Tips on choosing the right Boy Scout Troop for your son

Tips on choosing the right Boy Scout Troop for your son (and for you)...

The first step in finding the right Troop for you is getting a list of Troops in your area. If you live in the Arlington area, you can get this list by contacting the Longhorn Council at 817-624-5500, or by visiting their website at www.longhorncouncil.org. You can get a list of Troops in the Tejas district by visiting their website at www.tejasdistrict.org. Remember, the closest Troop is not always the best Troop for you. We suggest that you attend several meetings of each Troop you are interested in . Here are some things to look for when visiting:

	Make sure the Troop does the kinds of activities you like. Take a look at their calendar. Do they go camping every month? Do they go to an annual summer camp?
	Does the Troop seem organized? Keep in mind that a "boy led" Troop can sometimes resemble "controlled chaos."
	Do the adults, older Scouts, and younger Scouts all treat each other with respect?
	Does the Troop seem to be accomplishing something? Are they having FUN?
	Is the Troop run by boy leaders, or are the adults doing everything?

Here are some questions to ask:

	How much Scouting experience has the Scoutmaster had?
	Are there any Assistant Scoutmasters to help the Scoutmaster?
	How many of their Scouts have earned the rank of Eagle Scout?
	Are most of the Scouts older or younger, or do they have a good mix of ages?
	If possible, talk to some of the parents of the Scouts present. Are they happy with the Troop? Do the boys seem happy?
	What kind of equipment is provided by the Troop, and what will need to be purchased by the Scout?
	How large and active is the Troop Committee?
	How is transportation for Troop events handled?
	How does the Troop raise the money it needs?
	How does the Troop handle parents who want to get involved?

Please remember that choosing a Boy Scout Troop is a big decision for you. Hopefully the Troop you choose will be a big part of your life for the next several years. It is worth a little extra effort up front to make sure that the Troop you choose is right for you.

Whether you choose to join Troop 445 or not, we hope Scouting will be a great experience for your whole family!