2025-2026 Dues Letter

Hello Troop 97 Families!

As we gear up for an exciting and activity-filled 2025–2026 scouting year, I want to share some important updates about how annual dues will be collected.

Key Change in National Registration

Scouting America's registration system has shifted away from a calendar-year model. Previously, dues were prorated based on when a scout joined during the year. Now, each scout’s renewal date will be tied to their original sign-up date, with automatic renewals each year on that anniversary.

How This Affects You

Given this change, we will be splitting our dues into two components.  

1. The Troop 97 Dues - These cover troop-specific expenses such as meetings, courts of honor, awards, and supplies.

   • Due Date: November 12th, 2025

   • Amount: $135 to $145

   • Payment:

   • $135 via Cash or Check - Payable to Troop 97 New City and handed to Mr. Demasi at any of the fall Troop meetings

   • $140 via Venmo - (@BoyScoutTroop97)

   • $145 via Paypal - (scan the QR code below)

     

     
     

2. The Council and National Dues - These fees go directly to Scouting America and support the infrastructure that makes scouting possible.

3. Due Date: Based on your scout’s individual join date; you'll receive reminders directly from National

4. Amount: $165 to $235

   • $165–$185 before November 30

   • $215–$235 after December 1, due to the $50 increase announced by Council

5. Payment: Paid directly through the Scouting America portal when prompted via email

To help offset the Council’s increase, Troop 97 will not raise our own dues this year.

Next Steps

To stay active in the Troop, please complete both of the following:

1. Pay Troop 97 dues by November 12

2. Respond to your Scouting America renewal email when it arrives

We understand that changes like this can be confusing, and we’re here to help. If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to reach out at troop97chair@gmail.com.

Thank you for your continued support. We’re looking forward to another great year with your scouts!

Yours in Scouting, 

Mr. Demasi