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Nominate a Scout HERE to be considered for August Scout of Month.
Nominations are due by the 25th of each Month.
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Dear Scouting Family,
Last month I shared that the National Council would be raising the National registration fee for almost all membership types starting August 1, 2023. While most of us are unfortunately becoming accustomed to an annual increase in membership fees, the additional announcement of the end of proration came as a bit of a surprise. This change will have an almost immediate impact on both how we recruit youth and how we conduct our annual unit charter renewal.
I think there are some definite benefits to annual membership. It will significantly decrease the amount of confusion many new families have regarding fees at Join Night. Over time most youth memberships will become closely aligned to the school calendar, which has been a popular request from many unit leaders. It will also greatly streamline the annual charter renewal by not tying individual membership fees to that process.
The greatest immediate impact of this change is that we will be asking our prospective families this fall for almost twice what we did last year ($110 vs. $58 last August). Yes, families will be getting twelve months of membership rather than five, but it will be interesting to see what impact this higher starting point will have on our overall recruitment and retention numbers. My hope is that families who would go to a few meetings and then stop in the past might try out a few more activities and stick around longer knowing they are members for a year.
The elimination of proration also forced our board to reevaluate our Council’s insurance fee. Last December, we announced that we were changing our annual fee to a monthly prorated fee and would increase the fee from $12 to $18 starting with the 2024 recharter. In order to keep the fall joining cost as low as possible, the board decided to charge $5 for new members joining between August and December this year. The fee will then increase to $18 as planned for all renewing and new members on January 1, 2024 (which will include all 2024 recharters).
Over the past few years, there have been a lot of conversations across the country regarding local council insurance and/or program fees. Under the Rules and Regulations of the BSA, a local council can charge a council fee up to the amount of the National membership fee ($80 starting August 1). As more and more Councils have decided to implement a fee close to the maximum allowed, volunteers in Palmetto Council have reached out to me or board members to ask if we were considering additional fees as well. At this time, there has been no significant consideration given to any fee beyond the existing Council insurance fee, however, our council is not immune to today’s financial pressures.
In 2000, our Council’s annual operating budget was approximately $1,100,000. Significant revenue sources included Friends of Scouting ($299,000), popcorn sales ($91,000), and camping/activity revenue ($177,000). We also received just over $208,000 from United Way, 19% of our budget. Our payroll was just shy of $548,000.
In 2023, our Council’s annual operating budget is almost the same at $1,140,000. Many of our significant revenue sources are still the same with the notable exception of United Way, from which we anticipate receiving just over $20,000 (less than 2% of our budget). We have increased most other revenue sources including Friends of Scouting ($437,000), popcorn/camp card sales ($228,000), and gross nearly as much camping/activity revenue even with the closure of Camp Bob Hardin (roughly $110,000 not counting Jamboree). We also operate with a much smaller $472,000 payroll.
While we have been able to find new sources of support to keep the council’s revenue steady over the past 23 years, we have not accounted for the nearly 76% inflation that has occurred. This has resulted in deferred maintenance at our properties and reduced staffing support, both of which are becoming difficult to manage.
I share this information, not to try and justify a future fee increase, but rather to provide some insight into why many councils are struggling with this issue. The challenges we face are shared by many others. I also feel strongly that in order to make sure Scouting is accessible to all families we have to control the cost, especially before a family has an opportunity to participate in camp card and popcorn sales.
Over the coming months the board and I plan to solicit feedback from all of our stakeholders on how we can continue to build towards a more financially sustainable model. I promise to share opportunities to provide formal feedback (town hall meetings, surveys, study committees, etc.) here in our newsletter and on the website. Please consider sharing these opportunities when announced with any others you believe would want to share input.
I hope you will also not hesitate to reach out to me with thoughts or concerns. We are blessed to be part of the strong Scouting tradition that Palmetto Council represents and working together we can cement that legacy for generations to come.
Yours in Scouting,
Justin K. Williams
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Are you ready to make a splash while staying safe? The Aquatic Safety article on Scouting.org explores the vital role of aquatics activities in the Scouts BSA program.
