Scouting At Home

Are Your Scouts At Home?

Scouting can take place anywhere – even in the comfort of your home!

Here you will find a resource hub for parents and leaders to help support Scouting at home, with stay-at-home educational activities for any Scout rank, tips for continuing to work on advancements and kid-friendly content that connects Scouting with their daily lives. We will continue to add new content and resources to this hub regularly.

Our goal is to make it easier to deliver the Scouting program by making plans more accessible to leaders and those who can help leaders like our parents.

Cub Scouts

Cub Scout 30 Day Challenge

Introducing the 30-Day Cub Scout Challenge, a great way to keep your Scouting skills sharp without leaving home. Packed full of adventure and elective requirements, use this daily checklist as a roadmap to rank advancement.

Advancement that can be completed at home (click to expand):

Lion – Kindergarten

Animal Kingdom – This Adventure is all about community. – Required Adventure
Build it Up, Knock it Down – This Adventure is all about building. – Elective Adventure
Gizmos and Gadgets –  This Adventure is all about motion, force and creating objects. – Elective Adventure
I’ll Do It Myself –  This Adventure is all about being prepared. – Elective Adventure
Pick My Path –  This Adventure is all about to do a good turn daily. – Elective Adventure
Ready, Set, Grow – This Adventure focuses on plants and gardens. – Elective Adventure

Tiger – First Grade

Backyard Jungle – This Adventure and is very hands-on with planting something and building birdhouses — this can be done as a solo family Adventure. – Required Adventure
My Family’s Duty to God – This is often an “at home” adventure anyway because faith beliefs in Scouting are determined by the family. – Required Adventure
Tiger Bites – An Adventure that covers food choices and preparation, manners and nutrition. – Required Adventure
Curiosity, Intrigue, and Magical Mysteries – An Adventure about magic, codes, sign language and more. – Elective Adventure
Family Stories – An Adventure about family heritage. – Elective Adventure
Sky is the Limit –  Adventure all about the night sky, constellations, astronauts, etc. – Elective Adventure
Stories in Shapes – An Adventure about art. – Elective Adventure
Tiger-Safe and Smart – An Adventure all about home and neighborhood safety. – Elective Adventure
Tiger Tales – An Adventure all about story-telling, tall tales, singing. – Elective Adventure

Wolf – Second Grade

Paws on the Path – An Adventure covering hiking skills and nature and maps. – Required Adventure
Adventures in Coins – An Adventure about Coins. – Elective Adventure
Code of the Wolf – An Adventure that uses math games and secret codes. – Elective Adventure
Digging in the Past – An Adventure about dinosaurs, fossils and archaeology. – Elective Adventure
Finding Your Way – An Adventure about map and compass, hiking and a scavenger hunt. – Elective Adventure
Germs Alive – An Adventure about keeping clean and germs. – Elective Adventure
Grow Something – An Adventure about planting and make a terrarium. – Elective Adventure
Motor Away – An Adventure about cars, boats and paper airplanes. – Elective Adventure
Paws of Skill – An Adventure about fitness, sports, sporting event and obstacle courses. – Elective Adventure

Bear – Third Grade

BALOO the Builder – An Adventure covering using tools and wood tools. – Required Adventure
Bear Claws – An Adventure all about knife use and knife safety. – Required Adventure
Fellowship and Duty to God – This is often an “at home” adventure anyway because faith beliefs in Scouting are determined by the family. – Required Adventure
Paws for Action – An Adventure that’s all about history/patriotism, visiting a law enforcement facility, basic emergency preparedness, energy conservation and a cleanup service project. – Required Adventure
Bear Picnic Basket – An Adventure about cooking. – Elective Adventure
Make It Move – An Adventure about fun Engineering. – Elective Adventure
Roaring Laughter – An Adventure about Fun, Jokes, Stories and Games. – Elective Adventure
Robotics – An Adventure about robots. – Elective Adventure
Super Science – An Adventure about Fun Science experiments. – Elective Adventure
A World of Sound – An Adventure about World Music and Instruments. – Elective Adventure

Webelos & Arrow of Light – 4th & 5th Grade

Duty to God and You – This is often an “at home” adventure anyway because faith beliefs in Scouting are determined by the family. – Required Adventure
First Responder – An adventure, covering basic first aid and emergency preparedness. – Required Adventure
Adventures In Science – An Adventure about science. – Required Adventure
Art Explosion – An Adventure about art. – Elective Adventure
Aware and Care – An Adventure about Disabilities Awareness. – Elective Adventure
Build My Own Hero – An Adventure about Citizen Heroes. – Elective Adventure
Engineer – An Adventure about engineering. – Elective Adventure
Fix It – An Adventure about home repairs. – Elective Adventure
Game Design – An Adventure about games. – Elective Adventure
Looking Back, Looking Forward – An Adventure about Your Own Timeline. – Elective Adventure
Maestro – An Adventure about music. – Elective Adventure
Moviemaking – An Adventure about moviemaking. – Elective Adventure
Project Family – An Adventure about family life. – Elective Adventure

Scouts BSA

  • Conduct virtual patrol leaders council meetings via teleconference or web video conferencing. Ensure to maintain two-deep leadership throughout the virtual meeting.
  • Encourage patrol leaders to communicate digitally with their patrol members.
  • Conduct online merit badge counselor meetings using web video conferencing tools such as Google Hangouts, Zoom, Skype, UberConference, FreeConference or Facebook. Ensure to maintain two-deep leadership throughout the virtual meeting. Note completing a worksheet and emailing it does not constitute a “virtual discussion”, rather use interactive video or phone conversations. See this post for more information.
  • Hold Scoutmaster Conference using web video conferencing. Ensure to maintain two-deep leadership throughout the virtual meeting.
  • P.R.A.Y. is extending grade-level eligibility for Scouts to earn certain religious awards; learn more about that and ways to complete religious award requirements at home during P.R.A.Y.’s Facebook live broadcast at 2:00pm on March 24.
  • The World Organization of the Scout Movement will hold a “special edition” Jamboree on the Air/Jamboree on the Internet on April 3-5.

Scouts BSA 30 Day Challenge

Introducing the 30-Day Scouts BSA Challenge, a great way to keep your Scouting skills sharp without leaving home. Use this daily checklist as a roadmap to rank advancement.

Merit Badges that can be completed at home include:

Other things you can do:

  • Plan and cook a meal for your family.
  • Encourage Scouts to post online stories from history and how humanity was able to overcome such difficulties and give people hope.
  • Hold a virtual gaming meet. Or use Kahoot to host an online quiz.
  • Encourage Scouts to communicate with Scouts around the world. Learn about the World Organization of the Scouting Movement (WOSM). Introduce JOTA/JOTI.
  • Coordinate a community-based support network. Work with your chartered organization to develop a plan. Offer your unit assistance in helping the needy.
  • Post examples of how Scouts are helping the community on social media.

Venturing

Venturing BSA 30 Day Challenge

Introducing the 30-Day Venturing Challenge, a great way to keep your Venturers skills sharp without leaving home. Use this daily checklist as a roadmap to rank advancement.

Looking for more at home Scouting hacks? Check out Bryan on Scouting for more great ideas and resources.



Guidance Regarding COVID-19 for Scouting Events

The Mayflower Council is excited to provide to our units the Reopening Scouting information and documentation needed for any Mayflower Council unit to re-engage in unit meetings, activities, outings and/or service. There are some new required procedures before re-engagement can occur. Below is a 4 guidebooks for all units and registered members/families to follow prior to re-engaging at any level of participation. These documents and required forms are necessary for the protection of our members (including our youth members), volunteer leaders and chartered partners, and the Mayflower Council and the BSA. The purpose of these precautionary procedures and steps is to mitigate certain risks and liabilities that unit leaders and others may be exposed to in connection with the reopening of Scouting in Mayflower Council while facilitating the ability to provide a first-class program to the youth we serve.

Please read and abide by these guidelines before re-engaging. If you have questions or concerns please contact us by email.

Thank you for all you do to make Scouting happen!

Guidance Documents
Updated January 22

All Scouting families and leaders are advised to download and read this guidance document before reopening Scouting.

Program Guidelines
Updated March 3, 2022

All leaders are advised to download and read the latest guidelines that are in place for Scouting meetings and activities.

Incident Reporting

In the event of sickness (including COVID-19) or accident during a unit, district or council event, units or event staff are required to complete and submit an incident report.

Latest Council Updates Concerning COVID-19

Mayflower Council, in addition to other communications, will update this web page with additional recommendations as new information becomes available.

March 3, 2022 COVID-19 Council Operations Update2022-03-03T15:36:25-05:00

The Mayflower Council is implementing the following changes that are effective immediately.

We continue to encourage our Scouting families and leaders to practice healthy and safe activities following recommended guidelines for COVID mitigation strategies. We are following the recommendations of the CDC, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, local healthcare officials and the Boy Scouts of America.  

Mask Mandate Update

  • Masks are no longer required for indoor Scouting meetings; however, masks are recommended while in large groups where social distancing is not possible.
  • Scouts, leaders, and families are encouraged to practice social distancing whenever possible.
  • Scouts and units must follow their chartered organization or meeting location guidelines or policies regarding the wearing of masks. 
  • Please note that the requirement of mask-wearing may be determined and enforced by the chartered organization or meeting location.
  • Unit leadership must be aware of any local health department ordinances or requirements regarding the wearing of masks in public facilities.
  • If an individual chooses to continue wearing a mask, that is perfectly acceptable.

COVID Attestation Form Update

  • COVID attestation forms will no longer be required at every Scouting meeting and activity. The forms are still available for those who would like to use them, but they are no longer required to be used. 

