Recruiting new Scouts is vital to keeping your troop strong, active, and growing. Each new member brings fresh energy, new friendships, and more opportunities for leadership and adventure. Recruitment ensures that more youth have the chance to experience the values, skills, and life-changing experiences that Scouting provides. A focused effort now helps build the foundation for a successful (and sustainable) year-round program!
The best recruitment is for troops to recruit 5th and 6th graders directly from the school. To get support and materials contact your District team.
Downloadable Resources
Troop Recruitment Guide
Troop Recruitment Plan Worksheet
Webelos to Scout Transition Guide for Troops
Images and more to download
Your Six Steps to a Great Recruitment
1. Determine Your Strategy
Host a Troop Open House during a unit meeting, special event, or community gathering. There are many opportunities to share Scouting with families—choose what fits your troop and community best. Event guides are available for themes like chess or geocaching. Overnight events are not recommended for recruiting youth who are not already in Scouting.
2. Set a Budget
Recruitment resources are available through your district, but some costs are likely—such as program supplies, Facebook promotion, and printed materials. Decide how much your troop is willing to spend and plan accordingly.
3. Pick a Date
Choose a date at least 30 days in advance to allow time for planning, printing, and promotion. Once your date is set, let your District Executive know so they can support and help promote the event.
4. Plan the Event
Choose a clean, welcoming venue that reflects your troop well. Avoid locations that require families to drive more than 30 minutes. Have all necessary supplies ready—fun activities for youth and clear information for parents. Show how your troop prioritizes safety. Welcome families warmly at the door and offer snacks or drinks. Make sure you have enough volunteers to run activities and speak with parents.
5. Promote, Promote, Promote!
Personal invitations are the most effective form of recruitment, so encourage Scouts and leaders to invite friends. Other good options include social media, school outreach, flyers, mailers, and partnerships with churches or community groups.
6. Host a Great Event—and Follow Up
Even if youth enjoy the event, it’s important to help families take the next step. Invite them to join, share details about your next meeting, and follow up with everyone who attended. Staying in touch makes a big difference.
After this, youth likely had a great time at the event, but we need to make sure they come back and join the troop. Make sure to ask the families to join and then remind them of upcoming events!
