v Computer service ~ each paid member is entered on the National system, which enables us to do mailers, keep advancement records, re-registration, transfers, reports and other administrative tasks.

v Defers cost of developing our programs, updating material and research and development at the National level.

v Defers cost of training development and presentation to volunteers and paid staff of local councils.

v The $7.00 fee does not fund the entire National BSA budget. The BSA Supply Division (Scout Shops), Council charter fees, unit charter fees and their own fund-raising efforts significantly add to this amount.

v None of the $7.00 fee directly supports the San Francisco Bay Area Council. Each Council chartered to BSA must pay a national fee too (just like each unit), and raise their own funds to provide local service. (This is one reason we must conduct the SME/FOS campaign in January and February.)

v Remember, you are not a member of Boy Scouts of America until that fee and signed application is turned in to the Council registrar.

v All of the above should be important to you. However, on a realistic side, a main point of concern for leaders and boys is:

v Face it, we do a lot of stuff ~ camping, boating, driving other people’s kids around and letting other people’s kids on our property etc. Be smart and safe. Make sure everyone is registered, review your Guide to Safe Scouting and get trained!!