Want to jump-start that feeling of holiday joy you had as a child?
Then, join a cherished local tradition: giving the gift of joy through the Volunteer Center’s Adopt-a-Family program. Bringing joy to a child is one of the greatest feelings of all, that embodies what this season is all about.
Adopt-A Family is a partnership between the Volunteer Center, local social service agencies, and YOU. Together, we fill the holiday wish lists of the most vulnerable families in our community.
This year, there are more than 1500 children on the Adopt-a-Family list — more than ever before. Children like Sabria, whose family lost their home in the Pajaro floods, or Jesse and Evan, two pre-teen boys who, with their father, just found permanent housing after several months of homelessness.
With your support, every single one of these children will have a joyful holiday.
Here are five ways you can help:
1. Adopt a Family: Visit the Adopt-a-Family website and choose a family to support. Each family has a gift list with essentials for young children like diapers or nursing tops to hoodies and headphones for teens. You’ll do the shopping from the family wish list and deliver the toys to our warehouse in December. Adopt by December 7,
2. Donate and Let the Elves Shop for You: Simply make a gift online, and let our dedicated team of volunteer elves select, wrap, and deliver your gifts to families, kids, and teens in need.
3. Organize a Toy Drive: Turn your annual holiday party into a force for good. Invite your guests to bring toys, essentials, or grocery gift cards. It’s a festive way to multiply the joy! We’ll even provide you with a gift list to share with your party guests.
4. Give Your Time and Expertise: The Volunteer Center’s Holiday Volunteer Guide offers dozens of opportunities to support local families and your favorite nonprofit organizations. Find an activity that fills your heart and resonates with your spirit of giving.
5. Shop for Good: Pick up gifts from the wishlists of our families, kids, and teens, or drop off grocery store gift cards at a Star Business. Or shop our Amazon wishlist and your gifts will be delivered directly to the Adopt-a-Family Donation Center – how easy is that!
This holiday, let’s spread joy across Santa Cruz County. Adopt a family, donate, volunteer. It’s easy to get involved, and you’ll feel good doing it!
