What are the requirements to join Cub Scouts?

Tiger Cubs must be entering first grade or age 7, Wolf and Bear Scouts must be entering second or third grade, or age 8 or 9, and Webelos Scouts I and II must be entering fourth or fifth grade, or age 10.

What does Cub Scouting offer my son?

Cub Scouting offers fun and challenging activities that promote character development and physical fitness. Service projects, special events, games, and other activities guide boys through the core values and give them a sense of personal achievement. Through positive peer group interaction and parental guidance, boys also learn honesty, bravery, and respect.

How does participation in Cub Scouting affect participation other activities?

The Cub Scout program is designed to compliment many other extracurricular activities. Typical time commitment is 1 to 2 Den (grade specific) meetings per month and one Pack meeting per month, usually mid-month on a Wednesday night. There are also other optional events and activities, see below. Boys who participate in organized sports like soccer, baseball, basketball, swimming, gymnastics, etc, or academic-based extracurricular activities like music, art, science etc., can be recognized for these activities though Cub Scout belt loops and pins which are worn on their uniform.

What are the responsibilities of a parent?

·         Provide help and support for their Den and Pack by volunteering.

·         Work with your son on advancement projects and activities.

·         Attend Pack and Den meetings and outings with your son.

·         Attend Cub Scout campouts with your son.

Do Cub Scouts go camping? 

Yes, but they ease into it.  All grades are invited to cabin camp.  Tent camping may be required for 4th and 5th graders to earn certain achievements.  They may go camping with a parent, or even with the entire family. More on Cub Scout camping can be found at http://www.scouting.org/cubscouts/activities/outdoor/camping.y.html

What other activities are available to Cub Scouts and their families?

Pack 1703 is very active, providing a rich environment for boys and their families. Typical annual events include:

• Rocket Launch Weekend 
• A weekend at D-Bar-A Scout Ranch
• Parent-Son Weekend
• Fall Halloween Party
• Fall Corn Maze and Hay Ride                                                                                  
• Scouting for Food
• Holiday Party
• Blue & Gold Banquet
• Pinewood Derby
• Rocket Derby
• Fish-o-ree (ice fishing)
• Spring Campout
• Rain Gutter Regatta
• Mad Science
• Laser Tag
• Freestyle Fun in the Park! event 
• Popcorn and wreath sales
• Charitable activities 
• Service projects
• and more!

How much is it going to cost?

In addition to the one time Enrollment Fee of $25.00 per application, the Annual Dues help cover such items as Pack Meeting costs, most Den Meeting costs, Space Derby rocket kits, Raingutter Regatta boats, Pinewood Derby kits, and all patches and awards for the school year. A Cub Scout can "earn" part or all of the annual dues through popcorn and wreath fundraising sales.  Other costs include uniforms (about $60.00) and some "pay to play" activity and event fees.  There may be additional costs for Parents attending certain special events such as camping and overnighters.  The annual dues not only change each year but are dependent on each family's fundraising activities.  Generally, without fundraising, annual dues work out to about $20.00 per month for the school year, payable in November.  With moderate fundraising, the dues can be as low as $10.00 per month. With a high level of fundraising, a family may have no dues to pay.

How often are the meetings?

Cub Scouts usually meet in their Dens once each month, and a Pack meeting is held for all Cub Scouts and their families once a month. Beyond that, it depends on the Den and Pack: a Den may hold a special activity, such as a service project or visit to a local museum in place of one of the weekly meetings or in addition to the weekly meetings. Likewise, the Pack may conduct a special event such as a rocket launch, campout, or service activity as an additional event.

How can I learn more?

The best way to learn about what a Cub Scout really does is to talk with a Cub Scout who is engaged in the program. Alternatively, you can learn more about the Cub Scout program by clicking on the Contact Our Pack link above and asking questions, or leave your phone number to receive a call from the Cubmaster.

How can I save money on the cost of uniforms?

The best way to save money is to ask existing Cub Scout parents to donate the son's prior uniform items.  You will likely have to purchase a shirt, but hats, slides, neckerchiefs can all be passed along from Cub Scout to Cub Scout.  Once you join the Pack, use the e-mail broadcast system on the website to ask other families for their old items.