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Like any extracurricular program, participation in our Troop comes at a cost.
In Cub Scouts, the cost of your Scout's activities were primarily covered by annual dues and the Pack's fundraising efforts. In the Troop, costs are managed on an individual Scout level. An active Scout can expect to spend close to $1,000 a year in dues, summer camp registration, and participation in our monthly Troop events / campouts. (This does not include the periodic costs of uniforms, camping gear, or special campouts like our expedition to the BSA’s Sea Base in 2024.) These costs are covered through fundraising and by the Scout’s family.
TROOPTRACK SCOUT ACCOUNTS:
A "Scout Account" with a $0 balance was automatically created when your Scout was added to TroopTrack. As you or your Scout participate in Troop events, the cost of that event is deducted from the Scout's account in TroopTrack.
Families can add funds to their Scout's account at any time by writing a check to Scouts BSA Troop 457 and providing that check to an adult leader. (Options to pay via credit card are also available. Contact our Treasurer, Mr. Byers, for more information). We encourage our Scouts to have a positive balance in their accounts so the Troop does not have to float costs, but we recognize that isn't always feasible.
Families will be alerted whenever their Scout's account is negative.
FUNDRAISERS:
The Troop typically runs two (and a half) fundraisers each year to help fund the Troop's activities:
- Hanging Basket Sale: In the Spring, Scouts have the opportunity to sell tickets redeemable for a 10 inch hanging basket (or similar priced, non-bulk item) from Mussigs' Greenhouse in Zelienople. The money raised (less the cost to Mussigs') is credited directly to the Scout's money account.
- Chicken BBQ: Each fall, the Troop holds a Chicken BBQ in Four Corners park. The money raised at this event goes into the Troop's general fund which is used to cover the cost of purchasing advancement awards, equipment expenses, and floating Scout accounts that have negative balances.
- Trails End Popcorn Sale: This is our "half" a fundraiser; the Troop doesn't push participation in the popcorn sale, but Scouts who would like to earn more funds for their Scout Accounts can also sell popcorn online or in person during the Council's popcorn fundraiser.
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:
Our Troop leadership believes every youth should have the opportunity to participate in our program. Families should never feel their Scout has to skip an activity or campout because they can't afford to participate. The Troop has established a scholarship program to cover these costs for those who need it.
Learn more about the Scholarship program, how to leverage it, or how to pledge your support on the Troop website (coming soon). |
