FAQ
When are meetings?
2025-2026 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 day per month at 6:30pm, day of week TBD
- Wolves (grade 2), Bears (grade 3), and AOLs (grade 5) - two Fridays per month at 6:30pm
- Tigers (grade 1) and Webelos (grade 4) - 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?
Annual 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.
*Pack/Den dues are reviewed annually by Pack 42, while National and Council fees are set by Scouting America. All dues/fees are subject to change.
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 $100 - Used by the Mount Baker Council for campground upkeep, costs associated with Jamborees/Scout Camps, and supplemental 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 $15 - 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 $3 - goes towards fundraiser credit card fees.
- Scout Life Magazine $15 (optional)
- Total: $276/yr, with an additional one-time $15 for the Activity Shirt and an optional $15 for the Scout Life Magazine.
- Fees can be offset by the popcorn fundraiser held every fall
- Fees can be offset by the popcorn fundraiser held every fall
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.
*Pack/Den dues are reviewed annually by Pack 42, while National and Council fees are set by Scouting America. All dues/fees are subject to change.
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. All of our dens have at least one girl involved and when there are girls in the den, there must be a female den leader present as well. In addition, our current Cub Master is female.
Is Scouting inclusive of children with disabilities?
Yes! Scouting is committed to inclusivity and welcomes children of all abilities. Programs are designed to adapt to meet the needs of every child. We work closely with the Scout and their family to ensure safety and inclusivity.
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. Please note that parents/guardians are responsible for all non-registered children attending Scout activities and that awards/recognition cannot be earned by those not registered with Scouting America.
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 Team.
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 Team directly or fill out the form on the CONTACT/JOIN page.
What role does religion play in your Pack?
Scouting has a foundation in religion, including “Duty to God” in the Scout Oath. The Scout Law also calls on Scouts to be reverent: faithful in their own beliefs while respecting the beliefs of others.
Pack 42 does not focus on religious instruction and does not promote any single faith. Meetings are held at local elementary schools rather than churches. Throughout the year, Scouts are introduced to and learn about a variety of religions and traditions. The “Duty to God” adventure loop may be earned in a way that aligns with each family’s own religious beliefs and practices.
Pack 42 does not focus on religious instruction and does not promote any single faith. Meetings are held at local elementary schools rather than churches. Throughout the year, Scouts are introduced to and learn about a variety of religions and traditions. The “Duty to God” adventure loop may be earned in a way that aligns with each family’s own religious beliefs and practices.
