Ideal Year of Scouting / Program Kickoff

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📊 Program Kickoff Presentations

These presentations will help guide your Ideal Year of Scouting planning:

Council & District-Specific Information:

  • The Palmetto Council, Scouting America, proudly serves over 3,300 youth and 1,100 adult volunteers across six counties in South Carolina. With a mission to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes, the council supports Scouting programs that build character, citizenship, and leadership.

    For general information, staff contacts, and council support, please visit:
    ➡ Staff Directory
    ➡ Scout Shop
    ➡ General Contact Us Form

    Whether you’re a parent, volunteer, or community partner, we’re here to help you navigate your Scouting journey.

  • The Daniel Morgan District serves Scouting programs across Cherokee, Spartanburg, and Union Counties in South Carolina. As part of the Palmetto Council, the district is committed to fostering leadership, character development, and community service among youth.

    For more details, visit the Daniel Morgan District page.

  • The York District serves Scouting programs across Chester, Lancaster, and York Counties in South Carolina. As part of the Palmetto Council, the district is dedicated to fostering leadership, character development, and community service among youth.

    For more details, visit the York District page.

  • Address:

    420 S. Church Street
    Spartanburg, SC 29306

    Phone: (864) 585-4391
    Email: palmetto.scoutshop@scouting.org

    Hours of Operation:

    For more details, please visit the Palmetto Council Scout Shop page

🧰 Planning & Program Resources

Program planning is key to a successful Scouting year. It helps units stay organized, provide exciting and age-appropriate activities, and keep Scouts and families engaged. A strong plan includes an annual calendar, budget, trained volunteers, and clear communication. With good planning, units can deliver a smoother, more impactful experience that builds participation and strengthens the program.

Important Info to Read AS Unit Leaders:

Step 1: Program Planning

  • Everything you need to plan a successful Scouting program is right here on this page! Continue scrolling for helpful info and insights. As you work through this page, make sure to take notes and download any useful content. Need additional info on a topic, please click here.

  • Stay up to date with everything happening across the Palmetto Council! From district events and training opportunities to camping weekends and council-wide programs, our calendar keeps you informed year-round.

    You can find event registrations on our main website page by clicking on the events tab or on the Live Council Calendar.

  • Our council properties are more than just camps—they're year-round resources designed to enhance your unit's program planning. Whether you're organizing a weekend campout, merit badge day, leadership retreat, or outdoor adventure, these locations offer the space, amenities, and flexibility to bring your Scouting plans to life.

    • Camp Conley Clarke– A versatile property perfect for Cub Scout overnighters, Troop-level adventures, and unit-led summer activities.

    • Glendale Outdoor Leadership School (GOLS) – A unique campus offering climbing, team-building, and STEM-oriented experiences Scouts of all ages.

    From planning Pack family campouts to fulfilling outdoor rank requirements, these properties support every stage of the Ideal Year of Scouting. Explore each site to learn more about availability, program options, and how your unit can make the most of what they offer.

  • Service is at the heart of Scouting. From community cleanups to food drives, every hour Scouts give back makes a difference—and helps fulfill advancement requirements.

    Scouts learn the value of helping others—and our communities benefit from their leadership in action.

  • The Order of the Arrow (OA) is Scouting’s National Honor Society, recognizing Scouts and Scouters who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives. Skyuka Lodge 270 serves the Palmetto Council by promoting camping, responsible outdoor adventure, and servant leadership among youth.

    👉 Visit the Skyuka Lodge website

  • A Scout is reverent. Scouting encourages youth of all faiths to grow stronger in their beliefs and understanding through participation in religious emblems programs.

    • 🙏 Religious Emblems Programs
      Scouts can earn emblems of faith by working with their family and religious leaders to explore their faith traditions. These programs support a Scout’s personal journey while fulfilling advancement and award requirements.

    Scouting’s commitment to “Duty to God” helps young people build character, respect others, and grow spiritually—no matter their faith background.

  • All registered adult leaders are expected to uphold the values of Scouting by following the BSA Scouter Code of Conduct. This code outlines the behavioral standards that help ensure a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all youth and volunteers.

    By agreeing to the Code of Conduct, volunteers affirm their commitment to modeling the values of the Scout Oath and Law—on and off the trail.

  • Safety is a top priority in every Scouting activity. The Guide to Safe Scouting outlines essential policies and procedures to help leaders plan safe, age-appropriate adventures while protecting all participants.

    From camping and transportation to youth protection and prohibited activities, the Guide serves as the go-to reference for safe and responsible Scouting.

  • Scouts are stewards of the environment. Through Outdoor Ethics, Scouts learn to respect nature, minimize their impact, and enjoy the outdoors responsibly.

