We participate in overnight family camping, day camps, and resident camps. During family camps we focus on fun, awards, achievements, and fun for 1-2 nights.

Day camps are sponsored by the District or Council and provide a week-long agenda of age-appropriate programs packed with theme-oriented action that brings cubs into a world of imagination during the day (not overnight).

Resident camps are usually 3-5 day and night experiences (typically at a Scout reservation) in which the cubs camp within a developed theme of adventure and excitement. Webelos/AOL cubs may also camp with their den or with local Scout BSA troops. Camping programs combine fun and excitement with doing one's best, getting along with others, and developing an appreciation for ecology and the world of the outdoors.

Camping Gear

Camping gear can get costly, so it is important to make smart choices. When you purchase gear for your cub, you must think quality and with an eye to the future. Quality does not have to mean expensive; it means that the gear needs to perform as advertised and needs to be reliable.  Saving a few bucks on a sleeping bag for example, may seem good until your cub tells you it is too hot, or does not provide enough heat or is too bulky to fit in their backpack. Keeping an eye on the future is also important. You know your cub is going to grow and you must keep that in mind when making your purchase. Sleeping bags can be a little bigger so that they can grow into it, their mess kit should be sized to feed them for life not for today, backpacks should be large enough to fit all their gear not just some.  A list of the equipment both required and suggested as well as other tips and tricks to help make your camping experience great, can be found on our website.

Free Tours/ Field Day Events

Our pack strives to have monthly educational tours that for the most part is either free or requires a small fee to participate. The tours/field trips are focused on helping our cubs to gain a better understanding of their environment, to learn, as well as to give back to our community.  In the past, we’ve participated in tours to Channel 10 Local News, Fire Station, Miami International Airport, and to the Air Base, to name a few. We also have been active in giving back to our community by participating in Baynanza and providing community service to the elderly. Our pack is committed to participating in tours that will help enrich our cubs with a great learning experience.

Special Programs

Religious Emblems Program

A Scout is reverent toward God. They are faithful in their religious duties and respect the convictions of others in matters of custom and religion. The religious emblems program provides an opportunity for the cub to earn an award they can wear throughout their scouting career. The religious emblems programs are programs created by the various religious groups to encourage youth to grow stronger in their faith. The religious groups—not Scouting America—have created the religious emblems programs themselves. Scouting America has approved these programs and allows the recognition to be worn on the official uniform, but each religious organization develops and administers its own program. Additional information for most faiths can be found at www.praypub.org.

World Conservation Award

The purpose of this award it to teach the cub to appreciate and preserve their environment. This can usually be accomplished by combining a few electives with many of the pack outdoor activities. Requirements vary by rank.

Leave No Trace

Today, use of designated wilderness areas has increased from 4 million people in 1964, to 7 million people in 1974, to 15 million in 1984, 21 million in 1994, and over 30 million expected users in 2009. That's a 750 percent increase in 30 years! As cities grow and populations encroach upon woodlands and recreation areas, we must do more than just pick up the litter and extinguish campfires. We must learn how to maintain the integrity and character of the outdoors for all living things. Leave No Trace is not simply a program for visiting the backcountry, it is an attitude and a way of life.

Nova Award

This program is one of Scouting’s new and exciting adventure. The word “STEM” focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. This award is only offered to Wolves, Bears, and Webelos Scouts.

Hiking Stick and Medallions

Hikes are open to the whole family and help promote physical fitness and an appreciation of the outdoors. Each hike is approximately 1.5 miles long with a few hikes that may continue for a longer distance. Each cub who participates in at least 3 designated hikes or complete the Old Cutler Hike will earn a Hiking Stick (earned once in their scouting career). Den hikes also count towards this award. In addition to the hiking stick, cubs in pack 850 can also earn a medallion that can be mounted on their hiking stick for their rank based upon participation.

Ranks

ALL SCOUTS: Earn the Bobcat award for each rank first and then complete the remaining requirements.

