How much does it cost?

As of April 2026, the total cost to join Cub Scouts within the Narragansett Council is ~$160, and includes national registration and council fees as follows:

1. Registration Fees (Paid to Scouting America/Council)

• Annual Youth Fee: Approximately $85/year for Cub Scouts.

• Scout Life Magazine: (Optional) $15/year.

• Administrative Fee: $4.65

• Council Service Fee/Activity Card: Narragansett Council has used a $70 "Adventure Card" fee to cover council-level activity insurance.

2. Additional Costs

• Uniform: Youth must purchase a uniform (shirt, insignia) and a handbook, which can cost approximately $60–$100 depending on how many items are new. However, Pack 1 Richmond offers new members either a gently used uniform shirt and neckerchief (if available) or a Pack T-Shirt to help with the cost.

• Activities/Camp: Summer camp involves additional fees. However, both Narragansett Council and Pack 1 Richmond offer financial aid ("Camperships") if registration fees are a barrier.

3. Additional Information

• Memberships are now on a 12-month cycle from the date of joining (no more prorating for joining late).

• For the past several years, a $25 discount for new memberships has been offered if you join during the national recruiting drive that takes place from late-summer to early-fall.

4. Fundraising

Scouts participate in fundraising activities in order to help the Pack cover/offset the cost of:

• Awards (badges, belt loops, trophies).

• Pinewood Derby cars.

• Pack activities (camping, special events).

• Pack 1 Richmond offers incentives for fundraising to reimburse members for some/all of the annual membership and council fees.

5. What Your Fee Covers:

•  National Registration & Insurance: Covers the cost of registration and, significantly, provides general liability insurance for members and chartered organizations.

• Safety & Security: Access to mandatory Youth Protection Training, background checks for adult volunteers, and the "Scouts First" helpline.

• Digital Resources: Access to tools like My.Scouting, BeAScout.org, and Scoutbook for tracking advancement and managing the unit.

• Program Support: Development of handbooks, curriculum, and specialized training for adult leaders.

• Access to Facilities: Use of national high adventure properties and local council camps