Join Us

Getting Started with Scouts

The first step to joining Pack 53 is to fill out an application form on Scouting.org. Here is a direct link to signing up into Pack 53. Once the application is accepted, your child will show up in our roster and will officially be part of Pack 53. 

Fees & Dues

National Dues

There are national and council fees associated with joining Scouts. They are renewed each year at your anniversary of joining scouts. 

Financial Assistance: If costs are a barrier, please contact Pack53Sacramento@gmail.com to discuss scholarship options before applying. 

• National youth registration fee: $85/year

• Council fee: $80/year (Golden Empire Council) 

• Optional Scout Life magazine subscription: $15/year

• Administrative/credit card fee: ~$5–6

These fees support nationwide liability insurance, background checks, and the overall operation of Scouting. 

Pack Dues

Pack 53 charges $40/year, paid directly to the Pack via  Cheddar Up. Cheddar Up is the preferred method however, we can accept check, or cash at meetings. Pack Dues cover belt loops, patches, leader registration and training costs, venue permits, and all little things that make Scouting fun. 

Optional activities (campouts, ticketed events) may have additional fees. We try to keep all costs as low as we can. 

Structure of the Pack and Dens

The Pack is the larger group consisting of Cub Scouts across all age groups (kindergarten through 5th grade). The pack is led by the Cubmaster who oversees the program and The Pack Committee who manages the administrative side of the pack. 

Dens are smaller groups of children from the same grade. They work together to complete Adventures and earn ranks.

Uniforms

Uniforms have been a symbol of Scouting for decades, and are the way for Cub Scouts to showcase their involvement. The patches, pins and belt loops worn on the uniform give kids a chance to display their accomplishments. 

Contact your scout's Den Leader to see what they need to get started.

Time Commitment

Your child's time commitment will be about 3-4 hours per month. 

• Pack Meetings: ~1 hour/month (Wednesdays)

• Den Meetings: ~1 hour/month, usually on Wednesdays, sometimes weekends

• Optional Activities: Campouts, service projects, community events (varies by month)