Colleen asked that I pass this on to our volunteers. I know I will miss some so I ask you to think of who you remember were present and pass this on to them as well.
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Ho ho ho!
Thank you to the wonderful Knights of Winfield, West Chicago and Warrenville, the great turn out from the Special Camps family and my extended family. Our guests had a truly joyous Christmas party! With the help of close to 90 volunteers, we were able to make this party a blast for 134 people with intellectual disabilities, living in local group homes and our Special Camps friends too.
Our special needs guests had so much fun… they loved the singing and dancing along to their favorite songs like the YMCA, limbo and holiday songs, the jugglers, the variety of crafts were awesome (thanks to my Mom Kathy and my niece Amanda), and Santa and Mrs Clause so tender, patient and joyous.
The Knights of Columbus of Winfield and Warrenville and my family, made sure our guests were treated to wonderful gifts! Each of our 130 special guests were provided a coloring or activity book, markers or colored pencils, a couple beanie babies, candy, a small toy, a large stuffed animal, and their choice of a unique larger gift. Alas, the yummy holiday cookies, pudding and ice cream provided by the West Chicago Knights were soon gobbled with delight. The best gift of all, were the volunteers who came out to befriend people in need. They gave of themselves joyfully, to listen, bring joy and love to all those they met… making each person they met feel cherished.
A few words of appreciation I heard; Truly everyone was so grateful.
From a Staff member at Alden Village, “We took our kids to see Santa at the mall. Our kids left frightened, no one would sit on Santa’s lap, and the photos we’d hoped for, never occurred. Thank you Santa and Mrs Clause for making our clients feel loved. Such a gentle, loving couple. They couldn’t wait to hop on Santa’s lap.
Sorry I couldn’t wait to get my name tag, I had to do all the crafts first. They are awesome!
Thanks again for another wonderful party. Our family is so appreciative.
My non-verbal son jumped up and down in excitement when he saw St John’s. He loves these parties!
My children and I have been volunteering at these parties for years. It’s left a lasting impression on my children.
Thank you so much for all of your support!
Merry Christmas!
Colleen
Colleen McDonald
President of Special Camps
specialcamps.org
(630) 690-0944