FAQS
most asked questions
When and where?
Weekly meetings are Thursday nights from 6:30pm – 7:45pm
We meet weekly during the school year, with a 3-4 week winter break
We meet at both Haw Creek Commons (315 Old Haw Creek Rd) and St. John’s Episcopal Church (just a few doors down at 290 Old Haw Creek Rd); Locations will be communicated before each meeting
Can I attend a few meetings to see if we like Pack 4?
Yes! Please feel free to attend up to 2 meetings before committing. Note, trips are only for registered scouts and Youth Protection Trained adults.
Registration payments can be made directly via those links, then send $50 Pack 4 annual dues:
Venmo: @Pack4avl (Choose ‘Friends & Family option’) – List your child(ren)s name in the comments
Checks made out to Pack 4, cash given to the Pack Treasurer - David Johnston: 617-233-2004, dmjohnst@hotmail.com
Can I drop off my child(ren) at Cub Scout Meetings?
No - this is NOT a drop off childcare activity. The leaders are all fellow parents and collectively, as volunteers, we work together to follow the Scouts BSA training that will help our youth Be Prepared for Life.
Wow! I'm noticing parents helping out a lot at the meetings/events; What's the expected level of parent participation? How can I help?
Pack 4 has an amazing culture of everyone—scouts, parents, and leaders—striving to "Do Your Best" with active participation at every meeting and event. While we understand everyone has different levels of interest, ability, and availability, we expect that everyone assists in some way; and you're going to love it! This can be from simply helping set the example on what good behavior looks like, to being an extra set of hands when working with a Den activity, to sharing with the whole Den a skill or interest of yours. Can you strum a tune or enjoy acting, then we love singing songs and performing fun skits around the campfire and appreciate that energy and help. Many hands make light work, and Pack 4 is blessed to be part of a group that focuses on being part of a crew, not passengers. The type of help and number of hours you are involved is completely up for you, but you and your children will get even more out of the program, the more involved you (and they) are.
I have no experience in Scouting. Can I become an adult leader?
Yes, you can! No prior experience in Scouting is required. See a current Leader for more info… and please see below for more information… or Click HERE to skip to this section.
What is the schedule like?
Cub Scouts follow the school year. We generally start a couple weeks after school goes back, and end about the week before most schools finish.
Once a month for our Thursday meeting we have a full Pack wide meeting (K-5th ages), then the following Thursday meetings meet specifically as Den level groups to work on various lessons, adventures, and rank advancement projects.
Plus, we plan to have 2 events a month outside of our weekly meetings. These may be ‘Service Work Days’ in volunteering, hikes, to ropes courses, parades, Camp Daniel Boone hosted weekends, to epic campouts and trips
What is a Pack?
Our Pack consists of coed youth from Kindergarten to 5th grade. As a group, this is Cub Scout Pack 4.
What is a Den?
Within the Pack, aligned to the Elementary School structure, we break out into grade level based ‘Dens’. This allows grade level-based learning.
Kindergarten: Lion Den
1st Grade: Tiger Den
2nd Grade: Wolf Den
3rd Grade: Bears Den
4th Grade: Webelos 1 Den
5th Grade: Arrow of Light/Webelos 2 Den
Note: Webelos is a 2-year program… culminating in the ‘Arrow of Light’ Rank opportunity before crossing over into a Troop (ages 11-18)
What is the Akela Den for parents?
Much like any New Scout of any age or grade gets instructed in the terminology, symbology, and ethos of Scouting (and on learning such complete their 'Bobcat' rank), and their understanding of these elements grows with their advancement, we have found incoming Parents can also benefit from some 'Scouting 101' so Pack 4 has initiated the Akela Den for parents. This optional group learns more about the elements of Scouts BSA's program and values in order that parents have a greater understanding of the journey of Scouting their child is undertaking. Participating parents receive their own "insignia" they can wear at Pack meetings and events.
How do I receive communication?
We use a variety of email, text, Google Groups, and the Remind App.
To receive Pack texts, please simply text ‘@pack4avl’ to 81010
This will be used for quick adult communication as a Pack and for your Child’s Den.
FYI - We DO use the Remind App for easy access to documents (in addition to our www.pack4avl.org website), such as this FAQ information, General Camping Suggestions, blank Health Forms, and our Save-the-Date Calendar. If you would like access to those - please download the ‘Remind’ App as well and Register as the Parent/Guardian (not as your child’s name). Else, no need to add yet another app… as the text function can serve you well.
