Family Troops

Southwest Florida Council

What Are Family Troops?

Family Troops are an officially approved Scouts BSA unit structure in which boys and girls participate in the same troop, operating in gender-based patrols and following all Scouts BSA advancement requirements.

This model allows families to enjoy a unified Scouting experience while maintaining Youth Protection standards and the patrol method.

Beginning December 15, 2025, chartered organizations in the Southwest Florida Council may:

• Start a new Family Troop
• Convert an existing Scouts BSA troop to a Family Troop
• Continue operating separate boy and girl troops — all options are fully supported

Why Choose the Family Troop Model?

Benefits for Families

• One meeting schedule for the entire family
• Shared transportation and communication
• Increased family involvement and retention

Benefits for Chartered Organizations

• Greater volunteer flexibility
• Improved youth recruitment in smaller communities

Benefits for Youth

• Larger and more vibrant troop program
• More leadership opportunities
• Stronger patrol competition and teamwork

How Family Troops Work

• Recommended separate gender-based patrols  (boy patrols & girl patrols)
• One troop committee supporting the entire unit
• Identical advancement requirements for all Scouts
• Campouts, meetings, and service as one family troop

Youth Protection Requirements

• Two-deep leadership at all times
• A registered female adult is required when girls are present
• All BSA Barriers to Abuse must be followed

Resources for Families & Leaders

• Family Troop Decision Guide
• Family Troop Best Practices
• Converting a Troop to a Family Troop
• Intent to Convert Form