How to Volunteer with the Boy Scouts

Boy Scouts of America is a program designed to train effective leaders among today’s boys and male teens. The program runs almost entirely on volunteer support. Troop leaders, who are all volunteers, organize activities and training for the boys who are enrolled in the program. Volunteering with the Boy Scouts is a rewarding way to spend your time helping the community. The program has room for both men and women to serve as volunteers. If you are interested in becoming a Boy Scout volunteer, here is how you can do it.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Boy Scout adult application

1. Find the local Boy Scouts of America chapter in your area. Many groups have websites where volunteer positions are posted. The national website has a search feature that will allow you to find your local group.

2. Browse through the current positions that are available. This list will often state the time commitment involved in the position.

3. Keep in mind that there are many positions available. Scout leaders, secretaries, promotional assistants, treasurers, song leaders and fund-raising coordinators are all needed, among other positions as well.

4. Download the Adult Application Form from the Boy Scouts website. Fill it in completely.

5. Realize that submitting the form authorizes the Boy Scouts to do a background check on you. In order to volunteer with the Boy Scouts, you will have to pass a routine background check.

6. Sign the application and send it with the necessary fee to the local council service center in your area. The fees required are listed on the application. Wait for acceptance.

7. Complete the Youth Protection training program if you are accepted. This can be done online at the Boy Scouts of America Online Learning Center, but must be done within 90 days of taking any volunteer position in the Boy Scouts. Some positions require further training, as outlined on the application form.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure you can make the time commitment required before you sign up to volunteer with the Boy Scouts.
• Never try to attend Boy Scout functions in a leadership role until you have finished all of the required training.

Resources

• Adult Application Form
• Boy Scouts of America Online Learning Center
• Boy Scouts of America National Council