The Giving Tree program runs until December 17, 2021
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year…” -Andy Williams
By the end of November, my home is filled with holiday songs on repeat (my absolute favorite is the tune mentioned above).
December and the holiday season always bring an immense amount of joy to my life. When my brothers, my sister, and I moved to Boise at a young age for school, we lived apart from our parents who worked on the island of Saipan. The holidays were—and still are—such a special time for everyone to come together. It was usually the only time of year that I got to be with my entire family.
This December, I get to turn my focus on the holiday programs at the WCA. I will not get to see all of my family but being able to focus on these programs which highlight family and community fills that empty space.
My heart has been filled with so much joy watching families keeping traditions alive and getting their photos taken with Santa during City Santa. The Giving Tree program has shown the strength and generosity of our community. Community members and organizations have helped gather thousands of much-needed items for our clients, shelter and facilities. I am also so grateful for the generosity of individuals who participated in the Holiday Sponsorship program this year. Some even contacted us later in December to help us serve families just entering our programs. My partner calls me Santa Lite, but to be honest, these holiday programs would not be successful without our amazing volunteers.
City Santa with me, Laura and Santa!
Each program has allowed me to meet and get to know more of our regular volunteers. It is something special that hasn’t been able to happen over this past year and a half and I am so grateful to be able to have those moments. As you may know, I am new to this position and building those relationships with individuals who have a strong passion for service with the WCA is all one could ask for—so thank you! Thank you for taking the time to read this, or visit with me (even through the madness) and most importantly, thank you for growing with me as I learn the ins and outs of this position.
I wish you a safe and joyful holiday season.
With gratitude,
Lupe
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