Frequently Asked Questions About Pack 314
Get answers to the most common questions about joining Cub Scout Pack 314 in Palmetto Bay. Learn about our program, costs, meetings, activities, and how your child can get started.
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Cub Scouting is a program of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) for youth in kindergarten through fifth grade (ages 5–11). It focuses on character development, leadership skills, outdoor activities, and community involvement through fun, age-appropriate adventures.
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Boys and girls in kindergarten through fifth grade are eligible to join Pack 314 in Palmetto Bay. Kindergarteners join as Lions, first graders as Tigers, second graders as Wolves, third graders as Bears, and fourth/fifth graders as Webelos (an acronym for "WE'll BE LOyal Scouts").
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Pack 314 is made up of dens, which are small groups of 6–8 Scouts of the same grade level. The pack is led by Derek, our Cubmaster, and supported by a pack committee, den leaders, and parent volunteers from the Palmetto Bay community.
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Pack 314 activities include den meetings, pack meetings, camping, hiking, community service projects in Palmetto Bay, crafts, games, and earning awards like belt loops, pins, and rank badges. Popular events include Pinewood Derby races, campouts throughout South Florida, and service projects in the local community.
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Pack 314 holds both den and pack meetings at St. Richards Parish Center (7500 SW 152nd Street, Palmetto Bay, FL 33157) on Tuesday nights at 7:00 PM. Meetings are one hour long and typically occur 2–3 times per month, focusing on specific activities, badge requirements, and pack-wide announcements.
Special outdoor activities and events are also scheduled on Saturdays throughout the year.
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Pack 314 costs include BSA registration fees (around $140 annually), pack dues (approximately $200 per year to cover supplies, activities and camping reservations), and uniform costs. The handbook for your child's rank is also required.
Financial Assistance: Pack 314 offers 2 scholarships annually to help offset costs for families in need.
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The official uniform includes a blue or tan shirt (depending on rank), neckerchief, slide, and cap. The uniform is worn at pack meetings and special gatherings. For most regular Tuesday meetings at St. Richards Parish Center, Pack 314 has a special pack t-shirt that scouts wear.
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Pack 314 parents are encouraged to volunteer as den leaders, assistant leaders, or committee members, but roles vary based on availability. At minimum, parents should attend den and pack meetings on Tuesday nights and help with occasional Saturday events and campouts in the Palmetto Bay area.
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Pack 314 Scouts earn rank badges (Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light) by completing age-specific adventures. These involve activities like outdoor skills, citizenship projects in Palmetto Bay, STEM learning, or personal growth challenges. Awards are presented at pack meetings held at St. Richards Parish Center.
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Yes, Pack 314 is very family-oriented! Siblings and family members can attend many events, including campouts in South Florida, pack activities at St. Richards Parish Center, and community service projects in Palmetto Bay. Parents are often involved in planning or supporting events, making it a great way for the whole family to get involved.
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All Pack 314 adult leaders must complete BSA Safeguarding Youth Training and position-specific training (available online or in-person). These comprehensive trainings cover safety protocols, program planning, and leadership skills to ensure a safe and engaging experience for all Palmetto Bay scouts and families.
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Safety is Pack 314's top priority. BSA's Safeguarding Youth policies include mandatory background checks for all leaders, two-deep leadership (at least two adults at all activities), and strict guidelines to prevent one-on-one contact between adults and Scouts. All outdoor activities and meetings at St. Richards Parish Center follow strict safety protocols.
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Pack 314 organizes camping trips throughout South Florida, hiking adventures, Pinewood Derby racing events, and educational day trips to local attractions. All outdoor activities are designed to be age-appropriate for kindergarten through 5th grade and follow BSA safety guidelines.
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Yes, new scouts can join Pack 314 at any time during the school year! While some activities or advancements may be easier to start at the beginning of the school year (fall), our leaders and existing families will help new scouts catch up on rank requirements and feel welcome in our Palmetto Bay community.
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After completing fifth grade and earning their Arrow of Light award, Pack 314 Webelos Scouts can transition to a local Scouts BSA troop, where they continue their scouting journey with more advanced leadership opportunities and outdoor experiences, potentially working toward the prestigious Eagle Scout rank.
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Pack 314 emphasizes the Scout Oath and Law in all activities, teaching values like trustworthiness, respect, and responsibility. Our Tuesday meetings and Saturday activities are designed to build confidence, teamwork, and ethical decision-making skills that will serve your child throughout their life.
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Yes! Pack 314 currently offers 2 scholarships annually to help offset dues associated with scouting. The recipients of these scholarships are chosen by pack leadership and a church representative. Contact Derek at (305) 987-3756 or pack314cubmaster@gmail.com for further details.
Still Have Questions About Pack 314?
We're here to help! Contact our leadership team or visit us on Tuesday nights at St. Richards Parish Center in Palmetto Bay.