Joining Troop 574: Essential Documents and Information

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New Scouts Documentation

1

Contact Information (Or visit Contact Us)

Use this form to apply for a TroopWebHost account and join the Troop 574 roster.

Select the Option That Applies:

New to Troop 574
→ Send full names and emails of Scout and parent(s).

Interested in Joining (if transferring)
→ Send full names, BSA ID, DOB, and previous Pack.

Need Parent Access
→ Send your full name, email, and your Scout’s full name.

Visiting Troop 574?
→ Send your name, email, Scout’s name/age (if applicable), and preferred visit date.

2	BSA Adult & Youth- Troop 574- online membership application Link to the online BSA application for youth and adults. If you are already a BSA member transferring from a Pack or another Troop, you do not need to submit another application.
2.1	BSA Adult Application Paper Copy of the BSA Adult Application
2.2	BSA_Youth_Application Paper Copy of the BSA Youth Application
3	Code of Conduct Troop 574 Code of Conduct Please fill out, sign, and bring to your first meeting.
4	BSA - Medical Forms BSA Medical Forms. Parts A & B Must be completed prior to your first campout. Part C is only for the long campouts (Winter Camp, Summer Camp, High Adventures). Part C is filled out by a doctor. We recommend you take the form with you for your Scout’s annual physical. Most doctors are familiar with it. It is valid for one calendar year from date of signature.
5	How to Guide for Youth Protection Training Safeguarding Youth Training former Youth Protection Training is required for all adult leaders, volunteers, and any adults interacting with youth members within the troop. It should be completed before participating in any scouting activities. Training must be renewed every two years to ensure everyone is up to date on the latest policies and procedures regarding youth protection. Visit https://my.scouting.org/
6	New Scout Orientation Handbook The handbook details Troop activities like monthly campouts and high adventure trips, meeting structures, and roles of parents and leaders. It covers uniform requirements, camping equipment, and advancement procedures from Tenderfoot to Eagle Scout, stressing merit badges and leadership skills. Parental involvement is highlighted as crucial for supporting Scouts’ progress, uniform wear and participation are also included.
7	Payments & Troop Fees Zelle payments can be sent to: troop574tx@gmail.com Each Scout has a personal account managed by the troop. Troop deducts camp and activity fees automatically—please ensure the account has enough funds. The Troop Fee is paid annually for badges and troop expenses.

Information for Cub Scouts Joining Troop 574

If you're crossing over from Cub Scouts, here's what you need to know:

Cub Scouts crossing over from Packs do not need to complete the online application. Simply email us with your Scout's Name, Pack Number, date of birth and BSA ID.
Please inform us of your Arrow of Light ceremony date so Troop 574 representatives can be present to receive you.
Parents should ask the Pack Committee Chair to process the transfer in the BSA system.

Have questions or need further assistance? Feel free to reach out to us at troop574tx@gmail.com. We're here to support you every step of the way as you embark on your scouting adventure with Troop 574!

We look forward to scouting with you and your son!

Frequently Asked Questions for New Troop 574 Families

Welcome to Troop 574 of Carrollton, TX, one of the most established and welcoming Scout troops in North Texas. Celebrating over 65 years of outdoor adventure and leadership, we’re excited to introduce new families to the Scouts BSA experience. Below are answers to the most common questions families ask when exploring our program.

Scouting Basics

Q: Who can join Scouting?

A: Any boy or girl aged 11–17 for Scouts BSA. Families from Carrollton and surrounding areas are welcome.

Learn more or register at troop574.com/visitor-center/events.

Q: Can my child participate if they have special needs?

A: Yes. Leaders work with families to provide an inclusive, supportive experience.

Q: Can my child do Scouting and sports?

A: Absolutely! Conflicts happen, so communicate with leaders about scheduling adjustments for rank advancement.

The Scout’s Experience

Q: What will my son actually do in the troop?
A: Scouts in Troop 574 attend weekly Monday meetings and participate in monthly campouts. They practice outdoor skills, advance through Scout ranks, earn merit badges, and take part in fun, Scout-led activities. Whether it's building a fire, learning first aid, cooking outdoors, or planning a high-adventure trek, our Scouts are always learning and growing.

Q: My son doesn’t know anyone in the troop. Will he fit in?
A: Yes. Troop 574 uses the patrol method, which places each Scout in a small team of peers. These patrols form strong bonds and work together at meetings and campouts. New Scouts are also paired with a Troop Guide—an experienced Scout who helps them feel welcome and learn the basics.

Q: What if my son has never been camping before?
A: No prior experience is necessary. Most of our Scouts start with little or no camping background. We teach everything from pitching tents to outdoor cooking. Scouts learn by doing, and older youth and trained adults help every new member feel confident and prepared.

Q: What does “Scout-led” really mean?
A: Our troop is truly youth-led. Scouts elect their leaders, plan meetings, choose activities, and make key decisions. Adults are present to ensure safety, provide guidance, and support the youth leadership. This approach helps boys develop real-world leadership, communication, and planning skills.

