| Since 1910, these principles have been taught in an atmosphere of recreation and fun, which allows young people to develop self-confidence, leadership and moral character. More and more men, trained as Scouts, are taking their places in today's world as responsible adult leaders. Men, who earned badges as Scouts, sit on the Supreme Court and in the chambers of Congress. Others hold important offices in our government, business and industry. Most of the members of Congress were Scouts, as well as most of the astronauts who have walked on the moon. The Boy Scouts of America is the largest youth oriented organization in the United States. More than 4 million Scouts and leaders are currently registered in the Boy Scouts of America. Unlike Cub Scouting, which many of you are familiar with, Boy Scouting is a youth-led organization. The Scouts learn how to organize and lead the troop. After training, and with supervision from the adult leaders, the Scouts run the show. The Scouts in the troop will be working towards their 1st Class and then Eagle ranks. As they travel on their trail to Eagle they will not only learn how to lead a team to a goal, but they will actually lead teams of Scouts in a number of situations. Many Eagle Scouts list their scouting accomplishments on their résumés and find these are often considered when seeking acceptance into college or the work force. Boy Scouting also provides for growth of moral strength and character, teaches citizenship, and enhances the development of physical, mental and emotional fitness. This is all done in the spirit of fun and adventure. Please take a few minutes to read Chapter 1 of your son's Boy Scout Handbook. |
| ORGANIZATION Troop 287 is a participating member of the Pathfinder District of the Southwest Michigan Council, Boy Scouts of America. The troop's organization consists of a Chartered Organization, a Troop Committee, the Troop, and the Troop Parents. CHARTERED ORGANIZATION (SPONSOR) Every troop belongs to an organization. The Chartered Organization for Troop 287 is Chapel Hill United Methodist Church (CHUM), 7028 Oakland Drive, Portage, Michigan 49024. The Chartered Organization shares our objectives for the Scouts and insures that there is adequate, trained leadership. A Chartered Organization Representative acts as a liaison between us and CHUM. MEMBERSHIP Scouting is open to all Scouts who are 11 through 17 years old, or who have earned the Arrow of Light Award, or who have completed the fifth grade. A Scout does not have to be a member of this church or religion to be a member of this troop. Generally, Scouts select a particular troop because of convenience or because of friends in the troop. All adults and Scouts need to be registered with the Boy Scouts of America to participate in the Scouting program. We are governed by the rules of the Boy Scouts of America. The Scouts and Scouters (adult leaders) are expected to follow the Scout Oath and Law. TROOP COMMITTEE The Troop Committee functions as an administrative and support organization for the troop. The Troop Committee takes care of the non-program issues surrounding the troop. For example: newsletters, troop funds, fund raising activities, membership drives and Pack coordination, activity permits and coordination, advancement records, procurement and maintenance of troop equipment. The Troop Committee Chairperson schedules the committee meetings. The Chairperson announces the date and time. This committee consists of parents and any other interested adults who assist with troop activities. Only registered Scouters are voting members. The meetings are open and attendance is strongly encouraged by all parents and other interested adults. The Troop Committee is responsible for selecting the Scoutmaster, approving Assistant Scoutmasters, overseeing advancement and financial matters, approving outings and establishing troop guidelines. |