FAQ
When are meetings?
2024-2025 Pack meetings:
- First Friday of every month during the school year (with the exceptions of holidays and school breaks) at 6:30pm
- Lions (grade K) - one Thursday per month at 6:30pm
- Tigers (grade 1), Wolves (grade 2), and Webelos (grade 4) - two Fridays per month at 6:30pm
- Bears (grade 3) and AOLs (grade 5) - two Thursdays per month at 6:30pm
Why does the Lion program only meet once a month whereas the other ranks meet twice?
The Lion program does not hold as much content as the other Ranks due to the age and attention span of the kids, therefore one meeting and/or Den activity a month is all that is needed to earn their Lion Badge at the end of the school year. This is done to not overwhelm them and give a nice introduction to Scouting.
How much does Scouting cost?
2024 - 2025 Cost Breakdown for Pack 42*
Unfortunately, Council/National fees and Pack/Den dues cannot be paid through the same system, so Council/National fees are paid through the online registration process and Pack dues are paid via Square invoice. For more information, please fill out the form on the CONTACT/JOIN page.
*dues are reviewed annually and subject to change as necessary.
If your family would benefit from financial assistance, please read the "What if we cannot afford to join/activities?" question below.
- National Registration Fee $85 - Annual membership to the Boy Scouts of America.
- Council Activity Fee $85 - Used by the Mount Baker Council for campground upkeep, costs associated with Jamborees/Scout Camps, and insurance for the Scouts.
- Pack 42 Dues $68 - Used to buy all earned items (awards, patches, ribbons, etc.) and their derby car/regatta boat.
- Pack 42 Activity Shirt $12 - One-time fee for a Pack specific shirt to ensure safety and location of our Scouts during public outings.
- Den Dues $20 - This small portion helps with out of pocket costs from the Den Leaders for any supplies needed for meetings.
- Administrative Fee $6 - goes towards fundraiser credit card fees.
- Scout Life Magazine $15 (optional)
Unfortunately, Council/National fees and Pack/Den dues cannot be paid through the same system, so Council/National fees are paid through the online registration process and Pack dues are paid via Square invoice. For more information, please fill out the form on the CONTACT/JOIN page.
*dues are reviewed annually and subject to change as necessary.
If your family would benefit from financial assistance, please read the "What if we cannot afford to join/activities?" question below.
Do you accept girls in your Pack?
Yes! We support ALL children who want to participate in the adventure of Scouting.
My child has a disability, is s/he allowed to join?
Yes! We accept ALL children, no matter their capabilities. We work closely with Scouts and their parents to make sure that they are getting as much out of the Scouting experience as the rest of the Pack. The Cub Scout motto is "Do Your Best" and every child uniquely does just that.
Do the Scouts need to participate in all meetings?
Yes! Scouts are expected to attend meetings regularly. Den meetings are where the Scouts will be earning most of their adventures. As for Pack meetings, this is where we discuss important events and where the rewarding of achievements takes place. As a courtesy, if you cannot make it to a meeting, please let your Den Leader know as they have committed to donating their time and resources to your child's success.
Do parents/guardians need to participate?
Yes! Parents/guardians are expected to be active participants in their child’s Scouting activities as well as assist Den Leaders during meetings and events. Parents/guardians will also need to be in attendance for the Pack meetings, as we go over important information pertinent to your child’s success. A parent/guardian is required by the BSA to accompany their child to all meetings/activities for the Lion (kindergarten) and Tiger (grade 1) Dens.
Can siblings attend too or are meetings/events only for Scouts?
Siblings are more than welcome to attend AND join in the activities. We believe in family and never want anyone feeling left out. Please note that parents/guardians are responsible for all non-registered children attending Scout activities.
Are there activities in the Summer?
Yes! During the summer months, all meetings are on hold until the school year resumes. However, we do have fun activities such as camps, hikes, orienteering, etc. that continue.
What if we cannot afford to join/the activities?
The BSA has created an Opportunity Fund program that can help cover up to 90% of the Council and National fees. Please note that using this benefit would require your Scout to participate in our annual fundraiser. Any remaining costs can be paid throughout the year on a payment plan. If you are in need of this assistance, the application can be found under Forms. For any further questions, please contact the New Member Coordinator.
Are there fundraisers throughout the year?
Yes! All Scouts are expected to participate in the annual popcorn sale fundraiser that runs from September-October. They not only earn prizes for their hard work, but a portion of the popcorn sales earnings can help defer the cost of Scouting activities (including dues) throughout the year. Many of our Scouts pay 100% of their dues with fundraising!
Can we attend one of your events/meetings before joining?
Yes! In fact we highly encourage it! Please contact the New Member Coordinator directly or fill out the form on the CONTACT/JOIN page.
How can I help the Pack as a parent?
Our Pack runs solely on volunteers, the more we have the better we can be! The workload required to run the Pack and give children the best program possible takes commitment and enthusiasm. With little help, our volunteers burn out easily; with more, the load is lighter. The following are just a few examples of ways to help:
- Take donations from Pack meetings to the Lake Stevens Food Bank
- Attend and give input about how the Pack could run better during committee meetings
- Assist with fundraisers
- Join the activity planning committee and/or assist in execution of events
- Help with recruiting efforts during school open houses
- Hold committee positions
- Become a Den Leader
- Ask Leaders and Committee members what you can do to help
