Handbook

Handbook & By-Laws

 

  

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

GREAT TRAIL COUNCIL

AMERICAN LEGION POST 281

CUYAHOGA FALLS, OHIO

 

 “A Cub Scout Adventure in Excellence;

Where Each Scout Is Encouraged To Rise Above and Beyond”


 

Dear Scouts and Parents,

 

Welcome to Pack 3161!  We were first chartered in 1941 with excellence in mind. Today, after 65 years we are considered a premiere pack in our district.

 

Boys joining Pack 3161 become members of the greatest boy movement in the world that began in 1910.  Our Pack upholds the mission of the Boy Scouts of America - which is to prepare young people to make ethical choices over their lifetime by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.

 

We are a traditional Pack that lives by faith based principles and actions.  We teach patriotism, responsibility, and self-discipline.  We teach duty to God and country. We also live by the three Aims of scouting: To Build Character, To Foster Citizenship and To Develop Fitness.  These are more than just words, these Aims are our guides. We have also instituted an “Above and Beyond Award” where excellence is recognized and rewarded. 

 

Our Pack offers a full year Scouting program where a boy can learn scouting skills and have a good time. We have group activities, off site meetings and provide community service to our Charting Organization.  We have two “family” Campouts a year, where parents are encouraged to attend so they too can grow with their scout. These campouts are at CampManatoc and are in the fall (October) and spring (April).  On these outings, we learn many skills that will last a lifetime. Best of all, we share fellowship and friendship.

 

Adult leaders act as coaches in Pack 3161. They help scouts develop their social and leadership skills. Adult leaders and parents are present at every pack function to ensure that activities are properly run and supervised.  We encourage and expect parents to participate in all scouting functions to assist the leaders and help all the scouts “do their best”.

 

Pack 3161 has high standards for leaders and scouts.  These standards are reflected in this Pack Handbook and I encourage you to read it thoroughly as we strive to help our boys be young men of integrity.

 

Yours in Scouting,

 

Stan

 

Charter Organizational Representative/Committee Chair


 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

MISSION

4

ADVANCEMENT

11

Advancement Program

11

BACKGROUND

4

The Program

4

UNIFORMS

12

Purposes

4

Class A Uniforms for Cub Scouts

12

What is Cub Scouting?

4

Class B Uniforms for Cub Scouts

12

Who Operates a Cub Scout Pack?

5

Uniforms for Leaders

12

Meetings

5

Outdoor Program

5

DEN REQUIREMENTS

13

Activities and Sports

5

Dens

13

Den Policies

13

MEMBERSHIP

6

How to Join

6

ACTIVITIES

13

Pack Activities

13

FINANCES

6

District Activities

14

Who Pays?

6

Council Activities

14

Pack Registration

6

Den Outings/Field Trips

14

Pack Registration Fees & Den Dues

7

Camping Rules

14

Fundraising

8

Grass Cutting

8

DISCIPLINE

15

Pack 3161 Code of Conduct

15

ADULT LEADERSHIP

8

Behavior Rules

17

What is Leadership?

8

Disciplinary Action

17

How are Leaders Selected?

8

Training

9

PACK COMMITTEE

17

Leadership Responsibilities

9

Pack Committee

17

Pack Responsibilities

9

Pack Committee Meetings

18

Annual Planning Meeting

18

PARENTS PART IN SCOUTING

9

Organizational Chart

19

Parent Responsibilities

9

General Requirements

10

GOVERNANCE

20

Changes To The By-Laws

20

RANK CRITERIA

10

Tiger Cubs

10

Bobcat

11

Wolf

11

Bear

11

Webelos

11

 


 

MISSION

 

As a parent today, we cannot help being concerned about the many influences and situations that our sons could become involved in without our guidance and direction.  Cub Scouting is a program designed to develop positive attitudes and character, while it captures the boy’s interest in the use of crafts, games, skits, and other activities.  The mission of Pack 3161 is “A Cub Scout Adventure In Excellence; Where Each Scout Is Encouraged To Rise Above And Beyond”.  We do this by providing a positive atmosphere where the Scouts can grow and develop.  Our ultimate objectives are citizenship training, character development, and personal fitness.  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 boys 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! Cub Scout Pack 3161 operates under the rules and policies as set forth by the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) Charter and by-laws and the Pack by-laws provided herein.  BSA rules and policies will take precedence over all policies set forth in these Pack by-laws.  The Pack Committee is solely responsible for adopting, amending, and interpreting these Pack by-laws.

 

BACKGROUND

 

The Program

 

In 1930, the Boy Scouts of America created a new opportunity called Cub Scouting for boys younger than Boy Scout age.  A year-round, home-centered program used by chartered organizations, Cub Scouting emphasizes involvement between boys and their Parents, adult leaders, and friends.  In the multidimensional plan of the Boy Scouts of America, Cub Scouting is where it all begins.  Currently, it is the largest of the organization’s three membership divisions. (The others are Boy Scouting and Exploring.)

