As previously announced here are the changes in the in the registration fees with some additional information.

Effective April 1, 2024, National BSA has eliminated the $25 one-time joining fee for new program participants in Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, and Venturing.  Additionally, National BSA will implement the following national membership fees, which were approved by the National Executive Committee."

The following National BSA membership fee structure will take effect (updated) May 1.

• $85 for Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing and Sea Scouts participants.
• $50 for Exploring youth/program participants.
• $25 for Merit Badge Counselors who are not already registered volunteers.
• $100 for a unit charter/affiliation fee
• $15 for Scout Life magazine

Starting on August 1, 2024, the Black Swamp Area Council will be charging an additional local council service fee at the time of registration and renewal:

• $40 council service fee in addition to the national registration fee for all Cub Scout, Scouts BSA and Venturing youth/program participants.
• $30 in addition to the national registration fee council service fee for all Exploring youth/program participants. 
• No additional fee for volunteer leaders.
   
• As a value added for our members the following incentives will be added:
  • First time new joining Scouts (at any level, Lion Cub through Scouts BSA) will receive their first handbook at no cost.  (The new Scout receives a voucher for the handbook redeemable at the Findlay and Lima Scout Shops, voucher is good for 4 months).  This is an up to $25.00 value.
  • Returning Scouts will receive a voucher for a onetime 10% discount at the Findlay and Lima Scout Shops (good for up to 4 months after membership renewal).
  • All units will be able to make a cost-free reservation to tent camp at Camp Berry and Lakota (non-summer camp). 
  • The Family Friends of Scouting campaign will become a direct solicitation campaign, with unit presentations only occurring when the unit asks for one. 

For more information on the Council Service Fee and a FAQ sheet follow this Link

Download Membership Fee Infographic

Families will more than two Scouts in the program will pay a maximum of $100 for the council service fee, this maximum does not include the National Registration Fee of $85 per Scout, only the $40 Council service fee.  Families that quality for the Max Family Cap, can submit this form to the council service center for reimbursement. 

No family will be turned away from Scouting, the council has set a side resources to assist with registration assistance funds.  To apply for registration assistance please submit this form the council service center or your District Executive

The National Council Registration help cover the cost of essential services, including program resources, liability insurance, criminal background checks, youth protection training, Scoutbook/Internet Advancement, National Camp Accreditation Program implementation, and intellectual property for National, Council, and Unit Programs.

Thank you for your understanding regarding these important changes.  If you have any questions, please contact our Council Service Center at 419-422-4356 to speak with your District Executive.