Pack 325 Official Policy

Foreword:
This policy is a written explanation of the running of Pack  325. It is not a legally binding document, but rather a guide to refer to when questions arise. It is intended to be a starting point when the other materials have no answers, or are ambiguous. This policy manual can be updated, adapted, or changed at any time. The policy stated herein is the opinion of Pack 325's  committee and not an official statement of policy by the BSA.
The use of the word "adult" refers to members of Pack 325 over the age of 18. (It does not necessarily reflect state of mind.)
The use of the word "parent(s)" refers to the adult legal guardian(s) of the Boy members of the Pack. This term is in no way intended to exclude anyone; it is merely a handy way to refer to the adults in our Cub’s lives.
The use of the word Cub, Scout, or boy refers to the boy members of the Pack.

1. Purpose
   1. Mission
      1. Mission Statement Of The Pack
         It is the Mission of Pack 325 to provide the Cub Scout-age boys of this area with the opportunity to experience Scouting. The boys will strive to live their lives in accordance with the guidelines of their Religious and Family values, as well as the values of The Boy Scouts of America. The Adult leaders will strive to provide a safe, educational, loving, and fun atmosphere in which the Cubs Scouts can thrive, learn, and feel secure, and have fun.
      2. Mission Statement Of The Boy Scouts Of America
         The mission of the Boy Scouts of America is to prepare young people to make ethical choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.
   2. Aims of Cub Scouting
      Cub Scouting can be described as many things. The three main goals of the program are to enrich the lives of the boys and their families by; instilling a moral code in the Cub, learning about how to be a productive contributing citizen, and leaning how to achieve and maintain physical health.
   3. Charter
      1. Pack 325 is in the Matianuck District of the Connecticut Rivers Council
      2. Pack 325 is chartered to the First Congregational Church Granby. The Pack was originally charted to the Granby Jaycees in 1973. In 1982 the First Congregational Church became our chartered partner. For a list of past Cubmasters click here
   4. Organization
      1. Pack Committee
         The Pack is a body of like-minded individuals brought together for a common goal: the benefit of the boys. Every action conducted by the Pack leadership or the families involved should be guided based on the boys' welfare. We should always assume a positive intent in the actions of the leaders.
         1. The governing body of Pack 325 is the Pack Leaders committee. Each family registered with the Pack has an equal say in the administration of the Pack.
         2. The Cubmaster, the Assistant Cubmaster, the Den Leaders and Assistant Den Leaders are members of the Pack Committee.
         3. Any registered adult with the Pack can hold any office of the pack.
         4. In order for the pack to function, Each Den needs a registered leader, and the Pack must have a Cubmaster, Committee Chairperson, a Treasurer, and a third Committee member.
         5. All Registered adult leaders are members of the Committee.
         6. If an adult holds more than one job title at a time, their Primary Responsibility is the job title that places them closest to the boys.
         7. If the job held by a leader is no longer fun, it is time to make a change. Pack leaders should always be recruiting and training their replacement. The goal is to graduate into Boy Scouting with your son.
      2. The Charter Organization
         Pack 325 BSA is chartered to the First Congregational Church Granby.
         
2. Membership
   1. Eligibility
      Pack 325 is open to all boys and their families who are willing to accept the values of the Cub Scouts of America, and who agree to live their lives by the Cub Scout Promise and the Law of the Pack.
   2. Religious Faith
      The BSA is an organization based on a belief in religious values. Each family joining Pack 325 should be aware that while there is no single official religious affiliation, each family is encouraged to practice their individual religious beliefs.
   3. Age
      Boys wishing to join must meet the age and grade requirements of the BSA, primarily seven years old, and in the first grade, but no older than ll.
   4. Registration
      1. Membership will become effective upon receipt by the Pack committee chairperson or the Cubmaster of a completed application accompanied by appropriate fees. Annual Registration fee is $35  and includes the National registration fee and a subscription to Boy's Life. Families with more than one member pay $20 for the second Cub.
      2. The National Membership Fee provides  supplemental accident insurance for the boy, and funds for the national organization to develop materials, training, and programs for the boys. The fee also entitles the boy to earn advancement.
