Boy Scouting is designed to take place outdoors. It is in the outdoor setting that Scouts share responsibilities and learn to live with one another. In the outdoors the skills and activities practiced at troop meetings come alive with purpose. Being close to nature helps Boy Scouts gain an appreciation for the beauty of the world around us. The outdoors is the laboratory in which Boy Scouts learn ecology and practice conservation of nature’s resources.  Boy Scouting provides a series of surmountable obstacles and steps in overcoming them through the advancement method. The Boy Scout plans his advancement and progresses at his own pace as he meets each challenge. The Boy Scout is rewarded for each achievement, which helps him gain self-confidence. The steps in the advancement system help a Boy Scout grow in self-reliance and in the ability to help others.

Most Boy Scouts will participate in a weekly troop meeting, a monthly day trip and a weeklong camping trip during the summer. Some preparation time is also required.

Can you tell me about Boy Scouts? The Boy Scouts of America is one of the largest youth service organizations. The program is family based with a focus on teamwork, self-confidence and achievements.

What type of program & activities do they participate in? The program is a series of enjoyable activities based upon abilities related to age and group consensus, such as meetings, day trips, craft projects, outdoor skills, weekend and summer camping.

How old are the children? Boy Scouts are ages 11-17.

How often and where do the groups meet? They usually meet once a week on a regular basis for about an hour and a half in a church, synagogue, school or community center.

Who are the leaders? The leaders are regular people selected by the chartered organization who volunteer their time for the benefit of young people. Often they are the parents of Scouts who are in the unit or local leaders in the community.

As a parent, what do I do? Scouting is a partnership with the parents for the young person. Scouting is an excellent opportunity for you to spend very high quality time with your son. Since the leaders are not paid, they would most certainly appreciate any help that you could provide.

What about Uniforms? In the beginning uniforms are not required, however they are, in fact, highly recommended. We suggest that everyone start with at least the shirt which costs around $20.

What about camping? Boy Scouts have the opportunity to go both weekend and summer camping (financial assistance is available). The council operates three camps. Many Point Scout Camp; Rum River Scout Camp and Camp Stearns.

So how much will all this cost? Because the leaders aren’t being paid, Scouting, as a whole, is a very inexpensive, year-round, worthwhile activity.

What kind of badges and awards exist? Your son can earn a wide variety of achievements and awards by having fun and learning something in areas such as citizenship, personal fitness, family living, the outdoors, nature, crafts and more.

Who do I contact for more information about the Boy Scouts of America and their programs? You can call the Northern Star Council at 763-231-7209 to find out where a Troop meets in your neighborhood. 

What about Girl Scouts? The Girl Scouts are not part of the Boy Scouts of America. They can be contacted at their office 763-535-4602 or they have a local web site at: www.girlscouts.org

A Boy Scout holds truth and honor as sacred trusts. These are the rules that form the foundation of Scouting and is the cornerstone of a Scout's character.

Scout Law

A Scout is:  Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, Reverent

Scout Oath

On my honor I will do my best

To do my duty to God and my country

and to obey the Scout Law;

To help other people at all times;

To keep myself physically strong,

mentally awake, and morally straight.

Scout Motto

"Be Prepared"

Scout Slogan

"Do a Good Turn Daily"