Annual Christmas Tree Sale
The Troop's only fund raiser is our annual Christmas Tree Sale, generally held starting the first Saturday in December and continuing until Christmas Eve in the Third Presbyterian Church parking lot.
Funds raised are used for:
- Troop equipment
- Weekend and summer camping subsidies
- Other worthwhile Scouting projects
A Scout's 100 percent participation will subsidize nearly the entire cost of summer camp.
How It Works
The Tree Sale is organized by the Troop Committee. Scouts and parents fulfill staffing duties at the Tree Lot.
Scout Participation
- Scouts serve from seven to ten three-hour shifts depending on the size of the Troop
- Scout shifts are assigned randomly, but there are opportunities to swap shifts with other scouts
- All scouts are expected to participate in this important fundraiser
Parent Participation
- Parents are asked generally to serve two three-hour shifts
- At a mandatory parents meeting after the Fall COH, parents sign up for their shifts based on their personal schedules
Responsibilities at the Tree Lot
Scout Duties
- Pick up garbage, sticks, and limbs up and down tree lines
- Maintain a clean work area around the trailer
- Empty garbage cans - A clean and neat lot makes us look like we care about our product
- Remember that all scouts are salespeople selling "THEIR" product
- Sell and help when needed
Important Policy: No money is to be handled by scouts or adults. Send all customers into the trailer booth for the transactions.
Adult Leadership Duties
- Use chainsaw to cut large tree bases and limbs (Scouts are NEVER allowed to use chainsaw)
- Monitor scouts for safety, language, and appearance
- Keep the boys working, selling, cutting and tying trees
- Watch out for younger scouts and Cub Scouts at all times
Safety Rules
Critical Safety Guidelines:
- Scouts are not to leave the tree lot during their shift
- There is to be no horseplay on the lot
- Throwing snowballs is strictly prohibited due to danger of injuring customers or small children
- Scouts need to stay clear of the driveway due to slippery conditions and drivers pulling in
- ELECTRIC CHAINSAW: Scouts and Senior leaders ARE NOT ALLOWED to use the electric chainsaw
- The chainsaw is to be operated by an individual 18 years or older ONLY within the designated chainsaw cutting area
- NO ONE else is allowed within the chainsaw area - NO EXCEPTIONS
Tips Policy
Tips: absolutely NO soliciting. The policy is that the Scout gives money to booth attendant as a donation to BSA Troop 31.
Why We Sell Christmas Trees
In order for the Troop to purchase, replace and repair tents, stoves and other camping equipment, to subsidize the cost of many events and to provide funds for our Campership Program, the Troop must generate funds beyond those provided by dues. We hold one fundraiser each year. We expect that all scouts will participate in this fundraiser and do their best to support the Troop.
We recognize that not all of our scouts celebrate Christmas, but have found that selling Christmas Trees is an effective way to raise funds. If you have any questions regarding the tree sale, please contact the Administration Dept. at [email protected].