How Do We Grow Scouting? You Might Be Surprised
As the Scout Executive, when I go out to Scouting events, one of the questions I hear often is: “Why start a new Pack or Troop? Wouldn’t it be better to grow the ones we already have?”
It’s a good question. But here’s the truth: Scouting grows when families have choices.
Let’s look at what the data shows between where we were pre-COVID-19 and where we are now:
Despite holding steady through challenging years, our unit sizes haven’t varied by more than three youth— a reminder that sustainability alone isn’t enough. Real growth comes from starting new units.
So what does that mean for us?
👉 More units = more families who can say yes.
When there’s only one Pack or Troop in a community, it has to meet every need. Creating more options makes it easier for families to find a program that fits their schedules and interests.
👉 More units = more kids reached.
Right now, we serve about 2.8% of youth in our area — meaning 97% of local families still haven’t experienced Scouting. New Packs and Troops open the door for thousands more to join.
👉 More units = more Scouts who stay.
Each Pack and Troop has its own personality — meeting styles, camping traditions, and leadership approaches. When families can find the right fit, Scouts are more likely to stay active and grow in the program.
👉 More units = stronger Scouting for everyone.
As we grow, we build more trained leaders, expand camp opportunities, strengthen fundraising, and increase Scouting’s visibility in schools and neighborhoods — lifting every unit in the process.
How You Can Help:
If you know a school, church, or community organization that would welcome Scouting — tell us. Sometimes all it takes is one interested parent or leader to start something incredible.
We don’t just grow Scouting by making units bigger.
We grow Scouting by giving more youth a chance to belong.
More units = more youth. More leaders. More impact. Let’s build them together.
As always, if you have any questions or comments, please let me know.
Kenn Miller
Kenn.Miller@Scouting.org
(443) 573-2507
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