Recording Advancements

There are two methods for leaders to record a youth’s advancement progress. One method is to complete and submit to the council Scout Shop the Advancement Form.

The second method is to use the National Organizations Internet Advancement Online program.
Internet Advancement

Process ranks and awards for packs, troops, teams, crews, ships, and posts
Units can now submit advancement for unit youth members online. Use Internet Advancement for the following:
• Add ranks, merit badges, and awards
• Update information on existing advancements (excepting the Eagle Scout rank)

To use Internet Advancement:

1. Select the unit advancement processor. This person must have Internet connectivity and Microsoft Internet Explorer.
2. Obtain a unit ID code from the council. The unit advancement processor attends an April roundtable, and can obtain the unit ID code there.
3. Gather information for advancement, including merit badge applications and advancement records with dates.
4. Click Internet Advancement on this page. Follow the instructions in Internet Advancement to process advancements and print an advancement report.

Have the appropriate people sign the printed unit advancement report and submit it to the council. Save a copy for your files.
Units should submit monthly before the end of each month, or more often if needed. In December, submit a report before the end of the month to update unit and council statistics.

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Purchasing Rank Advancement

A key component of the advancement program is “Instant Recognition” where boys are given their reward-patch, etc. as soon as they earn it. This keeps boys interested and coming back for more. Rank advancements and awards are purchased at the Mid-Iowa Shout Shop. An advancement form must be completed at the time of purchase. To Scout Shop (add map)Mid-Iowa Scout Shop, 1659 E Euclid Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50316.

The Scout Shop is a full retail store handling official Scouting uniforms, insignia, camping equipment, crafts, awards and more. What we don't have in stock we can order. Remember, Scout Shop sales directly support the programs of your Council. Map to Scout Shop (pdf. Of map )

Scout Shop Hours:

M, W, F 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Phone: (515) 265-5990 Fax: (515) 265-6021

*If faxing an order or you are mailing-in an order, please include a telephone number and whether you want us to ship the merchandise or be picked-up at the Scout Shop. -Thank you