415 North 2nd Street (Route 31) St Charles, IL 60174
Advancement Central
Programs
Guide to Advancement
The definitive source for the mechanics of advancement across all Program levels. Always consult the Guide when questions arise regarding rank advancement, boards of review, merit badges.
Cub Scout Advancement
The Cub Scout program is centered primarily in the den, the home, and the neighborhood, but often takes place in the outdoors. It leads to advancement through six ranks, culminating in achieving the Arrow of Light and advancing into Scouts BSA.
Scouts BSA Advancement
Advancement at this level presents a Scout with a series of challenges in a fun and educational manner. As he completes the requirements he achieves the three aims of Scouting: to develop character, to train in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and to develop physical and mental fitness.
Sea Scout Advancement
Sea Scouts has its own distinct language, customs, and advancement track. Each level marks progressive growth as a seaman and leader, culminating in the prestigious Quartermaster rank.
Venturing Advancement
Venturing is for young men and women who are 14 through 20 years old, or who are 13 and have completed the eighth grade. It offers young people adventure with a purpose that serves to build character, promote citizenship, and develop physical and mental fitness. Venturing youth earn Awards in recognition of their advancement.
Scoutbook Plus
From the first knot tied to final hours of service performed, the Scouting experience is a journey like none other. And Scoutbook is your go-to tool to ensure not a moment is missed – tracking advancement, milestone achievements and all the fun along the way.
If your pack, troop, crew, or ship is already using Scoutbook, Login to get started. If not, find out how to set up a unit in Scoutbook.
The Next Level
Disabilities Awareness
Youth with physical disabilities and youth and adults with developmental or cognitive challenges are welcome in Scouting America. Three Fires Council is committed to providing an inclusive Scouting experience for our members with special needs.
STEM
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is an initiative by the BSA to encourage the natural curiosity of youth members and their sense of wonder about these fields through existing programs. From archery to welding, Scouts can’t help but enjoy the wide range of STEM-related activities. To support this initiative, the BSA developed the Nova Awards program so that youth members have fun and receive recognition for their efforts. Visit the TFC Calendar to find upcoming STEM-related activities.
Life to Eagle
The pinnacle of Scouting is for a young man to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. To earn his Eagle, a Scout must demonstrate his commitment to learning, provide leadership, develop outdoor skills and provide selfless service to his community. We’ve provided a set of tools, guides, forms and essential links to assist Parents and Scouts along their Trail to Eagle.
Merit Badges
The Merit Badge Program is at the very heart of Scouting. A Scout may chose from over 130 badges across an expansive number of topics – from the great outdoors, to STEM to hobbies and sports pursuits – there’s a merit badge that will appeal to his passions and interests. Visit the TFC Calendar for year-round merit badge opportunities.
Scouting.org has a great page describing the Merit Badge Program. You can read it here.
Three Fires Council Merit Badge University
Three Fires Council Merit Badge University (MBU) is held in February and May each year. When MBU began 29 years ago – less than 100 Scouts attended. Today, over 1,500 Scouts from all over the United States attend this event, making our MBU one of the largest in the Nation. MBU is an all day event providing opportunity to learn and earn merit badges. MBU in February offers over 80 merit badge and MBU in May offers over 50 merit badges. Prerequisites are identified and should be done ahead of time if possible or can be finished up after MBU. Scouts should read the Merit badge book and come prepared. The MB Counselor will check off the prerequisites that they have done outside of class when they show proof of completion, The other requirements will be done in class.
Adult Recognition and Awards
Our volunteer parents and uniformed leaders deserve recognition for the countless hours they give to the youth of Three Fires Council. From service and religious affiliation to outdoor activities to conservation and leadership at the unit, District and Council levels – there are tons of ways to recognize and celebrate the contributions of our selfless volunteers. Visit Scouting America‘s Awards Central for all the details.
TFC Advancement Chairpersons
| Name | Position | Contact | |
| Bob Charles | TFC Advancement Chair | 630-983-9129 | |
| Chippewa | Dan Olson | Chippewa Advancement Chair | 630-464-9745 |
| Dan Olson | Northern DuPage Area Lead | 630-464-9745 | |
| William Arnold | Central West DuPage Area Lead | 630-393-6074 | |
| Dan Olson | Central East DuPage Area Lead | 630-464-9745 | |
| Jerry Bevignani | Southeast DuPage Area Lead | 630-747-4705 | |
| Dave Rypka | Southwest DuPage Area Lead | 630-420-2634 | |
| Ottawa | Nick Dzierzanowski | Ottawa Advancement Chair | 630-251-0237 |
| Nick Dzierzanowski | Northern Kane County Area Lead | 630-251-0237 | |
| Scott McCleary | Southern Kane County Area Lead | 331-290-3995 | |
| Potawatomi | Ed Hollendoner | Potawatomi Advancement Chair | 815-901-4506 |
| Ed Hollendoner | DeKalb County Area Lead | 815-901-4506 | |
| Katie Kitz | Kendall County Area Lead | 630-399-1028 | |
| Program | Dave Rypka | TFC Merit Badge Coordinator | 630-420-2634 |
| Marti Jernberg | Religious Emblems Coordinator | 847-337-0903 |