    • 🌿 Outdoor Ethics Resources
      From Leave No Trace principles to Tread Lightly! and the Outdoor Code, these resources help Scouts make ethical choices in the outdoors and promote conservation-minded behavior.

    Whether hiking a trail, building a fire, or setting up camp, Scouts lead the way in protecting our natural world for future generations.

  • To help ensure the safety of all participants in Scouting activities, Hazardous Weather Training is now a required course for all registered leaders. This online training, available through my.scouting.org, equips leaders with the knowledge and tools to prepare for, respond to, and manage weather-related risks during outings and events. The course must be completed before any outdoor activity involving youth. Be prepared—make safety your top priority.

    Find training info here.

Council Communications

  • Weekly Leader Update - Sign up now! (automatically sent to Key 3 of every unit)

    • Sent every Monday morning August - May.

  • Monthly Newsletter - Sign up now!

    • Sent the first Friday of every month unless a holiday.

Step 2&3: Budgeting and Fundraising

A solid budget and fundraising plan are key to delivering a high-quality Scouting experience. Budgeting helps your unit plan for expenses like awards, camping, supplies, and registration fees, while fundraising ensures those plans are affordable and accessible for all families.

Important Unit Fundraising Dates:

Popcorn and Scouting Adventure Cards are two great fundraisers that help Scouts earn money for activities, camp, and supplies. Popcorn offers prizes and council support, while Adventure Cards provide high returns through easy local sales. Both teach real-world skills and support your unit’s Ideal Year of Scouting.

  • 💰Use the Editable Unit Budget Template to outline projected costs and income.

  • All unit fundraising efforts must follow the BSA’s rules and policies to ensure activities are appropriate, ethical, and aligned with Scouting’s values. This helps protect your unit, maintain public trust, and support a positive image for Scouting in the community.

    Key guidelines include:

    Always check with your local council if you’re unsure about a proposed fundraiser. Proper planning and approval ensure success—and compliance.

  • Council-wide fundraisers like Popcorn and Scouting Adventure Cards provide units with the opportunity to raise essential funds to support their Ideal Year of Scouting—while giving Scouts valuable experience in goal-setting, communication, and teamwork.

    These fundraisers help:

    • Offset the cost of campouts, activities, and registration

    • Build Scout confidence through real-world skills

    • Support local programs and camps council-wide

    Whether you're a seasoned kernel or trying it for the first time, our fundraiser resources, training, and prize incentives make participation easy and rewarding for your entire unit.

  • Get Ready for the 2025 Popcorn Sale!
    We’re excited to partner with a new vendor this year—Pecatonica River Popcorn—to bring a higher quality product for your units to sell in the community!

    Important Information:

    • In-Person Training Dates (No Zoom option available):

      • Daniel Morgan District – June 3, 2025, at GOLS

      • York District – June 5, 2025, Location TBD (likely Woodland UMC)

    ➡️ Click here to sign up for a training
    If you’re unable to attend one of the scheduled sessions, please email Maggie McMahon at maggie.mcmahon@scouting.org to coordinate an alternative training.

    Key Sale Dates:
    All important dates can be found on the main popcorn page. Be sure to check regularly for updates!

  • Get ready for another great year of fundraising through Scouting Adventure Cards—an easy way for Scouts to earn money for their adventures!

    Sale Timeline:
    Dates are still being finalized but will run late January through February 2025.

    ➡️ Click here to see details for the 2025 sale
    Stay tuned for training opportunities and important updates.

Step 4: Leader Training

You will need to login to your My.Scouting Account to take these trainings.

  • All registered adult leaders in Scouting America must complete Youth Protection Training (YPT) and position-specific training to be considered fully trained in their roles. These trainings ensure a safe and enriching program for all youth and prepare leaders with the knowledge they need to succeed.

  • To ensure a quality program, all leaders in Scouting America should complete training tailored to their registered role. These position-specific courses provide the tools and knowledge needed to support youth effectively and safely.

    Make sure you're trained, prepared, and ready to lead your Scouts on their journey!

  • Scouting America recognizes adult leaders who go above and beyond with training awards for completing required training, gaining experience, and demonstrating commitment to quality leadership. These awards are available for positions in Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing, and more.

    Earning a training award typically involves:

    • Completing Youth Protection Training

    • Finishing position-specific training

    • Participating in tenure and performance requirements (such as serving for one or more years and attending supplemental training or roundtables)

    These awards are a great way to acknowledge leaders’ dedication and encourage continued growth. Recipients receive a knot emblem to wear proudly on their uniform.

