For Values Development

The Mission of Scouting is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes. The Scout Oath and Scout Law encourage service, kindness, accountability, and duty. In Cub Scouts, activities teach and reinforce these values in a simple, fun, and easy way. The Cub Scouts does not exclude any youth or adult member based on personal identity, circumstances, or abilities.

For Family Development

Unlike other kid’s activities, Cub Scouting includes adult family members in all aspects of the program. Families learn together, support each other, and develop deep bonds with other families that help them build resilience and cherished memories.

For Community Development

Cub Scouts learn to live their ideals in service to others and the community at large. Through projects such as Scouting for Food, Cub Scouts directly impact those in need. Whether they continue in Scouting or not, Cub Scouts learn they can make a difference in people’s lives.

Cub Scout Packs

A Pack is a unit of Cub Scouts that includes girls and boys. Each Pack is made of Dens who are in the same grade level. Packs meet monthly for larger activities and recognition, and Dens meet weekly for age-appropriate activities and outings. Pack and Den activities are planned and led by adult volunteers or Scouts and are designed to be fun for the Cub Scouts, their families, and the activity leaders.

Adult Leaders

Each Pack and Den has two or more adult leaders (21 or older) who are trained in Cub Scout programs, requirements, and principles. For coed Packs and Dens, at least one female adult leader is required to participate at all times. All adults involved with Scouting in any capacity must pass a background check and take Youth Protection and Barriers to Abuse Training every two years. Cub Scouting practices Two-Deep Leadership which ensures that two adult leaders are required for any engagement – in-person or electronic – with a Cub Scout or group of Cub Scouts.

Adventures

Adventures are the activities that Cub Scouts do during Den and Pack meetings and are how Cub Scouting delivers “fun with a purpose.” Each grade level has age-level Adventures that let Cub Scouts explore fitness and outdoor skills, teamwork, friendship, helping others, and learning Cub Scout values. Once an adventure is completed, Cub Scouts are given belt loops or pins to wear on their uniforms. There are 5 or 6 required Adventures for each grade level and many elective Adventures that allow Cub Scouts to follow their interests and try new things.

Advancement

Advancement in Cub Scouts is by grade level. All Cub Scouts who complete the required Adventures for their grade level advance to the next rank on June 1. Kids can join Cub Scouts at any time during the year, or at any grade level, and have plenty of opportunities to complete their required Adventures in time for Advancement. Arrow of Light (AOL) is the highest Cub Scout rank, for 5th grade boys and girls. AOL Cub Scouts begin their journey of transition to Scouts BSA by meeting Troops, participating in special transition activities, and finally joining a Scouts BSA Troop.

Uniforms

Cub Scout uniforms are designed to create a sense of unity, equality, identification, and personal commitment. The iconic Cub Scouts uniform represents the ideals of Scouting and enables Scouts and leaders to display accomplishments and demonstrate dedication. Uniforms must be well-maintained and worn neatly and are greatly encouraged to be worn for all Cub Scouting activities. Pack leadership can decide when uniforms must be worn, such as during a Court of Honor or community function. 

Outdoor Activities

Outdoor adventures build character, citizenship, personal fitness, and leadership. Scouts learn to have fun safely outdoors, whether on the water, on foot, on vehicles, or at a campsite. Scouts are taught outdoor ethics via the Leave No Trace program, ensuring Cub Scouts can enjoy outdoor adventures with minimal impact on the environment, wildlife, and other visitors. Packs plan camping trips to other locations such as parks, campgrounds, and even ski areas.

Camping

The Five Rivers Council owns and operates Camp Gorton, which provides Scouts with outdoor adventure opportunities each summer and throughout the year. Cub Scouts are highly encouraged to attend Cub Scout Adventure Camp, which offers unique Adventures, unmatched waterfront and shooting skills facilities, and fellowship with other Packs.