Theory of Leadership

Troop 533 is an organization run by boys under the direction of their Scoutmaster. They are assisted by their assistant Scoutmasters, merit badge counselors and other leadership in learning the skills necessary to advance through the ranks and earn merit badges.

The Troop Committee supports the Scoutmaster and the Troop leaders by organizing fund raising events and doing much of the behind the scenes work that makes the troop function.  Our Chartered Organization is the Andover United Methodist Church . The Charter Organization Representative is the liaison between the Troop and the Chartered Organization.

The concept of boy leadership is central to our mission in Troop 533. Unlike a cub scout pack where parents take leadership positions, our boy scout program requires the parents to step back from these roles and allow the boys to lead themselves. This transition can sometimes be difficult for new parents and kids, but the end results are worth the effort.

Troop Leadership Roles

All youth members of the troop will gain experience in various leadership roles during the course of their membership. Even though there may be some reluctance to assume leadership positions by the younger scouts, parents should encourage and counsel their children on the benefits and responsibilities that leadership experience provides.

We Are All Volunteers

All of the adults assisting Troop 533 are volunteers; the only way the Troop can function is if everyone does their fair share. We believe all parents should be prepared to assist in any way possible by contributing to the success of our program.

Additionally, we need help from time to time with ScoutHouse and equipment maintenance, and in helping to prepare for events such as Courts of Honor and Boards of Review. If parents have a profession or hobby that may be interesting or educational, they may sign up as Merit Badge Counselor with the Quivira Council.

Join the Committee

All parents are encouraged to join our Troop Committee, which meets on the second Tuesday of each month. Come and get acquainted, become a committee member, help make the decisions which affect your boy's scout troop.

Dues for registered adults are $15 per year and include insurance during Scout functions and activities, as well as a subscription to Scouting Magazine.

Become An Assistant Scoutmaster

Most of our Scoutmasters began as parents of children in the troop. We have a proud tradition of very long membership among adult leaders.

If you have an interest in becoming an assistant Scoutmaster and working closely with the boys on their skills and advancements, please let the Scoutmaster know and we will be happy to have your assistance and support.

The Boy Scout Program offers excellent workshops and instruction for adult leaders. Scoutmaster Fundamentals and Scoutmaster Training are offered at various times within the Quivira Council .  Many of our adult leaders have also attended Wood Badge, Youth Protection, Safety Afloat, University of Scouting and other valuable programs designed to provide the skills adults need to offer guidance to youth members.

Emphasize 100% Attendance

Our troop has a reputation for STRONG attendance at all meetings, campouts and special events. We put a special emphasis on going camping every month.

Since 1948, we have learned that parents who get directly involved with their children in scouting get far better results. Dropping off your child week after week without participating can be a disadvantage to your child, yourself and the troop. Regular participation by parents can send the message to your child that your commitment to the scouting program is important.

Our Legacy of Community Service

One of the most valuable aspects of our scouting program is the opportunity to participate in community service projects. Since 1948, the scouts of Troop 533 have been ready, willing and able to lend a hand in their community when called upon in the support of worthy causes.  All Troop 533 scouts are required to participate in community service projects, both as a group and individually from time to time.

Community Service Hours

We may be asked to help clean up the debris, collect donations of canned goods to benefit disaster relief or to volunteer our services for charity events. Sometimes we are invited to provide color guard services at public functions or to make a special presentation of our unique collection of American Flags dating back to the revolution that forged the birth of our nation.

School Requirements

Many schools require students to participate in community service opportunities as a condition of graduation. Your scouting program meets these requirements, and some scouts have received special recognition for their participation above and beyond the minimum requirements in the form of special awards from their school and scholarship opportunities.

Scout Advancement Service Projects

Many scouts have pro-actively identified projects of a volunteer nature to which they can apply their skills of leadership, planning and management toward a positive outcome. Every Eagle Scout in the history of our troop has organized and executed a well developed community service project as the final requirement to earn that ultimate rank.

All scouts are encouraged to participate in the Eagle projects of their troop members. When project tasks require a team effort, all scouts should be prepared to lend a hand. With this spirit of companionship and cooperation, you can count on your fellow scouts to be there and help make your Eagle project a great success.

Scout Spirit

One basic aspect of advancement in Troop 533 is known as "Scout Spirit." During the advancement process, you will meet with your scoutmaster for an assessment of your skills and to make sure you are prepared for your presentation to the advancement committee. At this time, your Scoutmaster will determine if you have exhibited "Scout Spirit" in terms of your attendance, your uniform inspections and your participation in troop events and community service opportunities.

A Habit For Life

Scouts that are involved in community service projects as young men are more likely to be involved in community service later in life. The lessons of creating a balance between Service to Self and Service to Others and the habit of volunteering one's time to worthwhile efforts is a noble aspect of good citizenship in the community.

When a scout is an active participant in service projects, he brings honor to himself and his troop, and to Boy Scouts everywhere. Wearing the uniform of a scout is a declaration of your commitment to living your life according to the scout law. Community service is an outward and visible way to show your respect for these values while helping others in a selfless manner.