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The Cub Scout Pack Committee Chair

The Pack Committee Chair leads the team of adults who help run the Cub Scout pack. This includes organizing meetings, helping with planning, and making sure the pack follows Scouting America rules. The chair is chosen by the chartered organization and registered with the pack.

This role is important because it helps the Cubmaster and den leaders focus on working with the Scouts. The chair handles much of the planning and support behind the scenes. This includes making sure the pack has the people and supplies it needs.

The chair makes sure all committee jobs are filled. This might include positions like treasurer, secretary, advancement chair, or fundraising chair. The chair works with these adults to make sure each job is done.

If someone leaves a position, the chair helps find a replacement. The chair also helps guide new volunteers and answer questions. This support helps everyone feel more confident and ready to help.

The chair also keeps an eye on deadlines, like rechartering and training. They help the pack stay organized and prepared throughout the year.

Working with the Cubmaster and Leaders

The chair works closely with the Cubmaster. The Cubmaster runs the program for the Scouts. The chair helps behind the scenes. Together, they make sure the pack runs smoothly.

The chair and Cubmaster should talk often. They meet to plan events, talk about problems, and decide who will do what. Clear communication helps them work well as a team.

The chair also helps support den leaders. Den leaders run the small group meetings for each grade level. The chair makes sure they have what they need, like supplies or help from parents.

Another part of the chair’s job is helping with leader recruitment. If a den needs a new leader or assistant, the chair helps find someone. They might also talk to parents about getting more involved.

The chair also works with the chartered organization representative. This person links the pack with the group that sponsors it, like a church or school. They work together to make sure the pack has what it needs to meet.

Running Committee Meetings

The Pack Committee Chair leads the monthly committee meetings. These meetings are where the adults plan upcoming events, discuss problems, and check on progress. The chair sets the agenda and keeps the meeting on track.

At the meeting, each member of the committee gives updates. For example, the treasurer reports on money, and the advancement chair talks about badges. The chair helps make sure everyone has a chance to speak.

The chair also leads the group in making decisions. This might include choosing dates for events or voting on how to spend money. The chair makes sure decisions are fair and everyone is heard.

After the meeting, the chair follows up on tasks. If someone agreed to call a camp or buy supplies, the chair checks in to see if it’s done. This helps the pack stay organized and ready.

The committee meeting is not just about planning. It’s also a time to build teamwork. The chair helps create a positive and welcoming atmosphere.

Supporting Pack Events and Program

The chair helps the pack run fun and safe events. These might include hikes, campouts, Pinewood Derby, Blue and Gold banquet, and pack meetings. The chair helps with planning and makes sure each event has adult support.

Before an event, the chair works with the committee to assign tasks. Someone might bring snacks, another person might run games, and someone else might help with setup. The chair helps make sure everyone knows their job.

The chair also makes sure events follow Scouting America safety rules. This includes having enough trained adults and making sure the location is safe. They might use the Scouting America safety checklists to help with this.

The chair helps with fundraising events too. This might include popcorn sales or a car wash. The chair works with the fundraising chair to plan the event and track money.

After events, the chair helps review how things went. What worked well? What could be better next time? This helps the pack improve and grow.

Communication and Coordination

The chair helps keep everyone in the loop. They send out updates about meetings, events, and deadlines. This might be through email, text, or printed calendars.

The chair also makes sure records are kept up to date. This includes training, youth protection, and leader registration. They work with the secretary or other leaders to track this information.

The chair helps connect the pack with the district and council. They might go to roundtable meetings or talk to district leaders. This helps the pack stay informed about training, events, and new rules.

The chair also helps with rechartering. This is the yearly process of renewing the pack’s membership. The chair checks that all youth and leaders are properly registered and that fees are paid.

Good communication helps the pack run smoothly. The chair makes sure that everyone knows what to do and when to do it.

Training and Resources

The chair makes sure all leaders are trained. This includes Youth Protection Training and position-specific training. The chair reminds leaders when their training is due and helps them find where to take it.

They also share information about other helpful training. This might include University of Scouting, online courses, or local workshops. The chair encourages leaders to keep learning.

The chair helps new leaders get started. They might explain how to use Scoutbook or where to find the Cub Scout handbook. They help new volunteers feel comfortable and supported.

The chair also helps find supplies and resources. This could be books, flags, awards, or camping gear. They make sure the pack has what it needs to run the program.

By supporting training and providing resources, the chair helps build a strong and confident leadership team. This helps the pack deliver a better experience for the Scouts.

