Recruiting
Invite youth to lead, explore, and grow.
What is Cub Scout Recruiting?
Cub Scout recruiting is all about inviting new families to discover the adventure of Scouting. The goal is to welcome boys and girls in Kindergarten through 5th Grade (ages 5–10) into a program that builds character, confidence, and lifelong memories.
When you recruit for Cub Scouts, you're not just growing membership: you're helping families find a place where kids can thrive. Everything you do should highlight family, fun, and friends!
What is Scouts BSA Recruiting?
Scouts BSA is open to youth in grades 6–12, ages 11–17. Young people can join at any time, regardless of whether they participated in Cub Scouts, and Troops are open to both boys and girls. Many councils charter all-girl Troops alongside all-boy Troops, allowing every youth to experience Scouting in a program designed for their success.
Why Join Scouts?
Scouting is designed to help youth grow in four key areas:
Leadership Development
Scouts hold positions of responsibility, plan their own activities, and lead their peers. This hands-on experience builds confidence and teaches skills that last a lifetime.
Career Growth & Life Skills
Through advancement and over 135 merit badges, Scouts explore trades, professions, and hobbies — from engineering to environmental science — that can inspire future careers.
Outdoor Adventure
Scouts plan and experience camping, hiking, climbing, and high-adventure trips. These experiences teach teamwork, resilience, and respect for the outdoors.
Community Service
Service projects and involvement in the community are central to Scouting. Every Scout learns the importance of giving back and being prepared to help others.
Six Steps to Successful Recruiting
Building and sustaining a thriving Troop requires more than a single open house or sign-up night. Consistent recruiting is a year-round effort grounded in six proven steps:
Build a Calendar of Adventure
Develop a schedule filled with exciting events and adventures that families will love. Go beyond "just meetings" to include big activities, special outings, and traditions that show why your unit is worth joining.
Promote Your Program
Families join units that do things and go places. Share photos, flyers, and stories about your activities so everyone can see the fun. Be sure to keep your BeAScout Pin updated and enable Online Registration so joining is simple.
Recruit More Leaders and Mentors
The more caring adults you have involved, the stronger your program will be. Throughout your recruiting process, look for parents and supporters who can help—one by one, you'll build a great team.
Show Your Presence in Schools and the Community
Connect with local schools, service clubs, and community organizations. When schools and community leaders see the fun and values of Scouting, they'll be more likely to support your efforts.
Host Welcoming Sign-Up Events
Host welcoming experiences that make it easy for families to get started. These can include school sign-up nights, open houses, or casual fun events such as an ice cream social or a pack picnic.
Keep the Momentum Going
Recruitment doesn't stop after your initial sign-up night. Continue to hold engaging activities and invite prospective Scouts and families to attend.
Room Rallies and Open Houses
Room Rallies are fast, energetic presentations delivered in classrooms during the school day. The goal is to spark excitement about Cub Scouts and invite every child to your upcoming Open House.
Room Rally Quick Facts
- Each Room Rally lasts about 90 seconds per classroom.
- Presenters share a short, enthusiastic message about the fun and adventure of Scouting.
- Show something visual, such as a Pinewood Derby car, camping gear, or a pack t-shirt, to capture attention.
- Hand out flyers or parent guides with all the Open House details.
Timing is Critical: To keep interest high, plan your Open House 1–2 days after your Room Rally, so families don't lose momentum or forget the invitation.
What to Say
- Keep it simple, exciting, and focused on Family, Fun, and Friends.
- Remind kids to take their flyer home and show it to their parents right away.
The Open House: A Five-Station Flow
Open Houses are welcoming events where families learn more about your pack and can sign up on the spot, and are typically 1-2 days after room rallies. They use a five-station setup to create a smooth and engaging experience:
Welcome and Sign In
Greet families and have them sign in. Provide a handout or map of the stations.
Who Our Pack Is
Share photos, displays, and stories about your pack's activities and traditions.
Registration
Help parents complete registration forms or sign up online.
Meet the Leaders and Adult Sign-Up
Introduce your leaders and invite parents to get involved.
Thank You and Check Out
Thank families, answer questions, and provide take-home materials.
This organized flow helps families feel confident about joining and makes the process simple and welcoming.
When you demonstrate that Scouting is a place where young people grow into leaders while having fun, you make it easy for them to say yes.