Kindergarten: Lion Cubs

First Graders: Tiger Cubs

Second Graders: Wolf Cubs

Third Graders: Bear Cubs

Fourth Graders: Webelos

Fifth Graders: Arrow of Light (transition to Boy Scouts in After Webelos Woods)

Lion Cub

·  Kindergarten

·  Bobcat – Character & Leadership

·  Mountain Lion – Outdoors

·  Fun on the Run – Personal Fitness

·  King of the Jungle – Citizenship 

·        Lion’s Roar – Personal Safety

·        Lion’s Pride – Family & Reverence

Tiger Cub

·      First grade

·      Bobcat – Character & Leadership

·      Tigers in the Wild – Outdoors

·      Tiger Bites – Personal Fitness

·      Team Tiger – Citizenship                                                   

·      Tiger’s Roar – Personal Safety

·       Tiger Circles – Family & Reverence

Wolf

·      Second grade

·      Bobcat – Character & Leadership

·      Paws on the Path – Outdoors

·      Running with the Pack – Personal Fitness

·      Council Fire – Citizenship                                                   

·      Safety in Numbers – Personal Safety

·     Footsteps – Family & Reverence

Bear

·       Third grade

·      Bobcat – Character & Leadership

·      Bear Habitat – Outdoors

·      Bear Strong – Personal Fitness

·      Paws for Action – Citizenship                                            

·      Standing Tall – Personal Safety

·      Fellowship – Family & Reverence

WEBELOS (WE’ll BE LOyal Scouts)

·  Fourth grade

·      Bobcat – Character & Leadership

·      Webelos Walkabout – Outdoors

·      Stronger, Faster, Higher – Personal Fitness

·      My Community – Citizenship                                            

·      My Safety – Personal Safety

·      My Family – Family & Reverence

Arrow of Light (AOLs)

·    Fifth grade

·    Bobcat – Character & Leadership

·    Outdoor Adventurer – Outdoors

·     Personal Fitness – Personal Fitness

·     Citizenship – Citizenship

·      First Aid – Personal Safety

·      Duty to God – Family & Reverence

The Arrow of Light badge is the only Cub Scout badge that can be worn on the Scout BSA uniform when a cub bridges into a troop. Adult leaders who earned the Arrow of Light rank when they were young may also show their achievement by wearing a special square knot on their adult uniform.

Advancement

The Cub Scouts Advancement Program is one method of addressing the third aim of scouting: the development of physical, mental and emotional fitness. Fitness includes the body (well-tuned and healthy), the mind (able to think and solve problems), and the emotions (self-control, courage, and self-respect). As in most activities in scouting, this is not meant to be a highly competitive program; instead, the cubs are encouraged to DO THEIR BEST.

The Cub Scout advancement plan outlined in the scout handbooks provides fun and challenging

activities for the cubs, gives them a sense of personal achievement as they earn badges, and strengthens family understanding as adult family members work with cubs on advancement projects. The Scout Handbook will guide you through the requirements and electives available for the cubs to progress through the year.

This should NOT be hard work, it is NOT a competition, and should encourage the cubs to “Do Your Best”. Advancement toward ranks should be a natural progression as the cubs grow and experience life and emphasize learning by doing. For the program to work properly and effectively, please let your cubs do the work – don’t do it for them.

Help your Cub Scout along the advancement trail

The advancement plan is designed for parents to use to create a learning environment in their home. With the cub scout handbook as a resource, parents and cubs work together to complete the achievements required for each badge. The advancement plan provides fun for the cubs, gives them a sense of personal achievement as they earn badges, and strengthens family understanding as adult family members work with cubs on advancement projects.

While Cub Scouts learn skills and begin projects in their den meetings, the parent remains at the center of the advancement program. As each task is done or each skill is demonstrated, the parent signs the cub scout's handbook to record its completion.  It is also important for the cubs to take their handbook to den meetings to allow the Den Leader to see the parent’s sign‐off on the achievements. And when the cub has completed all of the requirements to earn an award, the completion is acknowledged before the entire pack of cubs at the next pack meeting.

A Cub Scout may only be awarded an advancement one time in their cub scout career. 

Cubs Expenses/Finances

The cubs, their parents, the pack, the Chartered Organization, and the community are responsible for supporting cub scouting. Packs obtain income by working on approved money-earning projects such as popcorn sales, car washes, etc. Pack 850 participates in as many fund-raising activities as is necessary to cover the packs required expenses and the members allow. The more funds raised, the easier it is for the pack to meet its financial obligations and to reduce the individual costs of activities for each family.

The Pack expenses include;

·      Re-chartering

·      Packmasterã licensing

·      Rank & Adventure loops

·      Pack trailer registration & maintenance

·      Volunteer training

·      Leader & volunteer recognition awards

·      Pack camping gear and equipment

·      Thanksgiving Feast

·      Christmas celebration

·      Blue & Gold banquet

The Pack treasurer is responsible for all the pack’s funds. All expenditures must be approved by both the treasurer and the committee chairperson. The pack’s financials are available to all members for review and a financial report is given during each committee meeting.

The pack treasurer is also the person to talk to if you need assistance. Pack 850 strives to make scouting accessible to everyone. If you need to set up a payment plan, speak with the treasurer. If you would like to set up a special fundraiser, speak with the treasurer. Any questions or concerns when it comes to monies, speak with the treasurer as soon as you identify the need so that we can best assist.

