A unit’s money-earning methods should reflect Scouting’s basic values. Whenever your unit is planning a money-earning project, this
checklist can serve as your guide. If your answer is “Yes” to all the questions that follow, it is likely the project conforms to Scouting’s
standards and will be approved.
- Do you really need a fundraising project?
There should be a real need for raising money based on
your unit’s program. Units should not engage in money-earning projects merely because someone has offered an
attractive plan. Remember that individual youth members
are expected to earn their own way. The need should be
beyond normal budget items covered by dues. - If any contracts are to be signed, will they be
signed by an individual, without reference to
the Boy Scouts of America and without binding the
the local council, the Boy Scouts of America, or the
chartered organization?
Before any person in your unit signs a contract,
he/she must make sure the venture is legitimate and worthy.
If a contract is signed, he/she is personally responsible. He/
she may not sign on behalf of the local council or the Boy
Scouts of America, nor may he/she bind the chartered organization without its written authorization. If you are not
sure, check with your district executive for help. - Will your fundraiser prevent promoters from trading on
the name and goodwill of the Boy Scouts of America?
Because of Scouting’s good reputation, customers rarely
question the quality or price of a product. The nationwide
network of Scouting units must not become a beehive of
commercial interest. - Will the fundraising activity uphold the good name of the
BSA? Does it avoid games of chance, gambling, etc.?
Selling raffle tickets or other games of chance is a
direct violation of the BSA Rules and Regulations,
which forbid gambling. The product must not
detract from the ideals and principles of the BSA. - If a commercial product is to be sold, will it be sold on
its own merits and without reference to the needs of
Scouting?
All commercial products must sell on their own merits, not
the benefit received by the Boy Scouts. The principle of
value received is critical in choosing what to sell. - If a commercial product is to be sold, will the fundraising
activity comply with BSA policy on wearing the uniform?
The official uniform is intended to be worn primarily for use
in connection with Scouting activities. However, council
executive boards may approve the use of the uniform for any
fundraising activity. Typically, council popcorn sales or
Scout show ticket sales are approved, uniform fundraisers. - Will the fundraising project avoid soliciting money
or gifts?
The BSA Rules and Regulations state, “Youth members
shall not be permitted to serve as solicitors of money for
their chartered organizations, for the local council, or in
support of other organizations. Adult and youth members
shall not be permitted to serve as solicitors of money in
support of personal or unit participation in local, national,
or international events.”
For example, Boy Scouts/Cub Scouts and leaders should
not identify themselves as Boy Scouts/Cub Scouts or as a
troop/pack participate in The Salvation Army’s Christmas
Bell Ringing program. This would be raising money for
another organization. At no time are units permitted to
solicit contributions for unit programs. - Does the fundraising activity avoid competition with
other units, your chartered organization, your local
council, and the United Way?
Check with your chartered organization representative and
your district executive to make certain that your chartered
organization and the council agree on the dates and type
of fundraiser.
Click here for a PDF of this for your Committee or Crew use.