   5. Adult Participation
      Pack 325 recognizes that the Cub Scouting does not work without parental participation. While no boy will be refused membership for lack of parental participation, that boy will not experience the full effectiveness of the program. Pack 325 recognizes that today's lifestyles sometimes don't allow for much time, but the time you put into your son's life is worth the time you donate to the Pack. Parents will also respect the time donated by the other Pack Leaders and not take advantage of their generosity. Den meetings are not day-care facilities. Parents are expected to promptly pick up their sons when the meeting is over. The Leader will have a set schedule as to when the meeting begins and ends. There must be two adults at any meeting of Cub Scouts; one adult must be registered with the BSA.
3. Uniform

   Purpose
   The Boy Scouts of America is an uniformed organization. Like any sports activity, we ask that the members (Adults and Cubs) of Pack 325 wear their uniform correctly and proudly at all Den and Pack functions. A uniform is not required to join Pack 325, but it helps the boy identify with the group. The uniform is designed for rugged activity, as well as a way to display awards earned.

   1. Where to Buy
      1. New Uniforms can be purchased from the Connecticut Rivers Council Scout Shop At 60 Darlin Street East Hartford.
   2. General Guide
      1. The uniform for Pack 325 is the official uniform distributed by the BSA.
      2. Members wear the appropriate uniform shirt with patches and awards, neckerchief, clean pants, and shoes.
   3. Detail Description Of Pack 325 Uniform
      1. The appropriate uniform shirt with a T-shirt underneath.
         1. Cub Scouts wear the blue shirt, either short- or long-sleeved. 
         2. Webelos Scouts wear the khaki Boy Scout shirt.
         3. Adult Leaders should wear the khaki or sage Boy Scout shirt.
      2. Patches and Awards
         1. Insignia is attached to the uniform following the guidelines of the BSA.
         2. Instructions on patch placement can be obtained from the handbook, the Scout Shop, or by asking the Pack Leaders.
         3. The Pack provides Neckerchief and quality unit patches as appropriate.
         4. The member is to obtain the council shoulder strip, Patch Numeral, Den Numeral, Universal Scouting Emblem, and "Webelos Colors."
         5. Awards of rank and advancement are presented to the members as they are earned.
      3. The appropriate neckerchief
         1. Worn under the collar with a  neckerchief slide.
         2. Tiger Cubs wear the Orange tiger neckerchief.
         3. Wolves wear the gold neckerchief. The pack supplies to each new Bobcat Cub his first gold neckerchief.
         4. Bears wear the  blue neckerchief.
         5. Webelos Scouts wear the Tartan Plaid neckerchief. When the boy joins a Webelos Den, the pack supplies a Webelos neckerchief for the boy.
         6. Adult leaders wear the appropriate Cub Scout Leader Neckerchief or necktie.
      4. Blue-colored pants which are clean and in good repair. Webelos Scouts and Adult Leaders should wear sage colored uniform pants or slacks if possible.

• Meetings
  1. Den Meetings
     1. Time
        1. Dens meet per Den leader schedule plus Pack meeting
        2. The Den Leader will schedule the Den meetings and inform the Den members on time and location.
        3. The meeting should last at least one-half hour, but no more than one and one-half hours a week.
     2. Leadership
        1. The Den Leader or an appropriate substitute runs the den meetings.
        2. There must be two adults at any meeting of Cub Scouts, one adult over 21, and one must be registered with the BSA.
     3. Purpose
        1. The meeting will adhere to the BSA guide to safe scouting and with child protection guidelines.
        2. The boys are expected to respect their leaders, and behave well.
        3. The Den Leader is responsible for the content of the meeting, Cubs can work on advancement, crafts, games, or other activities deemed appropriate by the Den Leader.
  2. Pack Meetings
     1. Purpose
        The pack meeting binds the pack as a whole. The meeting serves as a medium for communication and a fun activity. Members of the Pack, their families and friends are encouraged to attend. The Den chiefs are encouraged to attend with their Dens, and other guests may be invited to the Pack meeting.