General Guidance Update

  • Any adult or youth experiencing COVID-like symptoms needs to immediately isolate and follow existing protocols. 
  • If a participant was exposed to COVID-19 within the last 10 days, guidance is as follows:
    • For those who are FULLY vaccinated: If you were exposed to COVID-19, participation is still allowed. Keep an eye out for symptoms for 10 days after the last contact. Participant must wear a mask around others to prevent possible transmission.
    • For those who are NOT vaccinated: If you were exposed to COVID-19, no participation is permitted for 5 days from the last contact. Keep an eye out for symptoms for 10 days after the last contact. Masks are required for participation during days 6-10.
  • Unit leaders must report, within 12 hours, confirmed or strongly suspected cases of any communicable disease infections, including COVID-19, occurring during or within 48 hours after a unit meeting or activity, to incidentreport@mayflowerbsa.org using the incident report forms. Unit leaders are also required to promptly notify adult leaders and parents of all Scouts who participated in the activity, as well as the unit’s chartered organization representative. Additional guidance on reporting is available here.
  • No shared food or drink, for example, no buffet service or family-style service. If someone from the unit is cooking, then that person needs to plate the food for each participant. We recommend individually packaged condiments and anything you can purchase individually packaged.

Unit Camping Update

  • Cabins continue to be available for program use by units.
  • While it is recommended to sleep one person per tent, it is acceptable to camp with a maximum of two people per tent. Parental permission should be obtained by the unit leader for any youth members sharing a tent.
  • When sharing a tent or lean-to, individuals should sleep no closer than 6 feet from one another. Individuals sleeping next to one another or in bunk beds should be arranged to sleep head-to-toe.

Transportation Update

  • Carpooling is permitted. While traveling in a vehicle to an outing or activity, face covering use is suggested, but not required. It is also recommended that windows are at least partially open to increase airflow and air exchange and air intake is in non-circulating mode.

Review the complete Mayflower Council COVID-19 Program Reopening Guidelines here. If you have specific questions, please direct your questions to covid19@mayflowerbsa.org

Thank you for doing your part to help keep our Scouts, leaders, and families healthy and safe.

January 6, 2022 COVID-19 Council Operations Update2022-01-06T11:59:24-05:00

The Mayflower Council remains committed to and focused on providing a safe environment for our employees, Scouts, Scouters, and volunteers. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we have repeatedly taken practical steps and implemented robust measures to ensure the welfare of all which has enabled us to safely run programs over the last two years.

Due to the increase in prevalence of COVID-19 in our communities, Mayflower Council is restating the following guidelines, already in effect as of September 23, 2021.

General Guidance

  • Vaccines are strongly recommended for all who are eligible.
  • It is the policy of the council that face coverings will be worn by everyone in attendance during meetings or other indoor events. This applies to every person, youth and adult, vaccinated and unvaccinated.
  • Face coverings should not be worn in or near water, while actively eating or drinking, or while sleeping. Proper social distancing should be maintained in those circumstances.
  • Each member should “Be Prepared” and have an ample amount of clean and dry face masks available to wear.
  • Units and members must follow any additional guidelines imposed by local municipalities or health departments, building operators, or chartered organizations.
  • The Mayflower Council “Model Pre-Event Medical Screening Checklist” has been updated, effective January 5, 2022. Everyone should use this checklist prior to beginning each meeting or activity.
  • Unit leaders must report, within 12 hours, confirmed or strongly suspected cases of any communicable disease infections, including COVID-19, occurring during or within 48 hours after a unit meeting or activity, to incidentreport@mayflowerbsa.org using the incident report forms. Unit leaders are also required to promptly notify adult leaders and parents of all Scouts who participated in the activity, as well as the unit’s chartered organization representative. Additional guidance on reporting is available here.

Unit Camping Guidance

  • Cabins continue to be available for program use by units.
  • Mayflower Council strongly advises against group (congregate) sleeping inside cabins or other indoor locations. We recommend that unit overnight camping be limited to tent and lean-to sites.
  • Face coverings will be worn by everyone when indoors. This applies to every person, youth and adult, vaccinated and unvaccinated.
  • While it is recommended to sleep one person per tent, it is acceptable to camp with a maximum of two people per tent. Parental permission should be obtained by the unit leader for any youth members sharing a tent.
  • When sharing a tent or lean-to, individuals should sleep no closer than 6 feet from one another. Individuals sleeping next to one another or in bunk beds should be arranged to sleep head-to-toe.

Transportation
While traveling in a vehicle to an outing or activity, face covering use is required. It is also recommended that windows are at least partially open to increase airflow and air exchange and air intake is in non-circulating mode.

Council Service Center
Face coverings are required for all visitors, including those who are vaccinated, in shared public areas: meeting rooms, hallways, etc.

As always, if you or someone in your family is experiencing symptoms of illness, refrain from attending any Scouting meetings or activities. Please continue to wash your hands and practice good hygiene at all times.

A Scout is Helpful. Let’s work together to make sure that Scouting does its part to avoid contributing to an overloaded health care system.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary. In the meantime, all events on the calendar will continue as planned with the above guidance in addition to our guidelines and protocols. Any information about cancelations or postponements of events will be sent to those signed up as soon as it is available.

The above are simply highlights of our COVID-19 guidelines; review the complete Mayflower Council COVID-19 Program Reopening Guidelines here.

September 23, 2021 COVID-19 Council Operations Update2021-09-23T14:38:58-04:00

The safety of our Scouts, volunteers, employees, and communities continues to be our top priority. We must continue our vigilance to assure that youth and their families are safe while they enjoy the many benefits of Scouting. Due to the increase in infection rates seen from COVID-19; the development of variants; the percentage of individuals who are not vaccinated; and the current vaccine not being able to be used in children under 12 yrs. of age, the Mayflower Council is recommending the following updated guidelines which are subject to change based upon local health department, state, CDC, and council risk management committee recommendations. Units are permitted to establish stricter standards for their unit meetings and activities if they so desire. We want everyone to feel safe and comfortable.

General Guidance

  • Vaccines are strongly recommended for all who are eligible.
  • Effective Friday, September 24: Each Scout and adult, regardless of vaccination status, are required to wear a face covering at indoor meetings, events and activities. Face coverings are not required at outdoor Scouting meetings, events or activities.
  • Participants should not attend any activity/meeting/event if they or anyone they live with has been tested for COVID-19 or another illness and does not have the results back yet.
  • All participants should follow posted capacity limits of indoor spaces. Avoid crowded or poorly ventilated indoor activities.
    Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
  • Some local and community orders may supersede these guidelines.
  • According to the Centers for Disease Control, the Delta variant causes more infections and spreads faster than early forms of COVID-19. We must remain attentive to mitigation measures.

Unit Meetings & Activities
Unit leadership should follow local health guidelines and continue to practice social distancing in all Scouting activities. Face coverings are no longer required in outdoor settings where social distancing is incorporated. For indoor meetings and activities, face coverings are required for all youth and adults in attendance. On campouts, we recommend that if Scouts sleep more than one per tent, they sleep head to toe. Separate tenting arrangements must be provided for male and female adults as well as for male and female youth. In Cub Scouting, parents and guardians may share a tent with their family. In all other programs, youth and adults tent separately.

Face Masks at Mayflower Council Camps
While outdoors at camp, face coverings are not required. Face coverings are required to be worn indoors including inside the dining hall and all other camp buildings.

Health Assessments & Cleaning
Council activities will continue to require the pre-event screening sheet. Upon arriving at an event, this sheet will be reviewed by a member of the event staff. Event staff will clean restrooms and high traffic areas often. Program equipment will be wiped down between groups and hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout camp. We recommend all participants bring and use their own hand sanitizer and practice good hand washing hygiene.

Facility Rentals
Units and groups may continue to use council facilities by making a reservation through our online booking system. Face coverings are required to be worn indoors including inside the rental cabins except when actively eating or drinking or sleeping.

Transportation
While traveling in a vehicle to an outing or activity, face covering use is required. It is also recommended that windows are at least partially open to increase airflow and air exchange and air intake is in non-circulating mode.

Council Service Center
Face coverings are required for all visitors, including those who are vaccinated, in shared public areas: meeting rooms, hallways, etc.

The above are simply highlights of our COVID-19 guidelines; review the complete Mayflower Council COVID-19 Program Reopening Guidelines here.

June 15, 2021 COVID-19 Council Operations Update2021-09-10T10:26:56-04:00

On June 15, the Mayflower Council is revised its COVID-19 guidelines.

Review the most up to date Program Guidelines here. For the latest complete COVID-19 council guidance refer to www.mayflowerbsa.org/covid-19.

Finally, as Scouts, it is important that we demonstrate the principles of the Scout Law now more than ever before. As restrictions continue to lift, individuals within your Scout unit may have varying levels of comfort or anxiety. It is our responsibility to be kind while being helpful and friendly and demonstrate empathy and respect to everyone, even if they have beliefs different from ours. As we move forward let’s be cheerful and brave while showing obedience to the rules, regulations and guidance of the Commonwealth, Council, chartered organizations and cities/towns. 

May 20, 2021 COVID-19 Council Operations Update2021-05-20T13:52:52-04:00

On Monday, May 17, the Baker-Polito Administration announced that all remaining COVID-19 restrictions in the Commonwealth will be lifted effective May 29. The Mayflower Council is revising our COVID-19 guidelines based on this announcement.

Highlights of the changes are as follows:

  • In line with updated CDC and Commonwealth face covering guidance, the Mayflower Council will rescind the current face covering requirement for outdoor Scouting meetings, events & activities effective May 29. Face coverings will remain required indoors for all Scouting meetings, events & activities.
  • The gathering limits will be rescinded.
  • Lean-tos and activity pavilions at Nobscot Scout Reservation will be available for rental effective May 29. Booking for lean-tos and pavilions will open May 24.
  • Cabins at Camp Resolute, Camp Squanto and Nobscot Scout Reservation will be available for rental effective September 6. Booking for cabins will open June 1.
  • Changes to summer camp operations will be announced on Monday, May 24 at our Summer Camp Update. Sign-up to attend.
  • Before resuming any meetings or activities or removing face coverings, check with your charter organization to ensure they approve.

Review the most up to date Program Guidelines here. For the latest complete COVID-19 council guidance refer to www.mayflowerbsa.org/covid-19.