Please then text the same number for whichever Dens your child(ren) are going to be in:
Kindergarten: Lion Den - text ‘p4lions’ to 81010
1st Grade: Tiger Den - text ‘p4tiger’ to 81010
2nd Grade: Wolfe Den - text ‘p4wolves’ to 81010
3rd Grade: Bears Den - text ‘p4bears’ to 81010
4th Grade: Webelos Den - text ‘p4webelos’ to 81010
5th Grade: Arrow of Light - text ‘p4aol’ to 81010
Please add gmail emails/Google Groups/Facebook pages (if you are ‘on’ FB, but this is NOT required):
General Pack Communication: pack4avl@gmail.com
General Troop Mailing List
Request to join our Google Group mailing list - https://groups.google.com/g/pack4-avl
Unit 4 Facebook Fan Page (public facing)
https://www.facebook.com/unit4avl/
Pack 4 Private Facebook Group (invitation only)
https:/www.facebook.com/groups/pack4avl/
Most of our communication happens during our Pack meetings, emails, and via Remind communication.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
General email: pack4avl@gmail.com
Cubmaster - Mark deVerges: 828-423-9484, mark@deverges.com
Cubmaster Emeritus - Adam Palmer: 302-381-4179, adam.est1979@gmail.com
Assistant Cubmaster - Peter Lorenz: 828-777-1412, petermichaellorenz@gmail.com
Assistant Cubmaster - Corina Casanova: 863-838-7488, corinacasanovanc@gmail.com
Committee Chair - Greg Hoffman: 828-707-1334, greghoffman1@me.com
Membership / Registration Guru - Ryan Lubbers: 828-450-1898, ryantlubbers@gmail.com
Forms Guru / Secretary - Carrie Underwood: 828-275-2767, underwood.cl@gmail.com
Treasurer - David Johnston (all things financial): 617-233-2004, dmjohnst@hotmail.com
Specific Trips - please contact that Trip Coordinator directly – CLICK HERE
Den Specific - please contact that Den Leader directly
Lions - TBD
Tigers - David Mayeux, David Johnston
Wolves - Greg Hoffman, Corina Casanova
Bears - Peter Lorenz, Ryan Lubbers, Ryan Standland
Webelos I - Steve Martin, Brian Lawrence, Adam Palmer
Arrow of Light [AOL] / Webelos II: Patrick Tillman, Ben Underwood
How much does registration cost for NEW CUB Scouts?
Registration is $155/year (this includes a one time new scout fee of $25.
All of these fees are paid online and go directly to the local Daniel Boone Council (WNC) and National BSA. The Pack does not keep any of these fees.
How much does registration cost for RETURNING Cub Scouts?
Registration is $130/year.
These fees are paid online and go directly to the local Daniel Boone Council (WNC) and National BSA. The Pack does not keep any of these fees.
How much are the annual Pack 4 dues?
$50/year. This is in addition to registration fees and is paid directly to the Pack Treasurer (David Johnston)
Venmo: @Pack4avl (Choose ‘Friends & Family option’) – List your child(ren)s name in the comment
Checks made out to Pack 4, cash given to the Pack Treasurer - David Johnston: 617-233-2004, dmjohnst@hotmail.com
How does Pack 4 use the funds from dues?
- Pack 4 activity t-shirts (Class Bs). All youth receive a cool Pack 4 t-shirt after registration.
- Pinewood Derby kits
- Pizza nights
- Advancement, Adventure Stamps & Rank
- Offset Campouts costs
- Scholarships
- Service Work Day supplies
Hmm… I’m confused, so How Much is Scouts?
If you are new, your Scout’s total fees will be $205 and will cover 12 months registration plus Pack dues. We recommend budgeting $100-200/yr in various trip expenses. And the uniform plus handbook can cost $150-200.
The uniform will last many years, and trips are a la carte… so it is NOT $605 each year. But if you go ‘all in’ on your first year, this is a reasonable amount to budget.
A Scout is ‘Thrifty’ - so we are always looking for deals and ways to stretch our dollars and love fundraising.
Is a Uniform required (AKA "Class A Uniform"); how do I buy one?
A uniform is required. A Scout uniform is one of the core components of Scouting. The uniform is one of the methods of delivering the Scouting program. In addition to creating a sense of belonging, the uniform gives a Scout the ability to display their personal achievements.
Uniforms can be purchased at the Asheville Scout Shop @ 333 W Haywood St. Pro Tip - Check their hours before going for the first time, or call - (828) 253-4949. Approx cost is $100-150. Buying shorts/pants/belt over time is fine. Please ensure your Scout has the correct Den level hat and blue (tan for Webelos) uniform shirt, and we HIGHLY recommend buying one a few sizes too big (they are very durable and will last for years).
