HANDS Foundation members host Christmas celebration for 32 needy children
By John Slavich
On December 14, 2011, 32 Whitley County children had an early Christmas celebration. The 15 members of the HANDS Foundation hosted a morning and afternoon party for those children in the HeadStart Program. The morning party had 17 children and the afternoon party had 15 children who benefited from the generosity of the HANDS Foundation.
Prior to the parties, the members of the Foundation met at Wal-Mart and spent approximately $40 per child. Presents purchased ran the full spectrum of gifts that children in a pre-school environment would want. About a month ahead of time each child received a’ wish list’ they could fill out with their parent or guardian and return to the teachers at HeadStart.
After purchasing the gifts, the Foundation wrapped the presents. They also set up three stations for activities at the party. One area featured a cookie decoration station complete with chocolate and vanilla icing, flavored sprinkles, assorted candies and a sugar cookie. Another station was a ‘pin-the-nose on the snow man’ station. Each student received a party favor for their efforts. The third station was a ‘create a Christmas card’ endeavor complete with stickers, markers, and stencils.
After rotating through each of the stations, Santa Claus arrived and distributed gifts to each student. During this portion of the event, each child had a chance to sit on Santa's lap and have their picture taken so they could take a picture home with their gifts, cookie, and card.
This experience is perhaps the most cherished event held each year by the HANDS Foundation members. The members pro-actively agree to do this on a yearly basis despite the cost of nearly $1,500 for gifts, Polaroid film, and treats.
“Service requires a willingness to take action” (unknown) and the HANDS Foundation exemplifies this especially at Christmas time for HeadStart children.
The HANDS Foundation is brought to Whitley County through collaboration with The Dekko Foundation, the Whitley County Community Foundation, and the three school corporations in Whitley County . If you would like more information about the HANDS Foundation or would like to make a tax deductible contribution to their endowment contact John Slavich at 244-5224.