Finally, as Scouts, it is important that we demonstrate the principles of the Scout Law now more than ever before. As restrictions begin to lift, individuals within your Scout unit may have varying levels of comfort or anxiety. It is our responsibility to be kind while being helpful and friendly and demonstrate empathy and respect to everyone, even if they have beliefs different from ours. As we move forward let’s be cheerful and brave while showing obedience to the rules, regulations and guidance of the Commonwealth, Council, chartered organizations and cities/towns. 

April 5, 2021 COVID-19 Council Operations Update2021-04-05T18:35:49-04:00

Effective today, April 5, the Mayflower Council is amending our recommendation for carpooling to and from Scouting events to be as follows:

The Mayflower Council still believes that transportation to and from activities should be made within family units and carpooling should be discouraged.

Should a unit decide to permit carpooling to and from Scouting activities, the following best practices are recommended, based on guidelines from the CDC and Commonwealth of Massachusetts:

  • Youth protection guidelines must always be followed.
  • Any youth who will be traveling in a vehicle with multiple individuals must have their parent’s/guardian’s written permission. Any adult who will be traveling in a vehicle with multiple individuals – including the driver – must give their consent.
  • Each passenger in the vehicle must wear a mask covering their nose and mouth at all times while inside the vehicle. Cover coughs and sneezes. When outside of the vehicle, individuals should maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from one another.
  • To increase air circulation, it is best to open windows or set the air ventilation/air conditioning on non-recirculation mode.
  • Occupants should refrain from eating or drinking while in the vehicle to ensure mask use at all times. Plan to eat and drink outside of the vehicle when you are not near other people.
  • Occupants should stay in the same group/vehicle for all portions of the trip, including return trip.
  • For trips longer than 1 hour, every effort should be made to leave open seats between second (and third) row passengers.
  • Use proper hand hygiene. Hands should be washed before and after the trip. Hand sanitizer should be used where proper hand washing is not possible.
  • High touch areas inside and outside of the vehicle (door handles, seat belts, etc.) should be disinfected before and after each trip.
  • Unit leaders should maintain a list of passengers in each vehicle for at least 30 days after a trip, to facilitate contact tracing.

All previously announced COVID-19 restrictions continue to be in effect. For the most up to date council guidance refer to www.mayflowerbsa.org/covid-19.

March 25, 2021 COVID-19 Council Operations Update2021-03-25T14:43:51-04:00

Monday, March 18, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker announced an Appendix to COVID-19 Order #63 amending gathering limits. Therefore, effective immediately, the Mayflower Council will be updating our Scouting group size limits to the following:

  • Gatherings at Private Residences:
    • Indoor gatherings at private residences and in other places not falling within the definition of an event venue or public setting are limited to a maximum of 10 people.
    • Outdoor gatherings at private residences and in other places not falling within the definition of an event venue or public setting are limited to a maximum of 25 people.
  • Gatherings at Event Venues and in Public Settings:
    • Indoor gatherings at event venues or in public settings are limited to a maximum of 100 people.
    • Outdoor gatherings at event venues or in public settings are limited to a maximum of 150 persons in a single venue or space.

In addition to the capacity restrictions specified above, all participants in indoor and outdoor gatherings, including gatherings at private residences, must maintain at least 6 feet of physical distance from every other participant in the gathering, except where participants are members of the same household.

On Friday, March 26, we are updating our council camping restrictions to remove the 12 person maximum per campsite and increasing the maximum number of campers allowed in our camps. Cabins will remain closed at this time.

All previously announced COVID-19 restrictions continue to be in effect. For the most up to date council guidance refer to www.mayflowerbsa.org/covid-19.

January 22, 2021 Update2021-01-22T14:10:31-05:00

Yesterday, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker announced that the stay at home order would expire on Monday, January 25 at 5am. Therefore, effective Monday, January 25, 2021, the Mayflower Council will be reopening our three camps to overnight outdoor camping. Camp Resolute and Nobscot Scout Reservation will be open for weekday and weekend overnight camping and Camp Squanto will be open for weekend overnight camping. Our camps will also continue to be available for day use and cabins will remain unavailable for the foreseeable future.

The number of units that we can accommodate at our camps for overnight camping will be reduced in order to  comply with the 25% capacity restrictions imposed by the Commonwealth thru at least February 8, 2021. Occupancy of each campsite remains limited to a maximum of 12 occupants per campsite.

The following size limits for gatherings remain in effect: indoor gatherings are limited to 10 people and outdoor gatherings are limited to 25 people.

All previously announced COVID-19 restrictions continue to be in effect. For the most up to date council guidance refer to www.mayflowerbsa.org/covid-19.

November 3, 2020 Update2020-11-03T18:40:33-05:00

Dear Scouting Family,

Yesterday, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker announced COVID-19 Executive Order #54 which states that, effective Friday, November 6th, there will be a stay at home advisory for the hours between 10pm and 5am. Governor Baker also implemented additional limitations on gatherings in outdoor venues.

Therefore, effective Friday, November 6, 2020, the Mayflower Council will be closing our three camps to overnight camping until further notice. Our camp will remain available for day use and cabins will remain unavailable for the foreseeable future. Units with current overnight reservations will be contacted to determine if your unit would prefer to transition their reservation to “day only,” or simply cancel.

The order also reduced the size limit for gatherings at private residences: indoor gatherings at private residences are limited to 10 people and outdoor gatherings at private residences are limited to 25 people. The limit on gatherings held in public spaces and at event venues remains the same. It also requires that all gatherings (regardless of size or location) must end and disperse by 9:30 PM.

All previously announced COVID-19 restrictions continue to be in effect. For the most up to date council guidance refer to www.mayflowerbsa.org/covid-19.

The new COVID-19 restrictions continue to make delivery of a quality outdoor Scouting program difficult. These restrictions have us facing a complicated environment for Scouting. We are challenged with recruitment, training, cancelled events, finding appropriate places to meet and parents who are concerned about their children being around others. Additionally, school is not normal, home is not normal and we are restricted from friends and activities as we navigate this uncertain landscape. We can, however, still give youth an amazing program.

To help keep Scouting going our council has created the virtual Yeti Cubs program that sends a weekly email to every Cub Scout family to help keep their child on track with Cub Scout advancement, monthly virtual pack meetings, virtual merit badge classes, and quarterly virtual campfires. Our training team has also offered a wildly popular best practices for conducting virtual meetings; and will be offering an updated version soon. We continue to develop COVID-19 friendly methods to bring Scouting to our membership.

In all that is currently going on in the world, it would be easy to throw up our hands and declare it just too tough. However, our youth need leadership. Our youth need you. Keep calm and continue Scouting! Thanks for all you do, no matter how tough.

Yours in Scouting,

Mike Rotar, Council President
Josh Paulin, Council Commissioner
Bryan Feather, Scout Executive / CEO

August 7, 2020 Update2020-08-23T19:31:23-04:00

Today the Mayflower Council leadership has amended the following guidelines: the maximum group size allowed at Scouting meetings and activities to mirror that of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Phase III, Step I and the availability of our camp properties. The revised guidelines are as follows:

  • Group Meetings:
    • Indoor gatherings are limited to 8 persons per 1,000 square feet of accessible, indoor floor space and never more than 25 persons in a single enclosed, indoor space.
    • Outdoor gatherings are limited to 25% of the maximum permitted occupancy of the facility or 8 persons per 1,000 square feet and never more than 50 persons in a single outdoor space.
      • Gatherings subject to this limitation include: community, civic, public, leisure, sporting events, concerts, conferences, conventions, fundraisers, fairs, festivals, road races, and other similar events or activities. These restrictions apply to gatherings in all public and private venues and locations in the Commonwealth, including private homes, backyards, parks, athletic fields, and parking lots.
  • Camp Resolute & Nobscot Scout Reservation are available for tent camping on both weekdays and weekends. Camp Squanto is open for tent camping on weekends only. Adventure Day Camp at Camp Resolute is open solely for programs hosted by the Mayflower Council in June, July & August. It is important to note that the revised gathering sizes do not apply when camping at our camp properties. Our camp properties are subject to sector-specific rules that are more stringent.

Review our revised Program Guidelines for the complete list of guidelines that are in place for Scouting meetings and activities.

July 16, 2020 Update2020-08-23T19:31:13-04:00

Today the Mayflower Council leadership has amended the following guidelines: the maximum group size allowed at Scouting meetings and activities to mirror that of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Phase III, Step I and the availability of our camp properties. The revised guidelines are in red:

