Fall is an exciting time in Scouting. After all the fun Scouts have had during the summer, we return to the hustle of school starting up, sports and activities beginning, and our own Scout Units getting back into the swing  of things The Scouting calendar is packed too:  Webelos Ree, Rendezvous, Fun With Son, OA Ordeal, ACT Conference and Scouting For Food.

During this time, when seasoned Scout families are packing it in, many of our new recruits are left wondering what it all means.  Be sure that the newest members in your Pack or Troop know how to plug into all of the fun opportunities available to them.  

Rendezvous doesn't mean much to someone who has not been there, but if you tell the story of all the activities, fellowship and setting, then new members will catch the spark.

Cub Scout packs need to make sure the new Tiger Den gets off to a good start.  How many boys are in the den?  How are they doing on their advancement?  Have the parents been invited to a pack committee meeting or training?  Who is the den leader?  Do the boys know that they have started a special adventure towards their Eagle Scout?  A Tiger Coach that works with the new den leadership for a few months at the start can really help.  

Be sure to promote Fun With Son Weekend at Camp Baker Oct. 5-7 (www.otcbsa.org/cubcamping).This is an easy, fun event for new and younger families to get involved in.

Boy Scout Troops have great opportunities to attract new families too.  Remember the 3 Best Ways To Grow Your Troop: 

1) Establish a great connection with a Webelos Den in your area. 

2) Host a Troop open house and invite middle school boys to a fun and exciting activity (climbing wall?). 

3)  Encourage your current Scouts to invite their friends.

Be sure to check out the Oregon Trail Council website, www.otcbsa.org, for great updates and information on Scouting events, trainings, and more!