As well, our Pack has some donated uniforms, please reach out if needed.
Pack 4 T-Shirts! (AKA "Class B uniform")
All registered youth receive 1 tshirt at no cost. Additional ones are $20
Adult sizes are available to purchase for $20.
How do I buy a handbook and is it required?
A handbook is required and can be purchased at the Scout Shop. We highly recommend each youth buying and bringing their book weekly. It is LOADED with information that will serve them well with a variety of important life skills.
What do Adults need to join in on campouts?
What is Youth Protection Training (YPT) and who needs to complete it?
This is a FREE training (and 100% Required for Adults). Click here for more information: https://www.scouting.org/training/youth-protection/
All adults engaging with youth at meeting and attending trips must complete YPT within 1 month of youth registering. It is a 2hr FREE program that we take VERY seriously. This sets many good boundaries and examples for what expectations we have and follow. When completed, send or print certificate to the Pack Secretary (Carrie Underwood). The certificate is valid for 2 years.
No adult can attend a Pack 4 led campout if they do not have their Youth Protection Training completed.
Please note that for Scouts BSA Council Events, all participants are personally responsible for bringing their Health Forms. The Pack keeps these forms on file for PACK events only. So, save a copy for your records!
Who needs to register as an adult?
While we are a 100% Volunteer Led program, it is important for all Pack Leadership (Cubmaster, Assnt Cubmasters, Committee Members, and Den Leaders) to be Registered/Insured Adults (in addition to being YPT Trained).
We encourage any parent who would like to volunteer in a more active role to become Registered.
How much is adult registration?
Adult registration is $90. Yes, we get it… stinks to have to pay on top of volunteering a good amount of hours. But, please know all of us fellow Adult leaders are in the same boat. AND we have gotten more out of the benefits from the Scouting BSA program, Scouting, experiences and being involved in our children’s lives in a meaningful way… and the fellowship amongst us Adults that this cost ends up feeling like a very worthwhile cost.
Plus - we are aiming to have a dedicated fundraiser that is specifically used to help offset the cost for our Adult registration. Stay tuned!
Use the Registration link/QR Code above, but select the ‘Adult’ option: https://my.scouting.org/VES/OnlineReg/1.0.0/?tu=UF-MB-414pab0004
What is the cost of the trips and events?
The average trip costs $5-20/pp. We strive to make our campouts as low cost as possible, and will use Pack dues to help cover these trips. Other trips, like the USS Yorktown overnight and the Sleeping with the Sharks overnight are our more expensive treks… which just that portion is generally $100/pp (yes, we sleep on an aircraft carrier and in the tunnel of a shark tank!). We love to fundraise and work to ensure all Scouts have the option to go by having opportunities to raise money in advance of these more epic adventures. In addition to Trip/Event fess, all participating scouts and adults will be required to have filled out and filed the Required Health Forms.
What are the Required Health Forms? Where do I get them? Who do I give them to?
All registered youth and adults need to fill out a health form (parts “A&B”). Keep your original form and give a copy to Pack Secretary, Carrie Underwood (underwood.cl@gmail.com). This can be filled out electronically and emailed:
How do I sign up for Trips?
Click here for the Pack #4 Event Calendar 23-24
Trips include: Camping with the Wild Elk, Sleeping with the Sharks* (overnight in a pedestrian tunnel of a shark aquarium), camping and bicycling a section of the Virginia Creeper Trail, camping in a cave*, sleeping on the USS Yorktown* decommissioned aircraft carrier in Charleston SC. Among many others! Check out our calendar for more information on trips and upcoming events.
*rotated every 2 years
Have some additional epic trips or hikes you would recommend? Access to a special spot in the woods, farm, business, ‘behind the scenes tour’ or manufacturing operations? Let us know! Our calendar committee is ALWAYS looking for new ideas and recommendations for fun spots.
How do I pay for DUES, trips and events?
Venmo: @Pack4avl – List your child(ren)s name in the comment
Checks made out to Pack 4, cash given to the Pack Treasurer - David Johnston: 617-233-2004, dmjohnst@hotmail.com
Feel free to reach out to him if you have financial related questions, need financial assistance, curious about your scouts prior fundraising account balance, etc.
Fundraising?
As fellow parents, we understand there is a financial cost to Scouting. While we feel there is a HUGE return on this investment… we also strive to provide means to offset this financial cost through various fundraisers such as selling:
Popcorn (Fall Fundraiser) - Split proceeds go towards product cost, Troop, Scout, and Council.
