Dear Troop 874 Parents,

Thank you for getting involved in our Troop. Setting an example with your participation sends a powerful message to your son and all the boys in the troop.   In addition, I think you will find the Scouting programs to be informative and useful in many aspects of your life.  As a parent, you are welcome to participate in any of the troop meetings, outings, committees and parent meetings, but I encourage you to take the next step and utilize the resources that have been developed by the BSA.

Take just a few short minutes and follow these steps to get started :

	Complete and submit the Adult Leadership Application (also available at troop meetings). The troop will reimburse you the cost.
	Complete the on-line Youth Protection Training, also available on video tape.
	Complete the on-line Fast Start Training, also available on video tape.

From here you have a couple more training options to be considered if you wish to become officially "Trained".  Go to the MDSC  Adult Training web page for more information.  The depth of the available training is remarkable should you wish to continue developing your skills.

The final step is to participate.  Your presence at meetings, and especially on outings, is an important contribution.  Various leadership and committee positions are also available that require more or less commitment that works for you.  In addition, we need to tap into the experience and skills of our parents to lead merit badges.  Leading some merit badges only requires everyday knowledge, others can only be led by adults with specialized skills.  If you have any specific areas of expertise, please consider volunteering to be a Merit Badge Counselor. 

Please contact me if you have any questions, Scoutmaster@troop874.net

Sincerely,

Scoutmaster, Troop 874