2007 Holiday Events Warm Spirits

"The holidays were looking bleak, but they ended up being a joyous occasion and it was because of you. I know what Christmas is really about. It's about giving and helping others in need, and that's what you did for me," writes Ethel, a senior who participates in Volunteers of America of Minnesota's Assisted Living Program and an Adopt a Family recipient.

Last holiday season, hundreds of volunteers joined together with Volunteers of America of Minnesota to reach out to others in need by participating in the Thanksgiving Bags and Adopt a Family events. By giving time, talents, and resources, they brightened the holidays for, and made a lasting difference in the lives of many low-income older adults, families, at-risk youth, foster children, and persons with special needs and disabilities.

During the Thanksgiving Bags event, on Saturday, November 17, 2007, nearly 900 grocery bags full of Thanksgiving food were assembled and delivered to the doorsteps of 284 families and 583 seniors throughout the Twin Cities Metro area. Volunteers loaded up their cars and personally delivered the Thanksgiving Bags to low-income individuals like Tom, a resident at Lyndale Manor Assisted Living, who writes, "What a surprise and blessing it was to receive the gift bag from all of you. It is a real pleasure to see young folks like yourselves caring for others. I will always remember and think about what you have done for me."

Through the Adopt a Family program, over 265 sponsors purchased, wrapped, and dropped off more than 7,000 presents for 1,965 people in need on Thursday, December 13th. The generosity of the Adopt a Family sponsors was truly unbelievable and inspiring. Recipients were in utter disbelief at the kindness they were shown by complete strangers. Linda, a participant in Volunteers of America's Family Treatment Program writes, "Christmas wasn't feeling like much of a celebration. However, your thoughtfulness, generosity, and caring moved us more than words can say. Every gift was perfect, and, as my 17-year-old son kept saying, 'How did they know?"

Volunteers of America of Minnesota is thankful for all the big hearts and kind spirits that continue to partner with us as we lend a hand to those who need it. If you would like information on ways you can get involved with Thanksgiving Bags, Adopt a Family, or any of our other community events, please contact Kristin Cook at 952-945-4039 or kcook@voamn.org.

Learn More About Community Events>

Make a Donation>