COLVILL, MN—The air is getting crisp and the holiday season is just around the corner, which means it’s time for a beloved local tradition: the Children’s Shopping Workshop, a collaborative effort between Santa Claus and the Girl Scouts of Cook County.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the project, which offers the area’s youngest residents a unique opportunity to shop for gifts for their family members—all on their own.
“We sponsor this project to give our youngest shoppers a chance to find the greatest gifts for members of their family, all on their own,” explained Arvis Thompson, Service Unit Chair/ Troop #4112. “Can anything be more fun than watching the eyes light up of a little boy who just found the perfect gift for Grandpa?”
Workshop Details
The workshop will be held on Saturday, December 6th, at the Colvill Town Hall, 2963 E. High way 61. Doors will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Here’s how it works:
• Preparation: Shoppers are encouraged to come with a list of family members they want to shop for and a general idea of what they’re looking for.
• The Gifts: Items start at just 50 cents, making it affordable for children to shop for multiple people. The Girl Scouts have been gathering new and gently used gifts all year long, sourced from community clean-outs and donations.
• Assistance: An “elf” (a Girl Scout volunteer) will be paired with every young shopper, providing assistance from the moment they walk in until their gifts are wrapped.
• Wrapping Station: Gift-wrapping is available for a flat fee of $1.00 per child.
A Community Affair
While the children are busy finding their perfect presents, adults can relax in one of the designated waiting areas. The event will feature a cozy outdoor campfire, complete with free coffee and cocoa, or a comfortable indoor waiting area.
The longevity and success of the shopping workshop are a testament to the community’s support. The organizers offered a huge thank you to everyone who has contributed over the decades.
“So many of you have helped over the years and that has led to one of our most successful service projects,” Thompson added. “As children, you were shoppers, then graduated to elves to help others. As adults, you collected, set up, took down, made change, built fires, comforted and advised the confused 4-year-old, then wrapped presents until your fingers couldn’t use a scissors anymore.”
The Girl Scouts of Cook County look forward to welcoming a new generation of shoppers and celebrating two decades of holiday cheer and service.
What: Children’s Shopping Workshop
When: Saturday, December 6, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Where: Colvill Town Hall, 2963 E. Highway 61
Cost: Gifts start at $0.50. Wrapping is $1.00 per child.
