Meaningful Community Service Without the Hassle
3-minute read:
What is Youth Squad®?
Youth Squad® is service learning program that brings community service to a whole new level. Designed for anyone; families, individuals, troops and youth groups can participate.
Is there a cost to join the Youth Squad® program?
There is absolutely no cost to join the Youth Squad® program. We keep things budget-friendly so everyone can participate without a registration fee. You only pay for any reward patches and supplies you choose to use. Most of the patches are priced around $.75, making it easy to plan a full year of service for under $20 per participant.
Do we have to wear uniforms in a Youth Squad®?
Uniforms are 100% optional in our squads. We want you to focus on the fun rather than the formal gear. Most leaders find that a simple t-shirt works perfectly for messy craft days and outdoor service projects.
How do I know which level my child or group should be in?
You place your child or group in a level based on their current school grade. We have 6 specific levels, covering all grades from preschool through adult. Check our level guidelines to see exactly where your child or group fits. This ensures the activities and service projects are just right for their age and skill level. We want everyone to feel successful.
Can Youth Squad® activities complement other youth group programs?
You can absolutely run this alongside your existing youth group or other community programs. Many leaders use the Youth Squad® program to fulfill service project requirements found in other organization’s guidelines. It’s a great way to add more “hands-on” fun to your meetings without adding extra stress. Just pick a patch program® that fits your current project or goals and get started today!
Where do I find the requirements for the Youth Squad® patches?
You will find all patch requirements right on the website. We provide over 100 free PDF download sheets that outline exactly what your kids need to do to earn their next award. There 1-page guides are simple to follow and designed to be completed in a single 60-minute meeting. Grab your favorite ideas and start today!
Can it be part of our Girl Scout program?
Yes! You can even use the Youth Squad® program to help your girls earn their higher-level awards. And yes, everything is “girl-led”. The program is designed to be self-guided. Everything is online for participants to follow along and make their own choices about their service goals.
Is Youth Squad® only for girls or can boys join too?
Youth Squad® is open to every child regardless of gender. We designed this to be an inclusive community where boys and girls can serve together in one big group. About 45% of our new squads are co-ed, making it a perfect solution for families with siblings who want to participate in the same activities. Everyone is welcome at our crafting table!
What happens if we can’t meet every month?
Nothing bad happens if you miss a month! Our program is completely flexible, so you can meet 4 times a year or every single week. You lead at your own pace and choose the projects that work for your family’s calendar. It is all about having fun together.