  • Before resuming any meetings or activities, check with your charter organization to ensure they approve. Some charter organizations are not opening their facilities for meetings or have imposed additional restrictions on group meetings and activities. Rules or guidance from your charter organization must be followed. Please respect their wishes.
  • Currently Camp Resolute & Nobscot Scout Reservation are available for tent camping on both weekdays and weekends. Camp Squanto will be open for tent camping beginning on August 1. Adventure Day Camp at Camp Resolute is open solely for programs hosted by the Mayflower Council in June, July & August. It is important to note that the revised gathering sizes do not apply when camping at our camp properties. Our camp properties are subject to sector-specific rules that are more stringent.
  • Individuals at higher risk of severe illness (older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions) should consult their physician prior to participation in any group activities.
  • All participants should review their current health prior to participating in any activity. Individuals with temperatures higher than 100.4 and other symptoms of COVID-19 should not participate.
  • All units must keep a detailed roster of participants for all meetings and activities, so they are prepared in the event that contact tracing is required.
  • All individuals who believe they may have been exposed to COVID-19 must quarantine for 14-days prior to participation in any Scouting activity.
  • Outdoor meetings are highly encouraged.
  • All persons should remain at least six feet apart to the greatest extent possible, both inside and outside.
  • Group Meetings:
    • Indoor gatherings are limited to 8 persons per 1,000 square feet of accessible, indoor floor space and never more than 25 persons in a single enclosed, indoor space.
    • Outdoor gatherings in enclosed, permitted or leased spaces are limited to 25% of the maximum permitted occupancy of the facility or 8 persons per 1,000 square feet  and never more than 100 persons in a single outdoor space that is enclosed, permitted or leased.
    • Outdoor gatherings in unenclosed spaces are not subject to capacity limitations.
      • Gatherings in Unenclosed Spaces: Outdoor gatherings that are not subject to the capacity limitations above, such as those in a park, backyard, athletic field, or parking lot are permitted, provided that the type of gathering is not prohibited in the list below.
      • Prohibited Activities: Street festivals, agricultural festivals, walk-a-thons, road races and bike races, and other outdoor, organized athletic or recreational events that gather large numbers of participants or spectators outdoors are prohibited until further notice.
  • We encourage you to postpone any large meetings or activities and continue virtual gatherings where possible, utilizing conference calls or online video conferencing.
  • Transportation to and from activities should be made within family units. Carpooling should be discouraged.
  • Each Scout and adult are required to wear a face covering.
  • Handwashing and sanitation of shared supplies must be done between use.
  • Sleeping arrangements on camping trips should be limited to one person per tent, unless they are family.
  • Families/siblings do not need to maintain social distancing for transportation, sleeping, or meetings.
  • Six foot distancing should be maintained when practical during hikes, bike rides, and other follow the leader activities.
  • All local, state, and federal safety guidelines should be followed. Please review guidelines for not only your unit’s meeting location, but the location of any camping/activity destination.
  • Ensure all Boy Scouts of America Youth Protection guidelines are adhered to.
  • It is recommended that these guidelines be shared with each member of your unit and posted during all meetings and activities. Units should obtain written permission from parents stating that they have reviewed these guidelines and consent to having their child participate in Scouting activities. Keep these permissions with the unit health forms.

July 2 Update on Scouts BSA Summer Resident Camp2020-08-23T19:31:01-04:00

June 11, 2020 Update2020-08-23T19:30:49-04:00

Dear Scouting Family,

The Mayflower Council leadership is committed to resuming Scouting’s in-person meetings and activities as our Commonwealth, local authorities and the Council’s COVID-19 Task Force deem it safe to do so. At this time, our Commonwealth remains in Stage Two of the Reopening Massachusetts four phase plan issued by Governor Baker.

On Monday, June 15th the Mayflower Council’s district and council activities, as well as Scout unit meetings and activities, are permitted to resume in-person, with limitations. Many of you have been looking forward to being able to gather together again to work on advancement, go camping, and complete service projects; but we also want to ensure these activities are being done as safely as possible.

In order to mitigate the health risk of spreading COVID-19 to our volunteers, staff, and Scouts, the Mayflower Council is providing the following guidelines. These recommendations are designed to mitigate risk, but all participants need to be aware that any activity puts them at some risk of exposure. Please remember that some who are exposed to COVID-19 could be asymptomatic. If a person becomes infected, they may become asymptomatic carriers and could infect other people unknowingly.

  • Before resuming any meetings or activities, check with your charter organization to ensure they approve. Some charter organizations are not opening their facilities for meetings or have imposed additional restrictions on group meetings and activities. Rules or guidance from your charter organization must be followed. Please respect their wishes.
  • Currently Camp Squanto & Adventure Day Camp at Camp Resolute will be open solely for programs hosted by the Mayflower Council in June, July & August. We intend to open Camp Resolute and Nobscot Scout Reservation for tent camping later in the month and will share additional information on our website as soon as it is available.
  • Individuals at higher risk of severe illness (older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions) should consult their physician prior to participation in any group activities.
  • All participants should review their current health prior to participating in any activity. Individuals with temperatures higher than 100.4 and other symptoms of COVID-19 should not participate.
  • All units must keep a detailed roster of participants for all meetings and activities, so they are prepared in the event that contact tracing is required.
  • All individuals who believe they may have been exposed to COVID-19 must quarantine for 14-days prior to participation in any Scouting activity.
  • Outdoor meetings are highly encouraged.
  • All persons should remain at least six feet apart to the greatest extent possible, both inside and outside.
  • Group meeting size must be limited to no more than 10 people (8 youth and 2 adults). While we realize there are a number of troops and packs with more than 10 youth, this number is set by the Commonwealth to allow for appropriate social distancing and efficient contact tracing in the event of potential exposure. Activities done in small groups (den meetings and patrol meetings) are preferable.
  • We encourage you to postpone any large meetings or activities and continue virtual gatherings where possible, utilizing conference calls or online video conferencing.
  • Transportation to and from activities should be made within family units. Carpooling should be discouraged.
  • Each Scout and adult are required to wear a face covering.
  • Handwashing and sanitation of shared supplies must be done between use.
  • Sleeping arrangements on camping trips should be limited to one person per tent, unless they are family.
  • Families/siblings do not need to maintain social distancing for transportation, sleeping, or meetings.
  • Six foot distancing should be maintained when practical during hikes, bike rides, and other follow the leader activities.
  • All local, state, and federal safety guidelines should be followed. Please review guidelines for not only your unit’s meeting location, but the location of any camping/activity destination.
  • Ensure all Boy Scouts of America Youth Protection guidelines are adhered to.
  • It is recommended that these guidelines be shared with each member of your unit and posted during all meetings and activities. Units should obtain written permission from parents stating that they have reviewed these guidelines and consent to having their child participate in Scouting activities. Keep these permissions with the unit health forms.

Finally, as Scouts, it is important that we demonstrate the principles of the Scout Law now more than ever before. As restrictions begin to lift, individuals within your Scout unit may have varying levels of comfort or anxiety. It is our responsibility to be kind while being helpful and friendly and demonstrate empathy and respect to everyone, even if they have beliefs different than ours. As we move forward let’s be cheerful and brave while showing obedience to the rules, regulations and guidance of our Commonwealth, Mayflower Council, and chartered organizations.

Take care and be well,

Mike Rotar
Council President

Josh Paulin
Council Commissioner

Bryan Feather
Scout Executive / CEO

May 25 Council Update2020-08-23T19:30:37-04:00

Dear Scouting Family:

We hope that you are safe and healthy during this challenging time. Over the past several months, your Council leadership has been carefully monitoring the impact COVID-19 has had on our communities and on our Scouting program. While we are hopeful that restrictions will soon be adjusted to allow for some version of face-to-face Scouting meetings and outdoor activities, we are not quite there at this time.  State guidelines still limit group size to no more than 10 people and camping, parks and select sports are planned to reopen in Phase 2.  For the safety of our Scouts, Scouters and community, we are extending the suspension of all face-to-face meetings, events, activities, trips and our property closures through June 15th, which is consistent with the phased reopening of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Council leadership will revisit our restrictions again when information on Phase 2 is released by Governor Baker. At that time, we will provide information on approved activities that will best protect our Scouting family while continuing to follow the guidance of our local, state, and national authorities.

We are excited about the future and look forward to re-engaging in weekly unit meetings and the outdoor programs that we all know and love. These programs may look a little different, as we work to mitigate risk, but we are confident in the Scouting spirit and the tremendous value our program provides to the young people we serve.

We look forward to seeing you on the Scouting trail soon!

Mike Rotar
Council President

Joshua Paulin
Council Commissioner

Bryan Feather
Scout Executive / CEO

May 18 Update on Summer Camp Operations2020-08-23T19:30:25-04:00

April 24 Council Update2020-08-23T19:36:19-04:00

Dear Scouting Family:

We hope that you remain safe and well during these unusual times. Like you, we are carefully monitoring the impact COVID-19 has on our communities and the guidance from our public officials, especially mandatory closure dates. For the safety of our Scouts, Scouters and community, we are extending our closures through May 31.

This means all in-person Scouting activities of any type remain prohibited through May 31. We have previously communicated that our guidance supersedes all other Scouting guidance, including that from the National Council Boy Scouts of America. Should any guidance from your chartered organization or your local health department be more restrictive, please also follow those restrictions.

We are inspired by our Scouting families for their determination to continue Scouting during these challenging times. Whether it is virtual meetings and activities or making cheerful cards for the elderly in nursing homes, Scouting continues to thrive across the communities in our council. Our Scouting at Home page has support for all our programs. These activities will help Scouts earn our new Scouting at Home Award patch, which you can learn more about here. We’d love to hear any ideas or resources you have, please share them with us at scoutingathome@mayflowerbsa.org or on our Facebook page.

We are hosting a plethora of virtual meetings, events and activities to keep our Scouts active. For our Scouts BSA members we have launched virtual merit badges, beginning in May we will offer our Cub Scouts weekly den meetings, for our entire Scouting family we’re hosting our second virtual campfire as well as a Camping At Home Challenge, and we’re excited about the National Camp-in on May 2.

Our teams at Camp Resolute, Adventure Day Camp and Camp Squanto are excited to welcome you this summer and we anticipate a fantastic experience. There is no risk for families and units of losing money by signing up for Mayflower Camps now. In the event that camp does not open or has a shortened season due to COVID-19 and your troop or campers are unable to attend during your scheduled time, all camp fees paid will be refunded. Read more about summer camp here.

We are all learning new ways to do Scouting and are succeeding. In many ways, this crisis has brought all of us closer together even from a distance. For over a century, Scouting has been all about being prepared. In a sense, we have been preparing for times like these for over 110 years. Our Scout motto of “Be Prepared” tells us that we are ready for this challenge.

Thank you for all that you do for Scouting.

Yours in Scouting,

Mike Rotar, Council President
Josh Paulin, Council Commissioner
Bryan Feather, Scout Executive

April 16 Update On Summer Camp Operations2020-08-23T19:29:55-04:00

March 26 Council Update2020-08-23T19:27:35-04:00

We hope this letter finds you and your family well during these unprecedented times. Everyone has spent the last several days and weeks learning about COVID-19 (coronavirus) and how it’s affecting our community. Families are adjusting to stay-at-home advisories and coping with school closures.

The Mayflower Council priority is to keep our Scouts, volunteers, staff, and their families safe as well as demonstrate good citizenship in our communities by considering the needs of those around us.

