‘For it is in giving that we receive’...
This could not have been more true for all our residents who were greeted last Tuesday by Marne Dietterich, creator of Wrapping Presence and her group of elves. Founded in 1995, Marne has worked tirelessly with her ‘elves’ to bring the Spirit of the Holidays to those who are no longer able to go out into the community and choose just the right thing for their children and grandchildren.
Through the efforts of so many, this amazing group of volunteers bring Christmas to our residents. Marne greets each one of them by name at the door and spends a moment talking with each one. She then assigns an ‘elf’ to them as their own personal shopper. From there, the resident is taken from table to table overflowing with brand new items donated by members of the community throughout the year. There is a table for men, women, and children. With the assistance of our Activity Department, the resident has prepared a list ahead of time. The residents take their gifts to wrapping stations where they are wrapped by MORE elves and then placed in shopping bags adorned with drawings from school children. Santa sees them before they leave and each one is given a handmade wreath for their door.
The opportunity provided to these residents to be able to give a gift to those they love is beyond measure. The excitement and wonder is palpable in the room and it is truly the happiest holiday event we host! Unfortunately, many of our residents have suffered many losses and many lack purpose. This event allows them to experience the purpose of giving a gift that they have chosen; something that many of us may be taking for granted these days as we rush and complain about long shopping lines, traffic and where we will find the time to do all the things necessary for the upcoming holidays.
So let’s take a moment to reflect on what really is important. Wrapped in each one of those boxes is part of our heart. It’s the time and love taken to choose and think of that person who will know you loved them when you chose it. Don’t take these moments for granted....for ‘it is in giving that we receive’.
Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to all of you. May we look forward to a wonderful, peaceful year surrounded by those we love.
Michelle
Michelle Knobloch
Executive Director