Cub Scout Pack Committee Chair

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 21 years old.
  • Must agree to the principles and mission of Scouting America
  • Is appointed by the chartered organization
  • Must be registered as an adult leader of Scouting America.
  • Must be willing to work with the Cubmaster to deliver a quality program to the Pack

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Maintain a relationship with the chartered organization to ensure that the Pack program meets the requirements of both Scouting America and the chartered organization
  • Work with the Cubmaster on policy matters relating to Cub Scouting and the chartered organization.
  • Chair the Pack Committee meetings
  • Annually recharter the Pack
  • Work with the Pack Treasurer to develop a budget
  • Complete Youth Protection training and position specific training for the position of Pack Committee Chair
  • Delegate responsibilities to other adults in the Pack to ensure a quality Pack program
  • Ensure that the positions of Cubmaster Assistant Cubmaster are filled
  • Ensure that every den has a Den Leader and an Assistant Den Leader
  • Form new dens as necessary, remembering that an optimum den size is 6 to 8 youth
  • Secure meeting facilities through the chartered organization.
  • Work with the Treasurer and Cubmaster to develop fund raising projects and secure adults to chair those projects
  • Ensure that all registered leaders have completed Scouting America Youth Protection training
  • Educate Pack families about the Cub Scout program
  • Nurture and maintain relationships with one or more Scouts BSA Troops in the area to ensure that Webelos have a smooth transition to the Scouts BSA program
  • Support the policies of Scouting America.

More Resources

Cub Scout Pack Committee

The Pack Committee Chair leads the group of adults who support a Cub Scout pack. This person helps plan pack meetings and events, keeps things organized, and works closely with the Cubmaster and other leaders. They help assign tasks to other adults and make sure the pack has everything it needs to run smoothly.

The chair also helps with training, communication, and working with the chartered organization. A strong chair helps make sure the Scouts have a fun and safe program. They don’t do all the work themselves, but they help others do their part. This role is a good fit for someone who likes to organize, help others, and support Cub Scouting.

Building a Working Pack Committee

Some Cub Scout packs start out with the Cubmaster doing most of the work. But as the pack grows, this becomes too much for one person. A strong Pack Committee helps share the load. It’s important to explain to the Cubmaster that the goal is not to replace them, but to support them.

Start by finding a Committee Chair who works well with the Cubmaster. Then recruit other parents to help with clear and simple roles, like treasurer or event coordinator. Give each person a small job at first. Most people are willing to help if they know exactly what they need to do. Keep it simple and build from there.

Is It Just about Paperwork?

The Pack Committee Chair has many responsibilities beyond rechartering. The chair helps recruit leaders, supports the Cubmaster, leads committee meetings, and works with the chartered organization. This is how Scouting America outlines the role. If your Cubmaster says the job is only paperwork, they may not understand or want to share leadership.

What if the Cubmaster doesn’t want the Committee Chair to do anything? Try starting a calm conversation with the Cubmaster. Say you want to support the pack and build a strong team. If that doesn’t help, talk to your chartered organization representative. They approve both the Cubmaster and the Committee Chair. The unit commissioner can also give guidance. A good pack needs teamwork, not one person doing everything.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Cub Scout Pack Committee Chair

What does the Pack Committee Chair do?

The chair leads the group of adults who help run the Cub Scout pack. They plan meetings, support leaders, and help the pack stay organized. They work closely with the Cubmaster and other volunteers.

Who chooses the Pack Committee Chair?

The chartered organization picks the chair. This group sponsors the pack. The chair must be registered with Scouting America.

Does the Pack Committee Chair work with the Cubmaster?

Yes. The chair and the Cubmaster are a team. The Cubmaster runs the Scout program. The chair supports the program and handles many of the behind-the-scenes tasks.

Does the chair go to pack or den meetings?

They can, but they don’t have to. The chair focuses on planning, support, and helping with events. They often attend committee meetings and help with larger pack activities.

Is the Pack Committee Chair in charge of fundraising?

The chair helps plan and support fundraising. But they don’t do it alone. They work with a fundraising chair or other volunteers to raise money for the pack.

Does the chair have to do all the work?

No. The chair leads the committee and helps assign tasks. The chair’s job is to make sure work is shared and everyone knows their role.

What training does the chair need?

The chair must take Youth Protection Training. They should also take training for their role, which is available online through Scouting America.

Can the chair help find new leaders?

Yes. The chair helps recruit new volunteers. This includes den leaders, assistants, and committee members. They also help new leaders get started and trained.

