Dues, Program Fees, Grubmaster Fees & Other Costs

There are three predictable recurring costs involved in Troop Membership.

Annual Dues of $185 are paid by each Scout. Families with more than one Scout in Troop 23 can opt to receive a single copy of Scout Life magazine and reduce their dues somewhat for additional Scouts. Scouts crossing over as Arrow of Light should already have an active Scout membership; if so this fee is not due until their membership expiration/renewal.

The annual Troop 23 Program Fee, currently $400, is typically covered (no charge) through fundraising when a Scout sells a minimum amount (currently $800) via our annual Christmas wreath fundraiser, with commissions from sales over that amount usable for any Scout- or camping-related costs. Scouts joining the troop after January 1 pay a discounted Program Fee of $200.

In short:
New to Scouting, joining after Jan. 1: $185 plus $200.
Transferring Scouts or Webelos/AOL, after Jan. 1, current Scouting member: $200.

Grubmaster fees cover the cost of food and supplies used on campouts. Each patrol prepares its own menu (approved by the Troop Leaders) and purchases its own food paid for by the Scouts. The cost per Scout per weekend is usually between $15 and $20.

Additional costs occur when there are opportunities and special events that the troop cannot afford to fund. These activities are open to all Scouts on an optional, pay-as-you-go basis. Summer Camp is an example. A week at summer camp is the highlight of the Scouting year; and, at the current cost of about $400 for an unforgettable seven-day experience, it is a remarkable bargain. Financial aid is available for the summer camp fee.