     2. Time
        1. The Pack meets on the last Monday of each month during the school year (September to May). There are some exceptions.
        2. The Pack will meet for at least one-half hour, but no more than one and one-half hours a month.
     3. Leadership
        The Cubmaster or an appropriate substitute will act as master of ceremonies for the monthly pack meeting.
     4. Theme
        The yearly calendar will have a schedule of Pack Themes. The Pack meeting should reflect the spirit of the monthly theme as closely as possible.
     5. Participation
        1. Each Den will participate in the meeting.
        2. The Tigers  are strongly encouraged to attend the meetings and be involved with them as well.
        3. The Den Leaders will present their Den’s contribution at the Pack Leaders meeting   prior to the meeting for planning purposes.
     6. Schedule
        1. Prior to the meeting night
           1. The pack members should be aware of the time, place, and theme of the meeting.
           2. The Program Den should have the opening,  and the closing ready.
           3. The Program should be prepared.
           4. The back-up program should be planned.
           5. Special events such as Blue & Gold or the Pinewood Car Derby fully planned.
        2. Pre-opening
           1. The Cubmaster or Assistant Cubmaster should be early to greet the arriving Pack members.
           2. The Program Den should have a game or activity set up to occupy the boys before the meeting begins.
        3. Setup
           1. The Den responsible for setup should arrive between 6:30 and 6:45 to set up the meeting room.
           2. The setup Den should coordinate with the Activities Den and the Opening Den to see how the space should be set up. How should the lights be, where should the awards table be placed, how the chairs are arranged, do we need electric cord, will there be candles (fire ext. needed!), podium or lecture stand, etc.
        4. Opening: 7:00 p.m. sharp!
           The Den in charge of the opening will decide the format. They can have a flag ceremony, a song, a skit, or other opening.
        5. Announcements
           Any communications for the Pack are to be done at this time. Visiting guests may be allowed to present to the Pack at this time. Beware, the Announcements song could be sung!
        6. Awards Ceremony
           Awards and recognition are to be presented by the Master of Ceremonies or the Advancement Chair. Any other awards may be presented at this time.
        7. The Denner’s Report
           A Cub from each Den will have the opportunity to tell what their Den has done over the last month.
        8. Activity
           There will be a monthly activity relating to the theme. The activity may consist of a game, skit, song, or demonstration
        9. Program
           There will be a program presentation relating to the monthly theme. It should be well planned, involve and excite the Cubs. It can be a guest lecture, movie, demonstration, or other activity.
        10. Cubmaster’s sermonette
            The Cubmaster will have the opportunity of 60 seconds to inspire the Cubs and parents with words of wisdom.
        11. Closing:  before 8:00 p.m.
            The closing is up to the closing Den
        12. Cleanup
            All members of the Pack are expected to participate in the cleanup of the meeting. All the chairs need to be put away, trash picked up, floors swept, flags replaced, and lights turned out, bathrooms checked..
     7. Exceptions
        The following exceptions will take place over the monthly pack meeting.
        1. The Annual Blue and Gold Banquet
           1. Explanation
              The Blue and Gold Banquet is a celebration of the Anniversary of the Birth of Cub Scouting, founded in 1930. Pack 325s Blue and Gold banquet is an event to congratulate the Webelos who are receiving their Arrow of Light (the highest award in Cub Scouts) and to graduate them from Cub Scouting, and usher them onto Boy Scouting.
           2. Guests in attendance.
              1. All family members of the Webelos are strongly encouraged to attend.
              2. Family members of the members of the pack are welcome.
              3. The Scoutmaster(s) of the Troop(s) to which our Webelos Scouts are graduating and one to two boys from the Troop(s).
              4. The Den Chiefs.
              5. Council and/or District representatives should be invited.
              6. Other special guests may be invited, such as the chair of the PTA, the principle of the school, a Pack chaplain, or other honored guest(s).
