How to help deserving Scout pay his way?

[Tampa Turtle 1011]

When someone stole the car our Pack awards were in (and got in the news) George Steinbrenner called up and offered to pay for the replacements. We found them and did not need the money. I know he had sponsored a number of scout families over the years. ALMOST made up for what he did to the Yankees.

 

Seriously, if you put the word out there usually is a way to outfit some kids with gear. We have approached a few sporting goods stores and got some creatively packaged gifts. Also if you are so fortunate to have a NFL team many of the players these days have their own small foundation (in Tampa a legacy of the Dungy-era Bucs) that may jump on something like that. Be careful of not "double-dipping" on the Team which likely is doing something with the local council--but the players can do what they want.

 

There are a lot of small non-profits out there that have a hard time funding large projects but a few hundred to a thousand dollar amount they can swing and helping some deserving scouts can be a feel good thing.

 

Also people are much more likely to donate for tangible goods (tents,uniforms,gear, trailers) than intangible (fees, dues). Summer Camp costs are pretty doable.

 

You need to find the donor sweet spot or niche. Obviously approaching the charitable arm of Bank of America will run you afoul of BSA National, Council, or District.

[eagle90 125]

Scouting can become expensive for families with multiple boys. We have a family with 3 boys in the troop and summer camp and High Adventure activities can become over the top. I have (confidentially) let mom pay the balance of summer camp fees whenever is convenient. The oldest son is religiously paying off a High Adventure trip from 18 months ago $20 at a time or so. You can always work out the situation if you work together and there is some honesty and compassion.