Unit Fundraising Options
At Rainbow Council, units have two great fundraising opportunities available through council-sponsored programs:
Popcorn Sales
Support Scouting adventures by participating in our annual popcorn sale. Full council support, prizes, and no need for additional approvals!
Whitley's Peanut Sales
Sell delicious Whitley’s peanuts and help Scouts fund their activities. A great option with proven success!
Unit Fundraising Guidelines
Supporting Scouting Through Approved Fundraising
Rainbow Council works year-round to provide a quality Scouting program for youth across our communities. One of the most critical aspects of delivering that program is funding — and fundraising plays a central role. While the council offers major fundraising campaigns like
Popcorn Sales and
Peanut Sales, we understand that units may occasionally wish to raise additional funds for their own specific needs.
We encourage unit leaders and families to review the information below before planning any independent fundraising effort.
Why Participate in Council-Sponsored Fundraisers?
Council-sponsored fundraisers are carefully selected to provide maximum return, minimal risk, and ensure that units operate within Scouting America policies and guidelines. When your unit participates in campaigns like Trail's End Popcorn Sales:
- Scouts build life skills such as goal setting, public speaking, and money management.
- Units and Scouts retain a significant portion of the proceeds to fund their own Scouting activities.
- No financial or insurance liability risk is taken on by the unit.
- All products and materials are provided.
- Council overhead (such as insurance, facilities, and training) is supported, reducing additional fees for families.
What if a Unit Chooses to Run Their Own Fundraiser?
If your unit opts to organize its own fundraiser — such as car washes, pancake breakfasts, paid service projects, or product sales — prior approval is required from Rainbow Council to ensure compliance with National Scouting America policies legal regulations, and insurance liability.
Here’s how the process works:
1. Submit a Unit Money-Earning Application
Download and complete the Unit Money-Earning Application (Form 34427) and submit it to the council office at least 2 weeks prior to the planned activity.
Note: No unit may engage in fundraising without council approval, regardless of scope or intent.
2. Review Guidelines & Restrictions
Keep in mind the following:
- Fundraisers must not conflict with council-wide efforts (e.g., overlapping with Popcorn).
- Fundraisers must not endorse or promote commercial products or political causes.
- Units must represent Scouting appropriately and follow all Scouting America branding rules.
- Units cannot solicit cash donations from the general public or businesses.
- Fundraisers involving games of chance, raffles, or gambling may violate state laws and are typically prohibited.
3. Council Review & Approval
Once submitted, the application will be reviewed for alignment with BSA policy, community standards, and local/state laws. Units will receive written approval or guidance for revisions.
Common Fundraising Ideas That May Be Approved
- Pancake breakfasts or spaghetti dinners
- Recycling drives
- Car washes
- Concession stands at community events (with proper permits)
- Holiday wreath or flower sales
Again, each must be pre-approved by the council before promotion or execution.
Risks of Unapproved Fundraising
Operating outside of the proper guidelines can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Legal liability for the unit or individuals
- Loss of charter or insurance coverage
- Damage to the reputation of Scouting
- Conflicts with IRS nonprofit status
Avoid these risks by working closely with the council on any fundraising efforts.
Have Questions? Need Support?
We’re here to help your unit succeed! Whether you want to maximize profits through the council’s turnkey programs or get guidance on an independent fundraiser, we are just a call or email away.
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Contact Us Now
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Phone:
815.942-4450
