Chaperone Cadets
Cadet sponsors may assist with supervision and support during approved cadet activities and events.
Become a Cadet Sponsor
Join Civil Air Patrol
Become a Cadet Sponsor
Parents, grandparents, and legal guardians can support their cadet’s CAP experience by joining as cadet sponsor members.
Support Your Cadet’s Journey
Civil Air Patrol cadets benefit when their families offer support. Parents, grandparents, or legal guardians of a cadet are eligible and encouraged to join as cadet sponsors and participate in the rewarding experience of assisting their unit’s cadet program.
Cadet sponsors help make the cadet program stronger by supporting activities, assisting adult volunteers, and helping provide a safe and positive experience for cadets.
Cadet Sponsor Role
How Cadet Sponsors Help
Assist with Transportation
Cadet sponsors may ride in or drive Civil Air Patrol vehicles when properly authorized and qualified.
Support the Unit
Cadet sponsors help adult volunteer members as needed and support the unit as their schedules allow.
Important Note
A Support Role, Not a Staff Position
Cadet sponsors are not assigned to a regular staff duty position. Instead, they provide flexible support to the cadet program and assist the unit when available.
There are basic education and training requirements that must be completed before fully interacting with cadets.
How to Join
Three Steps to Cadet Sponsor Membership
1. Contact the Squadron
Find a local CAP squadron or talk to your cadet’s squadron commander about joining as a cadet sponsor.
2. Complete Local Review
After the squadron commander and membership review board approve your membership, complete the membership application and FD 258 fingerprint card.
3. Submit Materials
Submit your application, fingerprint card, and dues as directed by your squadron.
4. Complete Training
Complete required basic education and training before fully interacting with cadets.
Cadet Sponsor Membership Requirements
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Be assigned to the same unit as your child, grandchild, or ward.
- Be a citizen of the United States or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence.
- Be accepted by the membership board of the CAP unit you are joining.
- If former military, have been discharged under honorable conditions.
- Complete an FBI criminal background check.
- Have no felony convictions.
Who Can Become a Cadet Sponsor?
Cadet sponsor membership is designed for parents, grandparents, and legal guardians of current Civil Air Patrol cadets who want to support their cadet’s unit and activities.
Ready to Help?
Talk with your cadet’s squadron commander or contact the unit to learn how to begin the cadet sponsor membership process.
