Merit badge counselor information

What you need to know when becoming a merit badge counselor for Troop 380.

Quick resources

Step 1 – Before you start

We recommend you do a little review or prep before you sign up.

  • Check out the merit badges Scouting America offers.
  • We recommend that you attend a Merit Badge Counselor Training.

Helpful resources

Note: Volunteers must have the education and skills needed to provide instruction and to evaluate performance.

Step 2 – Fill out the necessary forms and training

Even if already registered, every counselor must submit an adult application for the position of merit badge counselor (code 42). There are no exceptions.

Merit badge counselors who are re-registering need not complete a new application.

Necessary forms and training

Step 3 – Turn in forms and pay

Write a check for $50.00. Make the check out to Golden Empire Council.

Submit your forms and payment to the Merit Badge List Coordinator (Mary B.).

She will make a copy of them and take them to the Golden Empire Council office.

When you are approved, you should get an email from the council.

Please forward this email to MSMAL3200@AOL.COM.

What’s next?

Your paperwork will be processed and reviewed by the council. There may be some follow-ups.

Once approved, merit badge counselor status expire 1 year from the time they are approved. The council sends out emails asking if you’d like to continue to be a counselor.

The Merit Badge List Coordinator will contact you before it expires. You will have to pay an additional $50 annually.

Step 4 – Start counseling scouts

Here’s the process of being a merit badge counselor:

A Scout develops an interest in a subject.

  1. Scouts indicate their interest and must discuss the badge with their unit leader.
  2. The unit leader documents the meeting (blue card) and provides at least one counselor.
  3. The Scout contacts a counselor.
  4. The Scout and counselor meet—often several times (reminder – two-deep leadership).
  5. The requirements are fulfilled. The counselor initials requirements as they are completed.
  6. The counselor approves completion and signs the blue card.
  7. The Scout returns the signed blue card to their unit leader for signature (advancement ASMs)
  8. The unit leader gives the Scout the applicant record section of the blue card.
  9. The unit reports the merit badge as advancement.
  10. The merit badge is presented (both at the troop meeting, and at the court of honor).

Your role as a merit badge counselor

Interview the Scout to determine:

  • Their preparedness
  • Their current knowledge
  • Their interest

In subsequent meetings:

  • Evaluate progress
  • Review completed work

Coaching

  • Teach required skills
  • Provide opportunities to practice
  • Provide encouragement,and praise when appropriate
  • Encourage goal setting and provide help and support in reaching goals
  • Evaluate progress and respond accordingly

Merit badge requirements – no more, no less

Find current requirements on the scouting website: https://www.scouting.org/skills/merit-badges/all/

Are the requirements flexible?

No. They MUST be fulfilled as written.

No council, committee, district, unit, or individual has the authority to add to, or subtract from, advancement requirements.

There are limited exceptions relating only to youth members with disabilities. For details see section 10, “Advancement for Members With Special Needs.”

Wording matters!

“Show,” “demonstrate,” “describe,” “make,” “list,” etc., must be taken literally.