Frequently Asked Scouting Questions

What are the requirements to join Cub Scouts?

Lion Cubs (entering kindergarden)

Tiger Cubs (entering first grade or age 6), Cub Scouts (entering second or third grade, or age 7 - 9), Webelos Scouts (entering fourth or fifth grade, or age  9 - 10).

What does Cub Scouting offer my son?

Cub Scouting offers fun and challenging activities that promote character development and physical fitness. Service projects, ceremonies, 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.

When can my son join?

Your son can join Cub Scouts ANY TIME. As a year-round pack, we have activities going on all the time.

Will my son be grouped with all the other "new scouts"?

Scouts work with the boys in their grade. Regardless of when your son starts or what achievements he earns, he will always stay with other scouts in his grade.

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 two Den meetings and one Pack meeting per month. 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 the den and pack.
• Work with your son on advancement projects and activities.
• Attend pack meetings with your son.
• Attend and assist with den outings.
• Attend Cub Scout Family campouts with your son.

Do Cub Scouts go camping?

Yes, but they ease into it. 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 3057 is very active, providing a rich environment for boys and their families. Typical annual events include:

• Scouting for Food
• Blue & Gold Banquet
• Pinewood Derby
• Memorial Day Parade
• Summer Day Camp
• Summer Resident Camp
• Pack Family Camp
• Hiking Club
• etc.

How much is it going to cost? 
Annual membership in the BSA (Boy Scouts of America) is $25.00 You can also sign up to receive
Boys Life Magazine at $12.00 per year. These costs are prorated depending on when you join. Additional fee's and costs include uniforms, books, special events, etc.

Where can I buy uniforms, pack and den number patches?

The Scout Shop is located at 3213 Walker Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49544-9775, Phone: 616-988-0183, off of I-96. More information about the store including hours and directions can be found on their Web site http://www.bsagrfc.org/scout_shop.asp

You can also purchase these items at Cobblestone Crafts & Hobbies located at 367 East Lakewood Boulevard, Holland, MI 49424 http://www.cobblestonehobbies.net/

 There are also uniform shirts available at Community Action House in Holland,  MI  1036 Washington Ave.  You will need to let them know that you are looking for Scout Shirts, as they keep them in the back.

How can I save money on the cost of uniforms?

Pack 3057 has started a Scout Closet. As boys outgrow their uniforms, change ranks, graduate to Boy Scouts, or drop out, their uniforms may be donated to the Pack. The Pack will then offer these items for sale to other Pack members at a greatly reduced price. Common items that may be exchanged include caps, shirts, neckerchief slides, and belts. Watch this Web site for an inventory of items and contact the Committee Chair for more details on the program.

How often are the meetings?

Cub Scouts usually meet in their Dens once a week, 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 as an additional event, rather than a substitute for its monthly Pack meeting.

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 selecting "Contact Us" (above) and asking questions, or leave your phone number to receive a call from the Committee Chair or other leader.