Den Chief Youth Leadership Position

Another important role of this position is to provide leadership and guidance to the Cub Scouts. This includes helping them learn new skills, teaching them how to work together as a team, and encouraging them to be active and engaged during den meetings and events.

In addition to their leadership responsibilities, the Den Chief is also expected to lead by example and adhere to the Scout Oath and Law. This means setting a positive example for other Scouts by living up to the values of Scouting and demonstrating a strong commitment to service and community.

Overall, this position is an excellent opportunity for Scouts to develop their leadership skills and make a positive impact on younger children. By serving as a mentor and role model to Cub Scouts, the Den Chief helps to build stronger communities and prepare future leaders.

The description below represents an example of the requirements and expectations for this position in one troop. Specifics can vary from one troop to another.

The printable copy also includes a self evaluation form for the position on the second page. Youth leaders might benefit from self evaluating during their term. If you use this, then keep it positive with them. It should only be used to help them recognize areas they should be working on.

This is just an example. Adjust as needed to meet the size, customs, and needs of your unit.

Qualifications

• Appointed by Scoutmaster
• Second Class Rank or higher (not a BSA requirement)

Reports to

The Den Leader in the pack and the Assistant Scoutmaster for the New Scout Patrol in the troop.

Den Chief duties

• Serve as the activities assistant at den meetings.
• Communicate regularly with the Den Leader to review the den and pack meeting plans.
• If serving with a Webelos den, prepare them to join Scouts BSA.
• Project a positive image of Scouts BSA.
• Know the purposes of Cub Scouting.
• Encourage Cub Scouts to join a Scouts BSA Troop upon graduation.
• Help out at monthly pack meetings.
• Attends at least 2/3 of the den meetings/events during service period.
• Be a friend to the Cub Scouts in the den.
• Participate in outings. Attendance expectation 50%
• Attend troop meetings. Attendance expectation 50%
• Set a good example.
• Wear the field uniform (class A) correctly to all regular troop meetings, religious services, and den meetings.
• Wear the activity uniform (class B t-shirt) to all outings and other troop activities.
• Live by Scout Oath and Law.
• Show scout Spirit.

Click here to download a printable PDF copy of the sample Den Chief Description and Self Evaluation.

Scouts BSA Youth Leadership Positions Video

Den Chief Service Award: This award recognizes Scouts and Venturers who serve a Cub Scout den for one year, are trained, and are active members of their Troop or Crew.

Den Chief Pledge: A pledge which a Scout can take when he or she starts in this position of responsibility.

What is a den chief?

A den chief is a Scouts BSA youth member who helps a Cub Scout den leader. They support meetings, help with activities, and guide younger Scouts.

How old does a Scout need to be?

A Scout must be in a Scouts BSA troop. Many troops suggest the Scout be First Class or higher, but this is not a Scouting America requirement. The Scout should be ready to help younger children.

Who chooses the den chief?

The Scoutmaster and the Cub Scout den leader talk together. They decide if the Scout is a good fit. The Scout should want the job and be willing to help.

What does a den chief do at meetings?

A den chief helps with games, songs, and crafts. They help set up and clean up. They guide the Cub Scouts and keep them involved.

Does a den chief need special training?

Yes. There is den chief training. It teaches the Scout how to help the den leader and work with younger children. Many councils offer this training online or in person.

How much time does this role take?

A den chief goes to den meetings and some pack meetings. They may also help plan activities. The time depends on the den schedule.

Can serving as a den chief help a Scout advance?

Yes. Serving as a den chief counts as a leadership role for rank advancement in Scouts BSA. It is also good practice in real leadership.

How does a den chief help the den leader?

A den chief supports the leader by helping with activities. They can show skills, help with teamwork, and keep the den focused. This makes the meeting run more smoothly.

What should a den chief model for Cub Scouts?

A den chief should live the Scout Oath and Law. They should show respect, kindness, and patience. Younger Scouts learn by watching older Scouts.

Why is this role important?

A den chief helps connect Cub Scouts to Scouts BSA. They make meetings more fun and help younger Scouts feel welcome. They also grow as leaders while serving the pack.

A Den Chief brings energy and support to a Cub Scout den. This role helps the den leader and gives the younger Scouts someone to look up to. When a Scout steps into this job, they learn how to plan, guide, and keep things moving. It is simple work, but it makes a big difference. The den becomes stronger because an older Scout is willing to help.

This role also gives the Scout a safe place to grow. They learn how to speak to a group, stay calm, and give clear help. These skills build over time. The Scout learns by doing, and each meeting teaches something new. It is steady leadership practice that helps them in their troop and outside Scouting.

A Den Chief also shows Cub Scouts that they matter. When the older Scout sits with them, plays games with them, and teaches small skills, the younger Scouts feel valued. This sense of belonging keeps them excited about Scouting. It also gives them a picture of what they can become as they grow.

The value of this position reaches beyond the den. It builds confidence in the older Scout and joy in the younger ones. It supports the pack and the troop. It keeps the Scouting path connected. A Den Chief does not have to be perfect. They only need to show up, care, and try. That alone can shape a strong and happy den.