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A steady flow of youth into a each scout unit is essential to maintaining unit health. New Scouts bring energy and enthusiasm to the program.  To avoid the pitfall of shrinking membership, aim to add at least 10 new Scouts every year. Having a year-round growth plan in place will help attract new Scouts.
A steady flow of youth into a each scout unit is essential to maintaining unit health. New Scouts bring energy and enthusiasm to the program.  To avoid the pitfall of shrinking membership, aim to add at least 10 new Scouts every year. Having a year-round growth plan in place will help attract new Scouts.


== 2020-21 New Recruitment Tips ==
== '''2020-21 New Recruitment Tips''' ==
[[Image:2020 Recruitment.PNG|right]]
[[Image:2020 Recruitment.PNG|right]]
[[Image:ScoutMeIn4.jpg|thumb|right]]
[[Image:ScoutMeIn4.jpg|thumb|right]]
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* '''[https://scoutingwire.org/marketing-and-membership-hub/unit-recruiting/ Unit Recruiting] (ScoutingWire.org)''' - Here you’ll find resources and tips for making recruiting a fun and enjoyable experience that keeps the bigger picture in focus: growing your unit to reach more kids, strengthen your packs and have more fun!
* '''[https://scoutingwire.org/marketing-and-membership-hub/unit-recruiting/ Unit Recruiting] (ScoutingWire.org)''' - Here you’ll find resources and tips for making recruiting a fun and enjoyable experience that keeps the bigger picture in focus: growing your unit to reach more kids, strengthen your packs and have more fun!


== Prepare for Recruitment Success ==
== '''Prepare for Recruitment Success''' ==
[[Image:WoodBadge2.png|thumb|right]]
[[Image:WoodBadge2.png|thumb|right]]
[[Image:Pack135.jpg|thumb|right]]




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Don't be overwhelmed by your new scouting assignment.  There are lots of '''[[Scout Leader Training (BSA)| BSA Training Resources]]''' available.  These include the following that will help you "Be Prepared" for recruiting success:
Don't be overwhelmed by your new scouting assignment.  There are lots of '''[[Scout Leader Training (BSA)| BSA Training Resources]]''' available.  These include the following that will help you "Be Prepared" for recruiting success:


# [[University of Scouting]]: Most BSA Council's hold an annual event on scouting best practices.  Several of these courses focus on recruiting strategies unique for your community.
# '''[[University of Scouting]]''': Most BSA Council's hold an annual event on scouting best practices.  Several of these courses focus on recruiting strategies unique for your community.
# [[District Membership Committee| District Membership Committee]]: get update info on recruitment events, ongoing training, opportunities and best practices in your area.  
# '''[[District Membership Committee| District Membership Committee]]''': get update info on recruitment events, ongoing training, opportunities and best practices in your area.  
# [[District Roundtable]] - get update info on recruitment events and opportunities in your area. Several times a year they have recruitment refresher sessions and updated recruitment collateral.  
# '''[[District Roundtable]]''' - get update info on recruitment events and opportunities in your area. Several times a year they have recruitment refresher sessions and updated recruitment collateral.  
# National Resources:
# '''National Resources''':
## [https://scoutingwire.org/marketing-and-membership-hub/marketing-webinars/ Current Marketing Webinars] (ScoutingWire.org) Latest best practices on recruitment from highly experienced BSA Staff.
## [https://scoutingwire.org/marketing-and-membership-hub/marketing-webinars/ Current Marketing Webinars] (ScoutingWire.org) Latest best practices on recruitment from highly experienced BSA Staff.
## [https://scoutingwire.org/marketing-and-membership-hub/unit-recruiting/ Unit Recruiting] (ScoutingWire.org)''' - Here you’ll find resources and tips for making recruiting a fun and enjoyable experience that keeps the bigger picture in focus: growing your unit to reach more kids, strengthen your packs and have more fun!
## [https://scoutingwire.org/marketing-and-membership-hub/unit-recruiting/ Unit Recruiting] (ScoutingWire.org) - Here you’ll find resources and tips for making recruiting a fun and enjoyable experience that keeps the bigger picture in focus: growing your unit to reach more kids, strengthen your packs and have more fun!
## [https://www.scouting.org/programs/scouts-bsa/year-round-guide/ Scouts BSA Year Round Recruiting Guide] -  
## [https://www.scouting.org/programs/scouts-bsa/year-round-guide/ Scouts BSA Year Round Recruiting Guide] -  
## [https://troopleader.scouting.org/recruiting-new-members/ Recruiting New Members] - Scouts BSA
## [https://troopleader.scouting.org/recruiting-new-members/ Recruiting New Members] - Scouts BSA
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## [https://www.scouting.org/familyscouting/ Family Scouting]- ScoutMeIn Campaign Guide  
## [https://www.scouting.org/familyscouting/ Family Scouting]- ScoutMeIn Campaign Guide  
## [https://scoutingwire.org/marketing-and-membership-hub/unit-recruiting/ Pack and Den Recruiting]: - ScoutingWire Special Training Feature
## [https://scoutingwire.org/marketing-and-membership-hub/unit-recruiting/ Pack and Den Recruiting]: - ScoutingWire Special Training Feature
# [https://www.amazon.com/How-Win-Friends-Influence-People/dp/0671027034 How to Win Friends & Influence People] - by Dale Carnegie.  
# '''Recruitment Stills'''
# [https://www.amazon.com/Win-Bigly-Persuasion-World-Matter/dp/0735219710 Win Bigly: Persuasion in a World Where Facts Don't Matter] - By Scott Adams.  Excellent Persuasion skills is necessary quality for any master recruiter.
## [https://www.amazon.com/How-Win-Friends-Influence-People/dp/0671027034 How to Win Friends & Influence People] - by Dale Carnegie.  
## [https://www.amazon.com/Win-Bigly-Persuasion-World-Matter/dp/0735219710 Win Bigly: Persuasion in a World Where Facts Don't Matter] - By Scott Adams.  Excellent Persuasion skills is necessary quality for any master recruiter.


