Frequently Asked Questions
We know we can't answer all your questions here, and scouting will have its share of new questions at every turn in your journey. We hope these FAQs will help you fully decide to join Pack 216 or get acclimated to your den more easily.
So I joined Scouts... What's my first step?
First, let me say... WELCOME TO SCOUTING! We are excited to have you join us. Since you registered online, we will have your contact information and will contact you very soon. Your Den Leader will provide you with your next Den or Pack meeting times and what you need to bring. Don't feel rushed to go buy a uniform the same day!
My Daughter wants to be a Scout...
Pack 216 is open to all Girls and Boys who want to join and learn the life skills that Scouting has built over the last 100 years. Your Daughter is as welcome here as anyone else! We are a separate Program from Girl Scouts, so your daughter can even do both if she chooses to!
What do National and Pack dues cover?
Pack Dues help us cover the administration and implementation of Pack 216 activities. This includes Pinewood Derby Kits, Raingutter Regatta Kits, Advancement loops and pins, administration costs for certain activities, and other typical pack costs.
National Dues cover your Scout and their enrollment in the Scouting America Program.
Annual and Pack dues are paid separately. We fundraise to help cut the costs however we can!
I don't know much about camping.. can we still join?
Everyone is welcome! From the novice camper to the 3rd generation Scout. The Cub Scout motto is "Do Your Best!" and even your leaders didn't know everything they know today. If you are open to learning alongside your Scout, there is a pack of families ready to help teach you... and who knows... you may teach them a thing or two as well!
Im a single parent, can my child join?
Single, Married, It's complicated... All are welcome here! Cub Scout Den meetings require a parent or guardian to be present while the meeting or event is taking place. If you are unable to make it to an event but still want your child to go, contact Pack 216 leadership for options that may be available!
Do Scouts earn trophies or awards?
Yes they do! The Scouts do Adventures from their workbook both with their Den and at home with Family and can earn Loops and Pins! There are also other awards and patches earned from attending Pack, District, and Council events, participating in the Pinewood Derby or Regatta, or doing extra work to earn NOVA Patches which are tied to S.T.E.A.M education!
What is a Den, Pack, District, and Council?
Like the steps of a ladder, each level is higher than the previous.
Your Den is the group you will interact with the most. This is the group within your Pack that has Scouts the same age as your Child.
The Pack is the collection of Dens. This will be our Lions through our AOLs. Kindergarten through 5th grade.
A district is a collection of Packs throughout a certain area. Our District is the Three Rivers District, which covers Pell City to Gardendale. You can learn more about Three Rivers here!
The Council is the collection of Districts. The Council manages the Camps we attend, like Camp Comer in Mentone or Camp Sequoyah near Mt Cheaha. They organize many of our adventure weekends, Summer Camps, Day camps, the Friends of Scouting (FOS) program, manage the Scout Shop, and so much more!
Each of these groups must work together to make sure your Scout has the best experience possible, and your support, whether through time, position, or donation,n makes all the difference!
What fundraising does the Pack do?
Pack 216 participates in the Annual Popcorn sales and we also are creating new fundraising opportunities to help families offset Pack and National costs! if you have a fundraising idea, let the Pack 216 Leadership Committee know and lets see if we can help our Scouts!
How can I get involved with the Den or Pack more?
Involvement is not just limited to Den leaders. We need people with all skill sets! Are you good with a Camera? Do you know how to manage a website? Do you have a knack for Social media or event planning? Everyone has a skill that can help the Pack be the greatest team! If you think you can help as well, let your Den leader know, or click HERE to let us know what skills you would like to volunteer in!
Who can help me with my questions not answered here?
Trust us, you have questions that the other nine on this page won't answer! Don't be afraid to email or ask any leader in the pack your questions! You can email us at packleadership216@gmail.com if that makes asking your question easier!