Friends of Scouting (FOS) is the council-level annual giving campaign that represents the council’s largest source of income. It typically begins in February and raises funds from active scouting families and community members. The campaign aims to keep Scouting affordable for all youth by recruiting and training youth and leaders. Parents, family, friends, peers, employers, and companies can make tax-deductible gifts to support the Scouting program.
The Friends of Scouting campaign is based on proven fund-raising principles and is run annually, coinciding with Scout Sunday in February. At Potawatomi Area Council, there are an estimated 2, 500 volunteers each year that support about 5, 000 youth in their local scouting programs. Family Friends of Scouting is the district’s fundraising campaign, also known as FOS, and is completely supported by Scouting families.
Donating directly to a Friends of Scouting is an opportunity for families, friends, alumni, business, and community organizations to support Scouting. Most of the funding needed to deliver the local program comes from local donations, and all of these contributions are made through Scout Shop sales, CFC, activities and camping income, and investments. However, a portion of the funds raised under the Friends of Scouting Funds help provide a variety of important resources, such as premier camp properties and camping programs, training, and program resources for volunteer leaders.
In the 2022 annual report, the council states that $370 was invested in each scout through programs and services. Gifts to the Friends of Scouting Campaign vary from $10 to $25, 000. Matching gifts can be made as one-time payments or monthly and quarterly contributions.
Article | Description | Site |
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Friends of Scouting: What It Is and Why It Matters | In most councils, Friends of Scouting represents the council’s largest source of income. The Friends of Scouting campaign typically begins in … | scoutingwire.org |
Family Friends of Scouting | Friends of Scouting is an opportunity for families, friends, alumni, business and community organizations to support Scouting. | tampabayscouting.org |
Friends of Scouting | The cost to support one scout in the Long Beach Area Council for one year is more than $1,348 per year. The Council subsidizes a majority of that cost for all … | longbeachbsa.org |
📹 Friends of Scouting Annual Giving Campaign
OUR ANNUAL OPERATING FUNDRAISER TO SUPPORT SCOUTING IN OUR COMMUNITY Our largest source of funding comes …
Is BSA A Religious Organization?
The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) is nonsectarian in its approach to members' religious beliefs, requiring Scouts to believe in a God or higher power. This includes non-theistic adherents from faiths like Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism, and BSA recognizes their religious awards. Over thirty faith traditions have partnered with BSA to create Youth Religious Emblems and Adult Awards. Though BSA does not require religious organization membership for participation, it strongly encourages a connection to such groups.
As of May 2020, 71% of Scout units are chartered by faith-based organizations. The BSA asserts that recognizing an obligation to God is essential in developing good citizenship, as expressed in its Declaration of Religious Principles. While the BSA acknowledges the religious component of its programs, it does not position itself as a religious organization. Rather, it acts as a private entity that promotes a belief in God without aligning with a specific religious sect. The BSA emphasizes that members must profess a belief in God and commits to fulfilling spiritual duties, affirming unity among various faiths while maintaining a nonsectarian framework.
What Are Friends Of Scouting Dollars?
Friends of Scouting (FOS) funds are essential for the operation and maintenance of the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council's five camp properties, offering 7, 410 acres of outdoor education. FOS allows individuals to contribute financially to Boy Scouts of America programs, supporting initiatives like recruitment materials and youth leadership training. Annually run around Scout Sunday in February, the FOS campaign is crucial for Scouting's fundraising efforts, relying on donations from parents, volunteers, alumni, and business patrons.
Over three-quarters of the funds are allocated directly to providing quality programming for youth, including expenses for events and camps. The campaign showcases how donations benefit families and communities, demonstrating a commitment to developing future leaders. FOS contributes significantly to council budgets, accounting for about 22% of funding. This fundraising initiative is vital for ensuring affordable and effective youth development programs across councils, making it the largest income source for many.
The campaign not only funds infrastructure but also enriches the scouting experience, fostering leadership and essential life skills in young people. Through Friends of Scouting, supporters play a key role in sustaining and enhancing Scouting programs and facilities for generations to come.
What Do Boy Scouts Raise Money For?
Fundraising is a crucial part of troop operations, as it goes beyond simple dues to cover necessities like camping gear and troop vehicle repairs. Troops can utilize various methods to generate funds for their scouting programs, as the Boy Scouts of America supports numerous projects—such as community programs, field trips, and conservation initiatives—that are financially demanding. To ensure effective fundraising, troops should refer to the unit money-earning project application, which provides guidelines and answers to common questions about fundraising strategies.
