Fast Start Training

When new leaders are selected, it is essential that they receive immediate information that will help them get started. Proper training lays the groundwork for success in their leadership roles. This training will help new leaders understand what is expected and establish effective meeting patterns so that the Scouts and their families can enjoy a quality program from the start.

Fast Start Training is designed for new leaders to give them a quick program overview. This training will provide the leader with an immediate comfort level and enable them to say, "I can do this!" Fast Start Training should be the first step for any new volunteer and is to be delivered immediately after a new leader registers with the unit,  and before he or she meets with any youth member.

As the first step in the training continuum, Fast Start Training is meant to provide all the information and resources for new leaders to conduct their first meeting, along with guidance for the meetings that follow. All new leaders should be given the Fast Start materials as soon as they are recruited and are encouraged to participate in Basic Leader Training and district roundtables. Self-study, rather than group training, is the preferred method for Fast Start Training. This gives the new leader the opportunity to learn at his or her own pace.

Video-Based Training

Fast Start is a short, video-based training program designed to provide specific meeting planning information related to the leader's volunteer position. The video demonstrates actual meetings that new leaders may use as models for conducting their own first meetings. The Leader Fast Start Viewer Guide is used with the video to enhance learning and provide an additional resource that stays with the leader. The viewer guide includes this same information in written form, providing a "road map" for planning the first meeting.

The Fast Start video is available from the local council service center on videocassette and CD-ROM or from your district training representative.

Internet-Based Training

This interactive computer-based training delivers the same information as video-based training. It is an additional resource that units can use to ensure that all leaders have an opportunity to complete Fast Start Training as soon as possible, and it will always be available to leaders who would like to retake the course to refresh their knowledge and keep up-to-date.

Take Fast Start Training Online

Follow-Up

The video, viewer guide, and online training are designed to be used alone by the new leader, but it is a good idea for someone from the unit (or, for new units, someone from the district staff) to contact the new leader within two or three days to find out how things are going and to answer any questions. This is also a great opportunity to invite the new leader to participate in Basic Leader Training and District Roundtables.