Frequently Asked Questions
Are you a girls-only Troop?
Yes. Troop 177 has only girls as members but leaders are both men and women. Oak Grove United Methodist also sponsors a Troop 77 a BSA Boys Troop which we do participate with for some of our activities. Scouts BSA has strict rules about the interaction of boys and girls in scouting.
How old do I have to be to join Scouts BSA?
You can join a Scouts BSA Boy or Girl troop if you have earned the Arrow of Light rank as a Webelos Scout and are at least 10 years old, or have completed the fifth grade and are at least 10, but not yet 18 years old.
How often do you meet?
Troop Meetings are every Tuesday at 7:30pm. We make plans for at least one camping trip a month. Trips are typically scheduled for leaving on Saturday morning and returning on Sunday afternoon. Trips are usually backpacking or camping (drive-in) adventures that involve a wide range of activities such as rock-climbing and rappelling, bouldering, fishing, mountain biking, and hiking.
We attend a week-long summer camp each year.
In addition to the activities each month, we plan a High Adventure trip every 2 years during the summer. This High Adventure trip includes river rafting, mountain biking, hiking, rappelling and canyoneering in some of the most amazing locations.
How do I join Scouting and what does it cost?
We have a standard intake of new Scouts rising from Webelos in February. You can join at any time of the year as long as you meet the joining requirements. We do have annual standard fees as well as activity fees which will be explained by our membership coordinator when you come to one of our meetings. Click here for more information about How to Join Troop 177
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I just moved to the local area. Can I transfer my Scout membership from my old troop?
Transfer memberships are welcome. You should complete a membership transfer form, pay a transfer fee if national membership is current and be prepared to provide contacts to your former troop to facilitate a smooth transfer.
If I earned rank and merit badges from my hometown troop can these achievements be transferred to the troop?
All previously earned rank including merit badges may be transferred from your previous troop after completion of a membership transfer form. Progress on incomplete merit badges may be reviewed by our merit badge counselors to assist you in completing the badge.
Do I need to purchase a scouting uniform?
Yes. we are a full uniformed troop. The uniform is an important component of completing the Aims and Methods of Scouting. Our complete uniform standards are explained to families in our Troop handbook which is given to you after you join the troop.
What equipment should I buy?
Our troop handbook provides some equipment guidelines. Our strongest suggestion is to ask one of our leaders first before purchasing expensive personnel gear to see if it will add practical value to your outdoor experience, or if the item is permitted in our program. Some gear items are not permitted for safety or security reasons.
What do I need to do in order to advance in scouting? and what is the key to success as a scout?
- You need to live by the Scout Oath and Law.
- You need to have a genuine desire to succeed and to want to have fun.
- Personal commitment and self-discipline
- Everything you need to know is in the Scout Handbook, read it.
- Your parents will provide underlying support to your efforts, but will not do your work for you.
What is a Venturing Crew?
Venturing is a youth development program of the Scouts BSA for Young Men and Women who are 14 years of age or 13 years of age and have completed the eighth grade and under 21 years of age. Venturing’s purpose is to provide positive experiences to help young people mature and to prepare them to become responsible and caring adults. For more information please visit www.venturecrew77bsa.com.
What is an Eagle Scout?
Eagle Scout is the highest achievement or rank attainable in the Scouting program. The designation “Eagle Scout” was founded over one hundred years ago. Nationally, only five percent of Scouts achieve this rank, and it is only granted after a lengthy review process. The requirements necessary to achieve this rank take years to fulfill. Since its founding, the Eagle Scout rank has been earned by more than two million young scouts.
What is the responsibility of a parent of a Scout?
Scout meetings, campouts, and activities are intended to be for the scouts. They are not family activities, and the presence of parents can be a distraction. However, parental interest and involvement in the scout’s individual progress is highly encouraged. Scouts generally don’t get far if a parent does not take the time to understand, and is not engaged in, what the scout is doing. At home, learn what your scout is doing each week, about the needed requirements in the Handbook or for a merit badge, and encourage them to be mindful of when and how they can meet the needed requirements. If a parent or guardian would like to get involved in troop meetings and campouts, they should consult with the Scoutmaster or an Assistant Scoutmaster in advance to learn more about that process. There also might be a provision for them to register for a position on the troop committee. There are always ways for a parent or guardian to be involved. The troop doesn’t run without adult volunteers.
How can adults get involved?
Scouts BSA has well-documented methods of delivering a scouting program, and it begins with trained adult leaders. All leaders are required to take a child safety course called “Youth Protection,” and specific training for their role in Scouting is available either online or in a classroom setting. Adults who are interested in camping and assisting weekly meetings can be trained to be an Assistant Scoutmaster. That’s called the Program side of the troop. In addition, every unit has adults that oversee the troop’s administrative functions and ensure a safe and fun program. That is the Committee side of the troop. As everyone is a volunteer, doing what interests you will only help you enjoy it more.
