Family Troop Information
Family Troop Option
The new family troop option provides chartered organizations with more flexibility in delivering Scouting to families. (Local Councils may also offer the family option to their council registered units). While the vast majority of troops will continue to specifically serve boys or girls in the years ahead, this option gives chartered organizations the ability to meet the unique needs of their communities and families who want to do Scouting together in a unit. This model represents a forward-thinking approach in our goal of adapting and meeting the needs of families, while upholding the core values of Scouting and our ongoing commitment to our mission to serve more young people across the country.
Please contact the Tuscarora Council Service Center at 979-734-1714 and speak with a District Executive if you have further questions.
Decision
This decision was informed by:
- Data gathered from the pilot program (in which 174 Local Councils participated).
- Careful review of youth protection standards.
- Extensive discussion and input from stakeholders.
- As a result, the family troop option is now an official part of the Scouts BSA program.
Pilot Results
- A survey of pilot units indicated:
- Increased membership.
- Stronger program delivery.
- High satisfaction among youth, leaders and families.
- Greater efficiency in operations and resource use.
Implementation Guidance
To ensure clarity and consistency:
- Local Councils must offer Scouting America programs in accordance with their charters.
- Chartered Organizations have complete flexibility in structuring their troops.
- The family troop option is available for Chartered Organizations to adopt if desired by their units, and for Local Councils, with respect to their council registered units
- There is no requirement for Chartered Organizations to offer family troops.
To support you in rolling out this program option, we have attached resources that provide guidance and best practices. Attachments listed below:
| File Name | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| Converting from a Family Troop | For those Troops or Charter Organizations that are already using the Family Troop option, but would like to separate into single sex Troops (Boys Only or Girls Only). | Download |
| Family Troop Best Practices | For those who will using the Family Troop option for their program. | Download |
| Family Troop Decision Guide | For those troops and Charter Organizations trying to determine if Family Troop is the best option for their program | Download |
| Intent to Convert to Family Troop Form | Form for Scouts BSA Troops to submit to the council if they want to convert from a Girls Only or Boys Only Troop, into a Family Troop (Both boys & Girls) | Download |