 

The Cub Scout colors are blue and gold.  Blue signifies the sky, truth, spirituality, and loyalty. Gold stands for warm sunlight, good cheer, and happiness.  Together they symbolize what Cub Scouting is all about.

 

Purposes

 

Cub Scouting has the following purposes:

  • Influence a boy’s character development and spiritual growth
  • Develop habits and attitudes of good citizenship
  • Encourage good sportsmanship and pride in growing strong in mind and body
  • Improve understanding within the family
  • Strengthen a boy’s ability to get along with others
  • Foster a sense of personal achievement by developing new interests and skills
  • Provide fun and exciting new things to do
  • Show a boy how to be helpful and do his best
  • Prepare him to be a Boy Scout

 

What is Cub Scouting?

 

Boys in the first through fifth grades (or ages 7, 8, 9, or 10) may join a Cub Scout Pack and be assigned to a Den.  Tiger Cub Dens are for 1st graders, Wolf Dens are 2nd graders, Bear Dens are for 3rd Graders, Webelos1 Patrols (Dens) are for 4th graders and Webelos 2 Patrols (Dens) are for 5th graders. Each den/patrol meets three times per month during the school year. 

 

Once a month, all of the Dens and family members gather for a Pack Meeting under the direction of a Cubmaster and Pack Committee. The Committee includes Parents of boys in the Pack and members of the Chartered Organization.

 

Who Operates a Cub Scout Pack?

 

Like other phases of the Scouting program, Cub Scouting is made available to groups having similar interests and goals, which include professional organizations, and religious, educational, civic, fraternal, business, labor, and citizens’ groups.  These "sponsors" are called Chartered Organizations.  Each Organization appoints one of its members as a Chartered Organization Representative.  The Organization, through the Committee, is responsible for leadership, the meeting place, and related materials for Pack Activities.  The Chartered Organization for Cub Scout Pack 3161 is The American Legion Charles Faust Post 281 in Cuyahoga FallsOhio.

 

Meetings

 

At Den Meetings, a Cub Scout participates in an activity the Den Leader has prepared.  Perhaps it is a project or a stunt for the next Pack Meeting.  During the week, with his parents’ help, he might work on an achievement or elective and his parent may sign his Cub Scout book. In this way, Cub Scouting helps to strengthen family ties. 

 

Pack meetings, attended by boys and their families; give parents a chance to see their sons in action. Most Pack Meetings are divided into two parts. The first is formal opening, followed announcements, and the awarding of badges earned by the boys since the last Pack Meeting. The second part is informal where boys and parents may view exhibits or participate in gathering-time activities and refreshments.

 

Outdoor Program

 

Adventuresome outdoor programs are encouraged for Cub Scouts. These include Den field trips, picnics, outings, day camping, and resident camping.  Because Cub Scouting is home-centered, family camping is also emphasized.  Webelos Scouts are encouraged to go on overnight experiences and to conduct occasional joint outdoor activities with a Boy Scout troop.  Our District (MOECOMDWS) conducts Cub Scout Day Camps and Webelos Resident Camp and provides experiences for Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts.  We encourage all of our Webelos to explore their next step to Boy Scouts with one of our affiliated Troops 152, 154, 171 and 182 in our Community.

 

Activities and Sports 

 

Team sports and other events occur within the Pack and on an inter-pack level.  Among the activities that have become favorites are Cub Scout shows, safe bicycle riding, projects, Pinewood Derby, Rocket Derby, Rain Gutter Regatta, and other Cub Scout activities.

 

Cub Scouts are encouraged to be physically fit through the Cub Scout Sports Program, which offers twenty-one different sports.  The Cub Scout Sports Program also affords the Scout additional opportunities to be recognized for their work by awarding Sport Belt Loops, Pins and Letters.

 

MEMBERSHIP

 

How to Join

 

Boys join Cub Scouting to have FUN - to be with their friends and to have a good time.  They are not yet concerned with learning about values, or about making ethical decisions, or about becoming good citizens.  However, boys’ ideas of "having fun" do include more than just having a good time.  For them, fun also means feeling accepted, finding out they can do things that are challenging, and feeling good about themselves.  Showing up for meetings and activities is their half of Scouting.

 

Registration is the key to getting boys into Cub Scouting. The following are the procedures for joining Pack 3161:

  1. A Den Leader, or any adult leader, upon notification of intent by a prospective Cub Scout wanting to join Pack 3161 will: Encourage the boy and his parents to attend a Den or Pack meeting (whichever is applicable) to assist the family in making an educated decision on membership.
  2. At this point, it is the responsibility of the Membership Chair/Cubmaster:
  3. The Membership Chair/Cubmaster:
    1. Contact the parents to discuss the Cub Scout program, parent support and the needs of the Cub Scout.
    2. Provide a BSA Application.
    3. After the return of the completed Pack Application, direct the parent to the Treasurer to collect required registration fees.
    4. Turn in the completed BSA Application to the Cubmaster for their signature.
  4. The Pack Committee Chair will:

a.     Assign the boy to a Den and notify the Den Leader.

b.     Turn in the application and council fees

 

At the beginning of the school year, our Pack will conduct a “school night to join scouting".  This event is the opportunity for boys to enroll into Cub Scouting one evening.  This is a mass-registration event; therefore, the above registration guidelines do not apply. The "school night to join scouting” program has its own agenda and goals.