A unit's fundraising methods should align with Scouting's core values. Popular fundraising initiatives include selling products like popcorn and candy bars, as well as hosting community events such as spaghetti dinners and pancake breakfasts. Additionally, establishing corporate sponsorships can also be beneficial, with local businesses often willing to contribute. The fundraising process not only secures necessary funds but also gives scouts opportunities to learn responsibility and teamwork.
Effective fundraising demands careful planning: units should assess their financial needs, select projects that comply with BSA guidelines, and put in dedicated effort. Ultimately, successful fundraising promotes community involvement, develops character, and teaches valuable skills essential for scouts as they work toward their goals. Fundraising is, thereby, an integral component of the scouting experience, giving scouts a sense of accomplishment and a greater appreciation for the value of their contributions.
Do Girl Scouts Keep The Money They Make?
Money earned through Girl Scout activities is designated for troop activities and is not to be kept by individuals; however, girls can receive incentives or credits from product programs. 100% of net proceeds from Girl Scout Cookie sales is retained by the originating council and troop, supporting girl-led community projects and the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE). Juliette Girl Scouts cannot retain proceeds as cash or have personal checking accounts due to regulations.
Troop funds should be managed via authorized Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan accounts, with a designated treasurer. Daisies should not handle money directly, but they can learn important financial skills through troop-led projects, budgeting, and fundraising activities. When a troop disbands, any remaining funds become property of the Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan. Troops receive their funding through product programs, which report considerable revenue, with $112 million recorded in 2020, down from $122 million in 2019.
Troops earn a percentage of the profits from cookie sales—65-75%, translating to about $3 from each $4 box sold, which all remain local. Accurate records and a clear accounting system are crucial for managing troop finances effectively. In summary, participation in money-earning activities fosters essential financial management skills among Girl Scouts, while funds are strictly allocated for troop use and growth.
How Do You Raise Funds For Scouting?
The Friends of Scouting campaign invites units and districts to raise funds by soliciting community donations. Successful fundraising involves three steps: understanding financial needs early, selecting BSA-compliant projects, and diligently executing these plans. Traditional fundraising activities like car washes and local Scout council initiatives, such as popcorn sales, provide great avenues for funding as they adhere to BSA regulations. Many units enhance their fundraising efforts by implementing additional creative projects.
Essential guidelines and tips for fundraising can be found in the unit money-earning project application, highlighting methods that align with Scouting's values. Innovative fundraising ideas, beyond conventional sales like popcorn and cookies, encourage Scouts to feel invested in community service while simultaneously building valuable skills and character. In preparing for fundraising, scheduling meetings for planning is crucial. Various fundraising options, from bake sales and eBay listings to sponsorships and service events, are encouraged.
Resources like the Scouts A-Z list and local council support can help units maximize their fundraising potential. Ultimately, a well-thought-out plan and community involvement can greatly enhance a unit's fundraising success, making initiatives meaningful for both the Scouts and the beneficiaries involved.
Who Supports Scouts?
Since the inception of Scouting, various businesses, service clubs, and organizations have provided financial support, but ultimately, Scouting is about people. Supporting the Girl Scouts of the USA presents corporations and foundations with a valuable opportunity to empower girls in realizing their potential. Such partnerships enable essential support for girls today, paving the way for their future achievements. The National Boy Scouts of America Foundation raises funds to back Scouting's mission and initiatives.
With over 103, 000 local units, including Boy Scout troops and Cub Scout packs, resources are available for Girl Scout members, including volunteer tools, badges, and family support. The American Legion has been a longstanding ally of the Boy Scouts since 1919, currently sponsoring thousands of Scouting units nationwide. Scouting aims to educate youth through principles rooted in the Scout Promise and Law, fostering active, self-fulfilled citizens.
Notably, international cooperation exists through WOSM, which offers services and grants to National Scout Organizations. The Boy Scouts of America also ensures that fundraising policies are adhered to, preventing youth solicitation. Support from various corporations improves community resources, creating opportunities for Scouts, while initiatives like the Scout Active Support further enhance youth programming.
How Much Will Boy Scout Victims Get Paid?
