What an amazing day it was volunteering at the Adopt an Angel – Angel Tree Program for 2011! Sandy Gaylord, one of my Partners at Executive Brokers, has been involved in the coordination of this event for 18 years. She works hand-in-hand with Eugenia Hidalgo-Malacas from VESTIA to administer the program. Through the years it has grown from 250 to over 2000 foster youth who have received gifts annually from generous donors throughout Contra Costa County. Today we had Girl Scout Troops, 24 Hour Fitness, Realty Companies, Steelworkers and many other groups deliver their gifts to Grace Episcopal Church in Martinez to be sorted and sent on their way to several sites across the county.
This was my first year taking part and what an eye opening experience it was! A tireless group of individuals spent the day sorting, grouping and loading the gifts. My small part was spent greeting those arriving at their designated time, loading the presents and moving them to the sorting area. At the end of the day those same gifts were bagged, tagged and ready to be loaded onto the delivery trucks. I was astounded at the organization which took place. Colored dots and staging areas made clear where and to who these packages were destined. My favorite part of the day? Taking the time to look at the individual tags as I rolled the cart inside and imagining the 1000’s of smiles when they are opened. Name, age, gender and the three wishes for gifts were on each and every one. Over 1500 children were provided for with over 2000 presents moving through the church facilities.
I am so happy I was able to take part and am very much looking forward to helping in 2012!
Go to the Angel Tree site for 2010 and see some of the thank-you cards received.
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