The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is warning residents about young people soliciting money at convenience stores and gas stations, selling candy and claiming to be a part of Minneapolis parks sports teams.
Park Board spokeswoman Robin Smothers said the board's adult and youth sports teams don't raise money or solicit funds from the public. Any fundraising that takes place is done by People for Parks, a nonprofit organization, and the Minneapolis Parks Foundation. People interested in contributing to Minneapolis parks athletic teams should contact the Park Board's offices directly, she said.
"If they're approached by anyone, I don't care if it's youth or young adults, soliciting for donations to raise money for the Park Board, athletics or uniforms … it's most likely a scam," Smothers said.
Smothers said the scam is becoming more frequent — based on feedback received by the Park Board — and that the public should be vigilant. She said some reports involve teens seeking donations door-to-door.
The Park Board is asking anyone who may have been a victim of the recent scam to call the park police at 612-230-6550.