=== Annual Plan ===
=== '''Annual Plan''' ===
[[Image:Pack584picnic.png|thumb|right]]
[[Image:Pack584picnic.png|thumb|right]]
Having a year-round growth plan in place will help attract new Scouts.
Having a year-round growth plan in place will help attract new Scouts.


* Where will you recruit new scouts from? 
* How will you find and contact young families in your community?
* What information will you have ready to share with them?
* What open public events take place in your community?
* What successful recruiting traditions do you have in your unit?
* Assistants for Each School Served: - If your scout unit pulls from multiple schools and they each have back to school night on the same night, you will need to delegate your workload.  Also they will have access to school forums, events, PTA, etc.
* Find Your Recruiting Partners: - Roundtable, District/Council Membership Committee, District Executive.  Include them in your planning.  See what new resources they have to share with you.
* Create and Maintain a year round cyber presence.
* Your existing scouts and parents could be your best recruiters.  How will you motivate them to invite their friends and siblings?


# '''Assistants for Each School Served''' - If your scout unit pulls from multiple schools and they each have back to school night on the same night, you will need to delegate your workload.  Also they will have access to school forums, events, PTA, etc.
=== '''Basic Supplies''' ===
# '''Find Your Partners''' - Roundtable, District/Council Membership Committee, District Executive.  Include them in your planning.  See what new resources they have to share with you.
 
=== Basic Supplies ===
[[Image:Pack894house.jpg|thumb|right]]
[[Image:Pack894house.jpg|thumb|right]]
Before launching your recruiting drive - stock up on these essential items.
Before launching your recruiting drive - stock up on these essential items.


# '''[http://BeAScout.org Update Unit BeAScout Pin]''': - During recruitment it will be easier to point new signups to the online registration link at '''[http://BeAScout.org BeAScout.org]'''.  Only a member of the Unit Key3 can edit this item, however, it should prominently display a email to your unit recruiter/new member coordinator. Also link it to a digital online recruitment flyer (using your website).
 
# '''[[Prepare Unit One-Sheet]]''': one-page flyer about the unit, important contacts, annual calendar of events and unit goals (Ie "have fun").
# '''[[Prepare Unit One-Sheet]]''': one-page flyer about the unit, important contacts, annual calendar of events and unit goals (Ie "have fun").
# '''Stack of Scout Interest Cards''':
# '''Stack of Scout Interest Cards''':
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# '''Prepare Recruitment Station''' - table, tablecloth, large posters, easles, handouts, etc. (My best posters were photos of the youth doing super fun outdoor activities. I also had old boys life magazines ready to handout too.)
# '''Prepare Recruitment Station''' - table, tablecloth, large posters, easles, handouts, etc. (My best posters were photos of the youth doing super fun outdoor activities. I also had old boys life magazines ready to handout too.)


== General Recruiting Tips ==
=== '''Cyber-Presence Preparation''' ===
[[Image:TroopCard19.png|thumb|right]]
[[Image:BeAScout4.png|thumb|right]]
=== Year Round Referrals ===
# '''[[BeAScout Pin]]''': - During recruitment it will be easier to point new signups to the online registration link at '''[http://BeAScout.org BeAScout.org]'''.   Only a member of the Unit Key3 can edit this item, however, it should prominently display a email to your unit recruiter/new member coordinator. Also link it to a digital online recruitment flyer (using your website).
# '''[[Invite A Friend]]:''' By far the single most effective recruitment tool is a word of month '''referral''' youth-to-youth or parent-to-parent. Scouting holds weekly, monthly annual activities that are fun.  All activity announcements sent to families by phone, mail, flyer, text, etc should always carry a note to Invite a Friend.
# '''Unit Hashtag''' - For use on all social media posts (Example: #Troop726SDIC)
# '''Visitor Attendance Log:''' Each unit should keep a visitor attendance log.  Some units may award a year end prize or family membership discount to the top 1-3 recruiters of the year.
# '''Build Unit Website''' - Many perspective families will do online research before contacting you again. Your website presense should have great pictures and family testimonials to help sell your unit. State your unit mission and purpose.  Google the following scout units for some great examples:
# '''Pass-A-Long Card:''' A simple 3x5 type invite card. Front side is a colorful invite and the backside has contact information for the troop, troop website, BeAScout.org, etc. (See example to the right.)
# '''Welcome Page''' - If your unit already has a website - be sure it includes a "get to know us" page so that new families can learn about your unit.   Goals, Activities, Awards, Accomplishments, etc.
# '''Recycle that ''[[Boys Life]]'':''' Drop off your old Boys Life magazines at the waiting room for your local medical, dental, vehicle care, or other lobby.
 
** [https://www.pack235.com/ BSA Pack 235] - Red Hill Lutheran Church. (Sample)
** [http://www.troop11alameda.com/ BSA Troop 11] - Alameda CA (Sample)
** [https://www.troopwebhost.org/Troop707Dallas/Index.htm BSA Troop 707 & Crew 707] - Lake Highlands Elks Lodge. (Sample)
** [https://seascoutship3500.org/ BSA Sea Scout Ship 3500 - "Rock of Ages"] - Pleasant Harbor Marina. (Sample)
 
== '''General Recruiting Tips''' ==


=== Cyber Presense===
[[Image:BeAScout Update.png|thumb|right]]
# '''[https://beascout.scouting.org/ BeAScout.org]:''' Every Scout unit should check their listing here periodically.  Be sure to frequently mention this link. Update "BeAScout" Cyber Pin - BSA National and Council conducts various large scale marketing campaigns that directs parents to use this interactive online map to find the right scouting unit nearest their home or school or special interest. Proof that your "pin" is working, has the right contact info and a good description of your program and link to your unit website.
# Build Unit Website - Many perspective families will do online research before contacting you again. Your website presense should have great pictures and family testimonials to help sell your unit. State your unit mission and purpose.
## BSA Pack 235 - Red Hill Lutheran Church. (Sample)
## BSA Troop 11 - Alameda CA (Sample)
## BSA Troop 707 & Crew 707 - Lake Highlands Elks Lodge. (Sample)
## BSA Sea Scout Ship 3500 - "Rock of Ages" - Pleasant Harbor Marina. (Sample)
# [[Buena Creek District (SDIC)| ScoutWiki Unit Pins]] - Update your unit listing on this additional volunteer scouting cyber marketing effort.


