5. If a commercial product is to be sold, will it be sold on its own merits and without reference to the needs of Scouting?
All commercial products must sell on their own merits, not the benefit received by the Boy Scouts. The principle of value received is critical in choosing what to sell.
6. If a commercial product is to be sold, will the fund-raising activity comply with BSA policy on wearing the uniform?
The official uniform is intended to be worn primarily for use in connection with Scouting activities. However, council executive boards may approve use of the uniform for any fund-raising activity. Typically, council popcorn sales or Scout show ticket sales are approved uniform fund-raisers.
7. Will the fund-raising project avoid soliciting money or gifts?
The BSA Rules and Regulations state, “Youth members shall not be permitted to serve as solicitors of money for their chartered organizations, for the local council, or in support of other organizations. Adult and youth members shall not be permitted to serve as solicitors of money in support of personal or unit participation in local, national, or international events.”
For example: Boy Scouts/Cub Scouts and leaders should not identify themselves as Boy Scouts/Cub Scouts or as a troop/pack participate in The Salvation Army’s Christmas Bell Ringing program. This would be raising money for another organization. At no time are units permitted to solicit contributions for unit programs.
8. Does the fund-raising activity avoid competition with other units, your chartered organization, your local council, and the United Way?
Check with your chartered organization representative and your district executive to make certain that your chartered organization and the council agree on the dates and type of fund-raiser.