“Especially this year, generosity is more important than ever – and we’re really seeing that generosity pour out.”
Celeste knows a thing or two about generosity. As Heartland Alliance’s Engagement Manager, she’s been leading our annual holiday giving campaign for years. Coordinating the delivery of thousands of presents to hundreds of people across Chicago, Milwaukee, and Madison is no small feat – and adding a whole slew of new social distancing and hygiene measures to ensure safety – made 2020 even more of a challenge.
Nevertheless, Celeste and her team of volunteers, supporters, and Heartland Alliance staff have stepped up to make sure the most vulnerable among us aren’t left out of the holiday season.
“Our donors and recipients generally don’t get to see each other. They’re giving to strangers they’ll never meet, but everyone is still super excited to give. This year, people have been extra flexible and willing to go the extra mile. We’re all just hyper-focused on the mission of the project: bringing holiday cheer to people who need it.”
The team has seen some incredible acts of kindness over the last few weeks. Some families have to drop off donations with entire convoys of present-packed minivans. Other supporters have chosen to give, even though they don’t celebrate any of the typical winter-holiday celebrations. For many of our supporters, this has become an annual tradition that couldn’t be broken just because of a global pandemic.
“For us, it just wouldn’t be Christmas without this,” said Janet Alexander. She began coordinating Heartland Alliance giving at Lakestreet Church of Evanston over 10 years ago. “It makes my holiday so much better, and I feel proud to have been a part of this for so long.”
Celeste believes that people like Janet are making more than just a donation. Every year, the holiday giving campaign provides an opportunity to think about the concept of “good will toward men.” Every gift donated is another vote of confidence for our community. Each supporter giving to an individual they don’t even know, is a statement of belief in equity and opportunity for all. Each gift is more than just the material item, it’s a message to the people we serve: you matter, and we believe in you.
“This project really helps people, people from all walks of life,” Celeste said. “You know, these gifts are more than just toys or coats, it’s peace of mind. It’s community.”
Thanks to all who supported our many causes this year. If you haven’t had the chance to support your favorite Heartland Alliance team, there’s still time to join us for our end-of-year fundraising campaign.
We all know just how difficult times have been, but we’ve gotten through it together. Thanks to all of you – happy holidays.
