Second Annual Pay It Forward Challenge: Operation Save Christmas
Thank you to Belinda Spillman for hosting this challenge for the second year. It's so nice to see how many Rainers are paying it forward. If we all give just a little it makes a big impact. Whether it's time, services, or money that you donate every bit counts.
Operation Save Christmas is a program that is head by Shawn Lynam, a business associate and friend. The program ensures children in an inner city school in Pennsylvania all get Christmas presents from Santa. The stories of what these children deal with daily are absolutely heartbreaking. Some of the kids don't have a bed, a blanket or a pillow. Shawn spends hours organizing the program and making sure all of the kids receive their secret Santa gifts. This year he was also able to throw a Christmas party at the school for them and sponsor Christmas dinner for 20 children.
My boyfriend and I decided we wouldn’t give each other presents this year but, instead choose a child from the list and go shopping for him/her. We chose Klairence a 6 year old little boy. His Mom takes care of everything on her own and drives a cab to make a living. Things are tight and being able to provide gifts to Klairence was beyond special. We had so much fun going shopping for toys, school uniforms, and essentials for him. Way more fun than giving each other gifts that are all wants not needs.
I shared Shawn’s post on Facebook and one of my clients joined in and also shared the post and then four of her friends joined in too! My SUV was packed full of gifts for the trip to Pennsylvania last week. We can’t wait to participate again next year. Giving back does just as much if not more for those doing the giving as those receiving. It was such a feel good experience and something that made us all proud to be a part of. Watching so many people join in to help Shawn and his wonderful cause reminds me that even though our world has many problems and is a scary place right now there are still wonderful, caring people who want to help those less fortunate.
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