The troop owns a 2004 International Bus and sufficient camping equipment; tents, dining flys, cooking equipment, axes, saws, shovels, lanterns.

Parent Participation is always needed and welcome. Areas where we need parent help: Become an adult leader within the troop. Serve on the troop committee, supporting the troop�s program. Attend camping trips. Serve as merit badge counselor. Help direct traffic at St. John Paul II Parish Picnic Work at Troop�s annual Flower sale Please download and fill out a parent participation form

There is a one-time fee of $80.00, for a scouts first year with Troop 243, paid in two payments. After the first year, annual dues are $224 paid in two payments. Proceeds from fundraising reduces this cost. For the last few years, dues have been $20 every 6 months.

Full Scout Uniform - We stress the importance of PROPER UNIFORMING. Scouts should wear scout pants (or shorts), scout belt and a scout shirt with proper patches. This uniform should be worn to all meetings, and all camp outs. You can buy uniforms at the Scout Shop, located in the Sam Swope Scout Service Center. "Experienced" uniforms can be found at yard sales, at Goodwill or at other thrift stores. Our troop has an "experienced" uniform collection, available in the cabinet, in our meeting room. The Official Boy Scout Handbook - "Bring to every troop meeting and campout." Sleeping Bag - Warm to at least 20 degrees with an extra blanket in the winter. Eating kit - Optional - Plate, bowl, knife, fork and spoon. Drinking - A cup is required for all campouts and a water bottle would be handy. Optional - pocketknife - Before carrying a pocketknife, a scout must prove he can use a knife, axe, and saw wisely and safely. When proven, he will be awarded a "Totin’ Chip" - a card that states that he has the right to carry and use such tools. When a Scout has a knife he should also have the "Totin’ Chip" in his possession. With the exception of a few very specific campouts, no electronics are allowed on Troop 243 campouts.

Troop 243 provides opportunities for scouts to help the troop raise funds. Proceeds of fundraising efforts are first directed to the troop. Any excess funds are distributed to all scouts, to reduce dues, reduce the cost of summer camp or to reduce the cost of our summer high adventure trip.