Webelos to Scout

"The Answer"

What is the number one reason* that Webelos who did NOT move up into a troop gave regarding why they didn't join Boy Scouting?

"Because nobody asked me to!"

We think that we do a good job of recruiting potential Scouts, particularly from existing Webelos dens   Yet, this answer comes up time and again.  Retention of Webelos into Boy Scouting requires a plan (we've got it in the Webelos to Scout Transition Plan) AND intentional use OF the plan. 

Left to chance, only about 15% of Webelos will move to Boy Scouting.  Yet, we have troops in this council that are transitioning 80%, 90% and more of the available Webelos each year.  These are the troops that are serious about making sure that boys get the full benefit of the Scouting program and stay in the program for as long as possible.  They contact the Webelos early, often and in a variety of ways throughout the year so that each boy has received multiple invitations to join their troop.  It takes a little time, but it's worth it!

*other reasons included peer pressure (a feeling that Boy Scouts are cool), leadership issues (heard the Scoutmaster was "too mean," or "a geek" etc.), fears of hazing (heard from other boys about bullying or hazing), schedules (Scouting activities in conflict with school or sports schedules) and more.