Units can use a variety of fund-raising methods as long as they meet the guidelines set by the National Council and their local council and are approved by their unit committee and chartered organization. Most commonly, units are funded through:
Weekly or monthly dues paid by the member
Unit product sales such as popcorn
Chartered organization contributions
Other money-earning projects approved by the chartered organization
Units can use the funds they raise for any activities that are within the national and local council guidelines and that their unit committee and chartered organization approve. Most commonly, units use their funds for:
Unit activities such as camping and other activities
Program supplies for unit activities
Equipment such as tents, camp stoves, and pinewood derby® tracks
Advancements and awards such as rank emblems and merit badges
Boys’ Life magazine subscriptions
Local councils are funded through:
Friends of Scouting donations
Camp4All donations
Special events
Product sales such as popcorn
Legacies and bequests
Foundation grants
Local United Ways
Activity fees from summer camp, camporees, etc.
Investment income and endowments
Local councils provide support for units in their service area; therefore, funds are typically used to:
Maintain camp properties and the council service center
Provide insurance
Maintain membership records
Pay salaries and benefits to employees
Purchase program supplies for youth activities sponsored by the council
Provide volunteer training
The National Council is funded by:
Scout supply sales
Membership fees
Grants from foundations
Legacies and bequests
Corporate sponsorships
The National Council provides program materials and support for local councils. The National Council uses its funds for:
Development of program materials and resources
Infrastructure support for local councils such as maintaining membership database and reporting functions
Development of professional and volunteer training materials
Salaries and benefits for employees