 

FINANCES

 

Who Pays?

 

Groups responsible for supporting Cub Scouting are the boys and their parents, the Pack, the Chartered Organizations, and the community.  Packs also obtain income by working on approved money-earning projects. Included are membership enrollment, bequests, and special contributions to the BSA local council.  This provides leadership training, outdoor programs, council service centers, and other facilities, as well as professional service for units.

 

Pack Registration

 

Pack registration is subject to change on an annual basis depending on the condition of the Pack’s Treasury.  Pack 3161 registration will be sufficient to cover the following:

 

  • BSA Recharter fees for scouts
  • Boy’s Life Subscription
  • Pack Cabin/Camping Rentals
  • Pack Equipment
  • Pack Event Patches
  • Rank Awards
  • Pack Sports and Academic Belt Loops
  • Other Special Pack Awards and Patches
  • Pinewood Derby Car Kit

 

Subscription to Boy’s Life Magazine is mandatory at Pack 3161.  Boy’s Life Magazine gives the Scout motivation and desire to continue in Scouting.

 

Pack registration is paid at initial registration into Pack 3161 for all new Scouts.  It is prorated upon the month of enrollment.  Pack registrations for returning Scouts will be collected in January.

 

Pack registration fees and dues are not refundable or transferable. 

 

Pack Registration Fees & Den Dues

 

The cost for membership in Pack 3161 is $55 per “scout” year (March 1st through the end of February).  This cost includes registration, pack dues, den neckerchief and slide, Cub Scout Handbook, most patches, awards/advancements, and Boys Life.  The fees are due at the end of January before the annual “Pinewood Derby” or the scout is ineligible to participate in this event. The pack re-charters with Great Trail Council at this time also.

 

A break down of how Pack dues are used per each Scout is as follows:

Registration and Magazine                 $22.00

Book, Slide, Scarf and Patches`        $21.00

Yearly advancements                         $10.00

PinewoodDerby                                 $  7.00

Spring and Fall Cabin Fees                $  6.00

Pack Snack and supplies                   $  5.00

Blue and Gold Banquet                       $  8.00

Pack Awards                                       $  5.00

Total                $84.00

 

 

Pack 3161 does not charge monthly dues, but collects dues once a year.  Den dues are $15/year and collected at the start of each new school year. This is distributed to the den leaders to help offset the cost of den supplies.  The leader will keep records for their den that can be audited by the Committee.

 

New members to Scouting are asked to pay a prorated amount.  For example, those joining in September will pay $27.50 (for registration, magazine and Pack dues) plus $15 for Den dues when they fill out the BSA registration form.


 

Fundraising

  

The Pack and the Pack Program cannot run without fundraising.  Our main fundraiser is the scout popcorn sale.  Scouts and adults alike are expected to participate in fundraising events of the Pack.  The profits of fundraising will go to the Pack fund and will be used to maintain the Pack.  The purchase of awards and materials and assists with Pack activities is the primary use of the fund.  The Pack fund is used to pay registration at re-charter and to pay for registration and training of adult leaders.  The Pack Fund is there for the general upkeep and to support Pack activities such as Pack Meeting refreshments, Camp, etc.

 

There are incentives for parents/scouts to participate in the popcorn fundraiser:

·        If a family sells (and collects) $500 or more of popcorn, the next years’ Pack dues are FREE. 

·        If a family sells (and collects) $350 to $499 of popcorn, the family will receive a 25% discount on the next years’ Pack dues.

·        Since this fundraiser is done in the fall, Webelos 2 scouts continuing in Scouting will still receive the same benefits for these levels of sales. Pack 3161 will pay $55 or $13.75 (25% of $55) toward membership in a scout troop of their choice.

 

Grass Cutting:

 

Along with the popcorn fundraiser, Pack 3161 takes care of the grass cutting at our Chartering Organization American Legion Post 281.  For this community service, the American Legion provides a generous donation to our general fund.  We require each family to assist in this twice a year.  This schedule will be organized by the Service Project Coordinator and approved by the Committee.

 

Along with this, we have five (5) Pack Cleanups at the American Legion Post 281.

·        In April

·        Weekend of Memorial Day

·        Weekend of Independence Day

·        Weekend of Labor Day

·        In November

 

These are not required but strongly recommended. This is our duty to our community and charter organization.  As incentive, we offer camp credits and scouts can earn the Good Turn for America patch.

 

ADULT LEADERSHIP

 

What Is Leadership?

 

In Cub Scouting, leadership is working with boys and their families, improving the life of your community by enriching the lives of the families who live in it.  Leaders help boys respect their homes and families, and they also help families understand their boys by doing things with them.

