Thoughts on Boy Scout troops, please (Austin, West: career, to work, adult)

[northcentralmom]

Our 11-year-old son is looking for a Scout troop, so we're looking at several in Central/West/North Austin.

Does anyone have experience with any of these troops: 511, 49, 410 or 1?

The ideal troop would be mid-size, organized and active (lots of campouts).

Thanks for your thoughts!

[G Grasshopper]

I can't comment on those troops, but my son had a long and great career in scouting, and I know that what makes the difference is the adult leader. Be sure there is an emphasis on a "boy lead" group. That is, one in which older boys are active in the leadership, decision making and mentoring of younger boys. If you get a troop where the adult leaders are on a power trip, you will be in trouble, and your son will not gain nearly so much from the experience (leadership, maturity, self sufficiency, self motivation, etc.)
It is always a good thing to visit the troop first and talk to the leaders before making a commitment.

[woodinvilleguy]

As a cub scout leader, I would suggest that you visit their troop meetings and get a feel for it. If you want it to work a certain way, volunteer and help make whatever troop you join even better. A lot of times the troop leaders are swamped because nobody is willing to help.