FRIENDS OF SCOUTING

What is Friends of Scouting and why is it so important to contribute to the annual Friends of Scouting Campaign?

Two great questions! Friends of Scouting (FOS) is the annual giving campaign of the Greater Pittsburgh Council, BSA, which provides the necessary funds to ensure a quality Scouting program for youth. More specifically, by supporting FOS, you help us keep:

The cost of our camps affordable
Our Service Center and camping facilities in top condition
Our promise of a quality Scouting experience to your son and others in Scouting

The Friends of Scouting Campaign is a vital component to the programs and services of the Greater Pittsburgh Council. The money raised through Friends of Scouting offsets cost of training leaders, operating camps and our service center, as well as providing other resources to Cub Packs and Scout Troops throughout our council.

It cost the Greater Pittsburgh Council $130 to provide a quality scouting experience for one boy per year. Parents of Scouts and community members play a vital role in the annual Friends of Scouting campaign by contributing money based on their interest in the program and their ability to give to this important component of the Scouting program.

Now is the time to sign up for a Friends of Scouting presentation at your unit�s biggest gathering (typically the Blue and Gold Banquet or a Troop Court of Honor) during the months of February or March. The presentation, which takes 7 minutes to conduct, informs parents and leaders of all council services, its financial needs and extends an opportunity to help fulfill the need. Contact Charles Flowers at 412-325-7930.

Help keep scouting strong in the Greater Pittsburgh area by participating as a Friend of Scouting. Thank you for your generous support!

The �True� Cost of Scouting

�The Iceberg Analogy�

But there is a whole lot more below the waterline!

Volunteer and Staff Training

Training for more than 6,000 volunteer leaders every year.

Insurance Coverage

To protect our volunteers, charter organizations, staff members and properties.

Support Staff

For registration, typing publications, and program support.

Reference Publications and Resources

Everything from program planning kits and Program helps to camping information books.

Camp Promotion

For Heritage Scout Reservation, Camp Guyasuta, Camp Twin Echo, Camp Baker & Camp Anawanna

Friendly Camp Rangers

To keep our beautiful camps up-to-date and ready to our Scouts.

Camp Equipment

Tents, cooking equipment, camp vehicles, building repairs, canoes, equipment replacement and repair, and upkeep of your council camps.

Recognitions

For leaders who attend training, volunteer for special projects and help out in many roles throughout Scouting.

Professional Staff

Who work with volunteers to organize new units, manage fund-raising programs, conduct trainings, work with membership recruitment, provide counseling and advice for your district, our camps, and programs.

Administrative Needs

Postage, computers and link-up to National Computer System, copy machines, folding machines, print shop.

Service Center

Utilities, insurance, repairs and care for our headquarters at Flag Plaza.

Charter Fees

For every Scouting youth, leader, and unit.

Audio Visual Supplies

Used in training camp Used in training camp support.

Postage

Mailings to leaders, parents, and youth members.

Council Newsletter

Our newsletter so you know what is going on locally in Scouting.

Council Website

Go online (www.gpc-bsa.org) to learn more about our council and its program

Unit Program Calendar

And many other items provided to help you plan your weekly program.

The majority of the costs of Scouting program, like running our camps, record keeping, materials, training programs, support staff and insurance are hidden beneath the surface, just like an iceberg. The 80 percent that isn�t visible is what keeps the rest afloat. Help keep Scouting afloat!

Celebrating 100 Years of Discovery

Invest in a Scout for One Year ($130) and Receive A Patch

The Friends of Scouting campaign enables Greater Pittsburgh Council to deliver quality programs to all of its youth members. During the month of November, we will launch the 2009 Friends of Scouting Campaign at each district Roundtable. Units will be asked to schedule a Family Friends of Scouting Presentation for the upcoming year.

We want to give every family the opportunity to support Scouting. Be sure to schedule a presentation at a pack meeting, Blue & Gold Banquet, Court of Honor, or any Scout family gathering.

Each district has developed a plan and assembled a volunteer team to help us to make it all happen.

From Tiger Cub parents to Board members, everyone will have the opportunity to invest in their Scouting program. 2009 will be an exciting year for Scouting in the Greater Pittsburgh Council. Thanks in advance for your support.

Why is Friends of Scouting important?

Maintenance of council property
Minimal fees for council activities
Council service center for administration and program support
Scouting supplies
Training programs and materials for leaders
Growth of a quality program

If your unit has not signed up for a Friends of Scouting presentation please take a moment to complete the registration form below. Return the completed form to Greater Pittsburgh Council, BSA, Flag Plaza, 1275 Bedford Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Mark to the attention of Family Friends of Scouting Chairman.