Friends of Scouting

In order for the Greater Pittsburgh Council, Boy Scouts of America to operate on a monthly basis, it has to meet its budget. The Boy Scouts have fiscal responsibility just as any family or business. The council must raise 17% from investments from individuals as part of its annual budgetary needs. This is known as “Friends of Scouting”.

UNITS BENEFIT: Without the support of Friends of Scouting, there would be no camps, Scout Shop, recruiting materials, insurance, Council resources such as training videos, training and program literature, or a professional staff to help administer Scouting in the districts.

OTHERS BENEFIT TOO: What many do not "see" are the additional programs funded by BSA such as the urban program that provides leadership and program costs for inner city youth to get the Scouting experience. Students with special needs are able to enjoy Scouting programs in many schools. Also, value based career programs are offered on many campuses throughout the council. A Scout is helpful. Close to half of the youth we serve are not in traditional units. Getting more kids into our "gang" rather than their gang can do a lot to help keep our communities vibrant.

The Friends of Scouting supports programs, facilities, staff, communications and much more to help thousands of parents and leaders to effectively deliver the Scouting program. In 2008, the Greater Pittsburgh Council will spend approximately $125 per registered youth member above and beyond national registration fees and local unit expenses to maintain the needed support for the Scouting program throughout the community.

We Need Your Help: Make sure your unit and all of the families in your unit that have been touched by the Scouting program are given the opportunity to support scouting. Contact your district’s Family Friends of Scouting chairman to schedule a unit presentation.

Make a Friends of Scouting Pledge: You can spread your Friends of Scouting tax-deductible pledge over the course of the year. Also, many employers offer matching gift programs . . . yours may be one of them.