How It Works
Local groups can staff our hot chocolate stand during tree-season and collect 100% of guest donations for their cause. We provide the cozy setting & hot chocolate — you bring your smiles and volunteer crew. It’s an easy, festive way to fundraise while spreading holiday cheer at the farm.
2025 Operating Days & Times
- Friday, November 28 — 9am–5pm
- Saturday, November 29 — 9am–5pm
- Sunday, November 30 — 11am–5pm
- Friday, December 5 — 9am–5pm
- Saturday, December 6 — 9am–5pm
- Sunday, December 7 — 11am–5pm
- Friday, December 12 — 9am–5pm
- Saturday, December 13 — 9am–5pm
- Sunday, December 14 — 11am–5pm
Note: Shifts are for the full day. Please arrive 30 minutes early for setup (Fridays/Saturdays arrive by 8:30am; Sundays arrive by 10:30am).
Who Can Participate
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School groups, youth sports teams, Scouts, 4-H, church ministries, community clubs, and registered non-profits are all welcome.
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Want to confirm your eligibility? Email [email protected]
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What's Included
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We Provide
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You Provide
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Donations & Payments
All donations collected during your shift go directly to your organization. You may accept cash, cards, or mobile payments using your own devices. Please display your group name and preferred payment methods clearly so guests know how to give.
Safety & Setup
- Keep hot liquids behind the serving line and supervised by an adult.
- Secure cords and coolers to avoid trips.
- Use food-safe gloves when handling toppings/cups.
- No open flames. Electric warmers only.
- Clean your area and remove all supplies at shift end.
- Severe weather: we’ll coordinate a make-good date or alternative plan.
FAQs
How many volunteers do we need?
2–3 people can comfortably run the stand. Larger teams are welcome to rotate throughout the day to keep things fun and manageable.
How long is a shift?
A full day! However, your organization can divide the time however you’d like—as long as the stand remains fully staffed. For example: eight 1-hour shifts, four 2-hour shifts, or two 4-hour shifts all work great.
Can kids volunteer?
Yes! We love seeing families involved. For safety around hot beverages, we recommend ages 8+, and an adult must supervise anyone under 14.
Do we need a permit or 501(c)(3) status?
No formal proof is required for community or school-based groups—but we do ask that each team represents an established club, organization, or cause.
Can we sell baked goods too?
Absolutely! Baked goods are a great addition. Please make sure each item is clearly labeled, individually packaged, and follows local food safety guidelines.
Important: if your items contain common allergens (like nuts), please label them and keep them separate from other treats.
Important: if your items contain common allergens (like nuts), please label them and keep them separate from other treats.
Can we display our banner or QR codes?
We unfortunately don’t have room for a full banner inside the Hot Chocolate Shed, but you’re welcome to bring a small tabletop sign and QR codes for donations or info about your cause.
What if the forecast looks bad?
Because we’re a working farm, we stay open in light rain and snow. The Hot Chocolate Shed is covered, but the doors remain open—so please dress for the outdoors!
If the weather is severe, we’ll contact you the day before to discuss a possible make-up date. If all dates are filled, your group will receive first pick for 2026.
If the weather is severe, we’ll contact you the day before to discuss a possible make-up date. If all dates are filled, your group will receive first pick for 2026.
Anything else we should know?
Yes—please keep in mind:
- The Hot Chocolate stand is located inside our farm’s Hot Chocolate Shed; the space is covered but open-air.
- The farm has uneven ground in some areas; please stay aware of your surroundings.
- We want every guest to experience Pinestead hospitality at its best! We reserve the right to ask a group to leave if behavior is inappropriate or unsafe.