The Chair That Keeps the Pack Moving

The Pack Committee Chair is an important part of the Cub Scout team. This person helps plan, organize, and support everything the pack does. While the Cubmaster leads the Scouts, the chair helps everything run behind the scenes.

Without a strong chair, it can be hard for the pack to stay on track. The chair helps other adults work together. They make sure jobs get done and events are well planned. They also help new leaders feel welcome and ready to serve.

The chair is not expected to do all the work alone. They guide the team and make sure everyone helps out. A good chair listens, communicates clearly, and cares about the success of the pack.

Being the Pack Committee Chair is a big job, but it can also be fun and rewarding. It’s a chance to help kids grow and support a strong Cub Scout program. If you like to lead and help others, this might be the right role for you.

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Comments

16 responses to “Cub Scout Pack Committee Chair: Leading the Team Behind the Scenes”

  1. Regina Stansbury Avatar
    Regina Stansbury

    Our Pack Committee is one of the best! Not only was she a leader while her children went through the Cub Scout program, she has remained with the pack ever since – she has been with us for the last 15+ years! Hats off to Tracey Brookshire – her dedication to our youth is outstanding! Many thanks for a job well done!

  2. joann Avatar
    joann

    Does the committee chair have a vote or only in cases of a tie?

    1. Scouter Mom Avatar
      Scouter Mom

      I’m not sure. Our committee rarely does formal voting. There usually seems to be a consensus.

    2. Pack Commchair Avatar
      Pack Commchair

      I have only voted in tie situations for the last 5 years

  3. TR Avatar
    TR

    I serve as Commitee Chair and don’t always vote. I was told that anytime I or the Chartered Organizational Representive feel we need to veto something that has been approved at the meeting we can do so. I have only done this once and for a valid reason. We as a Committee when voting go with the majority on what we do. We have never had a tie but if it were to happen then would make a decision that is best for the pack.

  4. MLP Avatar
    MLP

    It’s the “norm”(per Robert’s Rules of Order) that the Chair of any group does not vote, except to break a tie. So, unless it is in the organizations Bylaws that the Chair does vote, then the only time the Chair would vote is to break a tie.

  5. Stephanie Avatar
    Stephanie

    I am going to be starting out as Committee Chair. I have a question,, what do you do if you have a larger den that you need to divide, but no one to lead the new den?

    1. Scouter Mom Avatar
      Scouter Mom

      Sometimes it helps if you suggest that the two dens plan their meetings and activities together. That takes the pressure off of a parent who is a little uncertain about leading a den, but still allows the group to be broken into two dens during the meeting for “smaller group” activities. Also, if you have a veteran den leader who will serve as a mentor, that can help convince a parent that they can do it.

    2. Miss Cheryl Avatar
      Miss Cheryl

      There is no reason to “have to” split a den (unless there is a restraining order?). I would prefer the boys remain one den, and that the leaders work together. They could take turns planning by week, month, or advancement, and would always have someone to cover when life doesn’t offer them the freedom
      to be at scouts on a given week.

  6. Jane B. Avatar
    Jane B.

    Having just gone through this, we assigned kids to the 2 dens based on whose parents were helping the pack go. The son of our treasurer, winter outings chair, PWD chain, B&G chair and the leader’s son got spots in the den with a leader. Kids whose parents were not helping out were placed in the den without a leader.

    I have a responsibility to my volunteers to keep them happy and involved and I was not about to tell them that I had no den for their son for the next year.

    The other families were told that they were forming into a new den that needed a leader. If no parent agreed to be a leader for that den by Sept 30th, we might have no choice but to disband the den and we would have no place for those scouts for the next scouting year. Maybe a miracle would happen and a new 2nd grade family would join and be willing.

    This is an organization that is run by volunteers. None of us can manufacture a den leader out of fairy dust and wishful thinking. Our families needed to decide how important it was for them to have their son in scouting and if they were willing to do what was needed to make that happen.

    Of the 6 kids, 2 left the pack and joined a different pack with a leader willing to have a den of 11 wolfs. 2 decided not to return. One of the remaining paretns was willing to be a den leader but was so reluctant and agreed a bit too late.

    The current leader was willing to take these scouts and they are now off to a very good year with the smaller den.

    We had three 2nd grade families wanting to join this fall but when they were told that we did not have room for them in an existing den. If they wanted to join, one of them would have to be the leader of a new den. They all balked and left and went looking for a pack with an existing den.

    It was horrible and time consuming but necessary. In the end, I’m glad to have ended up with families who are happy to take part in what we do AND willing to help make it happen.

