From what I have seen at the meetings, many of our newer scouts are very anxious to advance in rank. Once you get past First Class, there is something you need to do that is both important for your rank and for the community. This would be volunteering(community) and  receiving service hours(for you). For ranks Star and up, you need at least 6 hours of service. Volunteering is a good way to show what BSA does for our community, but it is also terrific advertisement for our troop. While doing the greater good for our area, you will sometimes have potential scouts ask us. All in all, service is needed for ranking up, it is wonderful support for our community, and is great way for our troop to shine.  There are many opportunities coming up including Geocaching with Cub Scouts, Highway NN Trash Pick Up and Maxwell Street Days.  So join us and volunteer! ~ Victor