Q: Does my child need to attend every single meeting and campout?
No, Scouts aren’t required to attend everything. However, the more they participate, the more they’ll get out of Scouting—advancing in rank, building friendships, and gaining leadership experience. Missing occasionally is fine (sports, school, and family come first), but consistent participation is the best path to success.

Parent Involvement and Time Commitment

Q: What is the weekly time commitment?
A: Troop 574 meets every Monday night at 7:00 PM at Holy Covenant United Methodist Church in Carrollton. Meetings are one and a half hour long. In addition to the weekly meeting, there is usually one weekend campout or day trip each month. Optional events like service projects or merit badge clinics may also be offered.

Q: Do I have to stay at weekly meetings?
A: No, most parents drop off and pick up. But you’re always welcome to observe or get involved!

Q: Am I required to volunteer or attend campouts as a parent?
A: No, but we welcome your help! Our troop thrives thanks to engaged parents. Whether you prefer behind-the-scenes support or attending outings, there are many ways to contribute. If you want to participate in overnight trips, the BSA requires adult volunteers to complete Youth Protection Training and register as adult leaders—a simple process we’re happy to help with.

Q: Can moms volunteer too?
A: Yes! Scouting is a family program. Moms and dads both serve as leaders, drivers, committee members, and mentors.

Costs and Gear

Q: What are the typical costs to join and participate?
A: Troop 574 is committed to keeping Scouting affordable and transparent. Costs include:

BSA National Registration Fee: Paid directly to BSA via online registration. (Currently $85/year for youth; subject to change.)
Troop 574 Annual Dues: Paid to the troop for awards, equipment, and program supplies.
- $60/year for Scouts transferring from another unit (subject to change)
- $70/year for brand-new Scouts to BSA (subject to change)
Monthly Campouts: Typically $30–$40 per trip, including food and campsite fees.
District and Council Events: Optional events like Camporee, First Aid Meet, and merit badge days range from $20 to $80.
Summer Camp and High Adventure: See below for more detail.

Fundraisers like popcorn sales help Scouts offset these costs.

Q: What gear does my Scout need to start?
A: Your Scout only needs two items to begin:

A Scouts BSA Uniform Shirt ("Class A")
A Scouts BSA Handbook

We recommend waiting to buy camping gear. Troop 574 provides a gear checklist, and we have loaner equipment available for new Scouts. (more details below)

Q: How do I make payments?
A: Troop 574 makes payments simple and transparent:

Zelle Payments: Send to troop574tx@gmail.com
Scout Accounts: Each Scout has a personal account managed by the troop.
- Camp and activity fees are automatically deducted from this account.
- Please make sure the account has enough funds before events.
Annual Troop Fee: Covers badges, awards, and troop program expenses.
Account Updates: Balances are updated monthly and can be viewed on TroopWebHost.

Tip: Paying into your Scout’s account in advance helps cover upcoming campouts and activities smoothly.

Summer Camp and High Adventure

Q: What is summer camp?
A: Troop 574 attends a week-long BSA summer camp each year—often out of state—for outdoor adventure and advancement. Scouts swim, climb, shoot archery, earn merit badges, and build lasting memories. Camp typically costs $300–$450, including food, lodging, program materials, and transportation. Fundraising available.

Q: What is high adventure?
A: High adventure is available for older Scouts (usually age 13+). These trips include backpacking, canoeing, caving, sailing, and other advanced outdoor experiences. Troop 574 participates in local treks and national bases like Philmont, Sea Base, and Northern Tier. These optional trips vary in cost depending on location and duration and offer unforgettable leadership and team-building challenges. More info here

Safety and Leadership

Q: How does the troop ensure my child is safe?
A: Safety is our highest priority. Troop 574 follows all BSA national policies, including:

Two-Deep Leadership: Two registered adults are present at all events.
Youth Protection Training (YPT): All adult leaders complete this required training. Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT)
The Buddy System: Scouts are always paired or in small groups.
Annual Medical Forms: Required for all youth and adults attending activities.
Certified Adults: Many leaders are trained in CPR, first aid, and wilderness safety.
Health and Safety more information

About Troop 574

Q: What makes Troop 574 different?

A: Troop 574 is one of Carrollton’s most established troops, with over 65 years of continuous service.

We are a mid-sized, Scout-led troop for boys ages 11–17. Being mid-sized gives Scouts more leadership opportunities, more attention to their individual needs, and a supportive environment where they can grow as people while having fun and learning new skills.

Our Scouts camp monthly, travel to exciting summer camps (often out-of-state), and explore advanced high adventure treks. All activities are led by trained adults. For specialized skills or merit badges, if our leaders are not experts, we take Scouts to district or council events, such as Camporee, Summer Camp, or Campsgiving, where qualified instructors lead the sessions. This ensures Scouts always learn from knowledgeable adults while staying safe.

We emphasize leadership, character development, and outdoor fun, and our alumni include many Eagle Scouts and lifelong friends.

Q: Where and when does the troop meet?
A: Troop 574 meets every Monday at 7:00 PM at:
Holy Covenant United Methodist Church
1901 E. Peters Colony Road
Carrollton, TX 75007

Q: Who can join Troop 574?
A: Any boy aged 11 to 17 may join our troop. We welcome families from Carrollton, Lewisville, Plano, The Colony, and beyond. If you can attend our weekly meetings, you’re welcome here—no matter your school or zip code.

