One of the most proven successful ways to have new youth and adults explore the benefits of Scouting is to Bring a Friend to a meeting or event.
For non-member guests, it is an opportunity to try Scouting. They will receive a taste of our activities and experiences that are unique to Scouting.
For Scouting youth, it’s an opportunity to show off how super cool Scouting can be!
For the Group, it provides an opportunity to increase the number of youth in their Sections and to connect with parents who may choose to become Scouters.
What are the rules when a non-member friend is in attendance?
The Two Scouter Rule and Section Ratios must be maintained to include non-members in attendance. For reference see “The Two Scouter Rule and Section Ratios: Supervision for Scouting Programs.”
Non-member friends are welcome to participate in four weekly program meetings before being asked to register and pay fees.
The Section is responsible for making certain they are prepared for the non-member’s visit by ensuring The Two Scouter Rule and Section Ratios are maintained to include the non-member friend in attendance.
How should Scouters prepare for their non-member guests?
Scouters should prepare by ensuring they communicate with the non-member youth’s parents prior to the meeting or event. Scouters should be aware if the non-member youth has any special needs and/or concerns prior to attending an event as a guest.
Also, Scouters should be prepared to explain to non-member’s parents how to move forward with youth registration if they choose to join the section and to answer questions about registration fees, program information and how to register as a Volunteer.
What does a great BAF (Bring-A-Friend) event look like?
A great BAF event should be fun, engaging, and reflect Scouting’s values. It’s best to choose activities that showcase the program, like:
- Winter Challenge: Use pre-curated activities associated with The French Carnaval Adventure
- Community Activities: Scavenger hunts or nature walks.
- Seasonal Events: Winter play days organized by the kids.
- Classic Scouting: Campfires with marshmallows or outdoor games.
Is it mandatory Groups to Register for the Bring a Friend Campaign?
No, Groups are not required to register for the Bring a Friend Campaign. However, registration is encouraged to take full advantage of the campaign's benefits and incentives.
How do groups receive the $50? And how soon after registration can we expect the payment?
The $50 will be transferred to the group's bank account in the same way as their portion of the registration fee. You can expect the payment within a few weeks.
How do Groups qualify for the $500 gift card draw?
Groups first need to sign up to participate in the campaign and then will receive an entry for every new youth who registers as a member in their Group between March 3 and April 20, 2025. Groups will not receive an entry for every youth joining as a friend.
How do parents connect with registered groups?
Parents can sign up HERE, and within two to four business days, a Scouts Canada representative will connect them with a local Scout group.
How will Groups report the youth who registered because of their Bring a Friend Campaign and gain an entry to the $500 draw?
This form will be developed later and sent directly to the Groups who register to participate
Who follows up after a BAF event, and when?
Follow-up should happen within a few days of the event. Ideally, the Group Commissioner or Section Scouter reaches out with a personalized thank-you and next steps for signing up
How should we follow up with interested families?
Consider using templated emails to close the registration. These can include:
- A thank-you for attending.
- A reminder of the benefits of Scouting.
- Information on how to register or ask questions.
Are all non-member friends welcome to participate?
Non-member friends are welcome to participate if they are the same age as the other youth in the Section they are a guest of. Non-member friends must also agree to abide by the Code of Conduct and be respectful of the Section’s participants and Scouters.
Can parents stay and participate while their child is attending in a BAF capacity?
Yes, parents are welcome to stay and participate while their child attends as part of the Bring a Friend program. They can act as Parent Helpers during the meeting their child is attending, provided they meet the required volunteer screening criteria. Parents are permitted to participate in 3-5 Scouting activities before they must become a Scouts Canada member.
If a parent stays, how does that impact ratio?
If a parent stays with their child during a Bring-a-Friend (BAF) event, it does not impact the participant-to-scouter ratio. The parent’s presence is not counted as a participant in the ratio, as they are considered a support or guardian for their child. The ratio requirements are based solely on the number of youth participants and scouters present.
Can the parent of a non-member friend act as a Parent Helper for the Group?
Yes! The parent of a non-member youth can act as a Parent Helper during the meeting their non-member youth is attending if they meet the required Volunteer Screening Criteria.
Can BAF participants join in on a camping or overnight adventure?
Non-member friends are also welcome to attend overnight camp before being required to register and paying fees.
Bring-a-friend to Camp is acceptable when:
- ALL camp information has been approved by the Group
- ALL parents have complete information about the camp
- The camp is held at a Scouts Canada property
- A Hold Harmless form has been completed and submitted by the non-member
- At the conclusion of the camp, the non-member youth either registers or discontinues their involvement with the Section.
Note: The same rule with meetings also applies at camp. The Two Scouter Rule and Section Ratios must be maintained to include non-members in attendance.
What forms/documents need to be filled out for a youth friend to attend?
Non-member friends should bring any information requested by the Section Scouters prior to the meeting or event. For example: Section Scouters may request non-member youth provide parent’s contact information, emergency contact information, allergies, etc. Communication is key! Non-member friends must ensure they communicate with the Group Scouter prior to attending any meeting or event.
Do Bring-a-Friend (BAF) participants need a uniform to participate?
No, Bring-a-Friend (BAF) participants do not need a uniform to participate. They are encouraged to dress appropriately for the activities planned, such as wearing comfortable clothing and outdoor gear if needed. If they decide to join Scouting after their trial experience, they can then purchase a uniform as part of their membership.
Is there a discount/is the rate prorated after attending a BAF event?
No, there is no discount or prorated rate after attending a Bring-a-Friend (BAF) event. The full membership fee applies should the participant decide to join Scouts following their trial experience.
Does my Group have to participate in the Winter Carnival Challenge to register for the Bring-a-Friend incentive contest?
No, your Group does not have to participate in the Winter Carnival Challenge to register for the Bring-a-Friend incentive contest. Any Scouting activities can be used as part of the campaign to invite friends, and the incentive contest is open to all eligible activities, not just the Winter Carnival Challenge.
Help Centre
Still need help? Please feel free to contact the Scouts Canada Help Centre:
