Support your local Boy Scouts of America troop by popping some corn

Troop 79, Howard City, MI

"I was in the Boy Scouts for about four years until my troop disbanded.  It is really one of the best activites youth can get involved in and nearly every scout I have known has been a class act due to the discipline the Scouts have instilled in them."  - Ted Stevens, American politician

The quote above is well said, as many scouts can  and will attest to this organization's commitment to  instilling a  lifetime of  values and character.  Not able to do it alone, if it wasn't for volunteers, parents, caregivers, and local support throughout communities, scouting programs funded through the Boy Scouts of America would not be possible.

 Boy Scouts of America begins  their fall popcorn sales  this week.  Be on the lookout in your neighborhood for some well-dressed scouts in uniform selling one of their organization's most popular fund-raisers.   The sale itself is designed to teach boys the meaning of  self-reliance, for it is by their own efforts and working as a team that they can help make the world and their own scouting experience a better one.  Monies raised go directly to their council and unit to help fund local activities, programs, and events.  On a national level, some may not be aware that 2010 marks the BSA's 100th anniversary celebration and with this milestone comes plenty of achievements. 

Local scouts of Grand Rapids are part of the Gerald R. Ford Council.  Divided into four districts,  based on geographical location, the council serves as main headquarters for hundreds of scouts and units spanning over a dozen counties.   According to Gerald R. Ford Council's website, last year, over 70 percent  of the fund-raiser's proceeds stayed within local councils.  Of that amount, one-third of a council's proceeds went directly to the units that sold the popcorn, helping fund camping trips and individual equipment for the scouts.

For over 30 years, Trail's End  has been in  partnership with the Boy Scouts of America to bring you only the best in quality and gourmet popcorn.   The hard part is choosing between a wide variety of flavors including chocolate and caramel in addition to cheese.  Products are available in both microwaveable packets and assorted gift tins.  Find  yourself  "powered by popcorn" as Trail's End's motto states, when you are able to not only donate to a good cause, but also give a gift  this holiday season that will by no means be wasted.      

If you are interested in joining or supporting Scouting programs, please visit www.bsagrfc.org.   To learn more about BSA, visit www.scouting.org.