Discover how learning to swim and engaging in water adventures have been fundamental to Scouting since its inception.
Did you know that over 1.5 million aquatics-related merit badges have been earned by Scouts BSA since 2009? That's an impressive number! But what's even more remarkable is the BSA's commitment to promoting aquatics safety. For more than 80 years, the organization has implemented checklists to ensure positive aquatic experiences. From the seven-defense method in the 1940s to today's Safe Swim Defense, the BSA has been a pioneer in providing training and guidance for a secure aquatics program.
So, what does it take to create a safe and fun aquatics environment? Two essential training prerequisites, Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat, hold the key. These courses, available online on my.Scouting.org, equip leaders with the knowledge and skills to conduct aquatics activities responsibly. Leaders are strongly encouraged to complete the training, and at least one adult must be trained for unit aquatics activities. By understanding the core principles of Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat, leaders can ensure the well-being of all participants.
Safe Swim Defense revolves around eight important points, including qualified supervision, personal health review, and the buddy system. Safety Afloat, on the other hand, encompasses nine points such as swimming ability, life jackets, and skill proficiency. These guidelines are designed to guarantee a safe and enjoyable experience in and around water.
But that's not all! Beyond the basic courses, there are advanced skill courses available for unit leadership, such as Aquatics Supervision: Swimming & Water Rescue and Paddle Craft Safety. And if you're looking to further enhance your lifesaving skills, BSA Lifeguard certification is within reach!
Don't miss out on this opportunity to delve into the world of safe aquatics activities with Scouts BSA. Dive deeper into our article by clicking the link below and discover a wealth of information to ensure an unforgettable, secure water adventure!
🌊🔗 Read Full Article
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Please follow our Facebook Page HERE to keep up to date with the latest membership information and the upcoming Town Hall!
| Palmetto Council Service Center | |
The Council Service Center will be undergoing renovations beginning Monday, June 5. We will be closed to the public for at least two weeks, If you have questions or need to place an order? Please email palmetto.scoutshop@scouting.org. | |
On average, it costs the council $312 per year to support one Scout and eighty-four percent of the Council’s funding comes from donations. By making a monetary gift and supporting Friends of Scouting, you will be investing in the future of Scouting and the ongoing work of the Palmetto Council. The council helps make unit programs a success by providing exceptional staff support, quality program events like Gold Rush & Polar Bear, FREE training opportunities for both youth and adult leaders, recruiting and onboarding all new youth, as well as the Service Center and Scout Shop. Make a gift of $200+ and receive a custom FOS patch. | |
Can't make a gift right now? That's okay! Click on the Make a Pledge button below and commit to supporting FOS by the end of the year! | | |
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Flags for Heroes
Our inaugural Flags for Heroes event was a tremendous success, with 200 flags sponsored to honor and support our local heroes, encompassing veterans, active military, teachers, first responders, scout and cub masters, and more. The Flag retirement ceremony saw the participation of 70 attendees, creating a memorable and heartfelt tribute. The overwhelming response has left us eagerly anticipating next year's event, so mark your calendars for June 10 - 14 and join us in continuing this inspiring tradition!
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Daniel Morgan Cub Scout Day Camp
Thank you to the amazing volunteers who helped make Day Camp possible, Michelle Lawson and Loren Hasche. During the week, Scouts had the opportunity to participate in archery, bb gun shooting, hiking, games, etc. There were also special visits by the real NASCAR pace car for the Southern 500 in Darlington, SC, a motor cross racer, and various others! Daniel Morgan Scouts had a great week! Our amazing volunteers made it a week Scouts will never forget!
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York Cub Scout Day Camp
Thanks to our wonderful leaders, Wes Adams and Chris Rasmussen, York Day Camp came back in a big way after four years. Cub Scouts had a jam packed week of shooting sports, fishing, hiking, nature, games, radio, crafts, and more! Scouts were visited by racecar drivers, the Catawba Nation, and a real NASCAR pace car. Thanks to our amazing team of volunteers, Cub Scouts left camp with new adventures, new friends, and new skills. Thank you to everyone who helped make it happen!