    1. Jessica Avatar
      Jessica

      Um, wow Jane. I am saddened by the fact that adults made the decision to discriminate against children (and obviously adults) that needed this program very much as an example on how to be accepted and successful in life. This is the kind of example that you, as parents, decided to set for children? This seems like bullying to me and as a VERY active scout parent, I would have removed my child from your pack with an explanation to my child that this kind of behavior is NOT what scouting is all about and the ripple effect is not how to make positive changes in the world. It pains me to lose even one child

  7. Jason J Avatar
    Jason J

    So, kids were punished because parents would not step up? Jane, I have never seen a pack not want to grow and what you described sounded just like that and very snooty I might add. I know you are trying to keep your regulars happy, but it also sounds like the requirements were not presented to the parents correctly. Scouter Mom posted above you some really great tips to get new leaders. You can’t just walk into a room of Tiger parents and say, oh by the way one of you has to step up or shove off. You have to sweet talk them and tell them how easy it is and how much you, as a CC or CM will help them. How veterans will attend their first few meetings to show them the way and get them on their feet. How there is only one hour a month required (the old lie). How you will train them and how much fun they are going to have. How the pack will buy their leader manual and maybe even pitch in the registration fee. It sounds like you did none of this and if that is the case, shame on you. The kids in your community deserve so much better than what you described.

  8. Andrew Avatar
    Andrew

    I know I am a bit late to this party, but I have what I think to be a valid response to a comment that was made.

    Jane, in your Pack, why was it that all the “good” families were lumped together? Would it not seem prudent to distribute the families that are working positively so that they can lead by example? For example, given your situation, and if I was in a position to be making decisions, I would split all of the families that volunteer and those that do not. Effectively, the current den leader and assistant den leader of the large den would each become (head) den leaders of their own new (smaller) dens. I would then ask other families to fill the newly created roles of assistant den leaders for the two smaller dens. You do not have to force families to jump in head first or leave. That is NOT the scouting way. A scout is Helpful. A scout is Kind. A scout is Courteous. This is about the boys, not about the adults that help. I was once in a Pack (growing up) that had adults that worked in this fashion. The end result was the Council banned the adults for several years from any involvement.

    When asking new or existing families to begin volunteering, it is best to take baby steps. Start out by asking for them to bring in a snack for the den. Or contribute supplies for a project for their son to earn an achievement. Gradually step up the need they provide until it is obvious that the only thing left to do to be put in a position of authority is to put on the shirt. Which, I might add, is a very simple task. If it was known that this den would be dividing, or at least was nearing the size needed to divide, steps should have been taken long before the need actually arose to prime the other families and their involvement. Stepping into a helping role is much less stressful than forcing someone into leadership.

  9. Eileen Avatar
    Eileen

    What do you do when no one will lead? We have a Wolf den of 3. All the dad’s were deploying. The mom’s were approached and asked if they could all three or two of them co-lead their own boy’s den. All three said no, it was too much. All three left our Pack and 2 have left scouting. I personally cannot lead their den and do everything else I do. My husband is also gone a lot. What do you do when there are not enough leaders? Everyone wants to participate but no one wants to lead.

    1. Yvonne Avatar
      Yvonne

      Wow, that’s tough. Do you know of any “retired” leaders in your community who might be willing to step in on an interim basis and at least get the Den going for families who have dads that have deployed? Maybe someone whose scouts are grown? Once the moms see it up and running, maybe one of them could be eased into a leader role.

      Is there no other Wolf Den that can take them, either within your Pack or in another nearby? I know the ideal size is 6-8 but we’ve had Dens double that just to make sure everyone gets in the program. It can be a pain but you hate to hear of scouts without a “home”…

      Good luck to you and those Wolves!

  10. Mike Smith Avatar
    Mike Smith

    I’ve been involved in Scouting for many years, I have a33 year old Eagle Scout. The committee guides the Pack and does the adminstrative part of the Unit. Den Leaders do program. Cubmaster is responsible for memorable awards ceremony 1 a month. His job is also help recruit leadership. He answers to Committee. Committee Chair is the top init person, only the COR is above this position. The Cubmaster has NO VOTE in Committee affairs. CM can make suggestions to Committee and answer any questions they might be qualified to answer ! NY no means does CM controls the Unit. The best Units have a good working multiple person COMMITTEE, 1 job per person; You’re there for the Youth and not egos. Training is a must for all to understand their position and how it interacts with everyone else. No Committee Chair and Cubmaster should be from same family.

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