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How to Join Springfield Scouting

Welcoming new families year-round. Here's exactly what to expect — and how to take the first step.

Who Can Join

There's a place for every kid — and every family.

Springfield Scouting is open to all youth in Northridge, Springfield, and the surrounding communities. Boys and girls are equally welcome in both of our units.

Pack 131 — Cub Scouts

Kindergarten – 5th Grade

Hands-on adventure for our youngest scouts. Pinewood Derby, family campouts, crafts, service projects, and the start of a lifelong journey. Parents are welcome and involved every step of the way.

Learn about Pack 131

Troop 311 — Scouts BSA

Ages 11 – 17 (5th–12th Grade)

A youth-led, co-ed troop where Scouts plan their own adventures — backpacking, high adventure, leadership development, and the trail to Eagle Scout.

Learn about Troop 311

The Process

Joining takes about 15 minutes.

No experience required. Most families come to a meeting first, ask questions, and register when they're ready.

01
Reach out
Send us a quick message and we'll point you to the right unit and the next meeting.
02
Visit a meeting
Come see Scouting in action. No commitment, no cost — bring your scout and a parent.
03
Register online
Complete a short application through Scouting America's secure registration portal.
04
Welcome aboard
Get your handbook, neckerchief, and start your first adventure with your den or patrol.

What It Costs

Affordable — and worth every dollar.

Annual registration covers your scout's national membership, accident insurance, and year-round programming through Scouting America and our local Tecumseh Council.

None of the registration fee stays with our Pack or Troop — that's why we fundraise throughout the year to cover unit expenses, gear, awards, and adventures.

Cost shouldn't keep any kid out of Scouting. We offer financial assistance, fundraising opportunities, and uniform exchanges — just ask.

Annual registration fees

Youth

$165/year

Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA youth members.

Adult Volunteer

$105/year

Registered leaders and merit badge counselors.

What your registration includes

National Scouting America membership & accident insurance
Tecumseh Council programs, training, and camp access
Weekly den / patrol meetings during the school year
Monthly Pack or Troop events and ceremonies
Rank advancement, merit badges, and award recognition

Uniforms, handbooks, and optional event fees (campouts, summer camp) are separate. Our unit covers the rest through fundraising — we'll walk you through everything at your first meeting.

Compare the Value

Year-round adventure for the price of a single season.

Stack Scouting up against other youth programs in our area. The real difference isn't just the price tag — it's how many days of the year your scout is engaged, learning, and growing.

Best Value

Youth Scouting

Registration: $165
Uniform shirt: ~$50
Unit t-shirt: $10–15
Activity period: 365 days

Total first-year cost

~$225 – $230

About $0.62 / day of programming.

For Comparison

Youth Football

Registration: $150–170
Uniform: $120
Unit t-shirt: —
Activity period: 90–120 days

Total first-year cost

~$270 – $290

About $2.25 – $3.20 / day of programming.

Local cost estimates as of 2025. Individual league and unit costs may vary.

What to Expect

A typical meeting

Opening

Pledge of Allegiance, the Scout Oath and Law, and announcements. A welcoming circle for new and returning families.

Activity & skills

Hands-on learning — knot tying, first aid, STEM projects, outdoor skills, games, and rank advancement work.

Closing

Reflection, recognition, and a preview of what's coming up. Most meetings run about an hour.

Where we meet

Northminster Presbyterian Church · Springfield, OH. Visit the Pack 131 or Troop 311 page for current weekly meeting times, or contact us and we'll let you know when to drop in.