New Beginnings’ first Pumpkin Patch was in 2011 and since then has grown and improved every year. Running the pumpkin patch is totally risk-free. The pumpkins are delivered free of charge and are free to us until we sell them to our customers. At the end of the season, we pay a percentage of the sales back to the pumpkin patch. We do NOT pay for damaged, spoiled or stolen pumpkins. Our pumpkins are grown, chemical free on 1200 acres on the Navajo Agricultural Farm in Farmington, New Mexico. Pumpkins are shipped to over 1100 churches, benefiting the churches and the Native Americans that are gainfully employed thanks to this joint venture.
This is a great way to meet lots of our church members and lots of our local area neighbors. Here are just a few of the tasks that will require your help:
— design and set up patch layout
–decorate the patch
–unload the pumpkins
–publicize the patch
–sell the pumpkins
–assist customers
–turn the pumpkins daily to keep them from rotting
–sort and dispose of bad pumpkins
We will begin preparing the area and decorating in late September 24th-25th. The pumpkins will be delivered on October 2nd and the patch will be open daily through October 31st. Hours will vary and will be posted as we get closer.
The sales portion of the patch requires at least 500 man hours so we ask each of you to participate as much as possible. You will be sure to make some new friends as you enjoy the fun setting and fun people at the patch. We will be seeking volunteers by online registration beginning in mid-September.
Running the pumpkin patch is by contract between our church and the pumpkin patch organizers. All the profits go directly to the church. You are invited to read the contract and the information about the pumpkin patch at www.pumpkinsusa.com. At least one sales training session will be offered prior to patch opening and will include some sales and training help.
If you have questions, comments or suggestions, please email lindalewis466@yahoo.com or call 770-590-9746. I would love to have your early and ongoing input.
-Linda Lewis
Pumpkin Patch Coordinator