We met in the office at 9am sharp and divided into teams to shop for these charitable organizations that do so much good in our local community. Each team was given the same amount of funds and a wish list from each organization detailing the products they needed most. The teams then jumped into their cars and took off to grab as many of these items as possible. The result was overwhelming.
Christmas Cheer needed toys for children 8-12 years of age, whose families may need a little help with presents this year. COTS needed toiletries like razors, soap and tooth brushes, and also blankets, clothes and healthy snacks. The Petaluma Animal Shelter needed canned food, pet toys and kitchen and bath supplies. Our teams were incredibly successful at finding sales and asking store managers for discounts so that they were able to bring in over $3,500 in donations to all three organizations.
The second part of the day, which we started last year, is called "Random Acts of Kindness." Each group was given a small amount of money to help out individuals in need, any way that they wanted too. Some groups bought sandwiches and blankets and handed them out to needy people on the street. Some found families shopping for gifts on a limited budget and helped them out. One group even found a homeless man who shared a story about wanting to call family, but not having a phone, so they bought him a small pay-as-you-go phone and some minutes to use and gave him a small monetary donation to help with his needs.
Every year we do this, I am amazed by the generosity and holiday spirit of our employees. Holiday Elf Day is the highlight of our entire year. Thank you to every one of our staff members who helped make this another successful expedition. It feels so good to give back!
Mark, Linda and Jessica, turning in goods for Christmas Cheer.
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