=== '''Recruiter Award''' ===
=== '''[[Recruiter Award]]''' ===
====  '''A Scout is Friendly''' ====
[[Image:Recruiter1.jpg|right]]
[[Image:Recruiter1.jpg|right]]
[[Image:Firendly1.png|thumb|right]]


# '''Recruiter Recognition''' - Scout to Scout "word of mouth" referrals is certainly the most effective way attract and retain new members. Encourage the youth to earn and display this patch.  Look for opportunities at each awards ceremony to recognize this scout.  It will motivate other scouts to do likewise.
The '''[[Recruiter Award]]''' is probably one of the most important patches in your scout unit.  Scout to Scout "word of mouth" referrals is certainly the most effective way attract and retain new members. Encourage the youth to earn and display this patch.  Look for opportunities at each awards ceremony to recognize this scout.  It will motivate other scouts to do likewise. See this section for 20+ tips to have a great peer-to-peer referral program:
# '''[https://www.pack216mcs.com/friendly.html A Scout is Friendly]''' - Share a Scoutmaster / Cubleader minute about being a friend.
 
# '''[https://www.classb.com/bsa/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIyKKtyI_l4gIVF6rsCh3JRASmEAAYASAAEgI2dPD_BwE Class B Shirts]''' - Encourage Scouts and Leaders to Wear the Class B shirts - especially before Back To School Night or any School Festival. Also wear other souvenir scouting shirts - (I frequently get positive feedback when I wear mine out in public.)
Additional Recruitment Awards Include:
# ''' ''Invite A Friend'' ''' - Every scouting activity flyer should include a reminder to the scouts to bring a friend. Fun activities is their opportunity to make a positive impression.
* Founders Bar
# '''Serve your Neighbors''' - encourage scouts to look for frequent opportunities to serve their neighbors.  ([https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/5.14-16?lang=eng Matt 5:14-16])
* Council Recruiter Patches
# '''Scouting Posters for the Home''' - Encourage scouting families to hang scouting posters in the home.
 
# '''Digital Device Background''' - encourage youth and adults to have a scouting theme backdrop for their phone, reader, computer or other digital device.
=== '''[[School Open House]]''' ===
# '''Share Scout theme videos''' - in social media, Youtube, facebook, twitter.
# '''Make New Friends''' - A Scout is Friendly - as often as possible. Look for someone who needs a friend.


=== Other Referrals ===
[[Image:PeachJar2019.jpg|thumb|right|PeachJar Flyer]]
# '''[https://www.scoutshop.org/gifts-collectibles/stickers-decals-magnets/stickers-and-decals.html ScoutShop Bumber Sticker]''' - [[Image:Troopsticker123.jpg|thumb|right]]
School Night for Scouting: From June to August, watch your District Roundtable for training cub scout recruiting, and organizing School Night for Scouting in your area. Typically the biggest recruiting event of the year for most scouting units.
# '''[https://tradingpost.classb.com/custom-boy-scout-troop-proud-of-my-boy-scout-bumper-sticker-sp5295/ Custom Troop Bumber Sticker]''' - place on scout vehicles, trailers, camp gear, school binders, etc, etc, etc, and more.  
# '''Benefits of Scouting Flyer''' - Prepare a summary recap handout of the many benefits of Scouting.
# '''Unit Newsletter''' - monthly, quarterly or annual.  Emphasize fun and adventure and outdoors and service.
# '''Frequent Field Trips''' - every scout outting is a unique opportunity to interact with the general population and to show your unit brand.
# '''Use Scouting Lingo''' - Get friends to ask you about what those words mean.
# '''Room Decor''' - Hang a mini-Scout Law or Timeless Values Poster in your workplace or office cubicle.


=== Social Media ===
Back to School Night (Fall Recruiting) - a one night event at the start of the school year, where we provide the opportunity to sign-up for Cub Scouts at every elementary school in the district. Most new scouting recruits come from this event. Ask your district executives which schools (public, private, charter, church-school, home-school, etc) are in your neighborhood and have not been assigned to a Cub Pack as of yet.
[[Image:JRudner.PNG|thumb|right|Update your Facebook Profile]]
[[Image:Benefits bsa1.jpg|thumb|right]]
Social Media Marketing:


