The Wise Men are a group of local volunteers who organize the sale of Christmas Trees and donate the proceeds to community organizations in a grant ceremony every Spring. The Wise Men are part of the The Prairie Trail Federation, which is the umbrella group for the Guides, Princesses and Trailblazers with over 1,800 members across West Suburban communities.

The Christmas Tree Sale started under the Y’s Men in 1949 next to the old Rich Port YMCA and has continued in Gordon Park at the handball courts. The group moved under the Prairie Trail Federation in 2022 and became the PTF Wise Men.

The Wise Men have raised more than $2,100,000 over the years, distributing funds to many community groups in need of assistance like the Greater LaGrange YMCA and Special Olympics, LeaderShop, BEDS Plus, Aspire, Helping Hand, Aging Care Connections, Rotary’s Secret Santa, Pillars, NAMI and many others.

“The Wise Men Christmas Tree Sale is an extension of our mission to give back to the community in a way that can impact the quality of life in providing assistance, food, shelter and wellness support,” said Nick Caputo, chairman of the Prairie Trail Federation. “The tree sale is a cornerstone of the holiday experience in our community. Our fathers and their sons and daughters all enjoy the spirit of giving that is reflected in the tree sale.”

The Wise Men Tree Sale is held every year starting on the Friday after Thanksgiving to mid December (or when the last tree is sold) in Gordon Park in La Grange. The Wise Men welcome new members and even part time volunteers.

Wise Men are asked to work 3-4 3 hour shifts during the sale. Full members participate in a few social events and the grant award ceremony as well and pay annual dues. But any volunteers are welcome, even for a shift or two.

Contact Wise Men leader Mike Zahorik if you’re interested in joining, mzahorik60@gmail.com.