Bake Sale Act Three - The Clean-Up Committee

It is absolutely impossible to put a value on having a capable clean-up committee standing by at the end of a bake sale. This group of unsung heroes buttons up the entire event and makes everything go back in its proper place. They don't often get much glory and don't often ask for it. But they are almost always dedicated, hard-working, and responsible.

Clean-up committee members do not need to be present during the entire event. In fact, this is an area where the parent who is unable to bake and isn't artistic, but is willing to volunteer, can contribute in an important way. While this crew need not be in attendance for the entire event, they will need to appear at the appropriate hour to finish things up.

There are two basic areas of concern for the clean-up staff: the actual area where the event is held, and all the areas where advertising has been placed. Here are some of the important duties the clean-up staff has:

These members, like the set-up committee members, need muscles. They are going to strip the tables of any coverings. They will break down tables and chairs, and if necessary, return them to their original location.

They are going to remove all the decorations without damaging the area. They will need to know what to do with these decorations - toss them or save them?

They are going to dispose of any unsold baked goods. If they are to be saved, or donated, they will need instructions to follow and contact names.

They are going to wash and place any personally labeled containers in a pre-designated area to be picked up by their owners. If it isn't possible to wash these containers they will need instructions on how to care for them.

They are going to store any unused supplies.

They will disconnect any special lights or sound systems that were used.

They are going to remove trash, and possibly sweep and mop the floors.

If your group needed special permission to use a space, or rented a space, there will probably be an expectation in regard to the clean-up. There will also be a limit on just how much time you have to complete the job. The clean-up committee will need to work within a given time frame.

They are going to remove bake sale advertising posters placed around in stores and public areas by using a list of where these posters were placed.

When the lights go out and the party's over, the most difficult part of any job is finishing it. This is exactly where the clean-up committee comes in. The fun and excitement are over. The people have gone home. Few will see the vital work a clean-up committee does. However, every organizer knows just how important it is to finish the job. Packing away a bake sale the right way adds its own sweetness to the success of the event.

Elaine S. Rexdale earned a BA in Elementary Education from Augustana College in Rock Island, IL and an MA in Early Childhood Education from Teachers College at Columbia University in NY. She has been an early childhood educator and administrator for the past 30 years and has served in public and private schools in IL, LA, and NY. Her website is http://www.ElaineRexdale.com