Scouting America Approves "Family Troop Option" - Available December 15th
Starting December 15, the Heart of New England Council is excited to introduce the Family Troop Option, providing families with more flexibility to experience Scouting together.
Eight of our troops participated in the pilot program, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Families shared that this model makes it easier to stay engaged and strengthens connections while supporting the values of Scouting.
NOTE: The national announcement states, “This option provides chartered organizations with more flexibility in delivering Scouting to families in communities where there are not enough youth to have a boy-only or girl-only troop.” While this is a driver for many units, it is not a requirement. Chartering organizations are free to choose the troop structure that best fits their needs: boy-only troop, girl-only troop, or family troop.
Any decision on troop structure must be made thoughtfully and should involve all relevant parties – the chartered organization, adult volunteers, parents, and the Scouts.
Further information, including Intent to Convert forms and detailed registrar guides, will be communicated by the December 15, 2025 launch.
For questions or guidance, please contact Bill Dunbar.
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