As the threat of COVID-19 increases, most states, local governments, and school districts have either issued or extended stay-at-home advisories. As a result, we are extending the stoppage of all Council, district and unit face-to-face Scout activities, face-to-face meetings, as well as Camps and Council Service Center closures through April 30. As a reminder:

  • All face-to-face Scouting activities are canceled effective immediately through April 30. This includes unit meetings (including patrol and den meetings), campouts, activities, trips, Pinewood Derbies, Blue and Gold Dinners, in-person fundraisers, service projects, Court of Honors (including for Eagle Scouts), etc. Please continue to work with your Scouts via digital and electronic methods whenever possible.
  • All face-to-face council-level and district-level events and meetings are canceled through April 30. This includes Roundtable, training events and committee meetings. Please use all digital and electronic means available to conduct your meetings.
  • All Council Camps are closed through April 30.
  • The Council Service Centers are closed through April 30. Our staff will be working remotely and respond to all calls, emails and postal mail.

This is most certainly a fluid situation. We will continue to align with best practices and policies set forth by state and local governments, municipalities, and schools. In the future, restrictions may be reduced or lifted within areas of the council thereby restoring Scout activities, face-to-face meetings, and the reopening of council service centers and camps in that area.  Should changes to closures be warranted, we will promptly communicate with you.

We have been working to identify and encourage opportunities for Scouts to continue meeting with their units virtually, learn new skills, earn merit badges and advancements, and – most importantly – to do their part in giving back to their communities. We wanted to share with you some resources we’ve gathered that you might find helpful while planning activities at home for your families and staying up-to-date with Scouting during this pandemic. Click here for our most current list of resources.

Together, we can help flatten the curve of this rapidly spreading virus and keep everyone safe. Stay positive, have faith, and know the health and well-being of our Scouts, volunteers, staff, and their families are our number one priority!

Take care and be well,

Mike Rotar
Council President

Josh Paulin
Council Commissioner

Bryan Feather
Scout Executive

March 12 Council Update2020-08-23T19:27:20-04:00

As we informed you in our email on March 9th, we have been monitoring the situation regarding the COVID-19 “Coronavirus”. Since then, the situation has worsened: the World Health Organization has upgraded the virus to pandemic level and Governor Charlie Baker has declared a state of emergency. Therefore, effective immediately, we are suspending all council and district in-person group meetings, trainings, activities, events, etc. through April 7. We ask districts and committees to conduct their work virtually where possible to help carry on the important work of service to our youth.

We recommend that individual units suspend in-person meetings and activities, and to leverage technology to deliver the program to our youth during this time. While the majority of youth are at low risk from this illness, limiting group exposure can help to slow the spread of COVID-19 to at-risk members of our community.  Community service comes in many forms.  This course of action ensures that we do our part to protect others in our community-at-large and is in keeping with the values embodied in the Scout Oath and Law.

We encourage you to take standard precautions outlined by the CDC, including hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home if you are ill. Please visit this page for additional information: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

For the latest information, please refer to our website. This includes a list of postponed or rescheduled events, and links to recommendations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

As always, we will continue to monitor the situation and keep you informed.

Thank you for your understanding,

Mike Rotar
Council President

Josh Paulin
Council Commissioner

Bryan Feather
Scout Executive

March 8 Update2020-08-23T19:27:10-04:00

Click here to read the Mayflower Council leadership’s update on Scouting and COVID-19.

What to Do if You Think You’re Sick

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and may have had contact with a person with COVID-19 or recently traveled to countries with apparent community spread, call your health care provider or local public health department first before seeking medical care so that appropriate precautions can be taken. Do not attend any Scouting meeting, event or activity.

Massachusetts Department of Public Health

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is working closely with the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to provide updated information about the novel coronavirus outbreak. Visit their website for the most up to date information.

BSA Polices to Prevent the Spread of Illness

The Boy Scouts of America continues to have policies and procedures in place that help protect participants from contracting an illness at large Scouting events. These include the Annual Health and Medical Record and the Pre-Event Medical Screening Checklist.

Everyday Preventive Measures

Even with those important policies in place, it is critical that we all take these everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases:

  • Stay home when you feel sick.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, and wash your hands before and after doing so.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve/elbow, not your hands.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Do not share personal items such as cups, water bottles, eating utensils, etc.
  • Avoid shaking hands.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

If you have a fever, cough, or other symptoms associated with COVID-19, or if you believe you may have been exposed to COVID-19, you should isolate and not attend any Scouting events. People who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider immediately.



Merit Badge University Postponed

In light of the emergent developments concerning COVID-19, we will not be able to hold the second weekend of this year’s Merit Badge University (MBU) on March 21st at the Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical High School.

The safety of our Scouts, Scouters, counselors, and staff is of paramount importance to us. We are also mindful that it is essential that we all do our part to minimize the risk of community spread. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) advise that the risk of infection in Massachusetts remains low, out of an abundance of caution and in service to the public health we have concluded that it is best not to proceed with the second weekend of the MBU event at this time.

As might be expected with such a fluid set of circumstances, we cannot give you a definitive date when or if the MBU will be rescheduled. Our primary consideration when determining whether/when to proceed will be informed by the guidance of the CDC and MDPH regarding the resumption of large community events. We will be in touch when the picture is clearer and we can provide more definite information.

We encourage you to take standard precautions outlined by the CDC, including hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home if you are ill. Please visit this page for additional information: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

If you have questions or would like further information, please email us.



Important Note About Coronavirus and Scouting

Dear Scouting Families,

Recent concern regarding the COVID-19 (coronavirus) has generated much public attention and has caused significant change in travel, personal interactions and in guidelines prescribed by health officials for how to address the growing concern.

As an organization, we have discussed the best approach based on what we know today.  At this point in time, we are proceeding forward with all scheduled meetings and events while following the guidelines and advise of medical professionals to help minimize risk to our general membership.  Conducting our program elements is key to the success of Scouting but we are also aware of the concern from the general public.  If at any point direction changes from state or local leaders, we will revisit and share updates with the council membership.

Recommended steps to remain healthy during this cold and flu season based on recommendations from the World Health Organization and United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These precautions include:

  • Regularly and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water or clean them with an alcohol-based hand rub.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick (this may include avoiding shaking hands or other customary greetings).
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Maintain at least three feet (one meter) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Please visit this page for additional information: www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/index. html

If any individuals are uncomfortable attending a meeting or event, we don’t want anyone to feel pressure to attend.  Each person can make the decision that they feel is in their best interest.

We hope that these preventative measures help to limit the risk and keep our youth and volunteers safe and healthy.

Yours in Scouting,

Michael Rotar
Council President

Bryan Feather
Scout Executive / CEO

Josh Paulin
Council Commissioner



An Important Update from the Mayflower Council

Dear Scouting Community,

Today, the national organization of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to achieve two key objectives: equitably compensate victims who were harmed during their time in Scouting and continue to carry out Scouting’s mission for years to come.

 I want to highlight important points that are most relevant to the Mayflower Council:

  • The Mayflower Council has not filed for bankruptcy. Our Council is legally separate, distinct and financially independent from the national organization.
  • Scouting programs will continue. This means that unit meetings and activities, district and council events, other Scouting adventures and countless service projects will take place as usual. In short, we expect no changes to the local Scouting experience in the Mayflower Council.
  • Scouting is safer now than ever before. Over many years, we’ve developed some of the strongest expert-informed youth protection policies found in any youth-serving organization. I can also assure you that our volunteers and employees take youth protection extremely seriously and do their part to help keep kids safe.
  • Restricted donations – past, present or future – can only be used for their designated purpose. In addition, Friends of Scouting (FOS) and other annual donations made to our Council will continue to fund necessary day-to-day expenses that are critical to local Scouting programs.

While we do not anticipate the national organization’s bankruptcy filing will have any direct impact on the local Scouting experience or your involvement with our Council, I understand you may still have questions about these issues and things you will see in the news. To that end, the national organization has established a dedicated restructuring website, www.BSArestructuring.org.

This site includes a helpful Resources page, where you will find a short video explaining what Chapter 11 means for Scouting, as well as a FAQ. The site’s Milestones page will be your best source for the latest updates throughout this process.

If you have any questions about local Scouting, you can always feel free to reach out directly to me or your usual contact within our Council.

Through your engagement and dedication to Scouting, the Mayflower Council will continue to bring adventures, values and lifelong benefits to youth and our communities for generations to come. Thank you for your trust and support as we continue this important mission.

 

Yours in Scouting,

Bryan Feather
Scout Executive / CEO



2019 Silver Beaver Recipients

The Silver Beaver Award is the council-level distinguished service award of the Boy Scouts of America. The Silver Beaver is an award given to those who implement the Scouting program and perform community service through hard work, self-sacrifice, dedication, and many years of service. It is given to those who do not seek it.

We are extremely proud of our 2019 Silver Beaver Award recipients. They are shining examples of Scouting service in our Council!

Gary Bernklow – Silver Beaver

Gary has been involved in Scouting for 45 years, joining Pack 39 Stow as a Cub Scout and earning both the “heavy shoulder” and the Arrow of Light. He crossed over to Troop 1 Stow and served as a patrol leader, senior patrol leader, and junior assistant Scoutmaster and earning his Eagle rank in 1984. He was also active with the Order of the Arrow during his time as a Scout, serving on the Taunkacoo executive board as a vice-chief and becoming a Vigil Honor Member of the lodge in 1983.

He was a staff member at Camp Resolute for several years and attended National Camp School. Gary is a Lifetime Member of the Camp Resolute Alumni Association and served as the chair to the Resolute 100th Anniversary Camporee in the fall of 2019.

Gary has served as an assistant Scoutmaster with Troop 1 since 1984 and has organized and led several high adventure trips for the troop to Maine, New York, Vermont, Montana (4 times), Wyoming, New Mexico, California, and is currently in the planning stages for a trip to Colorado for the summer of 2020. As a troop leader Gary has coached 69 Scouts to the rank of Eagle, including his son Connor in 2018.