# '''Update your Facebook Profile''' - Then just say to your local school and community groups/ pages in Facebook.
* '''[[School Open House]]''' - 20 Big tips for boosting attendance for your Unit Joining Night. Reach local school children and their parents.
# '''[https://www.facebook.com/theboyscoutsofamerica/videos/1461448717366665/UzpfSTI1Mzk5NDczMTI5NTQ0MjozMzMwNzc3NzYwMjgzNzc1/ Scouting in the City: BSA Video Series]''' - Have all unit members post this clip on their social media account!
* '''Back to School Night''' - Traditional event at the begging of the school year.
# '''Business Message Boards''' -
* '''School Festivals''' - A great opportunity to engage parents and children
# '''Church Message Boards''' -
* '''Spring Open House''' - Great to find scouts in time for summer camp and to lay a unit foundation before the next scout year starts.
# '''[https://nextdoor.com/news_feed/ NextDoor.com]''' - "The Private Social Network for Your Neighborhood." Post all invites to local scouting open house events here!
# '''Facebook Advertising''' -
# '''#Beascout Hashtag on Twitter''' -
# '''Share a daily/weekly scout message'''
# '''Encourage Scouter Blogging''' - Many scouters have different journal methods and reach different audiences.  
# '''Facebook Comments''' - post scout positive comments in Facebook.  
# '''Include US Flag Image''' - scientifically proven to have a positive persuasive effect for scouting recognition.
# '''Facebook Compliments #1''' - Thank people and organizations for their support of scouting or the country or for our Veterans.
# '''Facebook Quote of the Day''' -  
# '''Facebook Links'''
## [https://boyslife.org/ Great BoysLife Articles] - link to fun articles in BoysLife, Scouting Wire, etc.
## [Scouting News] - Find lots of positive eagle service project news articles. Positive, complementary, service, and humorous. (There are always lot.)
## [https://scoutingwire.org/ ScoutingWire.org] - more great scouting articles.
## [[Benefits of Scouting]] - Links to great articles about the benefits of Scouting.
## Benefits of Scouting #2 - more great article links
### [http://www.campminsi.org/articles/14-benefits-of-sending-a-scout-to-camp/62325 14 Benefits of Sending a Scout to Camp] -
### [https://honestandtruly.com/9-benefits-from-boy-scouts/ 9 Benefits of Scouting] -
### [https://voiceofscouting.org/why-scouting-a-study-of-benefits Why Scouting] - A Study of the Many Benefits of Scouting
### Troop 282 Honors Veterans with 21-Gun Salute and Flag Ceremony
### Scouting For Food Kick’s Off Giving Season
### University Acceptance Letter Compliments Eagle Scouts -
### Webelos Scout Sells Popcorn in all 50 States
# '''Unit Twitter Handle''' - #Troop726SDIC
# '''Unit Instagram Account''' -
# '''Unit Facebook Page''' - I ran mine like a big private group scrapbook to share event pictures with scouter families. These families could then share with their friends and extended family.
# '''[http://BSAParents.com BSAParents.com]''' - Encourage your families to share their scouting success stories here.
# '''[https://scouthut.fandom.com/wiki/Scouts_on_YouTube YouTube Scouting Videos]'''- Share more great scouting videos - post comments and video links on your SM pages.
# '''Open for more ideas'''


=== Community Events ===
=== Community Events ===
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[[Community Service]] is frequently a great example of the best of scouting.  Local newspapers are always looking for good positive news stories:
[[Community Service]] is frequently a great example of the best of scouting.  Local newspapers are always looking for good positive news stories:
# '''[https://nextdoor.com/ NextDoor.com]''' - Invite your community to your service projects.
# '''[https://nextdoor.com/ NextDoor.com]''' - Invite your community to your service projects.
## [https://help.nextdoor.com/s/article/How-to-create-a-group?language=en_US NextDoor Groups] - Of particular interest is a new feature called "NextDoor Groups" - In my neighborhood there were quite a few groups for young families and the schools.  A great place to promote your scout unit.
# '''[[JustServe| JustServe.org #1]] - Post your Projects''' - Post all unit serve projects on JustServe and invite the public to join you there. Invite Community to Service Projects.  
# '''[[JustServe| JustServe.org #1]] - Post your Projects''' - Post all unit serve projects on JustServe and invite the public to join you there. Invite Community to Service Projects.  
# '''[https://www.justserve.org/ JustServe.org #2] - Help on other Community Projects''' - Look for service projects in your community that your scout unit can assist with.  
# '''[https://www.justserve.org/ JustServe.org #2] - Help on other Community Projects''' - Look for service projects in your community that your scout unit can assist with.  
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# ''Do what you do so well that they want to come back and bring their friends.'' (Walt Disney)
# ''Do what you do so well that they want to come back and bring their friends.'' (Walt Disney)


=== Special Events ===
=== Neighorhood Banners ===
[[File:Banner1.PNG]]  
[[File:Banner1.PNG]]  
# '''Event Banner''' Ship 1212 paid $600.00 to have this banner made (above) and $100.00 ( paid for with grant money ) to have it hung across the main street in to Port Angeles WA. We are told the banner will last about 5 years with the weather. The good news because so many events are being cancelled due to the pandemic. The banners are only taken down when a new customer has one put up. So this will be up for about three to four weeks.]]
# '''Event Banner''' Ship 1212 paid $600.00 to have this banner made (above) and $100.00 ( paid for with grant money ) to have it hung across the main street in to Port Angeles WA. We are told the banner will last about 5 years with the weather. The good news because so many events are being cancelled due to the pandemic. The banners are only taken down when a new customer has one put up. So this will be up for about three to four weeks.]]
# '''3x5 Banner''' - Simple and Easy - but a well place sign/banner is proven to be effective:
## Banner at major community youth sports field
## Banner across the street from your local school
## Banner at a major intersection or highway.
=== Community Events ===
# '''Trick-or-Treat Pass-Along Cards''' - every year millions of little kids go trick-or-treat on Halloween in search of free candy.  Include a BeAScout (or pack or troop) Pass-a-long card with every candy handout. Maybe handout extra copies of the "Mini Boys Life" to each family.
# '''Trick-or-Treat Pass-Along Cards''' - every year millions of little kids go trick-or-treat on Halloween in search of free candy.  Include a BeAScout (or pack or troop) Pass-a-long card with every candy handout. Maybe handout extra copies of the "Mini Boys Life" to each family.
# '''[http://www.pikespeakbsa.org/How-To-Support-Scouting 10 Ways to Support Scouting] - (From Pikes Peak Council BSA)
# '''[http://www.pikespeakbsa.org/How-To-Support-Scouting 10 Ways to Support Scouting] - (From Pikes Peak Council BSA)
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## Financially support a youth in need.  Everyone who shares BSA's strong values should be able to participate in Scouting. Contribute to Scouting and you will change a life. Read about financial support >>
## Financially support a youth in need.  Everyone who shares BSA's strong values should be able to participate in Scouting. Contribute to Scouting and you will change a life. Read about financial support >>


