Plano Boy Scout Troop 71 serves up fish fry fundraiser

Boy Scout Troop 71 in Plano received a grant to buy two outdoor signs to promote its annual fish fry running through March, through the 4imprint “one by one” grant program.

The 4imprint company describes itself on its website as a promotional products company that seeks to make a difference every business day, one by one.

“Through one by one, we award $500 grants for promotional products to organizations that are making a difference. This helps them spread the word, recruit volunteers, thank donors, or in some other way turn one thing into something much more. Over the course of a year, the number of grants we award averages out to be three each business day,” the website reads.

The Scouts present their fish fry fundraiser Friday evenings through the end of March at the Plano American Legion Hall, 510 E. Dearborn St.

Troop 71 has been supporting Scouting efforts for 43 years through the annual fish fry. Scouts set up the large hall, prepare the meal, cook, clean and serve the public during the Lenten season. Through the six weeks of the fundraising season, the Scouts learn how to successfully conduct a business.

The money they raise each year helps them attend camps, buy necessary equipment and participate in events throughout the year. In addition to the experiences of service in the fundraiser, Scouts in Troop 71 participate locally in conservation projects, community service projects, Eagle Scout service projects and veterans events, many giving back more than 100 hours of service to their community.

COVID-19-related restrictions severely affected the Troop, as the fish fry fundraisers were canceled in spring 2020. Scouts were not able to attend camps, and families had to pay other costs related to the Scouting experiences throughout the year. Looking ahead, the Scouts and leaders decided that increased visibility and promotion were necessary to ensure the success of the 2021 fundraising season.

“We want to publicly thank 4imprint for their generous donation to our troop,” said Andrea Barker, adult committee member. “We also want to invite everyone to come and enjoy our fish fry,” she said.

There are three weeks left in the troop’s fish fry season. They will be serving dine-in or drive-up from 5 to 7 p.m. March 12, 19 and 26 at the Plano American Legion. Social distancing guidelines will be in effect for patrons in the large dining area. Drive-up orders will be delivered curbside.

For information on Troop 71 news and events, visit Troopwebhost.org/Troop71Plano/Index.htm.