During his tenure as an assistant Scoutmaster, Gary also served the town of Stow as Chair of the Finance Committee, as a selectman, and as financial officer of the Elementary School Building Committee which reconstructed the Center School.

In 2010, he formed Troop One Stow Alumni, incorporated, as a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, often referred to as TOSA, Inc. TOSA is organized exclusively for the charitable and educational purposes of supporting Troop 1 Stow by serving as its chartering organization, assuring the safety of Troop 1 members, providing financial and other support to Troop 1 Stow, and educating and training the members of Troop 1 Stow according to the guidelines and policies of the Boy Scouts of America. The organization was established to ensure the Scouting program continues in the Town of Stow and engages young adults to continue in the Scouting program. Gary serves as TOSA’s CEO.

Gary is Director Product Management at MedAptus, a medical software IT company headquartered in Boston. Gary has been with MedAptus since 2007.

Gary has been married to his wife Lori since 1993. They have two children: Connor, Eagle Scout, 19 years old and currently enrolled at the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, and Abigail 21 years of age, attending Framingham State University and studying early childhood education.

Ronald Ehnes – Silver Beaver

Ronald has been involved with the Scouting Program since September 1953 as a Cub Scout in Pack 209 Manhattan. He was a youth member and adult leader with units in the Greater New York Council until being stationed at Clark Air Base in the Philippine Islands. He served as an assistant Scoutmaster with Troop 362 there and helped coordinate and participated in the re-enactment of the Battan Death March. He helped start a summer camp program with the Boy Scouts of the Philippines. He was also active while serving at Phan Rang Air Base in the Republic of South Vietnam where he assisted in restoring and maintaining a Catholic Orphanage.

When Ron returned from the far east, he re-engaged with Explorer Post 237 in Manhattan. He left the post in 1971. Upon being separated from the Air Force Ron was appointed to the U.S. Marshal’s Service in Brooklyn, N.Y. & Delaware which made it difficult for him to participate in Scouting due to travel, overtime and warrant investigations. In December 2002 Ron and his family were invited to an Eagle Court of Honor, and his two sons were so impressed with the ceremony and Scouts that the family joined Troop 51 in January 2003.

Over his distinguished Scouting career, has received many awards – Eagle Scout Class of 1964, Vigil Honor, Scouters Key, Scouters Training Award, Scoutmaster’s Award of Merit, Unit Leader Award of Merit, and the District Award of Merit. He attended Wood Badge while stationed in the Philippines through the Far East Council. In June 2019, Ron was presented with the National Outstanding Eagle Scout Award which recognizes notable Eagle Scouts who have either performed distinguished service at the local, state, or regional level or who were known nationally.

Ron is employed with the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department at the Plymouth County Correctional Facility where he has worked since April 1987. He is assigned as an Accreditation Specialist with duties as Fire Safety, Safety and Environmental Officer. Ron is a member of the National Sheriff’s Association and the National Corrections Employee’s Association.

In May 1993 he received the Supervisor of the Year Award and in June 1994 he received the Father of the Year Award from radio station WCOD.

Ron serves as a role model for the Scouts, BSA religious awards program by helping Scouts of his and different faiths to achieve their own individual religious awards. He is an active member of St. Bonaventure Parish and has attended the Generation of Faith Program with his family and assists with the Religious Education Programs when asked.

Ron provides each Scout with a sense of dignity and incentive to perform on an outstanding level. He is a merit Badge Counselor within the Troop and at M.B.U. since 2003. As an Eagle Scout, he has assisted over fifty Scouts to achieve their Eagle rank by working closely with them on advice, paperwork and guidance. Ron believes in strong youth leadership especially through the patrol method and attending National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT). In September 2011 he assisted in the organization and training of newly appointed Youth Leaders which was a great success.

Ron and his wife Karen have been married for 34 years and their two son’s Michael and Justin who are both Eagle Scouts.

Peter Lane – Silver Beaver

Pete Lane was a Boy Scout growing up in western Massachusetts and attended Camp Eagle. He attended the Boy Scout Jamboree in Colorado Springs in 1960.
As a Philmont Contingent Coordinator he sits on the Council High Adventure Committee. He has led 3 Philmont and 1 Sea Base Council contingents. Pete is a Philmont Ambassador and has worked many hours promoting Philmont.

He has also attended Philmont Training Center several times and has been involved for many years as a commissioner at various levels and attends commissioner college each year, again this year as an instructor.

For more than 10 years Pete has volunteered every Tuesday at Nobscot or Camp Resolute assisting the ranger working on the needs of the camps (painting, repairing, cabins and buildings). Pete also lends a hand in the camps when we have large groups that volunteer during days of caring.

Pete is a Leave No Trace Master running training class for both Scouts and adults as well as members of the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC). He has been regularly involved as an Outdoor Ethics advocate for the council as well as attending 2 National Outdoor Ethics conferences. Pete has worked tirelessly on promoting Leave No Trace and Outdoor Ethics to Scouts.

Pete has been a volunteer with the Appalachian Mountain Club for more than 10 years. He is an active bike and hike leader. He is also a North Country volunteer and an AMC Alpine Steward since approx. 2003. He currently is a member of the Franconia Notch Task Group. This past year he was awarded one of the AMCs highest club wide awards for volunteer leadership.

As a member of the Catamount Trail Association Pete leads back country ski trips and is on the Board of Directors and the Trail Committee. While regularly in Vermont, Pete volunteers with the Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports Association; an organization promoting outdoors for youth and adults with disabilities.

Pete has been running the Scout Orienteering Camporee (Scout O) serving approx. 400 Scout and Scouters at Nobscot for many years. He also served as the President and then Chairman of the Board of the New England Orienteering Club.

Pete is also member of the Appalachian Trail Association, Pete was involved with organizing two ATC Biennial Conferences, one in Vermont and one in New Hampshire.

Pete is an avid long-distance hiker and cyclist. He has hiked the Appalachian Trail, the Colorado Trail, Long Trail and John Muir Trail in California. He cycled across the country with his daughter in 2004.

He is an active member of the Marlboro Congregational Church Men’s Fellowship, serving monthly meals to senior citizens and doing repair work around the church.

Pete is a Civil Engineer in having worked in Boston, Pennsylvania, Washington DC, Baltimore, Omaha NE. He returned to Boston in 1988. He has a BS from University of Vermont and MS from Drexel University.

Pete has been married to his wife Laura for 48 years this month. Laura has been active in Girl Scouting. They have three children, Jennifer, Amy, and Carleton. Both girls earned Girl Scouting’s Gold Award, and Carleton is an Eagle Scout.

Mandy Lyons – Silver Beaver

Mandy Lyons has served Scouts, BSA for 28 years, concurrent with her decades of volunteering as a Brownie, Junior, Cadet and Senior Troop leader for Girls Scouts of the USA. She has served as a unit supervisor, are programs representative and area representative to the Council committee for GSUSA as well. She was assigned to the safety committee for Hancock Elementary School, Brockton to keep children safe from strangers, drugs, and absenteeism. She has served two Jewish parent’s organizations, especially chairing the school’s largest fundraiser for pre-school children.

All of her community and Scouting involvement was accomplished while working as a teacher – this goes far beyond the usual professional commitment. She has semi-retired from teaching the last seven years to assist her children with the oversight of the grandchildren.

Mandy has been a supporter of Fr Bacon’s District, Council, and Camp Squanto Chaplaincy, and in her own quiet way demonstrates the principles of “Duty to God” and “Reverence”. In her home and family life, Mandy places great importance on both the religious and cultural traditions of Judaism.

She has staffed sessions Scoutmaster Fundamentals, Cub Scout leader training, Akela, PowWow’s, Baloo, IOLS as well roundtable staff. She has served on staff for three Wood Badge courses and on Junior Leader Training staff. Mandy has also served as an event chair for three Klondike Derbies.

She is the recipient the Scouter’s Key, Scouter’s Training Award, the District Award of Merit. Mandy is a brotherhood member of the Order Of The Arrow.

Mandy and her husband Steve have been married for 42 years and have 3 grown children. She was a leader in each of their Scouting units. Her son is an Eagle Scout and is presently a den leader in his son and daughter’s pack. She is still active in Troop 42 in Easton and currently helps out with her oldest granddaughter’s Brownie Troop. In her spare time, she finds time to crochet hats and scarfs which are donated to one of the Brockton Elementary schools to be distributed to children in need.

Mandy is a cancer survivor, but has never faltered in her dedication to helping youth in these worthy organizations.

Debra Scollins – Silver Beaver

Debra is the mother of 5 children (3 BOYS AND 2 GIRLS) ranging in ages 23-30. Her husband, Dennis, signed up the two oldest boys for Cub Scouts in 1997 and the rest is history….
In 1998, Debra volunteered to be the Marshfield Pack 79 Treasurer for 2 years and then volunteered to be the Committee Chair for 2 more years. Pinewood Derbies, Museum of Science campouts, belt loops, den meetings, monthly pack meetings, and outdoor adventures all behind them, the boys grew older, earned Arrow of Light, and joined Boy Scout Troop 212. Debra signed up to be on the Troop 212 Committee and then became the Committee Chair for the next 5 years. She registered as a Merit Badge Counselor, as well. There were many fun outdoor campouts (summer camp at Squanto was simply the highlight), community service projects, and parades. Her youngest son, decided to join Boy Scouts, too (with a little recruiting from Ross Troiano), so Debra continued as Committee Chair for Troop 212 for the next 5 years. Once again, the Scouts had even more fun canoeing, white water rafting, attending Mass Jam, and skiing. Debra’s favorite thing to do in Scouting is teach Communications, Citizenship in the Community, and Family Life at Merit Badge University (MBU). All three sons are Eagle Scouts.
Debra became a Unit Commissioner in 2011, an Assistant District Commissioner in 2013 and currently serves as a District Commissioner. She has been recognized for her contribution to scouting with the Scouter’s Key, Scouter’s Training Award, Arrowhead Honor, District Award of Merit, the Commissioner’s Key, and in 2019 received the Distinguished Commissioner Service Award. She is a 20-year Veteran of the BSA and a Master of Commissioner Science.