=== Facebook ===
=== '''[[Social Media Recruitment]]''' ===
Build up a larger group of "Friends" on Facebook and subcribe to the "Bryan on Scouting" wire.  Monthly scouting sends out some great articles that are fund to repost on scouting.  If you are new - try out some ot these:
[[Image:JRudner.PNG|thumb|right|Update your Facebook Profile]]
In '''[[Social Media Recruitment]]''' it is important to get your message out across multiple communication channels.  Social Media is one of the hot channels now, especially amongst the younger generation.  But There are a few important rules to understand about the algorithms of each different platform (most particularly Facebook) in order to get the best success from online recruitment activities:


* [https://blog.scoutingmagazine.org/2020/09/29/camping-is-not-only-fun-its-good-for-your-health/?utm_source=scoutingwire&utm_campaign=swvolunteer10142020&utm_medium=email&utm_content=A Camping is good for health].
A few tips from this section
* [https://blog.scoutingmagazine.org/2020/10/14/can-being-an-eagle-scout-help-you-get-into-college/?utm_source=scoutingwire&utm_campaign=swvolunteer10142020&utm_medium=email&utm_content=A 17 Schools tell how Eagle Rank impacts your College Application].
* Many units are running paid ads on Facebook using their "geo-fencing" feature to target their local neighborhood.
 
# '''Update your Facebook Profile''' - Then just say hello to your local school and community groups/ pages in Facebook.
==== Facebook Fan Pages ====
# '''[https://www.facebook.com/theboyscoutsofamerica/videos/1461448717366665/UzpfSTI1Mzk5NDczMTI5NTQ0MjozMzMwNzc3NzYwMjgzNzc1/ Scouting in the City: BSA Video Series]''' - Have all unit members post this clip on their social media account!
'''Facebook Fan Pages:''' Create a Fan Page for your Sea Scout Ship. Create an “Event” for your Sea Scout Me in Day activity. Boost the event targeted to parents of high school students. Include as “Interests” for the campaign to include Scouting, Sailing, Boating, Stand Up Paddleboard, Kayaking, and other boating activities. Test the effectiveness of your boost, adjusting your campaign each week.
# '''Business Message Boards''' -
 
# '''Church Message Boards''' -
"Share" your Facebook page with like minded facebook groups in scouting, your charter org, free neighborhood shopping exchange, etc:
# '''[https://nextdoor.com/news_feed/ NextDoor.com]''' - "The Private Social Network for Your Neighborhood." Post all invites to local scouting open house events here!
 
# '''Facebook Advertising''' -  
Sample Regional / Topical Facebook Pages - These can help promote your unit:
# '''#Beascout Hashtag on Twitter''' -  
# [https://www.facebook.com/California-Scouts-1547358932233705/ California Scouts] - Sample Scout Fan Facebook Page for California
# '''Share a daily/weekly scout message'''
# [https://www.facebook.com/SaintsandScouts/ Saints & Scouts] - LDS Church Supports.
# '''Encourage Scouter Blogging''' - Many scouters have different journal methods and reach different audiences.
 
# '''Facebook Comments''' - post scout positive comments in Facebook.
==== Facebook Ads ====
# '''Include US Flag Image''' - scientifically proven to have a positive persuasive effect for scouting recognition.
Many units are running paid ads on Facebook using their "geo-fencing" feature to target their local neighborhood.
 
== Back to School Join Night ==
Typically the biggest recruiting event of the year for most scouting units.
 
=== School Night Recruiting for Packs and Troops ===
[[Image:PeachJar2019.jpg|thumb|right|PeachJar Flyer]]
School Night for Scouting: From June to August, watch your District Roundtable for training cub scout recruiting, and organizing School Night for Scouting in your area.
 
# '''Lots of Pictures:''' Use a large tri-fold poster board.  
# '''Class A Uniform:''' If students are present then have scouts there. Class A uniforms are best for elementary school,
# '''Class B Uniform:''' Best for middle school recruiting.
# '''No Uniform:''' Invite a couple of troop moms (with daughters/sons in the troops) there at the table, not in uniform, to talk with other moms.
# '''[https://insanescouter.org/p/3383/34/School_Night_for_Cub_Scouting.html School Night for Cub Scouting]''' - One evening is designated for all parents to gather at the school to learn about and hopefully join Cub Scouting.
# '''[[Back to School Night]] (Fall Recruiting)''' - a one night event at the start of the school year, where we provide the opportunity to sign-up for Cub Scouts at every elementary school in the district. Most new scouting recruits come from this event. Ask your district executives which schools (public, private, charter, church-school, home-school, etc) are in your neighborhood and have not been assigned to a Cub Pack as of yet.
## School Night Tips - NorthernStarBSA.org
## Sign-up Night Playbook - ScoutingWire.org
## School Night Planning Guide - Prepare for and deliver an effective school recruiting function
## School Night for Scouting - 2013 YouTube Presentation
# '''[[School Open House]] (Spring Recruiting)''' -
# '''[[School Festivals]] (Mid-Year Recruiting)''' -  
 
=== Boosting Recruitment Night Success===
'''Question: How do I get families to attend our Recruitment Night Event?'''


