Darien Scouts: Fostering Community and Adventure with AuctionNinja

There’s more to Scouting than just camping trips and badges; it's about building character, community bonds, and leadership skills that last a lifetime. One such community that has thrived over the years is the Darien Scouts. With a long history dating back to 1915, the organization has found innovative ways to keep their mission alive, even during challenging times.

The Legacy of Andrew Shaw Memorial Trust

The Andrew Shaw Memorial Trust was established almost a century ago, in 1926, to support Scouting programs in Darien, Connecticut. The Trust now charters eight Scouting units, including 3 Scouts BSA troops, 4 Cub Scout packs, and a STEM Venture Crew. This robust program serves nearly 300 boys and girls, ages 5-18, from Darien and surrounding towns. What’s more impressive is that this grand operation is run entirely by volunteers, manifesting a true sense of community and commitment.

Rising to the Challenge: Swift Digital Transformations in Fundraising

For over 50 years, the prime fundraising event for the Darien Scouts was a large, community-based tag sale.  When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted this long-standing tradition, AuctionNinja emerged as the perfect alternative. The platform didn't just digitize their tag sale; it streamlined the entire process, enabling the Scouts to rapidly and efficiently sell a wide variety of items, transforming the way they fund their vital community programs.

Where the Funds Go: Supporting Tomorrow’s Leaders Today

Every penny earned from the auctions directly contributes to the betterment of the Scouts. The funds provide scholarships, maintain two crucial properties used for Scout meetings and administration—the Darien Scout Cabin and headquarters at 70 Old Kings Highway North. The latter is also where the auction pick-ups take place, adding another layer of convenience for the local buyers.

Quality Items, Generous Donors

The quality of the items on the auctions is testament to the generous spirit of the Darien community. From high-end pieces like a Claire Murray rug and a Lorenzo de Nevers oil painting (he later painted official portraits of FDR and Dwight Eisenhower), to furniture, collectibles and more, the auctions feature something for everyone.

Darien Scouts auction items including a Claire Murray rug and Lorenzo de Nevers oil painting.

Donations and Participation: How You Can Help

If you’re interested in donating items to help the Darien Scouts, they are always seeking new and gently-used furniture, art, home decor, household goods, electronics, tools for house and garden, bikes and trikes, sports equipment, toys, and games. Their only exceptions are clothing and construction materials. Given their limited storage space, it’s advisable to send them an email at darienscouts@gmail.com detailing your donations, preferably with photos. As they continue to raise funds for a brighter future, they're a shining example of how community and technology can come together for the greater good.

The Darien Scouts make sure to keep their buyer's premium low and provide shipping options to enable broad participation. So the next time you're scrolling through AuctionNinja, be sure to stop by the Darien Scouts’ auction. Who knows, you might just find your next treasure while supporting a noble cause!

To stay updated on their auctions and find out how you can contribute, please visit the Darien Scouts' official website or follow their current and upcoming auctions here. 

Written by:

AuctionNinja Staff

August 29, 2023     Updated 01:10 PM

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