The holidays are a sentimental time for so many of us. They prompt us to reflect on life (and the speed at which it passes us by), as well as the time-honored family traditions that bring us great joy. They make us contemplate that for which we are hopeful and inspire us to count our many blessings. Most of all, I think they bring out a wonderful spirit of generosity, which could not have been more evident than today at Orangewood Children’s Foundation.
A Thanksgiving feast, which included turkey, ham and all the trimmings, was prepared for the teens in transition at OCF. Warm weather items such as coats, blankets and sweaters were delivered and hung with care by the countless individuals who volunteered to lend a hand.
As always, the usual suspects were there (inclusive of the management team, some agents and members of our administrative team)…cooking in the kitchen, organizing the food and storage cabinets and setting up the food buffet. Today though (and last month too), we witnessed a surge in our community spirit. Fresh faces, walking in with trays of food and bags of donations, rolling up their sleeves to help and experience for themselves the wonderful sense of purpose that so many others do each month. The outpouring really says so much about our culture – what we value and what matters most.
Some of the youth who benefit from the Foundation’s support showed up today to thank Seven Gables personally for all they have done and continue to do for them. Chris Simonsen, the CFO of OCF also stopped by to express his gratitude for our efforts. Two hours, one day a month, twelve times a year. When you think about it, that’s such a small sacrifice of time in the grand scheme of life.
And in the grand scheme, Seven Gables is making an impact and difference in the lives of others … one day at a time. Our heartfelt thanks go out to all of you who continue to support this worthwhile cause on behalf of the Seven Gables organization.
View photos from this month’s event here.
