Cub scout alternatives?

[natertot]

Does anyone know of any alternatives to the cub scouts? We got burned this year with them, but my son enjoyed the premise of the program. I'd like to find something similar for him. Thanks.

[Rick]

You might consider another troop if that is an option.

There are several faith based alternatives to BSA. The KOC host the Columbian Squires, the Calvanists host the Cadet Corps. A group called the Pathfinders is hosted by Seventh Day Adventists and there is the Assembly of God's Royal Rangers. I have not dealt with any of them so I can't give you any information good or bad.

Camp Fire is not faith based. It used to be called Camp Fire Girls but it's open to both sexes and you can check out the Baden-Powell Service Organization. Most of these groups are offshoots off of BSA brought about by disagreements on discrimination. So if that is a concern to you then these groups might not be for you.

[finallyME]

A lot of the Evangelical churches pulled out of BSA a year or two ago and made their own program. I don't know what it is called. You might want to check with a local church to find out.

There is the YMCA, but I have no idea on their program and whether it is similar or not.

Going with what Rick was saying... Every pack is different. You might want to just try another one, if it was the adults running it that turned you sour.

[Bishop]

I do a few classes for a church that holds a men's day weekend they are a long the same line but only have a class or two a month.

[hunter63]

Some suggestions....
http://www.mnn.com/lifestyle/arts-cu...s-alternatives

[JohnLeePettimore]

I've heard of a group in Arkansas called the Trail Men. I think it's an organization, not just a one-off from a church.

[natertot]

Thanks guys. We paid fees and purchased books/uniforms which covered us for 15 months. 4 months into the program, the pack leader and his son (the son was supposed to be our den leader) decided to abruptly end our age group and cease all communication. Myself and other parents have reached out to the council with no outcome at all. They basically took are money and ran.

Thanks for the recommendations. I'll have to start looking into them since I am not familiar with any of them.

[kyratshooter]

Nate you need to contact the Daniel Beard Council and report this.

It is a local phone call, the office is over on Reading Road in Cinci.

[Rick]

Call the BSA Headquarters and lodge a complaint. 972-580-2000. That's on the local troop, not on BSA. Find another troop. Or email them at myscouting@scouting.org

[alaskabushman]

Royal Rangers is the only alternative I'm familiar with. I was in it briefly when just a little guy. When a troop started up in my community I decided to get involved. The program is very similar to boy scouts with the addition of Bible study and church attendance (kind of what BSA used to do). I was asked to teach knife throwing and the boys did a great job, and all of them won their merits.

[cow_rancher]

Thanks guys. We paid fees and purchased books/uniforms which covered us for 15 months. 4 months into the program, the pack leader and his son (the son was supposed to be our den leader) decided to abruptly end our age group and cease all communication.

I came up thru cubs and BSA, Explorers a long time ago,... what do you mean by end our age group? My Den was several ages, OK only 3 ages since Cubs back then was 8-till 11, what is it now? My Den Mother was a hottie, thanks Mrs. Z...

Rancher

[WolfVanZandt]

I was a district committee member for a few years. Unfortunately now, the Scouts have changed. Leaders have way to much discretion to do inappropriate things for their own convenience. They have such a hard time getting leaders in some areas, it seems, they'll take anything. They break agreement and don't exemplify the Scouting ideals. The organization has shifted its interests to making money instead of providing fun learning experiences for boys. Often now, if a kid doesn't have a financially secure daddy, they don't get to do anything. Despite the horror stories I could tell you, most of the Scouts I knew grew into great people - solid citizens. So I still believe there's value to Scouting. They certainly are exposed to "real life".

[Rick]

We are very lucky to have a vibrant scout group at our church. Quite large. They have one scout master and five assist. scout masters and twice that many moms that are involved. The have their own van and trailer and are out and gone most week-ends. Pretty lucky.

[crashdive123]

Scouting has always been a great activity for young boys to be involved with. There have always been Troops and Dens that have been great along with those that have been lacking. If you find that what is available to you is lacking, make it better. Be part of the solution. You will find it very rewarding.

[hunter63]

I alway considered scouting a fun and positive experience.

Was in Cub Scouts......and did get to First Class as a Boy Scout....Then ran out of time...job, school and activities with friends (cars,girls, ...and camping in more advanced methods).
In my life, several sets of guides have been important to me....10 commandments, The Pledge of Allegiance, BSA Code.... are at, or near the top.

Scouting does instill many of these values....
Hope you can figure it out.

[Rick]

Would you believe I can still fit in my cub scout uniform? Well, the neckerchief. But it is kinda snug.

[2dumb2kwit]

Would you believe I can still fit in my cub scout uniform? Well, the neckerchief. But it is kinda snug.

I don't think blowing your nose in it counts.

[Rick]

Was that from you or the mule? 'Cause if it was from the mule.......

Glad to see you back. Where you been?

[2dumb2kwit]

Was that from you or the mule? 'Cause if it was from the mule.......

Glad to see you back. Where you been?

Oh, you know......just getting old and forgetful. I forget to do things, like check in on you guys. LOL