"Scout Parents" is the tool to get more parents involved in your program because:

Find the right person:

• Find the most personable, people-friendly adult in your unit.

• Their title will be "scout parents unit coordinator".

• Units may have one or more "scout parents unit coordinators".

• They get to know parents and match parents with duties. Like a scoutmaster is for youth - Unit coordinator is for parents - not an "expert".

Get registered and trained:

• Adult application ($10) allows for registration volunteer code "PC" and background check.

• Uniform not required for this position. The "unit coordinator" patch same for pack, troop,

• team, crew, ships. Patch can be worn on uniform, T-shirt or hat.

• Make a "my scouting account" at myscouting.org When registered you'll have ability to print

• member roster and unit scout parents

• Scout Parents Unit Coordinator Fast start online training through your "myscouting" account is available and expected - covers job description, how to recruit parents, how to match up duties with parents, how to cultivate the scouting culture and scout appreciation in parents.

Reel people in:

• Encourage new parents to check Scout parents "PS" (no fee) on youth application. Current parents - complete adult application. (no fee unless want registered) Doing this will put them

• in the Unit Roster that the scout parent unit coordinator can access.

• Welcome parents to the unit, have face to face time, get to know their personalities and skill sets.

• Parents that understand scouting are more likely to be involved.  Let them experience the culture and learn to appreciate.

• Scoutparents.org provides "Mission Family Power Point", "Scouting Orientation Guide", and "Cub Scout Parent Involvement Video".

• Parents that have duties that fit their talents are more likely to volunteer.

• Assign one task annually. Start small. Put right person with right job. Assume everyone can help. Scoutparents.org provides "Ways to involve parents", "Volunteering Indicator Form" and "Unit Talent Surveys"

• Parents that know what is happening in your unit are more likely to help.

• Keep parents updated on program, child involvement and need of the unit.

• Make sure parents are thanked and see the payoff - Blue and Gold Banquet, Court of Honor, etc.

• Above all stress - YOU DON'T NEED SCOUTING BACKGROUND TO HELP!

Congratulations - you now have more people helping you in your unit!