Recruitment-ReadyMake sure Scouts can find your unit

Every year, thousands of parents visit BeAScout.org searching for a unit that will provide a meaningful experience for their children. Using their ZIP code, they look for packs, units, crews, ships or posts in their area.

Scouting America calls these searches “pins” because the digital display looks like pins on a map. People click on pins to find contact information and sometimes an online application that allows a potential Scout family to immediately join your unit. But if that information is outdated or inaccurate, that opportunity may be lost before it ever begins.

So when a family decides to search for a unit, can they find yours?

Whether it’s an outdated meeting, an inactive contact or other missing details, the smallest obstacle could steer a parent away from Scouting and toward something else. The good news is that helping a future Scout find your unit can be done in just a few minutes.

Earlier this week, Scouting America introduced an updated BeAScout web presence designed to better support families as they search for Scouting opportunities. The enhanced experience will answer common questions before families contact a unit, including:

• Estimated cost to join
• Unit meeting days and times
• Whether the unit charges additional dues

To support these improvements, some new fields have been added to the Unit Pin page in Organization Manager at my.scouting.org.

That means that even if you’ve updated your pin in the last year, there are new fields to include that weren’t available previously. Unit leaders can start updating these fields within their Unit Pin settings now. Taking a few moments to update that profile clears the way for families to enjoy the same Scouting adventure that has impacted youth for generations.

Your next Scout might already be searching for your unit. Please help ensure they find the information they need.

Review and update your BeAScout pin today.

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