As the holidays approach, Atlantans can support a local cause by buying a Christmas tree from Trees for Tuition. Founded by two Atlanta teens, the business gives all its profits (after expenses) to a scholarship fund for local students, as reported by FOX 5 Atlanta.
According to details shared by Rough Draft Atlanta, since its founding in 2015, Trees for Tuition has donated $100,000, including $56,000 in scholarships to 28 undergraduate students. The organization has also supported Parent Teacher Organizations, sports clubs, and environmental initiatives like tree planting. As it grows, Trees for Tuition now operates five Christmas tree lots across Atlanta and has an online store for those who prefer shopping virtually.
Trees for Tuition, co-founded by Calder Johnson, operates with the mission that "We donate 100% of our profits, after we've paid for trees, employees and other costs." The organization has received support from local businesses and groups, such as the Krog District and Asana Partners. It also contributes to Virginia Highland Elementary School, with Lisl Huber from the school's Parent Teacher Organizations expressing appreciation. After the holiday season, Trees for Tuition works with the Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation to repurpose undecorated trees into mulch for local parks. In 2025, the company plans to raise $40,000 for 20 scholarships and plant 5,000 trees, as stated by Rough Draft Atlanta.
