FAQ

Q: What is a “PACK”?

A: A Pack is considered the entire Cub Scout group of kids KG through 5th grade. Pack 567 averages about 50 active scouts each year.

Q: What is a “Den”?

A: A Den is the grade-specific group of Scouts. They each have a rank name. All 1st graders are in a Den together and they are called “Tigers” – it won’t be long before you’ll know all the ranks by heart! Each Den has roughly 8-10 Scouts.

Q: What age can you join Scouts?

A: Any child entering (or in) Kindergarten through 5th grade may join Pack 567.

Q: This sounds great! How do we sign up today?

A: National Scouts BSA offers a relatively simple site to register online now. Head here to fill out an application and shoot us an email so we can send you Pack-related details to get you started: info@pack567.org

Q: Does my son/daughter have to attend Beebe Elementary School to join 567?

A: No. We have many Scouts who attend different local schools. Beebe is simply our “Chartered Organization” which means we are allowed to meet there and store our items there when not in use. In return, we often try to complete community service projects that benefit Beebe.

Q: What is the expectation of parents?

A: Parents are considered to be their Scouts “Akela” – another Leader themselves. Parents of younger Scouts are required to be present at all meetings and activities with their Scout. As they get older, more independence is encouraged but Parent attendance depends on your Den Leader’s preference.

Q: How often do Scouts meet?

A: There is typically one Pack meeting (all Scouts of every age) and one Den meeting (grade-specific level) each month. There may be some variations depending on seasonality and what needs to be accomplished.

Q: We have a busy schedule that includes sports at certain times of the year. Is attendance at meetings required?

A: While attendance is encouraged, we are extremely flexible and strive to meet the Cub Scout Motto at every turn (“Do Your Best”). If you cannot make an event or meeting, there is no penalty and no guilt! We will help you complete the task if anything is missed!

Q: What does a typical Scout Calendar Year look like?

A: Here is a link to our current calendar and upcoming events along with a rough timeline of a typical year outlined at the bottom of the page.

Q: Do Scouts wear a uniform? If so, when?

A. Yes – just like a soccer team with a uniform, Cub Scouts also have a uniform to signify being part of a team. We have a wonderful uniform “recycle” program to cut costs for our Scout families as well. Uniforms are worn for most Pack and Den meetings, as well as other events. Most hikes or casual activities where you might get dirty, a Pack T shirt or athletic shirt can be worn.

Q: Does 567 have a Pinewood Derby?

A: YES! It is the highlight of the Cub Scout year. Each January we host a Pinewood Derby. Scouts and families are provided a car kit to make their own creations and we race them down our 40 foot track to see who is best of the best! Here is a little look at our Virtual Pinewood Derby of 2021. When challenged, we overcame and adapted so we could still host our PWD!

Q: What is the objective of Cub Scouts?

A: Each grade has “rank requirements” to complete within the Scouting year. Those requirements aim to expose Scouts to a range of activities – from STEM to Nature, to sports and more. Den Leaders create exciting meetings each month geared toward meeting these requirements and helping each Scout earn their rank advancement! Here is more information on Scout Aims & Methods.

Q: Is there more to it than just rank advancement?

A: A whoooole lot more! Scouting is designed to develop leadership skills, critical thinking in real world situations, exposure to many different activities and interests, and life-skills that will last…well, a lifetime! Here are some of the benefits of being part of Scouting!

Q: What is the cost of Scouting?

A: That is a great and very important question. Because dues some times fluctuate, we’d love to give you the most accurate information. Send us an email at info@pack567.org or if you’d like an overview, here is some info from Scouts BSA National site: Cost of Scouting.

Q: What do the dues cover? Also, I know Girl Scouts sell Cookies. Is there a Scout Fundraiser?

A: Dues cover many of the Pack’s expenses like rental fees for building usage, entertainment for certain activities, or other Pack events. Part of a Scout’s dues go toward our local District, Council, and National BSA expenses. We do have a fundraiser each fall to help the Pack provide programs free or at-cost. We sell popcorn and offer many different ways for each Scout to meet their sales goals and learn from the experience of fundraising to support their adventures.

Q: Can girls join Pack 567?

A: Yes! Pack 567 is a FAMILY Pack – always has been, really. But as of 2018, Scouts BSA made it official and allowed us to include girls in the rank advancements! Families are expected to have fun and participate in hikes and all the activities we enjoy year round, even if they aren’t a registered scout or leader and are just tagging along with a sibling/kiddo who is.

Q: Who are the leaders of the Pack?

A: YOU are the leaders of the Pack 🙂 …kidding! Sorta… Scouting relies on the volunteerism of Adult Leaders to deliver a successful program. That means moms and dads just like YOU raised their hand to help the Pack. There’s tons of education and help and it is way more fun than you might think. So don’t shy away if you’re asked to step up and fill a need. Great helpers are always wanted to deliver the Scout Promise. Pack 567 is chock full of them!