Funding Your Scouting Program: A Training Video

Funding Your Scouting Program: A Training Video

Source: YouTube — Scouting Magazine (ELECcbD7AxU)

Channel: Scouting Magazine YouTube ID: ELECcbD7AxU

BSA training video that walks unit leaders through the full fundraising process: starting with an annual program plan, building a budget, understanding BSA funding rules, running approved fundraisers, and supporting the council through the Family and Friends of Scouting (FOS) program.

Summary

This BSA training video walks unit leaders through the full fundraising process: starting with an annual program plan, building a budget, understanding BSA funding rules, running approved fundraisers, and supporting the council through the Family and Friends of Scouting (FOS) program. The popcorn sale is highlighted as the primary recommended fundraiser. All non-council-sponsored fundraisers require a Unit Money-Earning Application submitted at least three weeks before the activity.

Key Points

Start with a Plan

• The best time to create your program plan is in late spring or early summer so you can go into your Scouting year prepared.
• Your annual planning meeting should include parents and members of the chartered organization, as well as input from your Scouts.
• After mapping out your activity calendar, determine a budget to fund the current year’s programs.
• Your local council has a budget worksheet to help cover all the bases.

How Scouting Is Funded (The Structure)

• The National Council is funded through registration fees, Boys’ Life magazine, national programs (Philmont, Jamborees), and the supply group.
• Councils get funds through contributions and specific programs within units.
• Units are allowed to raise money through projects and sales.
• This division prevents different parts of the organization from competing with the same groups for funding.

Approval Requirements

• Before beginning any fundraising activity, your unit committee and chartered organization must approve it.
• You must also submit a Unit Money-Earning Application to your local council for approval at least three weeks before the activity is scheduled.
• The application ensures you comply with all rules and don’t conflict with other units or local merchants.

Fundraising Do’s and Don’ts

Not allowed:

• Gambling of any kind (raffles, bingo, sweepstakes)
• Multi-level marketing or pyramid sales
• Soliciting funds from local businesses
• Sending Scouts door-to-door asking for money
• Signing contracts on behalf of BSA
• Aligning Scouts with any specific business or commercial product
• Placing the BSA logo on any package

Allowed:

• Service projects (car washes, recycling collections)
• Bake sales and pancake breakfasts
• Selling tickets to a council show
• Selling commercial products that offer value — but only in street clothes (not uniform)
• Council-sponsored product sales (popcorn) — no application required, uniforms allowed

Popcorn Sales (Recommended Primary Fundraiser)

• Because it is a council-sponsored program, no Unit Money-Earning Application is needed.
• Scouts can wear their uniforms when selling and delivering popcorn.
• Proceeds support both unit programs and the local council.
• Only 10% of a council’s funding comes from popcorn — participation in Family and Friends of Scouting (FOS) is also encouraged.

Family and Friends of Scouting (FOS)

• A program enabling community members to make tax-deductible contributions to the local council.
• Units host an FOS night during a regular pack/troop/crew meeting; a district volunteer presents and asks willing parents to contribute.
• This is separate from unit fundraising — it funds the council, not the unit.

Safety Note

• All fundraising activities involving youth should be supervised by adult volunteers.
• Adults should allow Scouts to take the lead in selling; adults stay back and keep a watchful eye.

Used In

Resource Used In	Type
Fundraising Chair	Role

Source

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