What is Pack 169?

Pack 169 is an established Cub Scout pack based at Green Valley Elementary School in Monrovia, MD. We are chartered by the Urbana Recreation Council and have served local families for over 35 years. We are part of the National Capital Area Council of Scouting America.

What is Cub Scouts?

Cub Scouts is a family-centered program built around fun, adventure, learning, service, and character. Kids earn ranks and awards, go on hikes and campouts, build Pinewood Derby cars, and help their community. You do not need to know any of the terminology on day one. The Pack will help you learn what matters first.

What is the difference between a pack and a den?

The Pack is the full Cub Scout group. Pack meetings bring all dens and families together, usually once a month. A den is the smaller grade-level group. Most families experience Cub Scouts mainly through their den.

Who can join?

Cub Scouts is for children in kindergarten through 5th grade, boys and girls. Your child joins a den with other Scouts in the same grade.

When can we join?

Any time of year. New Scouts are always welcome.

How do we sign up?

Register online through BeAScout, or visit a meeting first and email the Cubmaster with questions.

Sign up here:

https://beascout.scouting.org/list/?zip=21770&program%5B%5D=pack&unitID=146392

Questions: cubmaster@pack169md.org

Can we visit before we commit?

Yes. Come to a meeting first, no uniform needed for your first visit. You will meet the Cubmaster and other families, your child will join in the activities, and there is no pressure to commit on the spot.

What does it cost?

Pack dues are $150 for the first Scout, or $125 each for families with more than one Scout. Scouting America and the council also charge one-time registration fees at signup.

See the full breakdown, including how to pay, on the Payment Information page:

https://www.pack169md.org/payment/

Questions about payment: treasurer@pack169md.org. If cost is a barrier: cubmaster@pack169md.org. We do not want money to keep any child from Scouting.

When and where does the Pack meet?

The whole Pack meets on the first Wednesday of most months, 6:30 to 7:30 PM, at Green Valley Elementary School. December is the one exception and meets on the second Wednesday. Individual dens also meet on their own schedule set by their den leader.

What happens at a pack meeting?

Pack meetings are high-energy gatherings with activities, recognition, announcements, and community. The goal is simple: kids want to come back.

Do parents stay at meetings?

Cub Scouts is family-centered, especially for younger Scouts. Expectations vary by den and event. When in doubt, assume a parent or guardian should be present until your den leader says otherwise.

Do we need a uniform?

Scouts wear their Class A uniform to pack meetings. You do not need a uniform for your first visit. The Pack will help new families understand what is needed now versus what can wait.

See our Uniform & Shopping List for exactly what to buy by grade. Official pants are optional. Plain navy pants, shorts, or neat dark blue jeans are fine.

What are the big events?

Our anchor events each year include:

• Back to Scouting Night in the fall
• Monthly pack meetings
• Fall campout
• Scouting for Food service project
• Monthly Hiking Club outings
• Pinewood Derby
• Blue & Gold Banquet with Arrow of Light bridging
• Spring campout
• End of school year pack adventure

Full dates are on the Pack Calendar:

https://www.pack169md.org/calendar/

What is the Hiking Club?

Each month Scouts and families hike a nearby trail, practice map and compass skills, and learn Leave No Trace. It is open to all Pack families. To sign up or ask questions, email ZacharyLemley@gmail.com or see the Hiking Club page:

https://www.pack169md.org/hiking-club/

What is the Pinewood Derby?

Scouts build small wooden cars and race them at a pack event, usually in late winter. It is one of the most popular traditions of the year.

Are health forms required?

For many activities, especially campouts and outdoor events, health forms may be required. The Pack will tell you what is needed, when it is due, and how it is handled.

Are the adult leaders trained?

Yes. Pack leaders complete the training required for their roles. Overnight Cub Scout camping requires additional trained leadership, such as BALOO certification.

Do I have to become a leader?

No. The Pack needs leaders, but it also needs many small, bounded roles: help at one event, assist with check-in, bring snacks, help with equipment, support a den leader, or help run the Pinewood Derby or Scouting for Food.

What if I do not know anything about Scouting?

That is fine. Most jobs do not require any Scouting expertise. The best volunteer roles are specific, bounded, and supported.

More on the Contact page:

https://www.pack169md.org/about/contact-us/