 

How are Leaders Selected?

 

Adults wanting to volunteer to be Pack 3161 Scouters/Leaders, either as Pack Committee Members, or as Leaders working directly with the Dens, must go through an interview with the Committee Chair and Membership Selection Team.  After the interview, the prospective “Scouter” may be offered a position on the Pack 3161 Leadership Team as a Registered Leader depending on the positions available.  Once accepted by the committee, the potential Leader MUST fill out an Adult Registration Application and go through a background check.  The Pack Committee Chair, Chartered Organization Representative and District Scout Executive must approve this application.

 

Training

 

All persons volunteering for leadership positions, e.g.; Den Leader, Assistant Den Leader, Cubmaster, Assistant Cubmaster, etc., must attend the following minimum training:

  • On-Line “Youth Protection Training” (within two weeks of approved application)
  • On-Line “Fast Start Position Specific” (within two weeks of approved application)
  • Position Specific Leader training (within six months of approved application)

 

Adult Leaders are strongly encouraged to attend training sessions and workshops in order to maintain and improve the quality of leadership for the Pack.  These sessions and workshops include Fast Start Training, Basic Leader Training, Pow-Wows, Pack Leader’s Meetings and monthly Roundtable Training meetings.

 

Leadership Responsibilities

 

All leaders within Pack 3161 are responsible for ensuring they portray the best role-model possible for each Cub Scout.  In addition, all leaders will ensure every opportunity is afforded to provide each Cub Scout with activities that promote the Cub Scout Promise, the Law of the Pack, and the Cub Scout Motto.

 

Pack Responsibilities

 

Pack 3161 is responsible for providing the necessary recognition and awards to each Cub Scout aslevel towards rank, and rank achievement is accomplished.  The Pack will also provide trophies and/or other rewards as necessary for special activities, e.g., Pinewood Derby.

 

 

PARENTS PART IN SCOUTING  

 

Parent Responsibilities

 

Our pack leaders consist of volunteers who give of their time and energy to uphold the high standards of Pack 3161.  Although we are rich in leadership, we do expect help from parents to participate in meetings and provide transportation to and from events.  It is also necessary for parents to be present when scouts receive advancements in rank and other awards at the Pack meetings.  The Scouts work hard to achieve their awards and it is important that their parents show an interest in their progress and accomplishments.

                                                   

When parents entrust their child to the supervision of the Pack leadership, they are doing so with the understanding that the adult leader will monitor and care for their child as if he was there own.  Along with this trust is a certain expectation that the leader will take appropriate action to ensure the safety, well-being and personal growth of their child. Those actions may include, but are not limited to:  Taking an item of contention or camping device away from the scout, assigning tasks as discipline and limiting a scout from certain activities.

 

Parents of Cub Scouts are responsible for ensuring their son has the required uniform to wear for scout activities.  Parents are also responsible for ensuring the uniform is maintained in good condition and for sewing on new patches as they are awarded. Parents are further responsible for ensuring their son attends den meetings, pack meetings, and other scout activities.

 

If a parent would like to participate in a leadership capacity, he or she should speak to the Committee Chair to let them know.  Adult leadership requires a commitment of time and training.  This is a privilege not a right.

 

General Requirements 

                                    

By signing up their son into Pack 3161, parents agree to do their best to: 

  • Ensure their scout is in proper uniform or attire.
  • Help when needed by the Pack. 
  • Attend and assist as requested in at least one (1) Cub Scout function, not including Pack Meetings, per year. 
  • Have the family represented by, at the least, one (1) Parent at every Pack Meeting. 
  • Bring the entire family to Pack Meetings, when possible (responsibility of control of Cub Scout’s siblings resides with the parents). 
  • Assist at the Pack Meetings by showing the proper courtesy to our Scouts by maintaining quiet. 

·       Actively participate in Den and Pack activities, to include fund raising. 

  • Help the Pack achieve the goals set each year. 
  • Assist Den Leader(s) when called upon. 
  • Before leaving the area for leave, vacation or leave of absence, send notice to their son’s Den Leader stating the dates he will be absent from the area.
  • See that the Scout has the opportunity to earn his Den Dues and that he meets this obligation regularly. 
  • Sign off on achievements and electives when the requirements have been completed. 
  • Remind the Scout to bring all necessary items to Den Meetings, to include his Cub Scout book.

·        Keeping the health form on file up-to-date and current.

  • If the family is to move, provide the pack with updated address and phone number or any other contact information. 

·        If the family is to move out of the area, notify the Cubmaster and Den Leader in advance in order to get transfer of registration and verification of rank advancement for presentation to the new Unit Leader at the new location. 

 

RANK CRITERIA

 

Tiger Cubs

 

Tiger Cub Dens are made up of first-grade (or age 7 boys) and their adult partners.  There are five Tiger Cub achievements areas.  The Tiger Cub, working with his adult partner, completes fifteen (15) requirements within these areas to earn the Tiger Cub badge.  These requirements consist of an exciting series of indoor and outdoor activities just right for a boy in the first grade.  Adult partners are required to attend all meetings and activities with a Tiger Cub.

