Parent Volunteer Guide

Get involved and make a difference in your Scout's journey

Why Your Involvement Matters

Troop 1128 is powered by parent volunteers who make our program possible

Impact on Your Scout

Experience has shown that Scouts with parents who are actively involved in the Troop are much more likely to remain active and progress to First Class rank and beyond.

When parents are involved, know what activities are planned, understand the Troop requirements for advancement, and help their Scouts balance competing demands, Scouting has a lasting, positive impact on their growth and development.

Flexible to Your Schedule

Your involvement can be tailored to your personal needs and interests — whether in a leadership position, as a project lead, or on an "as needed" volunteer basis.

It takes a lot of people to provide a quality Scout program. Becoming involved as an adult is a great way to share in your Scout's experience and make a difference in the lives of other youth in our community.

Remember: If you want to see your Scout do well in Scouting — get involved!

Keys to a successful Scouting experience require families to participate in the success of their Scout and the Troop. Have fun — you will develop lifelong experiences and friends!

Getting Started: Registration & Training

Two simple steps to become a registered volunteer

1

Register as an Adult Volunteer

All adults must be registered with the Troop to participate in any event with Scouts.

Registration is required for any adult attending campouts, helping with activities, or serving in a leadership role.

Register with Troop 1128

Questions about registration?
Contact Registrar: Christene Hendron
registrar@troop1128.org

2

Complete Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT)

All adults must have active SYT (previously called Youth Protection Training) to participate in any event with Scouts.

This free online training takes about 2 hours and teaches critical safety protocols including:

  • Two-deep leadership (no one-on-one contact)
  • Recognizing and preventing child abuse
  • Creating safe Scouting environments
  • Proper supervision and boundaries

Renewal: SYT must be renewed every year to remain current.

Complete Training at my.scouting.org

Ways to Get Involved

From one-time helpers to ongoing leadership roles — find what works for your family

Easy Entry Points

Board of Review Member

Time commitment: 15-20 minutes per review

Participate in Boards of Review to celebrate Scouts' advancement. This is an excellent opportunity to talk with Scouts about their experiences and hear their suggestions for improving Troop activities. Three adult committee members are needed for each board.

Transportation Help

Time commitment: As available

Additional drivers are always needed to help transport Scouts to weekend outings and activities. When your Scout signs up for an activity, please indicate if you can drive. This is a practical way to support the Troop that fits most schedules.

Fundraiser Support

Time commitment: Twice per year

Help with our two annual fundraisers: Fall popcorn sale (supporting Troop and NCAC) and Spring mulch sale (supporting Troop expenses). Volunteers help with logistics, deliveries, and coordination.

Bigger Commitments

Join an Ongoing Team

Time commitment: Varies by role

Join a committee team working on essential Troop operations:

  • Advancement team: Track Scout progress, support merit badge counselors
  • Treasury: Manage finances, track dues, process reimbursements
  • Communications: Send Troop emails, update website, manage social media
  • Transportation Coordinator: Organize drivers for trips and campouts
  • Fundraising: Lead popcorn and mulch sales

Lead a One-Off Project

Time commitment: Project-specific

Take the lead on a specific project or initiative:

  • Organize a special event or activity
  • Coordinate a service project
  • Lead a fundraiser campaign
  • Update Troop equipment or facilities
  • Plan a Court of Honor celebration

This is perfect for parents who want to contribute but prefer project-based involvement.

Attend Campouts

Time commitment: Weekend trips

Join the fun on campouts, canoe trips, ski trips, and other outdoor adventures! Any parent can attend these activities — you'll be glad you did. We need at least two registered adult leaders (21+) on every campout. This is a wonderful way to share in your Scout's outdoor experiences.

Become a Committee Member

Time commitment: Monthly meetings + ongoing support

Committee Members provide administrative and logistical support for the Troop program. Functions include:

  • Reviewing the Troop program
  • Managing finances and records
  • Coordinating merit badge program
  • Managing event sign-ups
  • Procuring equipment and awards
  • Planning special events

Training available: Committee Member training is available at my.scouting.org

Become an Assistant Scoutmaster (ASM)

Time commitment: Regular involvement

Assistant Scoutmasters (ASMs) work directly with Scouts, providing mentorship and guidance. Patrol Assistant Scoutmasters (PASMs) are generally assigned to specific patrols to mentor patrol leadership.

ASMs bring a wealth of talent to the Troop and play a critical role in delivering our high-quality program. This is an excellent opportunity for parents who want deep involvement in their Scout's experience.

Baseline for Every Family

While we understand every family's availability varies, we encourage all families to contribute in these ways:

Boards of Review

Serve on Board of Review panels when available to help celebrate Scouts' advancement

Join a Trip

Attend at least one campout or outdoor activity per year with your Scout

Help with Transportation

Provide transportation when you can to help get Scouts to activities safely

Stay Informed

Troop Committee/Parent Meetings

The Troop Committee coordinates administrative and logistical support for our program through regular meetings:

  • Monthly: Key committee members meet during Tuesday Troop meetings to handle ongoing business and coordination
  • Quarterly: Open meetings for all parents and committee members to discuss various items of relevance to the Troop

When: During Troop meeting time (typically 7:45–8:30 PM)
Where: Andrew Chapel United Methodist Church, 1301 Trap Road, Vienna, VA

Check the Troop Calendar for specific meeting dates. All parents are welcome at quarterly meetings!

Ready to Get Involved?

We're here to help you find the perfect role for your family

Contact our Committee Chair

Randy Kenna
Troop Committee Chair

Email: committeechair@troop1128.org

Our Committee Chair can answer your questions, help you understand different volunteer roles, and connect you with opportunities that match your interests and availability.