The FREE Rank Advancement incentive program for units involved in the Friends of Scouting campaign will continue this year. Follow these simple steps to get free rank advancement patches for the Scouts in your unit:
 
1. Have your unit's Friends of Scouting presentation scheduled before the end of the year.

2. Have 75% of your families participate in Friends of Scouting by turning in a donation pledge card.

3. Achieve your unit's Friends of Scouting financial goal by April 30.
 
Meet these 3 requirements and your Pack, Troop, Team, or Crew will receive all rank advancement patches FREE from the Northeast Illinois Council Scout Shop for 1 year, upon qualifying. 

The annual Friends of Scouting campaign is an opportunity for communities, businesses and families to support the Scouting Movement in the Northeast Illinois Council.  A unit presentation allows parents and leaders understanding of the resources required to run the entire district and council calendar of events.  It allows parents to make a suitable donation as they recognize the value Scouting offers their child.

During the months of January through April, each Pack, Troop, and Crew  should schedule a "Family" Friends of Scouting presentation. This presentation explains to parents how our Council is financed and educates them about the programs, services, leader training, and camping facilities the council provides with their Friends of Scouting donation.