From Giving Thanks to Giving Gifts

Last week, we gave thanks. Now our attention turns to giving gifts. La Crescenta is a community that actively seeks ways in which to give to those less fortunate. For those readers interested in opportunities to give back this holiday, here are few ideas.

On Sunday, Dec. 6, Grace Chase and her father Vito Cannella will hold their 40th annual Christmas Party for people with disabilities in Healy Hall at Holy Redeemer Church. For many of these individuals, this is their only holiday celebration and they look forward to it all year long. The goal of Grace and Vito is to provide guests with a wonderful afternoon, serving them lunch and sharing music and fun. They top the party off with a visit from Santa. Every year they have been able to give each one of the 100 or so guests a shopping bag full of gifts. This is where you come in. Drop a new gift off at the Chamber by 2 p.m. Dec. 4 and we’ll make sure it gets to the party. It can be anything appropriate for a man or woman. Please wrap it and label it.

Another opportunity to give lies in the ever-popular Toy and Food Drive at the CV Sheriff’s Station. Volunteers are collecting toys for infants to early teens ($10 value) as well as non-perishable food. There are two barrels in the Crescenta Valley Sheriff’s Station lobby for your convenience. They are open 24/7 and will accept donations throughout the holiday season. A special gift-giving event is planned for local families in need at Crescenta Valley Park.

Lynn McGinnis, a member of the local American Legion, stopped by the Chamber office recently to let us know that a number of service clubs and community organizations are working together to pool resources and find places to give this season.

“At the Legion, we’ve got a little extra money and we want to share it,” said McGinnis. “We’d like to reach out first to local veterans and their families or to active duty military stationed away from home.”

Last year, the VFW/American Legion provided a local family with gas cards and new clothing needed for family members’ new jobs. If you know of someone who could use a little extra help this year, in the military or not, call us at the Chamber and we’ll find a resource that can assist.  Privacy will be priority.

Upcoming Events

December mixer at Tee’s on the Green at the Verdugo Hills Golf Course on Wednesday, Dec. 9 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The membership drawing is up to a whopping $400 but you must be there to win. All are welcome. Members $7; non-members $9.

Winter Wonderland at Two Strike Park happens this Saturday, Dec. 5.  There will be games, food, Christmas music and … snow! Santa Claus will make an appearance and toys will be given away. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

And don’t forget the Christmas Tree lighting ceremony tomorrow night, Dec. 4 at the La Crescenta Library.

Happy Holidays everyone!