Betterment Association

The Tremont Turkey Festival was initiated in 1966 to raise funds to build a swimming pool in the Tremont Park. Since then, local residents have served as volunteer chairmen to help make each festival a success.

To retain those valuable volunteers following their terms as general chairmen and to utilize their talent, dedication, and experience, the Tremont Betterment Association was formed in 1976. Past and present Turkey Festival general chairmen who wish to continue their interest and involvement with the festival comprise the TBA, which acts as the sponsoring and steering organization for this and future festivals.

TBA is responsible for setting budgets and policies for the festival and notably, for distributing festival proceeds to the Tremont community for special projects and assistance to organizations that make Tremont a better place to live and visit.

In 2005, in addition to the $44,000 funds distribution, Tremont Betterment Association provided a $200,000 jump-start to the Tremont swimming pool project. In addition, the group also committed to setting aside $7,500 annually for future repairs to the pool.

Over the last 50 years, the festival has returned over $1.5 million to the community.