Mike Loftus is the president of MLE Merchandising and Sign Solutions, a provider of turnkey solutions for large-scale renovation, installation, and signage projects. Beyond his work for MLE in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, Mike Loftus serves as a Cub Scout den leader. Cub Scout leaders work directly with scouts, their parents, and other den leaders and pack leaders to carry out scouting activities and ensure the success of their dens. The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) defines a den as a group of six to eight boys of similar grade level who meet multiple times a month between larger division meetings, called pack meetings. A den leader’s responsibilities include planning and conducting meetings, attending pack meetings, and leading their dens during monthly pack activities. Leaders also help scouts with the transition to a den of the next rank at the end of each year.To become a Cub Scout den leader, applicants must be at least 21 years old and receive a recommendation from the Cubmaster after meeting with the parents of scouts in a den. Potential leaders must register with the BSA and obtain approval from the local pack committee and chartered organization.
Mike Loftus has spent the last 15 years as president of MLE Merchandising and Sign Solutions, Inc., in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. Mike Loftus contributes to a number of philanthropic organizations through MLE, which manages annual revenue exceeding $25 million. He also supports the local Cub Scouts of America as a den leader.Individuals must meet several eligibility requirements before becoming a den leader with the Cub Scouts of America. A den leader must be at least 21 years of age and should, ideally, have experience as a Scout leader. Prior leadership experience is not necessary for parents and guardians of Scouts, though they will need to demonstrate their dedication to the pack. All den leaders must register with the Boy Scouts of America as an adult leader, regardless of their past engagements with the organization.Following a meeting with the Cubmaster, who will likely discuss potential den leader candidates with the parents and guardians of the Scouts involved, den leaders will be introduced to their new responsibilities. A few of these responsibilities include planning and hosting den meetings, engaging with fellow leaders at pack meetings, and, most importantly, preparing Scouts for their next rank or their transition to the Boy Scouts.