Note - some units focus on the following events with varying success
==== Zoom ====
# Open House Night: Late spring - before the summer break
# Try acouting / outdoors background for your next Zoom meeting.
# Fourth of July Parade: Huge community turnout - but some families have vacation plans during the summer
# Back to School Night: Late summer / early fall - A little bit late for annual planning -but this is when most families actually focus on organizing their kids schedule for the new school year.


* Hand out flyers at Fourth of July Parades and other large summer community events: Allow 1-2 weeks before recruitment night.  Offer two recruitment nights in case families are on vacation.  Even hold a recruiting booth there.
=== Neighborhood Recruiting ===
* During the Summer - Recruitment night should have fun activities for the kid.
# '''Doorhangers'''  : Create custom door hangers to drop in your neighborhood.
* Activities and Refreshments - Build marshmallow catapults and have done rockets. We also had pizza.
* Hand out flyers during school registration days.
* Advertise on buy sell trade websites & local facebook groups. Indicating gender and age groups
* Put flyers at the school office.
* Put out yard signs.
* Encourage unit members to post flyers to their personal page.
* Paid Facebook to promote the post to people in our area.
* Place tri-fold flyers at the local bank and a couple of churches that allow for it.
* Stickers made for the little kids. Pencils and pens printed up with the pack info.
* Election days we can sell popcorn so we hand out flyers
* Include BBQ and had an ice cream truck come to our Recruitment Event.
* Be seen in your uniform and flag!
* Find something fun, and can you advertise "A community event for boys and girls grades 1-5" hosted by the Cub Scouts
* Be organized.  Families can sense between a unit in chaos and the opposite - A pack with a computerized registration table, notebooks and calendars ready to distribute.
* Schedule Recruitment night two weeks after school starts and the school handout flyers in school packages.
* Our council gives rockets with a certain camp date to launch. But for them to get a free rocket kit they had to be registered.
* Outdoor movie night with open house and food.
* Got extra scout patches?  (ie Last year's popcorn patch, etc) - Bring those to handout.  Another attention getter.


== '''Year-Round Recruitment Calendar''' ==
== '''Year-Round Recruitment Calendar''' ==
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# '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2k1hd-6dao Pack 37 Recruitment Video]''' - The membership team for this pack created a cool video to send to all interested families.  Look for it on YouTube at "Join 37".
# '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2k1hd-6dao Pack 37 Recruitment Video]''' - The membership team for this pack created a cool video to send to all interested families.  Look for it on YouTube at "Join 37".
# '''Inexpensive Day Camp''' - Did you know that BSA Cub Day Camp is usually the most inexpensive week long summer program offered to the community?
# '''Inexpensive Day Camp''' - Did you know that BSA Cub Day Camp is usually the most inexpensive week long summer program offered to the community?
# '''Send Flyer to Local BSA Troops''' - All Troops count on a strong Pack program.  They should help distribute your recruitment flyer to their network of families, friends, charter org partners, etc, etc.  Ask your District NMC for assistance.


=== Scouts BSA Troop Recruitment ===
=== Scouts BSA Troop Recruitment ===
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# '''<i>This Troop Doubled in Size Last Year</i>''' - See Bryan On Scouting Blog - BSA Troop Recruitment Secrets
# '''<i>This Troop Doubled in Size Last Year</i>''' - See Bryan On Scouting Blog - BSA Troop Recruitment Secrets
# '''[[Unit Commissioner]]''' - The troop should have an adult volunteer serve as "Unit Commissioner" for their linked Cub Pack(s).  They can help both units work together on any scouting, leadership, recruitment challenges, etc.
# '''[[Unit Commissioner]]''' - The troop should have an adult volunteer serve as "Unit Commissioner" for their linked Cub Pack(s).  They can help both units work together on any scouting, leadership, recruitment challenges, etc.
# '''Host Virtual Seminar''' - Promote event on EventBrite  - Topics include family camping, service, outdoors and scouting in the local area.


=== Venturing Crew Recruitment ===
=== Venturing Crew Recruitment ===
[[Image:Venturing2019a1.jpg|thumb|right]]
[[Image:Venturing2019a1.jpg|thumb|right]]
[[Image:Bsaretention.jpg|thumb|right|Scouts that register in Venturing stay an average of 16.5 months longer with scouting.]]
Every group needs a "shiny object" that grabs the interest of the young crowd, today's youth have so many competing interests!
Every group needs a "shiny object" that grabs the interest of the young crowd, today's youth have so many competing interests!


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## One night each week hold special skit / exhibit night at your local scout camp(s).
## One night each week hold special skit / exhibit night at your local scout camp(s).


== '''District & Council Volunteers''' ==
== '''[[District Membership Committee]]''' ==


=== District Recruitment Committee ===
You can further support recruitment efforts for unit by participating in your local '''[[District Membership Committee]]'''.
What are some important recruitment duties for the District / Council Committee?
 
# '''Scouting Tools : "Invitation Manager":'''  Every day new leads / applications come in via the "BeAScout" website.  Monitor these new leads at least weekly to make sure each lead is assigned to an appropriate but active unit.
# '''School Tracking Pipeline1''' - Track primary recruitment channel for each unit
## Cub Scouts - Assigned Schools
## Boy Scouts - Linked Packs / Middle Schools
## Venturing - Recruitment Plan / District Events
## Sea Scouts - Recruitment Plan / District Events
#  Major Community Events
#  Local Home School and Charter Schools
#  Community Social Media Groups.
# '''Promote Local Scouting Success Stories''' - Completed Eagle Service Projects / Camporees / Service Awards and more.  Connect with local media.
 
