BSA Money-Earning Policy for Units
Fundraising Chair: Money-Earning Policy
Section titled “Fundraising Chair: Money-Earning Policy”BSA Policy Overview
Section titled “BSA Policy Overview”All unit fundraising must comply with BSA’s Fiscal Policies and Procedures for Units. The key requirements:
- Pre-approval required for all fundraising activities other than the annual popcorn sale
- Charter organization must approve all money-earning activities
- your council must approve via the Unit Money-Earning Application
- No activities may begin until both approvals are in hand
The Annual Popcorn Sale
Section titled “The Annual Popcorn Sale”The annual Trails End popcorn sale is the only pre-approved fundraiser — no Money-Earning Application is needed. The Popcorn Coordinator manages this sale. See popcorn-coordinator.
Unit Money-Earning Application Process
Section titled “Unit Money-Earning Application Process”For any other fundraising activity:
- Draft the application: Describe the proposed fundraising activity, projected proceeds, and how funds will be used
- Charter org approval: Submit to the Committee Chair, who coordinates with the Charter Org Rep (your charter organization)
- Council approval: Submit to your council — trcscouting.org
- Begin only after approval: Do not collect money or publicize the fundraiser until both approvals are received
Application form: docs/Training/Positions/Treasurer/Additional Treasurer Resources/BSA/2024-11-24 - BSA Unit Money-Earning Application.md
Prohibited Activities
Section titled “Prohibited Activities”- Soliciting gifts or donations (not tax-deductible at unit level; units should not ask for donations)
- Fundraising activities not approved by council (e.g., selling items at school without approval)
- Using Scouts to solicit commercial sponsorships without approval
Allowable Fundraising Activities (with approval)
Section titled “Allowable Fundraising Activities (with approval)”Examples of commonly approved unit money-earning activities:
- Caroling with donation box (for a designated charity — coordinate with Community Service Coordinator)
- Car washes
- Bake sales
- Concession booth at community events
All require the Money-Earning Application.
Used In
Section titled “Used In”| Resource Used In | Type |
|---|---|
| Fundraising Chair | Role |
| Committee Chair | Role |
| Charter Org Rep | Role |
| Popcorn Coordinator | Role |