Victims of sexual abuse associated with the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) are entitled to compensation from a $2. 7 billion settlement fund, with individual payments ranging from $3, 500 to $2. 7 million, depending on the severity of their abuse and other factors. This settlement, the largest sexual abuse settlement historically, aims to compensate approximately 82, 000 victims. A Compensation Calculator is available to estimate potential recoveries for survivors under the BSA’s Plan of Reorganization, taking into account the funds available in the Settlement Trust.
Many survivors seek clarity on their estimated compensation before deciding to pursue additional claims, knowing that the review process for over 50, 000 claims is time-consuming. Between 2017 and 2019, the BSA had already paid over $150 million in settlements. However, lawyers for the victims indicate that actual payouts may be significantly lower than the maximum amounts due to varying claim approvals.
Furthermore, around 7, 000 claimants opted for a "quick pay" option of $3, 500, avoiding lengthy evaluations. The actual compensation distribution will depend on the total number of allowed claims and the structured allocation decided by the Trust.
What Is Friends Of Scouting?
Friends of Scouting (FOS) is the annual giving campaign for local councils that serves as their largest income source, typically running from November to March. The campaign provides essential funds for programs and services offered by organizations like the Boy Scouts of America. It is rooted in proven fundraising principles and has evolved from successful practices of various councils, enabling them to deliver impactful experiences to Scouts and Venturers.
FOS presents individuals, families, and businesses with a chance to support Scouting, ensuring that every child involved receives lifelong benefits. Contributions from FOS help cover the council's infrastructure costs and enhance the quality of Scouting activities, including Cub Scout Day Camps and community service projects. Additionally, many employers offer matching gift programs that can double the impact of donations.
By investing in Friends of Scouting, supporters can make a significant difference in the lives of youth, promoting character development and connection through shared adventures and skills. The campaign is crucial for maintaining affordable, effective youth development programs and has successfully delivered Scouting opportunities to over 15, 000 youths in recent years, highlighting its importance in local communities.
How Is BSA Funded?
The Boy Scouts of America (BSA), established on February 8, 1910, by William Boyce, operates with various funding sources. Scouting units, including Packs, Troops, Teams, Crews, and Ships, generate income through member dues, local product sales (like popcorn), and approved fundraising projects. The National Council is financially supported by Scout supply sales, membership fees, grants, legacies, and corporate sponsorships.
The National Boy Scouts of America Foundation enhances this support by soliciting donations to uphold Scouting's mission and values. BSA's mission focuses on preparing youth to make ethical decisions through the principles of the Scout Oath and Law.
Since becoming a founding member of the World Organization of the Scout Movement in 1922, BSA has emphasized a sustainable and diverse funding approach, including community support through annual campaigns like Friends of Scouting. Local councils are funded independently and rely heavily on donations and fundraising activities to maintain facilities and programs. The BSA has also undertaken significant financial restructuring to ensure fair compensation for survivors of abuse cases, emphasizing accountability and financial integrity.
Each month, the organization shares inspiring stories through newsletters, showcasing the positive impacts of donor contributions on future generations. Overall, the BSA thrives on community involvement and financial contributions to support its vital programs and initiatives.
How Much Money Do Boy Scouts Make On Popcorn?
For a $20 box of popcorn, about $6 goes to the troop and scout combined, while the manufacturer, Trail's End, receives roughly 30% to cover manufacturing costs. Scouts typically sell around $1, 000 worth of popcorn in 8-10 hours, efficiently funding their entire scouting year. It’s important to review the unit’s Scouting Program calendar and budget to identify necessary popcorn sales to fund an Ideal Year of Scouting. Some scouts may find it challenging to pitch the pricey popcorn to potential buyers.
While the cost of popcorn seems steep compared to supermarket prices, approximately 70% of the profits support Scouting initiatives. A visual aid showing troop and area uses can help with sales efforts. The commission structure varies; units selling online earn a 32% commission, and those doing storefront sales can increase this to 40%. Fundraising during the fall popcorn sale can cover annual BSA membership fees with minimal retail sales. The top sellers are rewarded with gift cards, while sales figures exceed $250, 000 in some cases, channeling substantial funds to local Scouting.
Different commission breakdowns can apply; for example, one breakdown allows for 35% to scouts. The program not only helps fund scouting expenses but also engages scouts in a meaningful fundraiser that contributes greatly to their units. The final takeaway is that while Boy Scout popcorn may seem costly, it effectively supports essential Scouting activities and programs.
📹 Family Friends of Scouting Presenter Training
This 15-minute video helps Family Friends of Scouting presenters to understand their job, gives a timeline for presentations, …
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