Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the Racine Scouts?
The Racine Explorer Scouts are the oldest continually competitive junior drum corps in the United States and Canada. The corps was founded as a musical Boy Scout unit in 1927 and has a rich competitive history. Today, the corps is affiliated with the Boy Scouts of America, Drum Corps International and the Wisconsin School Music Association. Present membership encompasses a wide cross section of young people from Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Minnesota.

Who can join?
Any young person between the ages of 14 and 21 is welcome to apply for membership. Prior music or dance experience, while very helpful is not a requirement. If you have the desire to learn and the willingness to work, there is a place for you in the Racine Scouts.

What do I have to do to become a member of the Racine Scouts?
You can download an application from our website at www.racinescouts.com. You should also plan to attend at least one camp weekend and be prepared to ask questions. Aside from making many new friends, you will participate in rehearsals with the section of your choosing. Camps are a weekend long process, so be sure that you can attend the entire rehearsal from Friday night through Sunday.

What does it cost to join the corps?
A full season with the Racine Scouts is priced at $900.00. This covers 95 % of your meals while you are with the corps, instrument and uniform maintenance, instruction and travel. All corps members are housed at the Taylor Home in Racine during the summer, a nineteen acre site in nearby Elmwood Park. All corps members are responsible for their own spending money.

Is there any financial assistance available?
Yes, there are ways to lower your out-of-pocket costs. Please check our website for more details.

Can parents become involved with the Racine Scouts?
YES!! Parents, grandparents and other family members are encouraged to become part of the competitive process. We couldn’t do what we do each year without the support of our many volunteers who drive our busses and trucks, cook meals, sew, sell t-shirts at shows, and keep our equipment in first-rate condition. Traveling with the corps, even for a weekend, will give you a solid understanding of the importance of this activity. Everyone has skills that can make the Racine Scouts efficient and prosperous organization. A variety of projects from uniforms to truck re-design are done at each camp and we can always use an extra hand! Don’t be shy, your child may say they don’t want Mom or Dad around all summer, but believe us; your presence will be appreciated in the long run.

How can I get to camps?

Racine, Wisconsin is easily accessible by air and ground (AMTRAK and METRA) transportation. We suggest you use Mitchell Field in Milwaukee for your air transportation needs, but there is also ground service to Racine from O’Hare in Illinois. Check with the office to discuss your transportation situation.