How old (or young) can a boy or girl be to join Cub Scouting?
Cub Scouting is for youth in kindergarten through fifth grade. Older youth can join Scouts BSA, Venturing, and/or Sea Scouting.
Must I be a U.S. citizen to join Cub Scouting?
Citizenship is not required of youth or adult members.
Do I have to be a resident of Milpitas to join Pack 163?
No. We serve families mostly from Milpitas, North San Jose, Berryessa, and the surrounding areas but you can live anywhere as long as you are able to attend meetings and events. The scout can attend any school including home (virtual) schools.
Are Cub Scouts the same as Scouts BSA?
No. Cub Scouting is a program of Scouting America—so in that sense, Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA are both members of the same organization. However, they are entirely different programs: Cub Scouting is a family-oriented program designed specifically to address the needs of younger boys and girls.
How often do Cub Scouts meet?
Lions (kindergarteners) meet in their den once a month and attend the monthly pack meeting. All other Cub Scouts meet in their dens 3 times a month and attend the monthly pack meeting. We also try to have a special activity – such as a hike, camping, service roject, pinewood derby, etc. – in addition to the weekly meetings.
May parents attend meetings?
Parental involvement is expected, and all meetings are open to your participation.
Can I drop off my child?
No, you or another adult must be responsible for the safety and child’s behaviors at all times. Each den will determine its activities weekly so there is no set end time.
Do parents need to volunteer?
Yes, we are a family-led pack and parental involvement is expected. At least one parent from each family is required to fulfil one of the roles listed at https://cubpack163.com/volunteer. There are a variety of roles to meet your interests.
What supplies and equipment are needed to participate in Cub Scouting?
At minimum, each Cub Scout will need a uniform and a handbook. Each year, the handbook changes, as does the cap and neckerchief, but other uniform parts remain the same for several years. Our pack charges a $150 annual activity fee which pays for awards, crafts, food, etc.
When are uniforms required?
Cub Scouts full field uniform (a.k.a. Class A uniforms) are required at all events except when instructed otherwise. Uniform is one of the seven Methods of Cub Scouting and it serves the dual purpose of demonstrating that a Scout is part of a team and showing individual achievement.
Are there different uniforms for boys and girls?
While the fit and styling may be a bit different, the uniforms are fundamentally the same.
Where can I purchase BSA literature, uniforms, and other program materials?
The South Bay Scout Shop is located in San Jose. Address, hours, and phone number can be found at https://svmbc.org/scout-shop/