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GOLS Adventure Week
Thanks to the generous support of Spartanburg Academic Movement (SAM) and Connect Spartanburg, six lucky youths were granted scholarships to participate in an exhilarating GOLS adventure week. From canoeing along the scenic Broad River to biking the Rail Trail, learning essential first aid and fire making skills, and conquering the heights of rock climbing, the week was packed with unforgettable adventures and valuable experiences.
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Palmetto Council Calendar
To see a full list of upcoming events or to register for an event please visit our website.
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Charlotte Independence Scout Night | |
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We are thrilled to announce that the Charlotte Independence Soccer Team will be hosting their inaugural Scout night on July 22nd. This is an incredible opportunity for Scouts, families, and supporters to come together for an exciting evening of soccer while also supporting the Palmetto Council.
By purchasing tickets exclusively through the Palmetto Council, you not only secure your spot at the game but also contribute to our council's programs and initiatives. For every ticket sold, we will receive $5 back, allowing us to enhance Scouting experiences and provide valuable opportunities for our Scouts.
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Join the Palmetto Council, BSA Friday, November 10, 2023, at the beautiful Rocky Creek in Richburg, SC, for a day of fun, competition, and community building.
Our pricing includes everything you need for a fantastic day of sporting clays shooting, including ammo, refreshments, meals, long bird competition entry, and a golf cart if needed. We have also planned some extra activities to keep the excitement going throughout the day, including flurry shoots, a 50/50 raffle, and a silent auction.
As a participant, you'll have the chance to show off your shooting skills and compete against other clay shooting enthusiasts. But even if you are a beginner, we welcome you to come out and enjoy the beautiful scenery, meet new people, and support a great cause!
Sponsorship opportunities are also available for those who want to help us make this event even more successful. As a sponsor, you will receive recognition for your contribution and support our mission to provide quality Scouting programs and services to the youth across our the communities we serve!
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We extend a heartfelt thank you to NASCAR for their incredible support in bringing the Darlington Pace Car to our Cub Scout Day Camp! The excitement and joy it brought to our young Cub Scouts was truly unforgettable. If your Cub Scout enjoyed the pace car experience and is craving more racing fun, or if your Troop/Pack is interested in attending the exhilarating Southern 500 Race in September, we encourage you to reach out to Neel Gurley. You can find his contact information on the flyer. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to create lasting memories and witness the thrill of NASCAR racing up close! | |
Join the Adventure at GOLS | |
Outdoor Program Specialist | |
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Welcome Jacob Ryan to the Palmetto Council team!
Jacob was born in Columbus, Ohio and grew up in Pickens County, SC where he developed a great love of the outdoors and nature. He graduated from Chapman HS in Spartanburg, SC after which he earned a bachelor’s degree from USC upstate in psychology with a concentration in biology through the South Carolina PACE program.
After graduating, he established a sole proprietorship in precision measurement and metrology serving manufactures throughout the southeast. He served in this role for over 18 years.
Jacob then transitioned into non-profit endeavors to blend his love of learning with and teaching young adults and children and his passion for nature, biology, and incorporating STEM principles in education. He did so while working with and volunteering for the Spartanburg Science Center, Kids Upstate, Mobile Meals, and Ruth’s Gleanings/Foodshare of Spartanburg.
In his free time, he enjoys exploring the outdoors with his wife and son, traveling, reading, coaching little league, and he is a sports enthusiast.
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In the middle of our hot and muggy summer, the Thunderbirds have an upcoming event, Summer Ordeal is August, 4-6, 2023. Sign up on the Council website in advance. This event is NOT at GOLS. It will be hosted at Camp Conley Clarke in Gaffney, SC. We hope to see all our brothers and newly elected ordeals attending this year! | |
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Thanks to all who donate to the United Way of the Piedmont and United Way of Chester
and for their support of Scouting in the Palmetto Council
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