Kemptville teen crafts wooden Christmas trees to follow dreams, give back to community
Troy Dudek, a Grade 11 student from Kemptville, is putting his carpentry skills to good use in an effort to raise funds to attend an educational trip to Europe this coming spring.
The ambitious initiative, called ‘Troy’s Trees for Vimy,’ allows members of the public to purchase unique wooden Christmas trees over the month of December. Troy is hoping to raise enough money that he can also make a donation to the local Food Bank in time for Christmas.
Troy surprised his family with his strong desire to go on this trip, and is willing to put in the hard work to see this dream become a reality. He is looking forward to seeing the different cultures and opening his eyes to what there is to experience in other parts of the world.
Troy’s mother, Cara Harrington Dudek, told Brockvilleist, “The response has been beyond anything he thought. He started out making a couple for a hockey raffle and went door to door with them. Then a friend of mine and his dad suggested I post it on Facebook, so I did, and the response was overwhelming and heartwarming.”
Dudek explained, “The process has been simple, but there was a very steep learning curve when it came to quickly creating a family production line. ”Throughout the process, Troy has outsourced additional help in painting the trees from his brother and neighbourhood friend.
She continued, “I comment on a message in the post, or Troy responds to the messages he receives, then we choose one of the ‘group pickup times’ we have set. Every night we contact the people for upcoming pickups and label them with a thank you for your support note. The positive words of encouragement and sense of community and patience have been remarkable.”
Troy will be donating a percentage of each sale to the local food bank, as well as creating a collage presentation for his marketing class in school. “Win-win-win for this 16 year old! His dad, brother, sister and I could not be more proud!” gushed Dudek.
Troy is selling one tree with lights for $50 ($45 with no lights) or two trees with lights for $95 ($85 with no lights). If you’re interested in purchasing a tree, you can contact Troy directly at 613-553-8140.
Please note that Troy will only be able to produce a limited amount of trees within the month of December, and orders will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis. Trees will be available for pick up in Kemptville during pre-arranged times slots.