How do I find a Troop to join?
Don’t overlook the importance of picking the right troop for your scout or prospective scout. You should locate, research, and visit multiple troops. Each troop has its own style of leadership, meeting locations, personality, and commitment to the ideals of scouting. Find a troop that meets your expectations and when you narrow down your list, a good final test is to attend a campout with your prospective troop. If you live in the Houston, Texas area, visit the Sam Houston Area Council's website for a list of troops in your area and for the most complete up-to-date information on how to join scouting.

Why Scouting?
Scouting is a values-based program with its own code of conduct. The Scout Oath and Law help instill the values of good conduct, respect for others, and honesty. Scouts learn skills that will last a lifetime, including basic outdoor skills, first aid, citizenship skills, leadership skills, and how to get along with others. For almost a century, Scouting has instilled in young men the values and knowledge that they will need to become leaders in their communities and country.

Who is eligible to join?

• If you were in Cub Scouts:
  Boy Scouting is available to boys who have earned the Arrow of Light Award and are at least 10 years old
  - or -
  have completed the fifth grade and are at least 10
  - or -
  who are 11, but not yet 18 years old.
  
• If you were not a Cub Scout:
  Boy Scouting is available to boys who have completed the fifth grade and are at least 10 years old
  - or -
  who are 11, but not yet 18 years old.

What is my role as a parent?
It is a widely known fact of scouting that boys who stay active and progress in scouting will usually have one or more parents who are also "involved" in scouting.

What do you mean by "involved?"
Regular participation in scouting events is the best definition of "involved." This can be in the form of attending the Court of Honor programs that are held periodically for rank progression and recognition. Helping your scout earn merit badges and being supportive in getting them to (or joining them at) campouts and other scout related events.  Or, if you have more time to invest, there is a whole lot more that you can do. And, you will always have access to great people who, like you, want to see your scout succeed.