 

Bobcat

 

The Bobcat rank is for all boys who join Cub Scouting. He will learn eight (8) Bobcat requirements: learning the Cub Scout Promise, Law of the Pack, handshake, salute, sign, motto, and the meaning of Webelos.  The Bobcat badge must be earned before a boy, no matter when he enters the Cub Scout program, begins work on their age appropriate badge (Wolf, Bear, or Webelos)

 

Wolf

 

The Wolf program is for boys who have completed second grade (or is 8 years old).  To earn the Wolf badge, a boy must pass twelve (12) achievements involving simple physical and mental skills.

 

Upon completion of the achievements, he is awarded the Wolf badge, and may continue to work on Wolf electives in twenty-two (22) different areas.  When a boy completes ten (10) electives he receives a Gold Arrow Point.  For each additional ten (10) electives he receives a Silver Arrow Point.

 

Bear

 

The Bear rank is for boys who have completed the second grade (or is 9 years old).  There are twenty-four (24) achievements in four categories.  The Cub Scout must complete twelve (12) of these to earn the Bear badge.  These requirements are somewhat more difficult and challenging than those for Wolf rank.

 

After achieving the Bear badge, a boy may concentrate on twenty-four (24) Bear elective areas until he becomes a Webelos Scout.  Gold and Silver Arrow Points are also awarded for these electives.

 

Webelos

 

This program is for boys who have completed third grade (or are age 10). A boy may begin working on the Webelos badge as soon as he joins a Webelos den.  This is the first step in his transition from the Webelos den to the Boy Scout troop.  As he complete the requirements found in the Webelos Handbook, he will work on activity badges, attend meetings led by adults and become familiar with the Boy Scout requirements – all leading to the Arrow of Light Award.  After receiving the Webelos rank, he is eligible to become a Boy Scout, or he may join a troop at age 11 (or when he completes the fifth grade). 

 

 

ADVANCEMENT

 

Advancement Program

 

Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts have a plan of advancement for each boy that emphasizes learning by doing.  The boy works on requirements based on his school grade or age.  It is these advancement programs that help keep the Scouts and parents motivated to continue in Scouting.

 

 

Pack 3161 understands the importance of advancement.  Part of each boy’s Pack dues is used to purchase the advancements and awards that the Scouts earn.  In order to be eligible to receive an award, the Scout must be current on all dues.  All rank, religious, belt loops and other special awards will be presented at Pack Meetings.  One (1) parent, at a minimum, is recommended to be present for the presentation of a rank advancement.  Scouts are highly required to wear uniforms for award presentations

 

  • All advancements completed at District and/or Council events, including Summer Day Camp and Resident Summer Camps will be accepted by the Pack for disbursement.  The Scout must provide written proof from the event that the advancement requirements were met.  However, Den Leaders may repeat an advancement requirement with his or her den at their discretion. 

 

UNIFORMS

 

“Class A” Uniforms for Cub Scouts

 

Class “A” uniforms are required at Pack and Den meetings. Scouts must be in full Class A uniform at Pack meetings to receive achievements.  Certain events may also require Class A uniform and you will be notified by your leader.  Pack 3161 requires the following Class A uniform for all Scouts:

  • Tiger Cub and Cub Scouts (Tigers, Wolf and Bear) wear the official uniform blue shirt, Tiger, Wolf or Bear neckerchief and slide, hat and the Cub Scout belt.
  • Webelos may wear the official blue uniform shirt or the official khaki uniform shirt with blue shoulder loops, the Webelos hat, neckerchief and slide and the belt to match the uniform.
  • All boys may wear either blue jeans or dark blue pants.  Webelos wearing the khaki uniform may wear blue jeans or olive pants. NO SWEATPANTS, RUNNING OUTFITS, CAMO’S, ETC.  Pants may be substituted with shorts of the same colors.
  • All shirts will have the Great Trail Council patch, Pack 3161 numerals, WOSM Patch and Den Numeral.
    • Webelos dens will substitute the den numeral with a patrol patch.

 

“Class B” Uniforms for Cub Scouts

 

Class “B” uniforms are required at all “working” and Camp events. Pack 3161 requires the following uniform for all Scouts:

  • All scouts: Official Pack 3161 blue tee shirt.  (Provided by the Pack)
  • All boys may wear either blue jeans or dark blue pants. NO SWEATPANTS, RUNNING OUTFITS, CAMO’S, ETC.  Pants may be substituted with shorts of the same colors.

 

Uniforms for Leaders

 

Leaders will have same uniform requirements as scouts.

