Dear New Scouts:
Welcome to Boy Scouts and to Troop 1134. I know you’re going to have a great time. Our troop will give you many opportunities to learn and grow, while making new friends and having exciting outdoor adventures. There are a few things you need to do to get started.
- Your parents will be receiving a “Joining Packet”. This contains some forms your parents need to fill out, and some other information about the troop. We need the forms back as soon as possible. You can’t earn any badges or go on outings with us until we have your paperwork.
- When you get your Boy Scout Handbook, show your parents the section in the front of your Boy Scout Handbook, called “How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse”. Your mom or dad should read this section and talk to you about it just like they did when you first became a Webelo.
- You’ll need to read Chapter 1 of the handbook, pages 1 to 14.
- Then you need to have a Scoutmaster Conference. Usually, we can do this at a troop meeting, campout or other activity, but do it as soon as possible. This is nothing scary, mostly just a chance for me to get to know you a little. We’ll talk about the requirements on page 4 of your Handbook. If you’ve read Chapter 1, you’ll know everything you need to know to have a discussion with me.
- Start coming to troop meetings, every week if possible. We’re an active troop and you’ll miss a lot if you’re not there every week. We meet most Tuesday nights at 7:00pm at Saint Peter Chanel (McNamee Hall). It’s good to get there early to check in with others, sign up for outings, and get questions answered.
- Wear at least your Scout shirt to meetings. Complete Scout Uniforms are needed at some campouts, some service projects, and all Courts of Honor. “Complete” means Scout Shirt, Scout Pants or Shorts, Scout Belt and Scout Socks. You should also bring your Scout Handbook, a pencil or pen and a notebook to every meeting. The notebook is something you’ll use to jot down information you learn, keep records of Scouting events or service, and take notes about upcoming outings. When we plan for outings, knowing your activity and school schedule will help you plan during the meeting.
- There will be a New Scout orientation during an upcoming regular meeting. If you think you can’t be there, talk to Mr. Gruver before the meeting. We’ll be talking about things you need to know to get the most out of Scouting and to prepare you for success. We’ll also be forming into patrols and each of you will be choosing roles within the patrols and learning about those responsibilities.
- If you haven’t already signed up for summer camp, talk to Mr. Gruver right away and get signed up.
- You will also be assigned a Troop Guide – an older Scout who will help you learn your way around. They will be able to answer most of the questions I’m sure you’ll have.
Sound like a lot? It is, I guess – Boy Scouting is supposed to be challenging. But you’ll learn the ropes quickly with help from the Troop Guides and Assistant Scoutmasters. Keep your eyes and ears open, take notes and don’t be afraid to ask questions – remember, a Scout is “mentally awake”! We look forward to seeing you at the next troop meeting.
Best Wishes, Richard Gruver
Troop 1134 Scoutmaster
gruver.richard@gmail.com
Where to buy uniforms & other Scouting items?
Online at: http://www.scoutstuff.org/
Locally at: Scout Shop in the BSA Program Service Center 1800 Circle 75 Parkway, SE Atlanta, GA 30339 770.989.8820