===Community Events ===
 
# Community 5K Run - This event could get lots of attendance, hand out bsa t-shirts and other take home souvenirs. Collect $40 from each participant and you just knocked a big chunk out of our District FOS quota also!
# '''[[Ten Commandments Hike]]''' - a popular scouting activity of the [[Duty to God]] Adventure category where it's primary importance is to teach youth about the meaning of Duty to God in the Scout Oath. It is most frequently organized at the district level.  Usually takes place jointly with local churches at the town center.  Great high-visibility joint community event.
# '''Flag Day''' - usually gets good publicity in the local news each year. - Memorial Day, Flag Day, Veterans Day.  Or other significant patriotic holiday.
# Local History Events -
# Local Parades. -
 
=== Roundtable Moments ===
# '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QeBJ0TYGGE Pack 24 Recruitment Secrets]''' - Pack 24 Scouting Volunteer Membership Recruiting Success Stories - (Fall 2010) - 4 Minute YouTube - Great for [[District Roundtable]] presentation
# '''Monthly Raffle''' - Scouting bumper sticker / license plate frame/ join scouting yard signs / mug or old souvenir memorabilia
# '''Recruitment Training Breakout''' - This should be a major session of District Roundtable, several times a year, especially in the early summer months.
# '''New Unit Moment''' - A brief roundtable big rock is to review with the membership new units being formed in the area.  
# '''Preview New Recruiting Videos''' - a fun big rock item for Roundtable.
 
=== Roundtable Midway ===
Every month - sample recruitment poster / station


== Recruitment Resources==
=== Project Brownsea ===
# '''Support [https://projectbrownsea.com/ Project Brownsea]''' - Alumni of BSA understand the lifelong benefits of Scouting better than most people. They also  understand the impact of limited, and in some cases nonexistent, recruitment options at  this extraordinary moment in time.  Your financial donation to Brownsea will help finance an independent scouting recruitment platform.  Scouting is more than just one organization, it is a Movement.


That’s why we’re tapping into the skills first championed by Robert Baden-Powell at the first
Scout camp on Brownsea Island in 1907 — skills like resourcefulness, leadership and teamwork
— to promote recruiting and ensure the future of Scouting in this country.


===Special Interest Scouting ===
The 2020 changeover for members of [[The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints]] from institutional participation to individual participation was a good case study to handle a large group transition.  Here are some council/district success stories related to that event.
# [[LDS Transition Letter]]
# [https://www.facebook.com/SaintsandScouts/ Saints & Scouts]
# [https://www.facebook.com/groups/CubScoutScouters.LDSandCommunity/ LDS Scouters]
# [https://www.facebook.com/groups/593480731145285 Vision 2020 LDS Scouters]
# [https://www.vanguardscouting.org/ Vanguard Scouting] - New international LDS scouting organization created in Feb 2020 to represent LDS in scouting worldwide
Other Special interest scouting
* [https://www.sdicbsa.org/Advancement/SpecialNeeds.php SDIC Scouting for Youth with Disabilities] - Note that frequently disabilities restrict opportunities for individual achievement in other youth and sport programs,  but scouting the motto is "Everyone Do Your Best".
* [https://ccsbsa.weebly.com/ San Diego Catholic Committee on Scouting] - Delivering Catholic Youth Ministry Through Scouting Programs
* [https://www.facebook.com/VenturingSDIC/ SDIC Venturing] - Joint activities for Venturing units.
=== Youth Service Organizations ===
Contact any of the following organizations about doing a joint community expo day to help raise awareness about scouting programs for youth in your community:
# '''[https://www.kiwanis.org/about/mission Kiwanis Club]''' - Mission Statement: "At the Kiwanis Children's Fund, our mission is to develop resources that transform the goodwill and vision of Kiwanians into programs that serve the children of the world." - This means they frequently sponsor and support scouting units in the local community.
# '''[https://www.lionsclubs.org/en Lions Club Internations]''' - "To empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding through Lions clubs."
# '''[https://my.rotary.org/en/learning-reference/about-rotary/our-priorities Rotary Club]''' - "... to provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through its fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders."
# '''[https://civitan.org/about/ Civitan Internation]''' - "... an organization of volunteer service clubs around the world, dedicated to helping people in their own communities."
# '''[https://www.mooseintl.org/about-us/ Moose Lodge]''' -
# '''[https://www.elks.org/who/missionStatement.pdf Order of Elks]''' - "To inculcate the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize a belief in God; to promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its Members; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; to cultivate good fellowship..."
# '''[https://www.optimist.org Optimist Club]''' - "By providing hope and positive vision, Optimists bring out the best in youth, our communities and ourselves. Optimist International will be recognized worldwide as the premier volunteer organization that values all children and helps them develop to their full potential."
# '''Veterans Groups:'''' -
# '''Your Charter Organizations:'''
# '''Local Church Groups:''' Most communities have a local church partnership program that includes efforts to outreach and serve local youth.
# '''Local Government Agency:''' - Many cities and counties have a special agency to assist in promoting after-school youth programs.
=== Community Service ===
A community service project can be a great way to get a lot of local attention.  Small town newspapers are always looking for feel-good community interest stories to publish.  Examples:
* [https://ncdailystar.com/260-boy-scouts-do-service-project-for-lds-church/  "260 Boy Scouts to Service Project during Camporee for local Church"] - NCDailyStar.com
=== Community Social Media ===
There are lots of ways to spread the good message of scouting -  Don't forget your hashtages
"We are Looking for young people who want to serve our community:"
"#BeAScout, #CaliforniaScouts, #SaintsAndScouts, #DoAGoodTurnDaily, #BePrepared,"
** Post comments with BSA links in the comments section of Facebook Posts
** Post comments with BSA links in the comments section of YouTube
** Post comments with BSA links in the comments section of Facebook Videos
=== Eagle Board of Reviews & Recognition ===
A rare opportunities for district / councils to meet directly with scout families is at Eagle Board of Reviews and District/Council Eagle Recognition Events.  Do you have a plan to retain both the adults and youth in the scouting program? 
# Introduction to Venturing & Sea Scouts
# Junior Scoutmasters and Den Chiefs
# Order of the Arrow
# Staff at Scout Camp
# Adults - Committee and Commissioner Service
# "Friends of Scouting" - Lifetime registration.
== Recruitment Resources==
=== BSA Resources ===
=== BSA Resources ===
# '''[https://www.scouting.org/recruitment/ BSA National Recruitment Page]''' - This page links to a great wealth of additional marketing resources, social media planning tools and recruitment webinars with guidance from experience scouters.
# '''[https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbFEBamXVItp6yWqzJvfYFg Boy Scouts of America]''' - Official YouTube Channel
# '''[https://scouting.webdamdb.com/bp/?utm_source=scoutingwire&utm_campaign=swvolunteer7222020&utm_medium=email&utm_content=#/lightbox/1411584/ 2020 Scout Talk Videos are Here!]''' - See the BSA Brand Center for Recruitment videos to share at your upcoming Scout Virtual Recruitment Night.
# '''[https://scouting.webdamdb.com/bp/?utm_source=scoutingwire&utm_campaign=swvolunteer7222020&utm_medium=email&utm_content=#/lightbox/1411584/ 2020 Scout Talk Videos are Here!]''' - See the BSA Brand Center for Recruitment videos to share at your upcoming Scout Virtual Recruitment Night.
## '''[https://explore.scouting.org Explore.Scouting.org]''' - "What if real life was better than a video game? Scouts participate in a variety of activities that keep adventure in the everyday, from sports to personal development, STEM programming to arts and hobbies. Now you can be a part of it too!"
## '''[https://explore.scouting.org Explore.Scouting.org]''' - "What if real life was better than a video game? Scouts participate in a variety of activities that keep adventure in the everyday, from sports to personal development, STEM programming to arts and hobbies. Now you can be a part of it too!"
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# '''[https://scoutingwire.org/marketing-and-membership-hub/marketing-webinars/ Current Marketing Webinars] (ScoutingWire.org)''' -  
# '''[https://scoutingwire.org/marketing-and-membership-hub/marketing-webinars/ Current Marketing Webinars] (ScoutingWire.org)''' -  
# '''[https://scoutingwire.org/marketing-and-membership-hub/unit-recruiting/ Unit Recruiting] (ScoutingWire.org)''' - Here you’ll find resources and tips for making recruiting a fun and enjoyable experience that keeps the bigger picture in focus: growing your unit to reach more kids, strengthen your packs and have more fun!
# '''[https://scoutingwire.org/marketing-and-membership-hub/unit-recruiting/ Unit Recruiting] (ScoutingWire.org)''' - Here you’ll find resources and tips for making recruiting a fun and enjoyable experience that keeps the bigger picture in focus: growing your unit to reach more kids, strengthen your packs and have more fun!
=== Other Resources ===
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YP2VZK_MneA Sequor Youth Program Strategies]''' - YouTube Tutorial.
* '''[https://sandiego.kidsoutandabout.com/ KidsOutAndAbout.com]''' - Find the group for your community!


