Families today have many options, but only Scouting provides a safe and fun atmosphere where a kid can be a kid all while preparing them to become an even better adult.
As we look towards the future of Scouting, the Heart of America Council is committed to providing a safe and cost-effective Scouting experience. That commitment includes continuously reviewing our fee structure in order to deliver an unparalleled youth development program.
On October 23, 2019, the National Council of the BSA approved an annual national membership fee increase, while the Heart of America Council approved the implementation of an annual local council program fee. Both fees are effective January 1, 2020 and are necessary to support critical components of our organization.
National Annual Membership Fee
Youth - $60 | Adult - $36
Heart of America Council Annual Program Fee
Youth - $39 | Adult - $39
The new fee structure is being implemented out of necessity to support critical safety components of our organization like youth protection resources, criminal background checks, technology upgrades and insurance coverage rates which have risen substantially over the past few years.
Many factors went into implementing a council program fee and while the timing of the release was less than ideal, it was imperative that the information was conveyed immediately to our families.
The decision was not made lightly, but was necessary to fulfill our promise and continue to offer the level of Scouting our families are accustomed to without any decline in service.
WHY A COUNCIL PROGRAM FEE?
- The addition of a local program fee will allow the Heart of America Council to provide medical and accident insurance coverage as well as local liability insurance for all registered members.
- The program fee will also eliminate our Family Friends of Scouting campaign.
- Allows council to provide rank advancement (cloth badges of rank) for Scouts at no additional cost to families.
- Ensures that camp fees remain as low as possible and enhances camp properties.
- Moves unit recharters to October to coincide with the program year and allows council to only collect fees once a year.
To help answer additional questions you may have, including our new recharter fee schedule, we've compiled an overview of the updated Membership Fee Structure.
Updated Membership Fee Structure Overview (Revised 11.5.19)
We know that Scouting is, and continues to be, an incredible value for families. Scouting is an investment in your child’s future and it’s an investment in a better tomorrow for the communities we serve. In addition to expanded fundraising opportunities, our council is committed to ensuring that all youth have the opportunity to experience the character-building benefits that Scouting provides regardless of their financial situation.
We thank you for your continued commitment to Scouting in the Heart of America Council and urge you to continue to be an advocate for Scouting and how our programs are preparing thousands of youth across Kansas City for life.