The Kiwanis Club of Fairbanks is set to kick off its annual Christmas tree sale on November 29. Volunteers have already begun preparations, loading 652 trees into their location at the Tanana Valley Fairgrounds ahead of the much-anticipated event. This annual sale serves as a critical fundraiser for the organization, which supports child-related initiatives in the community.
According to Board President Arlie Nethken, proceeds from the sale will benefit various local programs, including the Stone Soup Cafe, the Fairbanks Community Food Bank, children’s programming on KUAC, and scholarships. Nethken emphasized the community impact of the fundraiser, stating, “What we raise here as our fundraiser will go back into the community for the children of Fairbanks and Interior Alaska.”
The loading effort attracted nearly 100 volunteers, showcasing the community spirit that characterizes this initiative. Participants ranged from children to retired residents, all coming together to support an important cause. Nethken remarked on the positive atmosphere of the event, saying, “In a time where it’s easy to find something bad, you look at this today and you can’t help but feel good. Everybody’s just chipping in.”
This year, the sale features several types of trees sourced from Oregon, including Douglas firs, noble firs, grand firs, and Nordmann firs. Prices will vary based on the type and size of the tree selected. Nethken explained the diversity in tree types, noting, “Not everybody likes the same type of tree, because each tree opens differently. Each tree smells a little differently. Some trees are very full, and some trees aren’t so full, and we have a tree for every taste.”
The trees have been handled with care to ensure freshness. Nethken highlighted that they were cut, baled, and transported in an environmentally-controlled trailer, stating, “When we turned it off was when we opened that door, and so they’re fresh.” He encourages residents to visit the Kiwanis Club of Fairbanks to experience the aroma of the trees, even if they do not plan to make a purchase.
As the holiday season approaches, the Kiwanis Club of Fairbanks looks forward to continuing its tradition of generosity and community support through this annual event. The Christmas tree sale not only brings festive cheer but also reinforces the club’s commitment to enhancing the lives of children in the region.