Discount Cards aka ‘Camp Cards’ - Split proceeds go towards product cost, Troop, Scout, and Council.
Beef Stick Sales - Split proceeds go towards product costs, Scout, and Adult Registration fees.
We find that learning how to sell, speaking in public, and advocating for something you believe in are great lifelong skills that come from this – in addition to offsetting the cost for their expenses.
Financial aid and scholarships
We do not want finances to be barriers for our members attending adventures or being part of our Pack 4 family. Please reach out to a member of the Pack 4 leadership or email our Treasurer for a confidential discussion.
Are Cub Scouts and Pack 4 religious?
A Scout is Reverent. BSA Scouting maintains that no one can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing his/her obligation to God. Our Pack, therefore, recognizes and incorporates the religious element in the training of the scouts, but it is absolutely nonsectarian in its attitude toward and application of that training. We strive to both embrace religion, promoting the scout's individual religious duty, AND respect and highlight the various faiths represented in our Pack and community.
Pack 4 typically ends its meetings and events with a "Benediction/Blessing" invoking "the Great Scoutmaster" and Pack Ceremonies and individual Den Leaders may use similar language at Den gatherings or in giving Thanks at meals eaten in fellowship, for example.
Are you affiliated with a particular Troop? Other Troop options? What is a Unit?
Our Pack is part of a Unit. We are in Unit 4, as we have a direct relationship with Troop 4. Like how Cub Scouts are able to join any Pack (and encourage you to do so if we are NOT the right fit for your family), Cub Scouts who ‘crossover’ to a Troop by either earning their ‘Arrow of Light’ rank or age out by completing 5th grade can choose any Troop they would like to continue their scouting Journey. There are MANY awesome Troops and our Pack is friendly with them. But our natural pipeline follows Troop 4 and we aim to have a couple shared events as we share a similar culture and adventure ethos. This gives mutual growth and learning opportunities for both Pack and Troop youth.
Policy on personal information
In respect of the wide variety of personal preferences on sharing of emails, phone numbers, posting of photos online, etc – we take a limited approach. We strive to keep personal information private. Additionally, while we will post photos online - we do so sparingly and focus on group photos. We ask parents to freely post photos of them and their children however they desire, but refrain from intentionally doing so of other children without the express permission of their parents/guardians.
Camping Trips FAQ
How does weather affect outdoor activities held by the Pack? Do we really still go camping if it's raining?
We are one of the most active Cub Scout Packs. While we do meet indoors occasionally – Dens usually meet outside. Thus, we ask everyone dress for the weather conditions present and bring rain gear for campouts in case the weather turns on us… but aside from severe lightning, we will probably proceed on our trip!
We plan to have 2 events a month outside of our weekly meetings. These may be ‘Service Work Days’ in volunteering, hikes, to ropes courses, parades, Camp Daniel Boone hosted weekends, to epic campouts and trips through our Pack such as: Camping with the Wild Elk, Sleeping with the Sharks* (overnight in a pedestrian tunnel of a shark aquarium), camping and bicycling a section of the Virginia Creeper Trail, camping in a cave*, sleeping on the USS Yorktown* decommissioned aircraft carrier in Charleston SC. Among many others! *rotated every 2 years
What should I bring?
If you are new to camping - Welcome! You are in a safe space and will be surrounded by individuals who would enjoy helping. Please ask for, or pull up, the “Suggested General Camping Packing List”. If you do not have any items… just let us know. There are plenty of resources and we may be able to let you borrow, have, or give guidance on lower cost options on what to buy for yourself.
We love to bike, can we bring bikes, scooters, or other toys on a Pack campout?
Please check with that particular Campout Coordinator. They likely have insight on the campground rules, topography and best practices.
Camping with a group, especially Cub Scouts, has additional structure and needs… including the need for 2 adults to ride with any riding Scouts. This is for a wide variety of reasons, namely safety. As well, the program for the weekend may entail other group hikes, sessions, that adding bicycling scooters or other toys autocratically can impact the program and we ask this be avoided.
Wow! You sure have an active calendar, do I need to attend each trip?
No! We schedule SO many outings to allow families to choose which ones are right for them. Plus, we all live busy lives… and know that due to schedule/cost/etc skipping some makes sense, and we want there to be other options that may align.
While we are very reluctant to cancel trips due to weather… it does happen (ie: lightning) and would be especially sad to cancel the 1 event we had all semester.
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