April 1, 2009
Dear Troop 642 Parents & Scoutmasters,
We are nearing “last call” for pledges in the Troop’s 2009 Friends of Scouting campaign, which is the annual fund-raising effort of the Sam Houston Area Council. If you have been meaning to make a pledge but haven’t gotten around to it yet, please take a few minutes and complete the process. If you are still on the fence and have any questions, please let me know.
The Council depends on Friends of Scouting to provide over half of its annual revenue, and we depend on the Council to provide some of the following:
- CAMPING - The Sam Houston Area Council Camp facilities are 100% paid for. However, when we add staff, meals, program materials and increased utilities as part of camping operations it is necessary to charge. The Council underwrites about 50% of the cost for each boy attending camp. Camping and activities revenues provide about 22% of the council's income.
- OTHER SCOUT BENEFITS - What many do not "see" are the additional programs funded by BSA such as the urban program provides leadership and program costs for inner city kids to get the Scouting experience. Students with special needs are able to enjoy Scouting programs in many schools. Also value based career programs are offered on many campuses throughout the council. A Scout is helpful. Close to half of the youth we serve are not in traditional troops. Getting more kids into our "gang" rather than their gang can do a lot to help keep our communities vibrant.
- TROOPS BENEFIT - Without FOS, there would be no camps, Scout shops, recruiting materials, insurance, Council resources such as training videos, literature or a professional staff to help administer Scouting in the districts.
We are well behind last year’s pace in terms of participation rate and dollars raised. Troop 642’s goal is 100% participation by all families, if possible. While we would ask you to consider the Council’s recommended gift of $135, we would appreciate any contribution, regardless of the amount! We will have pledge forms at Troop meetings and Troop Committee meetings. In addition, you can find a copy of the pledge form on the troop’s website under the “Friends of Scouting” link.
Please complete the pledge card (in the brochure or from the website) and return it to me, John Parsley (checks should be payable to the Sam Houston Area Council) either at a Troop meeting (or provide to Cheryl Franke) or by mail to:
Troop 642 Friends of Scouting
c/o John Parsley,
10027 Briar Drive, Houston, TX 77042
Work Phone: 713.830.2140
Mobile Phone: 281.236.6558
Email: jparsley@collierstexas.com
Finally, if you work for a company that matches employee contributions, that will go even further to help us meet our goals.
Thank you very much for considering this request.
Regards,
John Parsley
2009 FOS Chair