              7. Invitations to special guests should be sent out 45 to 30 days prior to the Blue and Gold Banquet.
           3. The Banquet
              1. The meeting will consist of a dinner at a meeting place TBD by the Blue and gold Committee
              2. Following the banquet, the ceremony will begin.
              3. The ceremony should will be determined by the committee. After the Arrow of Light ceremony, the Cubmaster will introduce the Scoutmaster.
        2. Pack Special Event Competitions
           At least once a year, Pack 325 will hold a special event competition. The purpose of the event is to stimulate the Cubs to create a model with the help of a parent and compete against other members of the pack.
           1. Pinewood Derby
           2. Rain Gutter Regatta
     8. Summer Meetings
        1. During the School year summer break, the monthly Pack Meeting will be a group activity  
        2. In June, the Group Activity is the Crossover Picnic
        3. In July, the Group Activity is a  special outing TBD
        4. In August, the Group Activity is a special Outing. Cub Scout Day Camp is usually offered in August.
  3. Monthly Parents Meeting
     1. Leadership
        The Cubmaster or Committee chair will run the monthly parents planning meeting.
     2. Time
        1. The meeting should last no more than one and one-half hour, with one-hour being the ideal.
        2. The meeting will be held the third Wednesday of the month at 7 PM downstairs at the First Church.
     3. Agenda
        1. The Cubmaster should have an agenda outlined for the meeting.
        2. Attendance should be noted.
        3. Committee reports should be given.
        4. The activities for the past month should be reviewed.
           The parent’s committee should review the highlights and areas needing improvement from last month. Criticisms should be in the interest of improving the program for the Cubs and families.
        5. The activities for the current month will be finalized.
           1. Dens that will be participating in the Pack meeting will present their plans.
           2. Activities for the Pack will be planned in detail: who, what, where, etc.
           3. Back-up plans should be explored.
        6. The activities for the following month will be outlined.
           1. The Theme for the month should be discussed.
           2. Dens should volunteer for roles in the Pack meeting.
        7. The activities for the month after next should be reviewed.
  4. Roundtable Attendance
     1. Explanation

     Roundtable is a monthly gathering of the Scouting units in the Matianuck District. The meetings are held at the First Church in East Granby on the Second Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.  The meetings are based on the following month's theme, and many ideas are presented.
     All adults are welcome at the District Roundtable meetings. At least one adult from Pack 325 leadership must attend the monthly roundtable meeting.

  5. Annual Planning Meeting
     The Pack committee, parents, and the Cubmaster will meet at least once a year Between June to August  to plan the calendar. The calendar should cover 14 months, from July of the current year to Septemberr of the following year.
  6. Summer Activities Planned By Pack 325 And Dens
     Scouting is a year-round program. Pack 325 is committed to earn the national summertime award. In order to do this, the Pack and Dens must plan and provide summertime activities. The Matianuck District and Connecticut Rivers Council have day camp and weekend family camp programs established to provide opportunities for the Boys. Pack 325 plans on activities for every month of the year, including summer months.
• Funds
  1. Expenses
     . The BSA is a non-profit, mainly volunteer-run organization. The Pack needs to pay its own way. We Do Our Best to keep the costs down and the fun up.
     1. National Fee
        1. Membership fees are $10.00 a year from March to February. This covers national registration and dues, accident insurance for the Boy and a monthly copy of Scouting magazine for each adult registered. This is a non-refundable fee.
     2. Pack Expenses
        1. Awards, presentations, Pinewood Derby Kits food at parties, food on the campout, Hamburgers and Hotdogs at the picnic,and miscellaneous Pack expenses (gasoline for drivers, candles, decorations, crafts, and etceteras) are purchased with funds raised by the Pack through fundraising activities. Each Cub is expected to participate in the fund-raisers, as they benefit his program.
     3. Boy's Life
        1. Boy's Life magazine is a great resource, with articles and activities geared to boys. The cost is $10.80 a year.
     4. Handbooks
        1. The family is to purchase the Cub Scout Handbook.
        2. The manuals are available at the Connecticut Rivers Scout Shop.
        3. The Tiger Cubs will be given a packet at their first meeting.
     5. Uniforms
        1. The Pack Provides Neckerchiefs and 1 slide. Quality unit patches
  2. Fund Raisers
     To avoid increasing  the boys dues, the Pack will have different fund-raising activities during the year.
