We Need Den Chiefs 

As the council continues to examine areas in which we can improve and grow, we have realized that the old Den Chief Training that used to exist as a council training is no longer an active part of our program.

A Den Chief is a Scout, Venturer or Sea Scout assisting a Cub Scout den. The position includes the following:

• Serves as a Scouting role model for the Cub Scouts in the den, as well as the entire pack;
• Promotes Scouting in general and the local troop in particular;
• Encourages the transition of Webelos Scouts into Scouts BSA;
• Holds a leadership position in the troop or crew, thus fulfilling an advancement requirement in the unit.
• Assists the den leader with planning and conducting den meetings;
• Understands the Cub Scouting program and the differences between Cub Scouts and other Scouting programs;
• Understands the den leader’s duties and confidently helps lead portions of the den meeting program;
• Knows a variety of resources for age-appropriate activities for Cub Scouts in the den;
• Brings a repertoire of activities that Cub Scouts enjoy.

This training is designed to build on each of these ideas using a framework that will allow the new Den Chief, or perhaps the experienced Den Chief looking for new ideas, to have fun and learn the role.

Adult leaders need to make sure the role is seen as important and necessary. In agreeing to accept a Den Chief’s assistance, they ensure the Den Chief has meaningful opportunities to support the den and assist with activities, to the best of the Den Chief’s ability. In this way, the den receives the many benefits of having a Den Chief while the Den Chief has opportunities to learn and grow as a leader and Scout.

Cubmasters request Den Chief help from Scoutmasters, Crew Advisors or Ship Skippers. These adults need to acknowledge the importance of Den Chiefs before the whole troop, crew or ship and make sure all members understand that the Den Chief holds a leadership position of responsibility.

What do Unit Leaders Need to Do Next?

• Scoutmasters – Get your Scouts BSA trained to be Den Chiefs, especially if you are trying to grow your troop from a Cub Scout Pack in the same chartered organization.  Den Chief training can be done online at this link.  There is also a plan to offer training at Summer Camp 2023.  There is also a facilitator guide that can be downloaded for training use on a troop level.

• Cubmasters – Request that a Den Chief assist in your Pack.  Using the assistance of Den Chiefs will give younger scouts a great example of leadership and what they have to look forward to when they grow into a Scouts BSA Troop.