Help Scouts Learn, Grow, and Lead
You don’t have to be an outdoor expert or have a Scouting background to make a difference. Bring your interests, your experience, and a willingness to help.
Across Fresno, Madera, Kings, and Tulare counties, Sequoia Council volunteers help Scouts discover new skills, build confidence, and serve their communities. Whether you want to lead activities, support a unit committee, or share a special skill, there is a place for you in Scouting.
Start With a Conversation
Talk with your pack, troop, crew, or ship about how you would like to help. Unit leaders can explain available positions, the time involved, and the training for each role.
Not connected with a unit? Call Sequoia Council at 559-320-2100. We can help you find a starting point.
Steps to Becoming an Adult Leader
Youth safety comes first. Becoming an adult leader includes an application, required training, local approval, and several layers of screening. Some steps may take place at the same time as your application is processed.
1. Complete an Adult Application
Work with your unit to complete the Scouting America adult application for the position you will serve in.
Provide all requested information, including references and background information. Answer the screening questions fully and accurately, and complete the required background check authorization.
2. Complete Safeguarding Youth Training
Before you can become a registered adult leader, complete Safeguarding Youth Training through My.Scouting.org.
The training explains how to recognize, respond to, and help prevent abuse, along with the safeguards adults must follow in Scouting.
This training is required every year. You can create a My.Scouting account and take the course before you are registered.
3. Complete California AB 506 Requirements
All registered Sequoia Council adult volunteers must complete mandated reporter training and a Live Scan fingerprint background check.
To complete this requirement:
Take General Training for Volunteers through the California Mandated Reporter Training website.
Save your completion certificate as a PDF and follow the council’s instructions to upload it.
Complete and sign the council’s AB 506 Background Check Consent Form.
Download the Sequoia Council Live Scan form and use it at your fingerprint appointment.
4. References and Local Approval
Your unit and chartered organization review your application and references to help determine whether the position is a good fit.
The chartered organization is the community organization that sponsors your unit. Its Chartered Organization Representative must approve adult leader registrations.
5. Criminal Background Check
Scouting America requires a criminal background check for adult leaders. This check is conducted through a nationally recognized third-party provider as part of the registration process.
This is separate from the California Live Scan requirement listed above.
Complete and sign the background check authorization on the last page of your adult application.
6. Volunteer Screening Database Check
Scouting America checks applicants against its Volunteer Screening Database before registration.
This screening helps prevent individuals who have been prohibited from participating because of known or suspected abuse or misconduct from registering in Scouting.
7. Complete Training for Your Role
Complete the training that prepares you for your volunteer position. My.Scouting offers online learning plans for many roles. Some positions also require in-person or outdoor training.
Adults who work directly with youth must also complete Hazardous Weather Training, which must be renewed every two years.
Ask your unit leader or Sequoia Council which courses you need.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact your unit leader to discuss a volunteer position and begin the application process.
For help with registration, training, or AB 506 requirements, call the Sequoia Council office at 559-320-2100.