The pack uses Squareã to invoice members for expenses and to process all its credit card payments. Squareã charges a flat 2.75% fee per transaction. We have set-up the system so that the fee is added to every invoice so that the pack does not have to shoulder the expense.

You can also pay via check, but cash is not accepted.

The Cub expenses include:

·      Annual registration and insurance for cub (Collected by National Council)

·      Annual registration and insurance for adult (Collected by National Council)

·      $75.00 annual dues per cub

·      $100.00-200.00, Uniforms

·      $25.00 Camping, (per person on average)

·      $15.00 Meal Package, (per person for 4 meals at campouts)

·      Special events and outings

You are responsible for staying in good financial standing with the pack. Failure will have negative consequences on your cub’s advancement in the pack and in their ability to participate in campouts and other activities.

Registration/Dues

Registration

Scouting America (SA) application for both adult and youth registration are set by the National Council. Registration fees go to the National Council and are not refundable.

SA requires the parents who participates in the activities and camping be screened.  This helps to ensure the safety of our children and families. You consent to that screening when you sign the adult application.

For Arrow of Light cubs who will cross over to Scouts BSA in March/April, the full annual registration is paid during re-charter and membership is transferred to the scout troop automatically. Scout troops may also have other dues structures for equipment and such that is not part of transferred registration.

Dues

The pack dues are currently $75/Youth for the entire year! The dues are funds used to cover the expense of the advancement awards for your cub and a portion of the trophies and awards given after each competition. Dues fees are not refundable 

Training

A good pack is one with trained leaders, parents, and youth. The following are the key training courses that parents should participate in:

·      Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT)

·      BALOO – Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation

·      Hazardous Weather

Once you’ve decided to be a leader you will be required to take additional training:

·      Leader Specific Training

·      Cub Scout Fast Start

·      Program Safety

·      Leave No Trace

Rules

To be sure everyone is safe, we have established a core set of rules that each cub, sibling, and parent must follow. Some are based upon SA regulations for cub safety, others are meant to ensure respect to our Chartered Organization, and the rest are simply common sense and good manners that we expect from your scouts.

1.     A parent or guardian must be present at all times with the cubs so this means;

a.     All scouts must be escorted to and from the Den’s meeting place (room). There will be no dropping off or picking up in front of the building. This is a safety rule and will be closely enforced. Also, please be prompt to the meeting.

2.     Respect the meeting place and follow the “Leave No Trace” guidelines. Cubs should not use the equipment (toys/school’s supplies, etc.) or other items in the meeting place unless authorized by the Den leader. Every cub will work with the other cubs in their Den to leave the meeting place as clean as, or cleaner than, how it was found.

3.     Cubs must always implement the buddy system. Cubs must remain in their meeting place for the duration of the meeting. The only reason a cub should leave the room is for an "emergency" trip to the restroom - and that should be with a buddy.

4.     Do not send a cub back in to get something while you wait in the car.

5.     Do not leave the cub unattended in the car while you run back in to get something.

6.     Do not stop to talk and allow your cub to walk down the hall and out to the car.

7.     Follow the pack’s electronics policy (Available on the pack website).

Code of Conduct

·      Be on time.

·      Wear the uniform properly, as shown in the Scout handbook.

·      When the Scout Sign is up, only adult leaders speak.

·      Follow Akela's instructions and help others to follow them.

·      Take pride in yourself, your pack, your community and your country.

·      Cubs should behave with reverence while in the building.

·      No foul language

·      Respect each other

Policies & Procedures

The pack also has a set of policies & procedures to address specific use cases. They can be found on the pack website.

Discipline Process

Being a Cub Scout is a privilege, not a right. Pack discipline is meant to ensure the safety and best interest of all our Cub Scouts. Discipline at pack and den events is at the discretion of the Scout leaders in accordance with the following guidelines:

·      Failure to obey a rule will result in the following action:

-First warning: A verbal instruction

-Second warning: A time-out or removal from an activity. In the case of dangerous behavior, a den leader may choose to proceed directly to third warning.

-Third warning: Parents will be asked to remove their cub for the remainder of the activity.

·      In the case of repetitive behavior, den leaders may require parents to participate more directly with their cub during den functions.

·      Den leaders have the right to exclude a cub from their den for reasons of continuing misconduct. The situation will be reviewed by the Pack Committee and the Cub Scout's parents.

In extreme cases the cub may be dismissed from the pack.

·      Siblings are welcomed at many Pack 850 functions, but parents are responsible for their conduct