Overview

Increased youth retention--more youth served
Planned path to advancement
Increased den leader confidence and satisfaction

What’s in It for Me?

Cub Scouts

Den meetings are more organized with more time for fun.
More badges, awards, arrow points, belt loops, and pins are earned.

Den Leaders

Planning and execution are simplified, saving leaders’ time.
Den meetings are more fun and easier to run.
Boys are happier.

Cubmasters

The pack operates more effectively—all dens follow the same plan.
More opportunities for recognition and parental involvement

District Executives and Commissioners

Easier to recruit adult leaders
New leaders become effective more quickly.

Scout Executives and District Executives

Increased retention and membership
Improved volunteer leader and staff satisfaction

What are we talking about?

A method of delivering the existing Cub Scout program that is handbook-based and focuses on den activities leading to youth advancement and retention.
The change in delivery method focuses on den leaders, meeting plans, and training to conduct highly effective den and pack meetings.
Advancement occurs in the den as a natural part of the planned program.

Why are we changing?

A 20-percentage point increase in retention is expected!
There is the potential to retain an additional 350,000 Cub Scouts!
Increased den leader confidence and satisfaction will result.

Where was it developed?

Beginning in 2005 the method was researched, developed, and piloted in the Bay-Lakes Council.
It was expanded to the Central Region in 2007.
In 2009 it became nationally available as Fast Tracks on the Advancement Trail and is now being used by more than 9,000 units.

When is the change happening?

National implementation begins with the 2010–2011 program year in September 2010.
New and revised publications and training are now available at www.scoutstuff.org and at your local council service center.