 


 

DEN REQUIREMENTS

 

Dens

 

Pack 3161 shall consist of as many Dens as needed, provided that there is a sufficient amount of adult leadership.  It is recommended that Dens be comprised of eight (8) Scouts, with a maximum of ten (10).  The Den Leader holds the final decision on the number of boys placed in his/her Den. The Den Leader may limit the number of boys in the Den to less than eight (8) or accept more than ten (10) with Cubmaster and Committee Chair approval.  When additional Dens are needed, the Cubmaster will consult with the Pack Committee for assistance in recruiting additional leadership.

 

In the event that a Scout has the desire to change Dens, the Pack Committee must have a written request from the parents indicating the reason for the transfer and which Den the Scout would like to go into.  This may be done one (1) time only.  The Pack Committee, Cubmaster, gaining Den Leader and losing Den Leader, must approve transfers.  The Den Leader may request having a boy transferred from his/her Den. The Scout will not be transferred without a meeting with the parents and the other Den Leader.  The gaining Den Leader must agree to the transfer to his/her Den.  This may be an alternative to suspension.  The Cubmaster and Pack Committee Chair must approve any and all transfers.

 

Den Policies 

 

Dens meetings should be one (1) hour in length.  The Den Leader shall determine the place, day and time of meetings. Pack 3161 follows all of the BSA regulations including "two-deep leadership" policy.  It is required that at least one (1) Registered Leader and a second adult to be present at all Den Meetings and/or activities. 

 

ACTIVITIES

 

Pack Activities 

 

Pack Activities include, but are not limited to: 

• Pack Pinewood Derby

• Blue and Gold Banquet

• Family Campouts

• Fundraising

• Parades

• Assisting Charter Organization with Community service projects

 

The Pack will plan to do at least one activity each quarter.  This activity may be a trip, Family Camp, or day trip.   During the summer months (June, July and August), Pack 3161 will not have formal Pack Meetings. These summer months may have activities/events, which help the Scout earn the Summertime Activities Award. Scout’s Summertime Activity Awards are earned by having the Scout attend all three of the Summertime Activities planned for that summer. Events can include family picnic, field trips to local points of interest, district camping event, sporting participation events, and fishing derby. 

 


 

District Activities 

 

District Activities include, but are not limited to: 

• District Pinewood Derby

• District Fishing Derby

• Summer Day Camp

• Cub Bowling

• Community service events

                   

Council Activities 

Council Activities include, but are not limited to: 

• Scouting for Food

• Goodwill/Good turn

• Summer Camp

 

These events help the Pack stay active in the community and also help us provide "Good Turns" to our neighborhoods. 

 

Den Outings/Field Trips

 

All BSA Policies Will Be Followed In The Current “Guide To Safe Scouting”.

 

Den Leaders will request permission from the parent, for all Den outings/field trips when the parent(s) will not be present.  In addition, the Den Leader must obtain a Class 1 BSA Health Form for each boy in his Den.  The Den Leader is required to have these forms on their person at every outing or field trip regardless if the boy’s parent is present at the event.

 

Each Scout, on returning to the area from an outing, MUST be met by the parent, or pre-determined person before he is released by the Den Leader or Leader in charge of the outing.  If the parent is not meeting the Scout, then written permission should be provided to the Den Leader or Leader in charge to release the child to another adult.  The Scout’s parent is responsible for making all arrangements for meeting their child.  Should the parent or pre-determined person not come to claim the Scout, it is the Leader’s responsibility to deliver the Scout to his parents.  

 

Camping Rules

 

All BSA Policies Will Be Followed In The Current “Guide To Safe Scouting”.

 

The Boy Scouts of America has established the following guidelines for its members' participation in camping activities:

  • Cub Scout Camping will be restricted to Council activity and Family Camping as a pack.
  • Webelos Scouts (fourth and fifth graders) may participate in a resident overnight camping program covering at least two nights and operating under certified leadership in an established Scout camp operated by the council during the normal camping season.
  • It is essential that each Webelos Scout be under the supervision of an adult. Joint Webelos den-troop campouts are encouraged for dens of fifth-grade Webelos Scouts with their parents to strengthen ties between the pack and troop.  Den leaders, pack leaders, and parents are expected to accompany the boys on approved trips.

    •  

  • Tiger Cubs are limited to boy-parent excursions or program-managed family camping such as Fall and Spring Pack Camping designed for the entire family.

 

Any visitor that comes to an event after check in must be directed to the Cubmaster or Event Leader upon arrival and departure.  We (leaders and parents) are all responsible for inquiring with any visitor to find out their intention and direct them to the Cubmaster or Event Leader in charge.  We cannot assume that any visitor is permitted to be there for the safety of all children. 

 

All participants (adults and children) who wish to leave an event early must check out with the Cubmaster or Event Leader in charge.  Any scout, who is being picked up by someone other than the parent, must have a release form on file with the person’s name that is picking up the scout. Identification will be requested before a scout can be released.

