Member Retention
Membership Chair: Retention
Section titled “Membership Chair: Retention”Overview
Section titled “Overview”Keeping Scouts in the pack is as important as recruiting new ones. Families drop out for many reasons — busy schedules, feeling disconnected, cost concerns, or just drifting away. The Membership Chair tracks who is at risk and intervenes early.
Tracking Dropouts
Section titled “Tracking Dropouts”- Monitor den attendance (den leaders track this in Scoutbook)
- Flag Scouts who miss 2 or more consecutive events without explanation
- Check in with their den leader: is this family disengaging?
- Reach out to the family personally — a direct, caring contact is more effective than an automated reminder
Common Reasons for Dropping Out (and responses)
Section titled “Common Reasons for Dropping Out (and responses)”| Reason | Response |
|---|---|
| Too busy / schedule conflicts | Remind them meetings are flexible; ask if a different den schedule would help |
| Cost concerns | Connect them with Treasurer — Scout accounts, hardship assistance available |
| Feeling unwelcome or disconnected | Assign a “buddy family” in the den; invite to a social event |
| Scout not enjoying it | Talk to the den leader about adjusting activities; sometimes a den change helps |
| Family conflict with leadership or other families | Escalate to Cubmaster/Committee Chair; address the root cause |
End-of-Year Re-enrollment
Section titled “End-of-Year Re-enrollment”At recharter time, the Membership Chair works with the Committee Chair to:
- Review which Scouts are renewing
- Personally reach out to families who are uncertain
- Ensure every family understands the value of continuing
Following Up with Lapsed Members
Section titled “Following Up with Lapsed Members”Scouts who drop out are potential future members (or future adult volunteers). After a Scout drops out:
- Send a kind note or call expressing you hope to see them back
- Don’t pressure — just keep the door open
- If they moved, connect them with a pack near their new home
Resources
Section titled “Resources”docs/Training/Positions/Membership Coordinator/Membership Chair Guide.md- BSA New Member Coordinator training (available through your council)
Used In
Section titled “Used In”| Resource Used In | Type |
|---|---|
| Member Experience Coordinator | Role |