     1. Participation
        1. Each member is required to participate in the fund-raising activities of the Pack.
     2. Popcorn
        1. In the Fall, Scouts across the nation sell Popcorn.
        2. The pack will have a Popcorn Sale Coordinator, and participate in the sale.
        3. Each Cub is required to participate in the popcorn sale.
        4. The sale will be conducted in accordance with Safe Scouting guidelines and in accordance with the Connecticut Rivers Council Popcorn Sales guidelines.
  3. Treasury
     1. General Overview
        1. This account is known as the Pack 325 Operating Account.
        2. This account will be a separate account with an established bank, savings and loan, or credit union.
        3. The funds in the Operating Account will be the responsibility of the Pack 325 Treasurer.
• Job Descriptions
  The following is a basic description of description of roles and responsibilities of adult leaders. The leaders may be called upon to do additional tasks not listed.
  1. Pack 325 Committee Chairperson
     1. Be a registered member of the BSA
     2. Call and conduct regular monthly meetings of the Cub Pack 325 Committee and any special meetings that may be called.
     3. Organize the Cub Pack 325 Committee to see that all functions are delegated, coordinated, and completed.
     4. Work closely with the Cubmaster in preparation of the order of business for the Cub Pack 325 Committee meetings.
     5. Securing adult leaders.
     6. Implementing programs especially as related to district and council activities
     7. Recruiting boys from the Chartered Organization
     8. Recharter the Pack 325 annually and arranging for charter review with the Unit Commissioner
     9. Providing two-way communications between the Chartered Organization and Pack 325, District, and Council
     10. Conduct annual charter review with the Membership Chairperson and the Unit Commissioner.
     11. See that adult leadership is assigned in the case of the Cubmaster's absence or inability to serve.
     12. Attend Roundtable
  2. Cubmaster
     1. Be a registered member of the BSA
     2. Train, guide, and support Den Leaders
     3. Work with other responsible adults to provide Scouting to boys
     4. Help boys grow by encouraging them to learn for themselves
     5. Use the methods of Cubing to achieve the aims of Cubing.
     6. Meet regularly with the Pack Parents Committee for training, coordination, and planning of Pack 325 activities
     7. Attend and serve as Master of Ceremonies for all Pack 325 meetings or arrange for a qualified adult substitute.
     8. Attend training courses and District Roundtable meetings.
     9. Conduct regular parents' sessions to share the program and encourage parent participation and cooperation.
     10. Participate in annual membership inventory and uniform inspection, charter review meetings, and charter presentation.
     11. Provide a systematic recruiting plan for new members and see that new members they are promptly registered.
     12. Delegate responsibility to other adults and groups (Assistant Cubmaster, Den Leaders, Pack Committee members) so they have a part in Pack 325 operations.
     13. Participate in Council and District events.
     14. Build a sound program by using proven methods presented in Scouting literature.
     15. Conduct all activities under qualified leadership, safe conditions, and the policies of the Chartered Organization and the Boy Scouts of America.
     16. Take part in Webelos Cub graduation ceremonies in Pack 325.
     17. Train and support the Den Leaders and Den Chiefs.
  3. Assistant Cubmaster
     1. Be a registered member of the3 BSA
     2. Serve as the Pack 325 leader in the absence of the Cubmaster.
     3. Work with the Cubmaster for assigned duties.
     4. Participate in Training.
     5. Attend Meetings of the Pack and the Pack committee.
     6. Train to replace the Cubmaster.
  4. Den Leaders
     1. Be registered members of the BSA
     2. Plan and conduct Den meetings in accordance with guidelines and materials from the BSA.
     3. Communicate with parents of Den members in regards to program and Cub's progress.
     4. Keep records of Den members' progress.
     5. Communicate with Pack Advancement Chairperson in regards to Den members' progress.
     6. Attend and contribute to Parents' committee meeting.
     7. Attend and participate in Roundtable and other training opportunities as appropriate.
  5. Tiger Den Leader
     1. One parent of the Tiger Den is to assume the responsibility of coordinating the monthly meeting and outing for the Tiger Den.
     2. Communicates with the Tiger Den and the Parent's committee in regard to Tiger advancement and activities.
  6. Den Chief(S)
     1. The Den Chiefs are Boy Scouts who help the Den Leader conduct meetings and outings for the Den.
     2. The Den Chief is an active member of a Boy Scout Troop.
     3. The Den Chief can work with the Cubmaster or Assistant Cubmaster on the Den Chief award.
     4. The Den Chief is welcome at Pack meetings and all Pack functions.
     5. The Den Chief should conduct himself in a manner described in his formal training provided by the DAC or the Cubmaster.
  7. Treasurer
     1. Be a registered member of the BSA
     2. Handle all Pack 325 funds.
     3. Pay bills on recommendation of Cubmaster and authorization of Pack 325 Committee.
     4. Maintain checking and savings accounts.
     5. Supervise Pack 325 budget plan.
     6. Make recommendations to Pack 325 Committee on fund-raisers, better money-handling practices, and all matters pertaining to fiscal responsibility.
     7. Ensure that Pack 325's registration fees are made in an accurate and timely manner.
     8. Ensure that member's registration fees are collected in a timely manner.
     9. Work with Fundraising Chairperson(s) on collection of moneys owed.
     10. Supervise money earning projects, including obtaining proper authorization.
     11. Prepare monthly reports for the committee.
     12. Prepare an annual report for the Pack
  8. Pack secretary
     1. Attend monthly pack leaders meetings.
     2. Take minutes of meeting and forward to all pack leaders.
  9. Pack Advancement Co-ordinator
     1. Be responsible for Pack 325 Awards ceremonies and the proper presentation of all Cub-earned awards
     2. Work with Cubmaster (or assistant) and Den Leaders in maintenance of all Cub advancement records.
     3. Properly prepare and submit monthly advancement reports to the Connecticut Rivers Council.
     4. Secure all supplies for Cub advancement: badges, certificates, insignia, applications, and all other record forms as needed.
     5. Secure replacement badges, awards, and certificates for boys as requested.
     6. Secure back-ordered badges, awards, and certificates as needed.
     7. Secure Pack 325 special insignia and Cub Scout neckerchiefs.
     8. Serve as liaison to District and/or Council advancement committee.
     9. Help Pack 325 with all special awards
  10. Communications Coordinator
      1. Write articles for publication in the Granby Drummer.
  11. Activities Coordinator(s)
      1. Work directly with Cubmaster (or Assistant Cubmaster if assigned) and Pack 325 on acquisition, storage, and proper maintenance of Pack 325 equipment.
      2. Be responsible for transportation arrangements to Pack 325 outdoor events, tour permits, and arrangements for use of campsites.
      3. Coordinate with troops on camping invitations.
      4. Coordinate preparation for District and Council events and activities.
  12. Fundraising Coordinator(S)
      1. Serve as point of contact and information source regarding all aspects of specific fund-raising event.
      2. Coordinate order taking, pickup of products, and distribution of products.
      3. Coordinate with Treasurer on accounting for funds, and collection of bad debt.
      4. Obtain and distribute incentive awards earned by members.
  13. Membership Chairperson
      1. Conduct membership inventory for rechartering purposes. 
      2. Conduct orientation for parents of new members.
      3. Serve as liaison with Troop Committee in orderly transition of Webelos to Boy Scouts.
      4. Assist with annual Charter Review as related to status of each individual Cub member and adult.
      5. Be responsible for Pack 325 recruiting plan; supply individual Cub and adult application forms.
      6. Plan for annual Parents Night program.
      7. Assist in membership inventory and uniform inspection program.
      8. Coordinate with Commissioner for charter presentation program.
  14. Friends Of Scouting (FOS) Chairperson
      1. Build organization to enroll parents and Scouters in Pack 325
      2. Attend "Kickoff" meeting(s)
      3. Follow up until all cards are accounted for
      4. Give recognition to contributors.

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