 

DISCIPLINE

 

Pack 3161 Code of Conduct

 

All Scouts and Scouters participating on outings and activities represent Pack 3161, the MOECOMDWS District, the Great Trail Council and the Boy Scouts of America in their character, citizenship, physical and personal fitness and leadership qualities.  Therefore, all Scouts, and their parents or guardians are asked to read and understand the Code of Conduct as a condition of participation, with the further understanding that serious misconduct or infraction of established rules and regulations may result in expulsion, at the participant's expense, from an activity, or possibly the Pack.  Ultimately, all Scouts are to be responsible for their own behavior, and only when necessary will the procedure be invoked to send a Scout home from an outing.

 

[NOTE:  Suspension and/or expulsion are the LAST RESORT.  This is after all CUB SCOUTS and all should be allowed to participate.  It is important that in participating we make the adventure of Scouting FUN for ALL and disruptive behavior takes away from that.  

We have a clear understanding that "Boys will be Boys", but we need to monitor and mentor them to teach those principles that are inherent to the Boy Scouts of America.]

 

All youth and adult members are expected to abide by the Code of conduct as follows:

 

The Pack's adult leadership; Cubmaster, Pack Committee and Den Leaders are responsible for the supervision of its membership in respect to maintaining discipline and security, the Code of Conduct, and the delivery of the scouting program.

 

  • I will provide a “Safe Haven” for all Scouts and Scouters within my Pack as well as others participating in the activity, which includes no unwelcome physical contact with other members.

 

  • Hazing has no place in Scouting.  There will be no "running the gauntlet", "belt lines", or similar physical punishment.  Leaders and older youth must prevent all youth from being “initiated” into the group with a hazing activity.

 

  • I will set a good example by keeping myself neatly dressed and presentable. The official Scout uniform, as outlined in the uniform policy of the pack, will be worn at the appropriate times.   

 

  • I will participate to the best of my ability as required in cooperation with other Pack members and pack leadership.  Disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.

 

  • In consideration of other participants, I agree to follow the bedtime and other schedules of the outing, or as directed by the Pack program.

 

  • I will be responsible for keeping my quarters and personal gear labeled, clean, and neat.  I will be responsible for bringing the appropriate gear and equipment necessary, including having the Cub Scout essentials for each outing. I will do my share to prevent littering of the campgrounds, trails and other facilities used during the outing.

 

  • I understand that possession and/or detonation of fireworks are prohibited.

 

  • Scouts and participants are prohibited from having firearms, ammunition, and weapons in possession in accordance with federal, state, and local laws.

 

  • I understand that foul language is prohibited.

 

  • I understand that the purchase, possession, and consumption of alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs by any Scouts or Scouters are prohibited. This standard shall also apply to all participants, both youth and accompanying adults.

 

  • I will demonstrate respect for properties and will be personally responsible for any loss, breakage, or vandalism of property as a result of my actions.

 

  • I understand that theft will be grounds for expulsion.

 

  • I will obey the safety rules and instruction of all supervisors and Pack leaders, the Guide to Safe Scouting, Safety Afloat and Safe Swim Defense.

 

  • Scouts and participants will be guided by the Cub Scout Promise and Law of the Pack, the direction of the Cubmaster and pack leadership, and will obey all federal, state, and local laws at all times.

 

  • Insect spray and other types of aerosols are not be taken or used on outings.   Non-aerosols forms of these products are to be used.

 

Serious and/or repetitive violations, including use of tobacco, alcohol and drugs, and cheating, stealing, dishonesty, swearing, fighting, and cursing may result in expulsion from the outing, serious disciplinary action, loss of privileges, or expulsion from the pack.  The Cubmaster or Acting Cubmaster must be contacted for the expulsion procedure to be invoked.  There are no exceptions.

 


 

Behavior Rules

 

The following rules will be enforced at all Meetings.  Consistent violation of these rules may result in Disciplinary Action:

  • Don't interrupt others
  • No nasty jokes
  • No punching or kicking
  • Listen to Akela and don't talk back
  • No fowl language
  • No spitting

·        No inappropriate gestures

  • No talking ugly about other people

 

Disciplinary Action

 

If a Scout obeys the Law of the Pack there will not be a problem with misbehavior.  However, if a Scout misbehaves, he could place himself or the entire pack in danger of injury or risk cancellation of an activity. As a result, various responses on the part of the Scout leadership to deal with this misbehavior may be required. We will follow BSA Policies and the policies set by the Cuyahoga FallsSchool District handbook. 

 

All Scouts are expected to live by the Cub Scout Promise and the Law of the Pack.  At times, problems with discipline arise.  Disciplinary problems that disrupt Den or Pack activities will be handled in the following manner:

  1. The Den Leader, Cubmaster, or the Assistant Cubmaster will first counsel the Cub Scout. If the behavior problems continue, the parents will be contacted and the Cub Scout will be required to leave the activity.  An early departure, due to behavioral problems, constitutes an absence for the full activity.  Any and all achievement/award credit that the Scout may have earned while the Scout was at the activity prior to removal will be lost.
  2. Cub Scouts that have been removed from three (3) Scouting activities due to behavior will be suspended from Scouting activities until the Scout agrees to move forward with appropriate behavior.  If the situation(s) cannot be resolved, the Pack Committee may permanently remove the Scout from the Pack.
  3. Any Cub Scout who willfully damages, loses, or destroys Pack, Den, personal or public property is responsible for any and all costs of repair or replacement.  Depending on the circumstances of such in incident, the Scout may be permanently removed from the Pack as well.