=== Scout Units Share Ideas ===
=== Scout Units Share Ideas ===
These scout units had great recruiting success and share their secrets here:
These scout units had great recruiting success and share their secrets here:
* [https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/192Wc_m6NB9bYQPvC5H9XXrbnDXuAsKoQ4qgMb_nqTkU/edit#slide=id.gcf6a2502e3_1_18 San Diego-Imperial Council Recruitment Guide] - Massive 45 item slide show is packed with ideas for Packs, Troops, Crews, Ships and Posts.  Designed to present the first 12 slides at any Roundtable - in person or on Zoom.  The rest is extra gravy.
* [https://www.facebook.com/1362506436/videos/pcb.1541696386001384/10217448546629903/ Pack 145 Creates their own Recruitment Video] - New for 2020.
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G34tAaLBdNE Atlanta Council 2021 Recruitment KickOff]''' - A Zoom presentation of the 2021 Fall Cub Scout Recruiting Kickoff, hosted by Bert Bender and George Snipes.
* '''[https://www.atlantabsa.org/recruitingresources? Atlanta Council BSA Recruitment Resources]''' - Lots of great instruction here.
* '''[https://www.sdicbsa.org/Membership/JoinScouting.php Join Scouting Today]''' - Recruitment page of the San Diego-Imperial Council.


* [https://www.facebook.com/1362506436/videos/pcb.1541696386001384/10217448546629903/ Pack 145 Creates their own Recruitment Video] - New for 2020.
 
# '''[https://www.scouting.org/programs/scouts-bsa/year-round-guide/ Year Round Guide to Scouting Recruitment]''': -
# '''Spring School Open House''': Public School Event. Excellent time to recruit for summer camp and secure enrollments before the new program year starts.
# '''Back to School Nite''':  Public School Event.  Contact many new families
# '''[https://www.scouting.org/programs/scouts-bsa/year-round-guide/open-house/ Spring Unit Open House]''': Showcase great outdoor adventures planned for spring and summer.
# '''Frequently attend unit events''': Look for new faces of youth, adults, and siblings that are participating or could be potential participants.  Greet all Visitors
# '''Report to Unit Committee''': share goals, accomplishments, plans and advise your unit on how they can assist the recruitment effort.
# '''[https://www.scouting.org/programs/scouts-bsa/year-round-guide/recruiting/ Youth Recruiting Event]''': Youth-to-youth referrals are highly effective.
# '''[https://scoutingwire.org/marketing-and-membership-hub/councils/new-member-coordinator/ New Member Coordinator]''' - Sustaining strong membership in a unit depends partly on reaching new audiences to invite them to join the unit and partly on engaging new members and their families so that they feel welcomed and want to stay. The role of the New Member Coordinator is to ensure that both keys to success take place. (ScoutingWire)
# Visitor Attendance Log: Each unit should keep a visitor attendance log.


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