Need a pumpkin? Even if you don’t, one of the Camellia City’s most worthwhile organizations needs your help.

The Greenville American Legion Post No. 24 will be selling pumpkins this Saturday, Oct. 17 and Saturday, Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the Fred’s Department Store parking lot.

Post No. 24 member Walter Ray Parmer said the Legion is looking to raise funds for its annual contributions to charity, including its Boys and Girls State participation each year.

Previously, Parmer said, the Legion had rented its facility at the Butler County Fairgrounds to various organizations for meeting space.

“Last year two renters begin conducting activities in the building which do not reflect the values of American Legion Post No. 24,” he said. “Consequently, the building is no longer available for rent due to the liability issue. With this source of revenue eliminated the post has been seeking an annual event to raise funds to sponsor.”

In the past, Greenville police have responded to calls at the Legion “hut” when renters hosted parties where alcohol was present.

Parmer said the Legion’s facility does not have a bar and does not sell alcoholic beverages.

“Recently a couple from Michigan arrived and upon being told of this fact, made a hasty departure,” said Parmer.

The American Legion has a long and illustrious history in Butler County. Founded in 1919 by a group of World War I veterans, the organization grew under the leadership of the late Calvin Poole, said Parmer, and saw an even larger increase in members following World War II when C.K. Porter served as post commander. Membership dwindled to 15 in 2004, said Parmer, before Post Commander Col. Eric Cates, (ret.), revived the dying organization.

Membership has since increased to 67 members with a goal of 80 members and a long-term goal of 100, said Parmer.

People interested in pre-ordering a pumpkin can purchase one from any Post No. 24 member, said Parmer. Pumpkins are $5 each. Post members will also be carving pumpkins on-site and the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce’s Chamber Pages and Camellia Girls will provide face painting for children, grandchildren, and even adults, said Parmer.