Dens
What are Dens?
A Den is a group of Cub Scouts organized by grade. Dens are typically comprised of 4-10 scouts. The Den collectively works towards earning their rank each year.
The Den is run by the Den Leader and in some instances can have one or more Assistant Den Leaders. All Den Leaders and Assistant Den Leaders need to be registered with Scouts BSA and cleared Serra volunteers. All adults registered with Scouts BSA have to complete a background check and have to have completed Youth Protection Training.
There are 6 ranks in Cub Scouting: Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light (AOLs). The highest achievement in Cub Scouting is the Arrow of Light. The Arrow of Light patch is the only Cub Scout patch that can be worn on the Scouts BSA uniform after the Cub Scout "crosses over" and advances to Scouting America.
Lions are Kindergarten Cub Scouts. Lion year focuses on self-discovery: how do I fit into the world around me? Lions learn about self-care, self-reliance, and self-confidence.
Tigers are first grade Cub Scouts. Tiger year focuses on TEAMWORK. Scouts learn what it means to be part of a group and how they can contribute their own talents to the greater good in their family, school, church, and community.
Wolves are second grade Cub Scouts. Wolves continue to build on the "Pack" mindset. Their focus is how the whole can be greater than the sum of its parts.
Bears are 3rd grade Cub Scouts. Bears have established their "den" and can now rely on their strength as a team to focus on growing their own individual skills. Bear year introduces first aid, knife skills, and the beginnings of leadership opportunities in their den and pack.
Webelos are 4th Grade Cub Scouts. Webelos stands for WE BE LOyal Scouts. Webelos year focuses on developing leadership skills and independence, learning to rely on themselves and their den mates instead of adult intervention.
AOLs stands for Arrow of Light. These are 5th Grade Cub Scouts. Arrow of Light is the highest rank awarded in Cub Scouts and marks the end of the Cub Scout journey. Scouts who earn this rank have demonstrated skills in leadership, civic duty, community service, safety, first aid, and personal fitness. They are ready to move on to a Scouting America troop.