New Member Guide

Welcome to Cub scout pack 707

Welcome to Brea Cub Scout Pack 707! We’re excited to have you and your family join our pack. Whether you’re new to Cub Scouting or just new to our pack, this guide is here to help you get started and feel right at home.

Getting started

Cub Scouting is a program designed for boys and girls in kindergarten through fifth grade. It emphasizes learning through fun activities that are designed to promote character development, citizenship, and physical fitness. In Pack 707, we aim to provide a well-rounded experience that includes outdoor adventures, community service, and educational projects.

To become a member of Pack 707, you’ll need to complete the BSA registration form and pay the annual membership fee. This fee covers national dues, insurance, and helps fund the activities and events we host throughout the year. You can sign up online or attend one of our pack meetings to get more information. 

Preparing for a Pack 707 campout is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Here’s a comprehensive checklist of the personal camping gear each family should bring to make the most of the adventure:

Pack 707 Personal Camping Gear Checklist:

  • 2 Gallons of Water per Family: It’s important to bring enough water to stay hydrated throughout the campout. This amount should cover drinking water as well as basic hygiene needs.

  • Tent, Poles, Stakes, and Hammer: A sturdy tent is essential for shelter. Don’t forget to pack all the necessary poles and stakes, along with a hammer to secure your tent properly.

  • Sleeping Pad, Mattress, or Cot: Sleeping comfortably in the outdoors can make a big difference. Bring a sleeping pad, air mattress, or cot to place under your sleeping bag for added comfort.

  • Sleeping Bag, Blanket, and Pillow: Nights can be cooler, so a warm sleeping bag, along with an extra blanket and pillow, will ensure a restful night’s sleep.

  • Water Bottle and Mess Kit: Each scout should have a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated. Scouts  are encouraged to bring a mess kit (plate, utensils, cup) to reduce waste.

  • Camping Chair: A portable camping chair is useful for sitting around the campfire, at meal times, or during any downtime.

  • Flashlight: A reliable flashlight is a must for navigating in the dark. Don’t forget to pack extra batteries!

  • Clothing: Pack appropriate clothing for the weather, including shorts and a T-shirt for warm days, and a sweater and pants for cooler evenings. Don’t forget pajamas for nighttime comfort.

  • Sun Block and Hat: Protect your skin from the sun by bringing sunblock and a hat.

  • Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and Floss: Basic hygiene items like a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss should not be overlooked.

  • Medications: If anyone in your family needs medications such as Aleve, Aspirin, Tylenol, or prescription drugs, be sure to pack them.

  • Class B Pack T-Shirts (for Saturday): On Saturday, scouts should wear their Class B Pack 707 T-shirts. This helps everyone stay organized and promotes team spirit.

Extra Items (Not Required, but Nice to Have):

  • Frisbee, Ball: For some added fun during downtime, feel free to bring along a Frisbee, ball, or other outdoor games.

  • Walkie Talkies: While cell reception is generally okay, walkie talkies can be a fun and practical way for scouts to communicate.

  • Portable Charger and Batteries: Keep your devices charged and your flashlight working by bringing a portable charger and extra batteries.

  • Personal Wipes / Toilet Paper: While facilities may be available, having personal wipes or toilet paper can add an extra level of comfort.

This checklist ensures that you and your family are well-prepared for a fun and safe camping experience with Pack 707. Happy camping!

No, attending Pack 707 campouts is not required to be a Cub Scout. While camping is one of the most exciting and enriching activities in the Cub Scouting program, participation in campouts is optional. Pack 707 encourages all scouts and their families to join in on these adventures because they offer valuable opportunities for learning, bonding, and fun, but we understand that not every family may be able to participate in every campout.

Cub Scouts is a flexible program designed to accommodate a wide range of interests and family schedules. Scouts can still fully enjoy and benefit from the program through a variety of other activities such as meetings, service projects, and local events. So, while we highly recommend joining us for the camping experiences, your child can continue to thrive as a Cub Scout even without attending the campouts.

At Pack 707, we believe that camping is more than just an outdoor activity—it’s an opportunity for our Cub Scouts to develop self-reliance, teamwork, and a deep respect for nature. We tailor our camping trips to the interests and abilities of our Cub Scouts, ensuring that every outing is fun, educational, and safe.

What to expect

Meetings and Activities

  • Den Meetings: These are small group meetings where scouts of the same age work on activities related to their rank. Den meetings are typically held twice a month.
  • Pack Meetings: Pack meetings are larger gatherings where all the dens come together. These meetings are held once a month and are an opportunity to recognize scouts’ achievements, plan for upcoming events, and have fun as a whole pack.
  • Special Events: Throughout the year, Pack 707 hosts a variety of special events, including the Pinewood Derby, Blue and Gold Banquet, and various camping trips.

Uniforms

The Cub Scout uniform is an important part of scouting tradition. It shows unity and gives scouts a sense of belonging. New members will need to purchase a uniform, which includes a shirt, neckerchief, and other accessories depending on their rank. You can find more information on uniforms at our Scout Shop link.

Advancements

Cub Scouts progress through ranks based on their grade level, starting with Lion (Kindergarten) and moving through Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light. Scouts earn badges by completing adventures, which are activities designed to be fun and educational. Leaders and parents work together to help scouts complete these requirements.

Parent Involvement

Cub Scouting is a family-oriented program, and parent involvement is key to its success. Here’s how you can help:

  • Attend Meetings and Events: Your participation in meetings, campouts, and other activities enriches the experience for your child and supports the pack.
  • Volunteer: There are many opportunities to volunteer, whether it’s serving as a Den Leader, helping with fundraisers, or assisting at events. Your time and talents are greatly appreciated.
  • Encourage Your Scout: Help your scout work on their advancements at home, encourage their participation in activities, and celebrate their achievements.

Fundraising

Fundraising is a vital part of our pack’s ability to offer a diverse range of activities. Throughout the year, we hold fundraising events like selling Trail’s End Popcorn and Christmas trees. These funds help cover the costs of camping trips, awards, and other pack activities, ensuring that every scout can participate fully.

Communication

  • Website: Our website, pack707.org, is the central hub for all information about the pack. Here you’ll find the calendar, event details, and other important announcements.
  • Slack: Pack 707 is very active on Slack, and all new members will receive an invite to join our discussions on all events, meetings, campouts and more.
  • Social Media: Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates, photos, and reminders.