Costs of Participating

Fundraising             

To help defray the cost of dues, it is necessary to conduct fundraising projects each year to supply the Troop, and to help offset Scout outing expenses. We are open to all ideas for funding our BSA related activities and the Troop’s ongoing projects.

Scout Accounts

Through Fundraising, Scouts are able to earn money kept in their "Scout Accounts" which can be applied to trips, outings, etc.  This is a great way for Scouts to contribute to their own Scouting experience.

Scholarships

Scouting is not without cost, but we do not discourage any scout from joining because they cannot afford our program. If your present situation falls under these circumstances, or you would like to recommend for membership a scout who may need some degree of assistance, please contact the Scoutmaster or Committee Chairperson so that efforts can be made to arrange a sponsor.

Medicaid

Some Medicaid options cover a portion of the joining fee for BSA.  Please see the treasurer if you think this may apply to you.

Friends of Scouting

There is an annual Fundraising Campaign called Friends of Scouting that does amazing and wonderful things for the BSA and its charitable outreach.  While not a requirement, we do have a goal of 100% family participation in this campaign at whatever contribution level is appropriate for you.

Troop Dues and Recurring Expenses

Troop dues are set each year and are payable in or around October.  The dues year runs from January through December. A subscription to Boy’s Life magazine is included in registration.   It is intended that dues will cover all or substantially all the Troop operating expenses, including annual registration and awards, but they are not intended to cover any outing expenses.

Annual Dues:

• Returning Scouts- $100

• Adults - $75

Outings:

• 11 monthly weekend outings: $25 - $75 per outing

• Summer Camp (One week): $400

• Winter Camp: $200

• Larger trips such as High Adventure: varies by trip and airfare, accommodations, etc.

Approximate Uniform and Equipment Costs

Scout uniforms can be purchased online at ScoutShop.org or at the Scout Shop, located at 1222 E Franklin Blvd, Gastonia, NC 28054. . Camping equipment is available at the Scout Shop or various camping supply stores (some camping equipment may be rented from REI), both local and on-line.  A Scout is thrifty, so shop around to get the best price!  The Boy Scout Handbook is also an excellent source of information for equipment needs.

Troop Inventory and Gear Loans:

The Troop has a supply of gently used camping equipment available to Troop families.  If your family does not immediately have certain gear (sleeping bags, etc.), please ask and the Troop or current members will be happy to loan equipment to you.

Field Uniform and Basic Requirements: 

From the Scout Store or online at Scoutshop.org:

• Scout Handbook > $25

• Long or short-sleeve khaki Scout shirt > $40-55

• Scout pants (convertible to shorts) > $40-60

• Scout socks > $11-20

• Web belt with BSA buckle > $20

• Required Uniform Patches (Patrol patch, World Crest and shoulder loops) > $5-10

From the Troop:

• Troop t-shirt > $15

• Troop neckerchief > $TBD

• Neckerchief slide > $TBD

Basic Camping Equipment: 

• Compass 

• Flashlight or headlamp 

• Personal first aid kit 

• Whistle 

• Sleeping bag  

• Ground pad (1/2 inch) or Cot

• Rain suit 

• Water bottle or canteen 

• Backpack 

• Knife 

• Rope 

• Lockable Storage Locker for Summer Camp 

Online Stores and Uniform Guidelines

• Scout Stuff - The Official BSA retail store

• Campmor - Camping equipment at great prices. Ships fast.

• Scout Uniform Inspection Form - Scout Uniform Inspection Form and Badge/patch placement guide

• Adult Scout Uniform Inspection Form - Adult Uniform Inspection Form and patch placement guide