Distribution Lists
Overview
Distribution lists are pre-defined groups of recipients that automatically stay up to date as your membership changes. When you add a scout to a den, they’re automatically included in that den’s distribution list.
Required role: Any leadership role can send to lists; Administrators manage list configuration
System-Managed Lists
Scout Manager automatically creates and maintains these distribution lists:
| List | Includes |
|---|---|
| All Scouts | Every active scout in the unit |
| All Adults | Every active adult in the unit |
| All Members | Everyone (scouts + adults) |
| [Den/Patrol Name] | Members of a specific den or patrol |
| Leaders | All adults with a leadership role |
| Parents | All adults linked to at least one scout |
How Auto-Update Works
- Add a scout to a den → they’re automatically in that den’s list
- Archive a member → they’re automatically removed from all lists
- Change a scout’s den → they move between den lists automatically
- Link a parent → parent appears in the Parents list
No manual list management required.
Using Distribution Lists
When composing an email:
- In the Recipients field, click Distribution Lists
- Select one or more lists
- Recipients are combined (duplicates removed automatically)
Tips
- Lists are the fastest way to email a group — no manual selection needed
- You can combine lists (e.g., “Bear Den” + “Leaders”) for a single email
- Distribution lists are also used for event invitations and newsletters