60 Nonprofits in Palm Beach County Provide for Children-in-Need
BOCA RATON — Momentum and excitement are building at the Spirit of Giving Network as they kick off their annual tradition: The Holiday Gift Drive.
Now in its 11th year, the program works with nonprofits in the community to provide toys for more than 3,500 needy children in Palm Beach County.
Originally, the idea began when Barb and Dick Schmidt (founders of the Spirit of Giving Network) decided to ask their friends to bring a gift for a child to their holiday house party. The response was overwhelming and so, it began.
They were compelled to continue this effort as the need is greater and greater each year and they couldn’t stop once they started. The enormity of the tasks of collecting, sorting, storing and distributing gifts became so profound, that the Junior League of Boca Raton was asked to partner for the event four years ago.
Karen Krumholtz, executive director of the Spirit of Giving Network, a community network of nonprofits with 60 member organizations, leads the charge and is rolling up her sleeves now to garner sponsors, donations and of course, volunteers. “It is one of the biggest projects we do each year,” says Krumholtz. “We are lucky to have been able to provide gifts to so many children in previous years and thankful to all those who continue to support this wonderful community initiative.”
Local businesses are encouraged to have a collection box where patrons can drop off a wrapped toy. Cash donations and gift cards are also accepted. Many businesses involved in the past include banks, car dealers, hospitals, restaurants, gated communities, churches, supermarkets and other retailers, professional offices such as law and accounting firms and even colleges and universities.
The Holiday Gift Drive ends in mid-December Contact Karen Krumholtz for more information. 561-385-0144 or Karen@spiritofgivingnetwork.com