2012 Christmas Lights | Giving Back | Personal

I’m a big believer in community and feel that when you are blessed, it is important to pass that blessing forward through service to others. This year, I donated my time to the “Christmas Lights” program for underprivileged children. It is an event coordinated by my dear friend Sergey from Russian American Media that involves the resources and time of so many in the Sacramento community.

Here’s a little excerpt about the event:

“Tuesday evening over 250 children from the following communities and non-profit organizations have experienced the Holiday cheer as a result of this joined effort: St. John’s Children Shelter, Sacramento Children’s Home, Sacramento Native American Health Center, Roseville Home Start, Volunteers of America, Women’s Empowerment, Stanford Home, Center for Fathers & Families, Positive Option Family Service, P.E.E.C.E. Keepers, as well as beneficiaries of the City of Elk Grove and Ronald McDonald House.

“Christmas Lights” was conceived as a charity action aimed to serve the underprivileged children of our region. Kids got an exciting experience, complete with a “red carpet” welcome! Children were photographed with Santa Claus & Beauty Queens, played in Jump Houses, feasted on a holiday dinner, enjoyed a musical Christmas program with choir and dancing, then rode in limos to see “Christmas Lights”. The many benefits of “Christmas Lights” are seen in the eyes of children as they enjoyed this spectacular entertainment program. Each child received a personalized present and memories to last a life-time.”

I was honored to be a part of this 100% volunteer effort that has been going strong for nine years now. Here’s a glimpse into the night and some of the wonderful faces whose hearts were uplifted by other generosity.