    ➡️ Learn more about training awards and requirements

    • 🏕️ Wood Badge
      Take your leadership skills to the next level in Scouting’s premier advanced training for adults. For information on the next Wood Badge training please reach out to Cara Thompson, Council Volunteer here. Wood Badge Scholarships can be found here.

    • 📅 Course Dates:

      • Weekend 1: September 26–28, 2025
        📍 Camp Old Indian

      • Weekend 2: October 10–11, 2025
        📍 Fluor High Adventure Base and Leadership Center at Camp White Pine

    Training helps leaders grow, serve more confidently, and create better experiences for every Scout.

  • IteTo help ensure the safety of all participants in Scouting activities, Hazardous Weather Training is now a required course for all registered leaders. This online training, available through my.scouting.org, equips leaders with the knowledge and tools to prepare for, respond to, and manage weather-related risks during outings and events. The course must be completed before any outdoor activity involving youth. Be prepared!

    More info here.

Step 5: Recruiting

Fall is the most critical time of year for growing your Scouting unit. Families are looking for new activities as the school year begins, and it’s the perfect opportunity to introduce them to everything Scouting has to offer—from leadership development and outdoor adventures to life skills and community service.

When your unit is prepared for fall recruitment, you set the stage for a successful program year. New families bring fresh energy, strengthen your pack or troop, and help ensure long-term sustainability. Recruitment isn’t just about numbers—it’s about giving more youth the chance to grow in confidence, character, and capability through Scouting.

Let’s make sure every family who wants Scouting can find a welcoming, active unit this fall.

  • For your unit to partcipate in fall recruitment please fill out our JSN form. ➡️ Click here to submit your unit’s information

  • The New Member Coordinator (NMC) plays a vital role in helping new families feel welcomed, informed, and engaged from the very start of their Scouting journey. This person ensures smooth onboarding by introducing new members to your unit’s calendar, leadership, communication tools, and expectations—helping families feel confident and connected.

    Whether it’s answering questions, organizing welcome packets, or guiding families through registration and uniforms, the NMC helps turn interest into lasting involvement.

    ➡️ Learn more about the New Member Coordinator role

    If your unit doesn’t currently have a designated New Member Coordinator, that’s okay! This page also provides Cubmasters, Committee Chairs, Den Leaders, and other volunteers with valuable tools and resources to help welcome and retain new families.

    Empowered units retain more families—and it all starts with a warm welcome.

  • Our fall recruitment website http://adventurestartshere.org/ is not fully active until August 1st, however, youth can join Scouts anytime by visiting https://beascout.scouting.org/.

  • Adding new Scouts and adult leaders to your roster is quick and easy through My.Scouting. Whether you're registering new members after a Join Scout Night or updating your unit's records, this step-by-step process ensures accurate and timely reporting.

    To add members:
    ➡️ Click here for a detailed walkthrough and support resources

  • Need quick access to the paperwork that keeps your unit running smoothly? This section includes all the essential forms and documents for registration, advancement, fundraising, medical records, training, and more.

    Whether you’re a new leader or a seasoned volunteer, having the right forms at your fingertips makes Scouting easier and more efficient.

    ➡️Click here to access important forms and documents
    Stay organized. Stay prepared. Stay on track.

  • Editable Pack Flyer A

    Editable Pack Flyer B

To participate in this year’s fall recruitment efforts, every unit must submit their required information using the form linked below. This includes your unit’s meeting location, schedule, and key contacts. This link can also be found under Quick Links above this page and above by viewing the sign your unit up for fall recruitment section.

Providing this information ensures your unit is promoted accurately and that families can find and join you easily. Units that do not submit by August 1 may not be included in council-led promotions or district-wide Join Scout Night plans.

➡️ Click here to submit your unit’s information

Tentative Join Scout Night Schedule

Important Deadlines and NExt Steps!

Fall Recruitment & Fundraising Reminders for Units

✅ Register to Sell Popcorn
Fund your adventures! Be sure your unit is registered to participate in this year’s popcorn sale—a great way to support your program.

✅ Attend Popcorn Training
Get all the details and tips for a successful sale.

✅ Submit Your Join Scout Night (JSN) Info
To participate in fall recruitment, every unit must submit their information to the Council.
Tip: View the form early as you plan your program year—it outlines everything you’ll need to provide.

Questions? Reach out to your District Executive:

Let’s make it a strong year of growth and success!

Council Social Media

Stay Connected: Follow Us on Social Media!
Don’t miss out on the latest news, events, reminders, and celebrations from around the council! By following our official social media pages, you’ll stay informed, inspired, and connected with other Scouting families across the region. Together, we grow Scouting—one share, like, and post at a time!

Eagle Scout Resources:

You can find all our Eagle Scout Resources and NESA information here.