Q: How can I learn more or visit a meeting?
A: We welcome new families year-round. You're invited to visit a troop meeting or attend one of our open house nights. To get started:

Email our

Scoutmaster: troop574.scoutmaster@gmail.com

Committee Chair: troop574tx@gmail.com.

Contat Us

Note: Troop 574 stays active year-round, including summer months. Meetings continue through the summer (unless we’re away at camp), so Scouts can stay engaged and connected.

New Scout Shopping List

When starting out in Troop 574, please don’t overspend on gear. Your Scout only needs a few basics to begin:

Scout Uniform Shirt (with included Circle Ten patches)
Scoutbook (Scouts BSA Handbook) – Don’t forget this!
Green pants or shorts (encouraged, but optional — they don’t need to be official Scout brand)

Do not purchase: sashes, ranks, or merit badges — those are earned and awarded by the troop.

Scout Shop

Lewisville Scout Shop 2305 South Hwy 121 Business #180, Lewisville, TX 75067

Dallas Scout Shop 8605 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX 75247

Camping Gear

We recommend waiting before buying camping gear.
Troop 574 has loaner equipment available for new Scouts.
For questions about equipment, ask our Quartermaster.

Be sure to attend our instructional packing classes before each campout. These sessions show Scouts and families what to bring, how to pack it, and how to be fully prepared for the outdoors.

Troop Camping Packing List & Day pack list

more info here

Scout Essentials

You’re going on your first camping trip or backpacking trek. What should you bring? Every packing list starts with these 10 items, and they’re called “essentials” for a reason. Then you’ll want to add other items depending on the outing.

THE 10 SCOUT OUTDOOR ESSENTIALS

The Scout Basic Essentials call for the following ten items. These items can help you stay comfortable, safe and prepared:

1. A pocketknife or multitool can be handy in a wide variety of situations. Use it to cut a cord or pieces of food, whittle a stake, tighten a screw and more. Keep your knife sharp and clean, and don’t forget to first earn your Whittling Chip (for older Cub Scouts) or Totin’ Chip (for Boy Scouts).

2. A first-aid kit can be a lifesaver. Literally. A few items will allow you to treat scratches, blisters and other minor injuries. They should also allow you to provide initial care while waiting for help for more serious injuries.

3. Bring extra clothing to match the weather. Temperatures can change during a trip. Have the clothing you need for warm days and cooler nights. Multiple layers are better than a single massive jacket, because layered clothing is adaptable to a wide range of temperatures.

4. Rain gear is very important. Rain can come in a hurry, and getting your clothes drenched is more than just uncomfortable, it can lead to hypothermia, a potentially fatal condition. Have your rain gear easily accessible.

5. A lightweight flashlight, headlamp or a rugged penlight is important for finding your way in the dark. Bring extra batteries, too.

6. Trail food is good for maintaining your energy. Make your own trail mix, bring a small bag of granola and pack a handful of energy bars. Bring more than you think you’ll need in case you get stuck (or lost) in the woods.

7. Water can prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Drink plenty of fluids, even in cold weather. Use a lightweight, unbreakable container with a secure lid. NALGENE

8. Matches and fire starters may be used to light fires for heat, or for signaling for help. Store matches or lighters in resealable plastic bags. You may not plan to need an open fire, but Be Prepared to build one in an emergency.

9. Sun protection might include sunblock, sunglasses, lip balm and a wide-brimmed hat. Look for an SPF of at least 30. Apply early in the day, and reapply often.

10. A map and compass are probably the most important tools you can carry in case you get lost. A topographic map will help you identify landmarks along the way. Review your route-finding skills before you leave so you’ll be sharp on the trail.

It’s a good idea to bring a daypack for your Scout Essentials, so you can grab it and go if you’re hiking during the campout.

CLOTHING

You should also pack clothing matched to the season. Check the weather for where you’re going to camp. It might be warm where you live, but the temperatures might be dropping where you’re going.

SLEEPING

Here are some items you may need at night, depending on the outing:

Tent
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad
Ground cloth
Pillow

KEEPING CLEAN

Here are some hygiene and toiletry items you may want to pack, depending on the outing:

Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Dental floss
Soap
Comb
Waterless hand cleaner
Small towel
Washcloth
Toilet paper
Trowel for digging cathole latrines

COOKING AND EATING

Here are some cooking and eating items you may want to pack, depending on the outing:

Mess kit
Large plastic cereal bowl or kitchen storage bowl
Spoon
Cup or insulated mug

Here are some extras you may want to pack, depending on the outing:

Watch
Camera
Notebook
Pen or pencil
Sunglasses
Small musical instrument
Swimsuit
Gloves
Whistle
Nylon cord
Insect repellent
Repair kit
Hiking stick or trekking poles
Binoculars
Fishing gear
Animal identification books, plant keys, geological studies, star charts or other guides

For car-camping where your campsite won’t be far from where you park, you can carry everything in a duffle bag. If you camp often, you’ll want to invest in a backpack so you can venture into the backcountry with all your gear.