In the spirit of the holidays, nothing feels more right than giving. That crisp air and longer nights seem to carry a generosity that’s hard to ignore. In perfect alignment with the values of Scouting, this year (November 8 through December 14, 2025) Scout Shops across the country are hosting Giving Trees, offering a tangible way to support Scouts in need of uniforms, gear and advancement items. You can Find a Giving Tree Near You at your local Scout Shop!

The “Giving Tree” program is set up inside local Scout Shops. Here’s what you need to know:

• Beginning November 8, 2025, select tag-cards will appear on the tree. Each card lists a Scout’s first name and the uniform items or gear they need.

• Visiting supporters choose a card, purchase the listed items (uniform shirt, socks, belt, patches, neckerchief, etc.) and return the items to the Store.

• The store staff ensures the items are delivered to the Scout’s unit or leader.

• The program runs through December 14, 2025, so don’t wait until the last minute.

• If you cannot visit in person, many stores accept calls or online requests—check with your local Scout Shop.

• Local store safety guidelines may apply; call ahead to confirm hours, pickup procedures or donation drop-off.
  This model mirrors what we’ve seen in previous years.

This annual event started with one person’s spark of an idea she had while participating in Wood Badge. While attending, she noticed instances where leaders were not in full uniform for ceremonies, and she also noticed that these leaders seemed to hang toward the back and participate less. Her mind started to connect some dots, and she knew that if adults reacted and felt that way, kids must feel that way too. She decided to do something about it so that no one would feel excluded just because of a financial roadblock. In her words, she “wanted young people to get the most out of our program.”

Enter in the Wood Badge ticket she wrote down: Scout Shop Giving Trees. Her original intention was to have one in each store in her Florida region, but when other leaders heard the idea, it blew up. Every year since 2013, all local Scout Shops and some Council stores have Giving Trees in their stores. Scout families are always ready to Do A Good Turn in true Scouting America form. Not only are people ready and willing to give to Scouts who need some supplies, but there is also a consistent group of volunteers, members, and customers who do a “final sweep” to make sure that any tickets left are taken care of, so no Scout is left behind.

Boosting Uniform & Gear Access

One of the biggest barriers for Scouts and their families can be the cost of uniforms and gear—shirts, belts, patches, boots, and camping supplies. If a Scout shows up without a full uniform or proper gear, they may feel excluded or hesitant to fully engage. The Giving Tree addresses that gap by making sure that no Scout is left behind due to finances.

Reinforcing the “Do a Good Turn” Ethos

Scouting teaches service, community,and  responsibility. The Giving Tree is a perfect holiday-season extension of that: giving within the Scouting community, supporting one another, and strengthening unit morale, inclusion, and experience for all.

Strengthening Units & Community

When Scouts show up ready and confident, units run smoother, and leaders can focus on programming rather than uniform issues. A well-equipped Scout is more likely to participate in advancement, campouts, activities—and that benefits the whole troop or pack.

For Parents & Scouts who may need help

• If you know a Scout who could use assistance, contact your local Scout Shop or council store and ask about the Giving Tree program.

• Complete the request form (often online or printed) with needed items, sizes, and other gear. Some councils require a leader’s endorsement. 

• Submit your request early (the earlier, the better) so you can be included in the tree before items are snapped up.

For Donors & Supporters

• Visit your nearest Scout Shop between Nov 8 and Dec 14, 2025.

• Choose a tag from the Giving Tree, purchase the items listed, and return them to the store.

• If you can’t visit in person, call or contact the store for donation options (some may arrange special drop-offs or shipping).

• Share your story on social media, mention your support of “Scouts giving back,” and encourage others.

For Units & Leaders

• Promote the Giving Tree program at your next unit meeting.

• Help Scouts and families complete request forms (for those who need help) and remind donor families about the donation window.

• Coordinate with your Scout Shop to confirm details: start date Nov 8, end date Dec 14, what items are eligible, and how donation pick-ups are managed.

• Recognize participants (donors and recipients) in your unit newsletter or meeting to reinforce the giving culture.

In a world where distractions are everywhere, service still matters. Giving during the holiday season is more than just one act—it sets the tone for community, inclusion, and kindness. The Scout Shop Giving Tree program gives units, leaders, families, and donors a practical way to make that tone real.

When you help a Scout get the uniform or gear they need, you enable them to show up, participate, advance, and belong. That makes a difference. So this season—between November 8 and December 14, 2025—consider stopping by your local Scout Shop, picking up a tag, purchasing a gift, and delivering it. The impact reaches further than one tree in one store.

Thank you for supporting Scouts, for supporting service, for helping build community. Let’s bring out the best in our Scouts and our Scouting program this holiday season.