Thank you from MIYFS Foundation

Mercer Island Youth and Family Services Foundation, in partnership with MI Trade and the Mercer Island Presbyterian Church, just completed our annual tree lot sale in December. By all accounts it was a holiday success story. None of it would be possible without the support from the community, and we want to thank you.

MIYFS Foundation has operated the tree lot for years, and the proceeds from tree sales go to support MIYFS services – school counselors, family counseling, programming for seniors and emergency assistance. Approximately $25 from each tree sale and additional donations go directly to support MIYFS programs and services.

MI Trade Inc, a student run organization at Mercer Island High School collaborates with the Foundation in planning for and running the tree lot. Students get to work on a “real world” business for two months leading up to the tree lot sales. They learn about business planning, procurement, staffing, customer service, logistics, data analytics and finance.

Mercer Island Presbyterian Church plays an important role as well. They provide the space for the tree lot sales as well as the parking. Their property management team ensures that we can safely welcome over one thousand families each year.

The tree lot is staffed by over 100 volunteers across the three weekends. Past and current Foundation Board members and their families join in. MIHS students, parents and teachers support every aspect of the tree lot operations including restocking, tree selection, tying trees to cars and, in some cases, tree delivery.

Every year gets bigger and better. The Foundation and students have already had their debrief meetings identifying areas for improvements for next year. The Foundation Board is looking forward to working with the new MI Trade class starting in Fall 2026.

Thanks again, Mercer Island!

Frank Schott, MIYFS Foundation, Tree Lot Co-Manager