Debra earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Management Science from Bridgewater State College. She currently works as an administrator for the Committee for Public Counsel Services in Brockton and has been with this agency for 20 years.

Her favorite training program was Wood Badge. She and fellow Commissioner, Stephen Trimble, completed course N1-225-13-1, sponsored by the Cape and Islands Council. Her ticket revolved around her work as an Assistant District Commissioner.

Ross started a Venture Crew in January 2015 and Debra volunteered to serve the first year as an Associate Crew Advisor and then Committee Chair for this unit for the next 2 years. In 2018, Debra volunteered to work with the District Advancement Committee and served as the Eagle Chair for 6 months, until her nomination to be the District Commissioner. Through her leadership as a Commissioner, Debra has amassed the largest roundtable staff in Cranberry Harbor’s history and attracts as many as 72 attendees to monthly roundtables. Her Unit Commissioner Staff continues to grow.

Aside from Scouting, Debra has an interest biking (Falmouth Shining Sea Bike Trail), kayaking (Marshfield North River), crocheting, traveling (US and abroad), and in local politics. Her husband Dennis is a lifetime member of the Marshfield Democratic Town Committee and Debra has helped him during the time he served as their treasurer. Debra served as a delegate at the MA Democratic State Convention in June 2014 and worked on a campaign to help elect Deb Goldberg, as State Treasurer. Debra also worked as a campaign manager for her husband, Dennis, during his 4 elections to the Marshfield School Committee. Debra and Dennis currently serve on the Hospitality Committee of the Assumption Church in Green Harbor.



What the BSA News Means for Local Scouting

Dear Scouting Family,

We wanted to reach out to provide some information on a few things that have recently been in the news about the Boy Scouts of America and explain what it all means for Scouting in the Mayflower Council.  As you may have heard, the national organization is exploring a potential Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing.  The national organization is a separate and distinct organization from Mayflower Council and so, Mayflower Council would not be included in the bankruptcy.  Nevertheless, the national organization has asked local councils to consider assisting in related negotiations and planning.

A filing by the national organization of Chapter 11 bankruptcy would have  two key objectives: to equitably compensate victims who were harmed as a result of their time in Scouting and to continue to carry out Scouting’s mission for years to come.

It is important for you to know that nothing is changing at this time, and no decisions have been made regarding a potential filing.  We remain as committed as ever to delivering the Scouting program in our area, and to supporting the dedicated volunteers and Scouting families in our communities.

Your regular unit meetings and activities, district and council events, and all other Scouting adventures will continue as usual. Please be assured that all options under consideration by the national organization, including a potential Chapter 11 filing, will ensure that Scouting continues at all levels. Also be assured that there is no scenario under consideration in which Mayflower Council would file for a Chapter 11 financial restructuring.

Our Council President and Scout Executive have been briefed on national’s situation and have designated an attorney who will work with the newly created National Ad Hoc Committee to represent Mayflower Council in those discussions.

Our participation in the Ad Hoc Committee does not obligate us to contribute funds to this effort.  As stated above, our Council remains an independent nonprofit organization separate from the national organization.

Please be assured that your Friends of Scouting (FOS) and other annual donations to the Council will continue to be used to pay for necessary day-to-day expenses that are critical to our ability to provide quality Scouting programs in our communities. Additionally, any restricted donation you have made or plan to make to our council can and will be used only for its designated purpose.

You may also be wondering why the national organization is considering these financial options now. The national organization is facing mounting financial strain from a significant increase in litigation related to past instances of abuse. One instance of abuse is one too many, and we are heartbroken that any child was ever harmed during their time in Scouting. It is important to note that the vast majority of these cases date back decades, some as far back as the 1940s, but they are surfacing now due to recent changes in numerous states’ statute of limitations laws.

As members of the Scouting family, you know that the safety of children in our programs is our absolute top priority. Over many years, we have developed some of the strongest expert-informed youth protection policies found in any youth-serving organization. From mandatory youth protection training to policies like two-deep leadership, no one-on-one interaction between youth and adults, and mandatory reporting of any suspected abuse, our volunteers and employees take youth protection policies and procedures extremely seriously and do their part to help keep kids safe.

In addition to our council staff, the 24/7 Scouts First Helpline (1-844-SCOUTS1) and email address (scouts1st@scouting.org) are also available to assist in reporting suspected abuse or inappropriate behavior. You can view all our safeguards and watch the youth protection training course that is mandatoryfor all volunteers and employees at www.scouting.org/youth-safety.  In fact, this is a resource that you can share with friends and family who are interested in understanding what the BSA is doing to keep kids safe.

We know you may have additional questions about these issues and stories you see in the news.  We created an FAQ to address as many of those questions as possible. If your question has not been answered in this letter or in the attached document, please feel free to reach out to us by clicking here. We will do everything we can to provide helpful, transparent responses and ensure your Scouting experience continues to be a great one.

Thank you for your ongoing support and participation in our Scouting programs.

Yours in Scouting,

Mike Rotar
Council President

Bryan Feather
Scout Executive / CEO



Background Check Disclosures/Authorization FAQ

Please note this information cannot be distributed with the original message or in any message with the disclosure forms due to laws specific to the transmission of these documents.

 

  1. Is the BSA doing credit checks on volunteers?
    • No. The BSA will only use these signed authorization forms for approval to obtain a criminal background check. State and federal laws regulating background checks and consumer credit checks require that both items be mentioned on the form since a full background check includes both parts. Again, the BSA is only using this form for authorization to obtain a criminal background check.
  2. Why is this being done now?
    1. Starting in 2020, rechecks will be performed every five years, but it will take several years to recheck all leaders. Unfortunately, technical limitations and changes in the law over the last five years prevent us from using existing authorizations from older applications. As such, new disclosure had to be sent and new signed authorization forms obtained. Rechartering provides the best window to collect and verify they have been received before the council processes the recharter application.
  3. What about volunteers that are not registered with units?
    • All currently registered adults and employees who have not had a criminal background check in the last five years will be rechecked. Mayflower Council will individually track district and council registered employees and leaders, including merit badge counselors.
  4. What about those who did not get the forms by e-mail?
    • Ample copies of the background check disclosure and agreement will be provided November Roundtable meetings and are available on our website at www.mayflowerbsa.org/recharter.
    • Your unit leader, or the leader responsible for completing your unit’s annual charter renewal, will ensure that each registered adult volunteer leader receives both the disclosure form as well as the authorization form. The council will collect all of your unit’s authorization forms (we will not need to collect the separate disclosure page) at the time that your unit submits their annual charter renewal packet. District and council volunteers, including merit badge counselors, should submit the authorization to your district executive, mail it to the Marlborough Service Center, 2 Mount Royal Avenue – Suite 100, Marlborough, MA  01752 or you may email it to membership@mayflowerbsa.org.
  5. What about those with multiple registrations?
    • Only one authorization form per person needs to be collected and retained by the council. An authorization should be submitted with their primary BSA registration.
  6. What happens if a unit leader does not provide an authorization?
    • Leaders who do not provide new authorization will not be able to renew their registration.
  7. Why can’t the volunteer just reply to the original e-mail and attach their signed authorization form?
    • The best way for us to ensure compliance is to require that the council registrar verify that a signed authorization form is physically in hand before processing a unit’s recharter. This removes much of the potential error and associated penalties that could result from other methods. This will facilitate the process of ensuring that a current form is on file at the council service center before posting their registration.
  8. Are there different forms for different states?
    • Federal and state laws prescribe what must be in the disclosures and how they are to be provided. A form compliant with federal and various state laws was sent to all volunteer leaders except those in California. Leaders with a California home address or whose council territory includes California received California-specific forms due to the specific requirements of California law.
  9. Can the council accept a faxed copy or scanned copy sent via email of the signed authorization?
    • Yes, so long as it is legible and is sent by the individual who signed it.
    • Your unit leader, or the leader responsible for completing your unit’s annual charter renewal, will ensure that each registered adult volunteer leader receives both the disclosure form as well as the authorization form. The council will collect all of your unit’s authorization forms (we will not need to collect the separate disclosure page) at the time that your unit submits their annual charter renewal packet. District and council volunteers, including merit badge counselors, should submit the authorization to your district executive, mail it to the Marlborough Service Center, 2 Mount Royal Avenue – Suite 100, Marlborough, MA  01752 or you may email it to membership@mayflowerbsa.org.
  10. Can the council accept an electronic signature?
    • Digital signatures from third-party providers are acceptable. E-mail confirmations, permissions or typed names on the form are not acceptable substitutes for wet signatures.
    • Your unit leader, or the leader responsible for completing your unit’s annual charter renewal, will ensure that each registered adult volunteer leader receives both the disclosure form as well as the authorization form. The council will collect all of your unit’s authorization forms (we will not need to collect the separate disclosure page) at the time that your unit submits their annual charter renewal packet. District and council volunteers, including merit badge counselors, should submit the authorization to your district executive, mail it to the Marlborough Service Center, 2 Mount Royal Avenue – Suite 100, Marlborough, MA  01752 or you may email it to membership@mayflowerbsa.org.
  11. What about unit renewals that have already been processed or will not recharter until after January 1?
    • For unit renewals that have already been posted because the unit renewal date was prior to the email notification or the unit renewal date is after January 1, authorization forms still need to be collected as soon as possible. All new authorization forms should be received by December 31, 2019.
  12. The authorization form states the BSA can share my background with other entities. Which entities are those?
    • Background checks are conducted by the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America and shared with local councils for the purpose of conducting Scouting business. Local councils are separate organizations from the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America.
  13. Can the council require the forms be collected at the unit level and not sent to the council service center?
    • Yes. The council can require the forms be collected at the unit level or by a designated unit representative.
    • We want to clarify what is needed from you, and how this will be handled in our Mayflower Council:
      • Every registered leader needs to review, sign, and turn in the “Additional Disclosures & Background Check Authorization” form in order to renew their membership for next year.
      • If your primary registration is with a unit, please give the form with your original signature to your unit leader, or the leader responsible for completing your unit’s annual charter renewal, who will submit it with the recharter paperwork.
      • If your primary registration is NOT with a unit, please give the form with your original signature to your district executive, mail it to the Marlborough Service Center, 2 Mount Royal Avenue – Suite 100, Marlborough, MA  01752 or you may email it to membership@mayflowerbsa.org.

