Where Does the Money Go from Ticket Sales?
The nationally awarded Utah Valley Parade of Homes wrapped up another phenomenal parade which included 24 homes on the route this year. Have you ever wondered where the money you paid for your ticket to the Parade of Homes is going?
While you’re touring among the nearly 30,000 other attendees admiring these magnificent homes spread across our valley, we thought you might want to know the proceeds from the ticket sales are going right back into our community.
First of all, the builder does not receive one penny from the ticket sales. In fact, they had to pay a fee just to be included in the parade. Many builders spend money out of their own pocket to promote their home throughout the parade as well as paying their own staff to take tickets and to maintain the home.
The Utah Valley Home Builders Association hosts the forty-seven year-old tradition. With the sales of the tickets they have in turn given back particularly in the education circuit. They have long-established scholarships at Brigham Young University and at Utah Valley University and have awarded thousands of dollars to benefit many students pursuing an education. Additionally, the UVHBA offers several scholarships annually to members of the UVHBA and their families.
Additionally, the UVHBA sold their eleventh Cougar House with the proceeds going to the endowed scholarship program at Brigham Young University. “This was our largest amount we have donated to date,” explained Steve Caldwell, Executive Officer for the UVHBA. The profit from this home was more than $305,000 tipping the total of the funds to over $2 million.
This project was jumpstarted with the $160,000 lot in Saratoga Springs donated by Jeff Southard of South Haven Homes and Development. The South Haven team also oversaw the entire project as the general contractor. Sam Morgan of Morgan Fine Homes designed and donated the plans for the over 3,600 SF home.
Each year, members of the association also volunteer their time in the beloved “Subcontractor for Santa” event where our members aid in those who are in need such as making repairs for those people are unable to afford it.
The UVHBA also has a committee who is actively representing the homeowners by diligently working to keep housing costs down and ensuring they have a voice in government and on Capitol Hill. “We are continuously working to protect, preserve and promote the building industry in Utah,” Steve explained.
Members not only comprise of builders and designers, there are members of various trades including car dealers, auto repair, banks and carpet cleaners. To become a member or to learn more about the association visit www.uvhba.com.