Scout leaders will not administer corporal punishment (i.e. spankings).  In the event that Scouts actions endanger him or others, the leader may be required to take extraordinary action to ensure that all parties are safe.  These actions will be documented and the parents of the Scout will be contacted.

 

PACK COMMITTEE

 

Pack Committee

 

The Pack Committee is the Pack’s board of directors that supports the Cubmaster in delivering a quality Pack program and handling Pack administration. The committee consists of adults ages 21 or older and does the following:

1.      Selects the Cubmaster.

2.      Ensures quality adult leadership is recruited and trained. In the case of the absence of the Cubmaster, a qualified Assistant Cubmaster is assigned to cover their duties. If the Cubmaster is unable to serve, a replacement is recruited.

3.      Provides adequate meeting facilities

4.      Advises the Cubmaster on policies relating to Scouting and the chartered organization.

5.      Supports leaders in carrying out the program.

6.      Develops an annual budget and is responsible for finances, adequate funds, and disbursements in with the approved budget plan.

7.      Obtains, maintains, and properly cares for pack property.

8.      Ensures that the pack has an outdoor program.

9.      Provides for the special needs and assistance some boys may require.

10.  Helps with the Friends of Scouting Campaign.

 

The Committee is lead by Committee Chair who is selected by the Chartered Organization Representative.  The Committee Chair selects the Committee, consisting of the Pack Administrator, Advancement Coordinator, Membership Coordinator, Outdoor Program/Activities Coordinator, Secretary, Training Coordinator, Treasurer, and up to three At-Large Members.

 

Pack Committee Meetings

 

Committee Meetings are held monthly, typically on the first Monday at 6:30 pm.  The Committee Chair will be responsible for planning and running these meetings.  Any adult is welcome to attend these meetings, but only registered committee members will have voting privileges and voice in the meetings. Those not on the committee must receive permission from the Committee Chair to address the committee.

 

Annual Planning Meeting

 

Once a year, usually in July, the Pack Committee Chair, the Cubmaster, and all leaders will meet to conduct an annual plan for the upcoming Scouting year.  This includes the calendar, special events, Pack Meeting dates, community service projects, etc. 


 


 

GOVERNANCE

 

Pack 3161 is chartered under the authority of the Boy Scouts of America and The American Legion Post 281.  Nothing in this booklet is intended to conflict with any of the rules, procedures or by-laws of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA)

  1. Pack 3161 will follow All guidelines in the current “Guide To Safe Scouting”.
  2. The Law of the Pack is the Law of Pack 3161.
  3. Electronic games and toys are prohibited at scouting events unless a special exception is made.
  4. Alcoholic Beverages are prohibited at all Scout functions.
  5. Use of tobacco products is prohibited by anyone under 18.  The use of tobacco by adults is strongly discouraged and is prohibited in the presence of Scouts.  Also, we will follow all rules as set by the Cuyahoga FallsSchool District.
  6. We will do our best to make sure no Scout will be left out from any function because of financial need. Scouts in need of financial assistance should contact the Committee Chair.  Financial Assistance may take the form of a direct grant, matching funds or the opportunity to participate in fund raising activities.
  7. Drivers for pack outings will be at least 21 years old and will possess a valid Driver’s License, valid Insurance and will have one seatbelt for each passenger.
  8. Adults will not share tent-sleeping quarters with boys unless they are parent and son.  If a large facility such as a gym or cabin is used for overnight lodging, the adults will sleep intermingled in with the scouts in accordance with BSA policy.  Men will not share sleeping quarters with women.
  9. Boys and adults will not venture out alone.  They will either travel in pairs or in groups of three.  Adults will not spend private time alone with a boy. Counseling can be done privately while in plain view of others.
  10. Scouts should arrive on time for meetings, in uniform, with a pen/pencil and their Scout Handbook.
  11. Disrespect for anyone (leaders, adults or scouts) will not be tolerated.
  12. The use of profanity will not be tolerated.
  13. Any concerns about boy or adult leadership of Pack 3161 should be brought to the attention of the Committee Chair or any adult leader.  Gossiping or complaining “on the sidelines” is counterproductive and sets a bad example for the boys.

 

Changes to the Bylaws

 

The following procedures will be used to submit, make and approve amendments to these Bylaws:

  • Only voting members of the Pack Committee may submit amendments.
  • Amendments must be submitted in writing.
  • Proposed amendments will be published in at least one (1) Pack Newsletter before being voted on.
  • 2/3 of the Pack Committee must be present to vote on the amendment.
  • Registered Committee Members may vote on Bylaw Amendments only.
  • Passage of the Amendment will require a 2/3 majority of all voting members present.

 

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