Download this FAQ as a PDF



Membership Fee Frequently Asked Questions

National Council, Boy Scouts of America Fee Increase FAQ

Q: Why are the fees increasing now?
A: While costs increase every year, the Boy Scouts of America has worked to keep the annual membership fee as low as possible to make Scouting available to as many young people as possible by subsidizing core costs, including liability insurance we must carry to cover all official Scouting activities. As the organization’s financial situation has shifted, it is no longer possible to subsidize at the level we have in the past, especially as the cost of insurance has increased dramatically.

Q: Does this apply to youth members and volunteers?
A: Yes, the new fees apply for youth and adult members. Effective January 1, 2020, the new fees are:
– $60 for youth members in Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing and Sea Scouts,
– $36 for youth members in Exploring, and
– $36 for adult members (includes cost of background check and Scouting Magazine)
– $60 for unit charter fees

Q: Is Scouting still a good value?
A: Absolutely! While most extracurricular activities are seasonal, Scouting is a year-round program that remains one of the most valuable investments we can make to support young men and women today so they can become the leaders we will turn to tomorrow. For most of our youth members, the new registration fee amounts to $5 a month, which is an enormous value when you consider that many seasonal extracurricular activities often start at $100 for programs that last a few weeks.

Q: Does the fee increase apply to council-paid memberships?
A: No. The cost for council-paid membership, sometimes known as Scouting in Every Neighborhood, will continue to be $24 for each youth member.

Q: What will the money be used for?
A: Every dollar of membership fees will go to cover the cost of essential services, including liability insurance for members participating in approved Scouting activities, background checks for adult leaders, program development and training resources, continuously updated youth protection and youth safety training, improved IT/digital experiences and services to our councils nationwide.

Q: Is this increase being implemented to cover the cost of the additional background checks?
A: No, the cost of background checks is not the prompting the fee increase.

Q: Why is this being announced now?
A: We recognize the timing of this fee increase creates challenges as units have already begun collecting fees for their 2020 registration renewal process, and we would not make this difficult decision if it were not absolutely necessary. Unfortunately, the cost of liability insurance we must carry to cover all Scouting activities has increased dramatically over the past several months, and the organization is no longer able to offset the cost of insurance. We are committed to supporting you through this process and are making necessary adjustments to the online rechartering system to ensure units can carry out the recharter process.

Q: Does this increase cover financial challenges the organization is facing?
A: The increase was prompted because the cost of liability insurance we must carry to cover all Scouting activities has increased dramatically over the past several months, and the organization is
no longer able to offset the cost of insurance. The national membership fee also enables us program development and training resources, continuously updated youth protection and youth safety training, improved IT/digital experiences and services to our councils nationwide.

Q: When will this increase take effect?
A: The new membership fees will take effect starting January 1, 2020 for the 2020-21 program year.

Q: Is financial assistance available?
A: We are committed to ensuring that all youth can experience the character-building benefits of Scouting regardless of their financial situation. In addition to the many existing council and unit membership assistance funds, we have established the donor-funded Growing Future Leaders Fund to provide financial support to those who need it.

Q: My council currently requires members to pay a council fee that offsets insurance costs. Does this change mean that fee is no longer necessary?
A: No, the liability insurance that we need to carry for all Scouting activities at the national level is different from local fees that are collected to address local needs, which can include expenses such as local property and accident insurance, as well as unique local programming costs.

Q: In addition to the national membership fee, my council has implemented a program fee. Is that allowed?
A: Councils currently charging a program fee must ensure that their fee is consistent with new rules for these fees within one year. Councils can choose to charge a local program fee, up to but no more than the national membership fee – up to $60 for youth members in Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing and Sea Scouts; up to $36 for youth members in Exploring and up to $36 for adult members. The local program fee can include local insurance costs (i.e., accident, property, etc.), as well as cost to administer unique local programming efforts.

Q: What happens if my council’s program fee is more than the national membership fee?
A: Councils that are currently charging a program fee more than the national membership fee have one year to adjust their fees in order to be in compliance with the new rules.

Q: What measures has the national organization taken to offset the financial challenges?
A: In addition to ongoing efforts to streamline and simplify the organization, the national organization has taken a number of steps in addressing its financial challenges, including the recent elimination of more than 35 positions at the National Service Center and ongoing consolidation of departments for the most effective utilization of resources in support of Scouting.

Q: Will the national membership fee continue to increase?
A: Although no decision about future increases have been made, the cost of operating our organization and services increases every year. Should it be necessary to increase fees in the future, the National Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of America has agreed to evaluate the needs and make such decisions, whenever possible, at the National Annual Meeting in May or early in the summer so that they can be announced with as much lead time as possible to allow for councils and units to be able to plan accordingly.

 

Mayflower Council Registration Fee Increase FAQ

Q: Is this fee increase applicable to units rechartering in December?
A: Yes, all Mayflower Council units are subject to the National registration fees. Unit charters are valid from January 1 – December 31 annually.

Q: Is the council activity fee increasing?
A: The Mayflower Council Executive Board has decided there will be no increase in the program activity fee. It will remain at $30 per youth member. Lions, Venturers 18 – 21 and adults are exempt from the program activity fee.

Q: Can you provide total fees by program for youth & adults in Mayflower Council?
A: Total fees for Scouts and leaders in Mayflower Council will be as follows:
Lions & Venturers 18 – 21:
$60 National registration fee
$12 Boys’ Life Magazine (optional)

Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Sea Scouts & Venturers
$60 National registration fee
$30 Council program activity fee
$12 Boys’ Life Magazine (optional)

Adults & Exploring Participants
$36 National registration fee
$12 Boys’ Life Magazine (optional)

Unit Charter Fee
(Unit Liability Insurance Fee)
$60 per unit

 

Q: Will the council waive the program activity fee in 2020?
A: Because local councils do not receive any funding from National, the registration fee increase will not directly benefit the Mayflower Council. Local costs for insurance and providing program to our participants have not gone down nor are offset in any way by the increase in National registration fees. As a result, the Mayflower Council $30 activity fee will continue in 2020; unchanged from 2019.

Q: Is there a discounted membership fee for families with multiple children?
A: The registration fees are set by the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America. The National Council has not informed the council of any plan to offer a membership fee discount for families with multiple children in the program.

Q: Will the Mayflower Council be able to assist families who cannot afford the council program activity fee because of the National registration fee increase?
A: The Mayflower Council is committed to ensure that no family is turned away due to financial constraints. The Mayflower Council has created the program fee waiver program to provide financial assistance to deserving Scouts who would otherwise not be able to afford participating in Scouting. The Mayflower Council, in administering funds provided by concerned individuals, foundations, and others, will act as good stewards by offering careful judgment in providing program fee waivers and will act in complete confidence. Visit bit.ly/programfeewaiver to begin the application process.

Q: Do adults need to pay the council program activity fee?
A: No, the council program activity fee only applies to youth members with the following exceptions, Lions and Venturers 18 – 21 years old.

 



New National Registration Fee Announced

Scouting Family,

For more than 100 years, Scouting has helped build future leaders by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun and adventure in the outdoors. At Boy Scouts of America, we are dedicated to developing leaders of character by preparing young men and women for life by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law. The timeless ideals of the Scout Law, such as being trustworthy, helpful, kind and brave, make up the foundation young people need to address and overcome challenges in their lives and the issues facing their generation.

Here in Mayflower Council, Scouting serves more than 11,000 youth in 62 cities and towns. Now as we continue the Scouting mission, it is important that we keep pace with an ever-changing world. While costs to the organization have increased every year, the Boy Scouts of America has worked to keep the annual membership fee as low as possible by subsidizing core costs, including liability insurance we must carry to cover all official Scouting activities. Unfortunately, it is no longer possible to subsidize at the level we have in the past, especially as the cost of insurance has increased dramatically. We kept the cost low to make Scouting available to as many young people as possible but keeping the cost artificially low for many years now magnifies the impact of changes.

To ensure we have the resources to fulfill the promise of Scouting despite increasing operating costs, the National Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of America has made the difficult but necessary decision to increase the annual membership fee effective January 1, 2020 to:

 – $60 for youth members in Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing and Sea Scouts,
– $36 for youth members in Exploring, and
– $36 for adult members
– $60 for unit charter fees

Every dollar of the national membership fee will go toward the cost of essential services, including liability insurance for those participating in approved Scouting activities, program resources, safety standards, youth protection and personal safety training, and services to councils nationwide to sustain Scouting. The National organization will also continue to develop and improve resources that support our volunteers and youth members such as online registration, Member Care and Scoutbook, which now includes the Den Leader experience to ensure the safe and consistent delivery of Cub Scouting; as well as improvements aimed at simplifying the annual renewal process. In Mayflower Council, we will continue to bring Scouting to our communities and families through quality programs, delivered through our units, districts, and council volunteers and professional staff.

Across the country and in our own community, we know that Scouting remains one of the most valuable investments we can make to support young men and women today so they can become the leaders we will turn to tomorrow. From once-in-a-lifetime adventures to merit badges that spark interests and future careers; from campouts under the stars to service projects that leave a lasting impact on our communities; Scouting’s year-round program expands horizons and provides young people with a safe and welcoming place to learn, grow, and thrive.

That is why we are committed to ensuring that all youth can experience the character-building benefits of Scouting regardless of their financial situation. In addition to our existing council and unit membership assistance, we have established a national Growing Future Leaders Fund, which is funded entirely through donations, to provide additional financial support to those who need it.

Thank you for your continued role in empowering a generation of future leaders of character through Scouting programs.